Volunteer Opportunities with Special Needs Youth

The Summit Department of Community Programs (DCP) will be hosting a training class for teens (ages 12+) interested in volunteering as peer mentors for youth with special needs enrolled in the TryCAN Collaboration.

The next Peer Mentor Training Session is scheduled for Monday, September 15 from 4:30-6:15 pm at the Summit DCP, 100 Morris Avenue. This session must be completed in order to be eligible to volunteer. Mentors will receive credit for community service hours and a certificate of completion as well as valuable leadership skills, all while giving back to the community.

Behaviorist, Eileen O’Neill will lead the training session with discussions on various developmental disabilities such as Autism, ADHD, as well as visual and hearing impairments. Beyond learning how and why special needs children view the world differently, mentors will also be trained in how to interact and work alongside special needs youth and help them to enjoy recreation programs and experiences.

Peer mentors will assist during any of the special needs programs offered in the area through the TryCAN Collaboration, depending on need for mentors. The TryCAN Collaboration offers a variety of programs including Basketball Skills, Reading Club, Healthy Teens, and Social Skills Classes to name just a few.

Make a difference in the life of a special needs youth while learning more about youth with developmental and physical needs. Become a peer mentor with TryCAN today.

To learn more about the TryCAN Collaboration, please visit www.cityofsummit.org/TryCAN or contact Kevin Taylor at 908-277-2932 ext. 13.

Registration is available online 24/7 at https://register.communitypass.net/summit, over the phone at 908-277-2932, or in person at the Summit DCP, 100 Morris Avenue. A $10 registration fee is required. Space is limited.