Los Angeles Volunteer Opportunities

Inspired to Make a Difference?

Want to get more involved in our work to help children, youth, and families? There are several ways you can volunteer in Los Angeles. At Penny Lane Centers, we encourage those who are inspired to make a difference to bring their energy, enthusiasm, and skills to our events and ongoing programs. And why not have fun while doing it!? Whether you’re an individual or a group, we welcome your involvement. Volunteer opportunities include helping with our annual events such as our back-to-school backpack giveaways and holiday toy drive, or by coordinating with our Fund Development Department to create your own fundraising event or even participating in virtual and online activities and events. Join us and be part of our community!

Los Angeles Volunteer Opportunities

Why Is Volunteering Important?

Volunteering at Penny Lane is not just an act of service; it's a transformative experience that benefits both you and the vulnerable populations we serve, including children, families, and young adults facing life's most challenging circumstances. When you give your time and skills to help others, you're not only contributing to their well-being but also enriching your own life. Whether you're mentoring a young person in foster care, providing emotional support to LGBTQ+ youth, or assisting families in navigating complex social services, you're gaining invaluable skills and experiences that can profoundly impact your personal and professional life.

The rewards of volunteering go beyond personal growth and skill development. It's also a unique opportunity to forge deep, meaningful connections within a community united by compassion and a shared purpose.

Event Volunteer

Interested in volunteering at one of our upcoming events? Just fill out the proper paperwork and we will be in contact with you shortly- make sure to note the event(s) you are interested in!

To get an overview of the enriching experiences you can be a part of, we invite you to browse our Events Calendar. From fundraisers that support our mental health initiatives to community outreach programs, each event offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the causes you care about.

Apply Now

Program Volunteer

Interested in volunteering? Need volunteer hours? This process has a few more steps which the form below will walk you through. In addition to filling out the correct paperwork, you will also have to get your fingerprints processed through live scan and a brief orientation before beginning your volunteering experience. Please make sure to let us know what programs you are interested in volunteering at.

Best Volunteer Opportunities in Los Angeles:

Community Based Programs

Whether it's through mentorship, life skills training, or resource coordination, your contributions serve as the building blocks that fortify the foundation of the community.

Community Based Programs Volunteer Opportunities

Youth Programs

From providing safe spaces for homeless youth to specialized support for LGBTQ+ people aged 16-25, your involvement amplifies our mission to create a nurturing environment for foster youth navigating life's challenges.

Youth Programs Volunteer Opportunities

Family Programs

Your volunteer efforts in our family programs directly contribute to the stability and unity of families, whether it's through facilitating adoption processes or providing crucial support in family preservation services.

Family Programs Volunteer Opportunities

Housing Programs

By volunteering in our housing programs, you're not just offering shelter; you're actively participating in programs that help individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing, thereby fostering community reintegration.

Housing Services Volunteer Opportunities

Mental Health Services

As a mental health volunteer, you'll be an integral part of our multidisciplinary approach to mental health, which includes everything from crisis intervention to long-term care for both children and adults in Los Angeles.

Outpatient Mental Health Volunteer Opportunities

In-Home Services

Your involvement in our in-home services can be life-changing for families. Whether it's providing specialized foster care for children with unique needs or supporting families through the adoption process, your role is pivotal in creating a loving home environment.

In-Home Services Volunteer Opportunities
APPLY

Review our checklist to see if you qualify for our Los Angeles County volunteer opportunities.  If you meet all the requirements, then please fill out the appropriate forms below and we will get back to you to schedule a brief interview.

ORIENTATION

Get interviewed so we can get to know you better.
Undergo a background check including references, DMV, TB Test, Physical and Live Scan.

GET MATCHED

Based on mutual interests and preferences we will match you with the program you are most interested in supporting.

The person tasked with coordination of volunteers in that program will reach out to you directly to get you started and help you understand the program, your role as well as how you can best make an impact.

Apply Now

Volunteer Checklist

Please be sure you meet the following qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Possess a valid driver’s license and current car insurance
  • Have a safe driving record (no DUIs within the past three years; no more than two moving violations in the past year)
  • Never been convicted of a felony
  • No illegal drug use currently or within the last twelve months
  • Able to pass a fingerprint clearance

If you do not meet all the requirements, there are other ways to get involved with us! Follow us on social media, donate cash or in-kind items to support our mission, sign up for our newsletter or advocate on our behalf through your networks to encourage others to get involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can I Volunteer For Mental Health

If you're passionate about mental health and want to make a tangible difference, our Outpatient Mental Health Services offer a rewarding experience for volunteers. By joining us, you'll be part of a team that provides mental health care, from crisis intervention to long-term support. It's a great opportunity to contribute to the well-being of individuals and families in the Los Angeles community.

How to Make the Most of Your Volunteering Experience?

To maximize your impact and personal growth, preparation is key. Before you start, familiarize yourself with the community you'll be serving and the challenges they face. Bring a positive attitude and an open mind to every volunteering session. Don't just go through the motions; engage, connect, and immerse yourself in the experience. The relationships you build and the lives you touch will make your volunteering journey truly fulfilling.

How to Identify My Interests and Skills to Match with Suitable Volunteer Opportunities?

Finding the right volunteer opportunity is like matchmaking; it's all about alignment. Take some time to introspect and identify your core values, skills, and interests. Then, look for volunteer opportunities in Penny Lane that resonate with those values. Whether it's mental health, housing, or family support, aligning your personal values with the causes you volunteer for will make the experience more meaningful for both you and those you're helping.

If you're interested in the transformative work we're doing at Penny Lane Centers, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about our mission. Don't hesitate to contact us; we're more than happy to discuss how you can become a part of our mission to uplift communities. If you don’t have the availability to donate your time at this moment in your life consider becoming a donor. Whether it’s a monthly donation or one time donation - your support is vital to keeping our mission alive.