DCFYI teens are some of the strongest, most resilient and fun people you’ll ever meet. Each needs the support of one caring adult who will stay in his or her life long term. For many youth in foster care, the presence of one consistent adult is the difference between a brighter future or a difficult journey into adulthood.

What could be more rewarding than to be that one adult and see the effect your time and attention has on one deserving teen?

If you're looking for a special relationship with a teenager in care that is supported by a community of volunteers, you're in luck. It's wonderful.

- DCFYI Mentor

Think about becoming a -

Host Parent

  • Welcome a teen into your home for a series of weekend visits. Be the teen’s advocate: introduce him or her to other people and help spread the word about the need for adoptive families for teens.
  • We welcome individuals thinking about adopting to become host parents.

Mentor

  • Develop a supportive relationship with a teen. Work one on one, selecting activities to share based on mutual interests, while exposing your mentee to new experiences.

Adoption Advocate

  • Tell others about teen adoption and the teens you meet through Family & Youth Initiative.

Volunteer Driver

  • Help us transport teens to events. Having enough drivers is critical to the success of our events and program; without drivers, teens can't get to DCFYI events or begin to form relationships with program adults. Driving is also a great way to begin to get to know participating teens.

Other Volunteer Opportunities

  • Sometimes we have need for help with one-time or special efforts. See current opportunities here.

Event Sponsor

  • Organizations plan and sponsor a program event and invite their members to participate and meet DCFYI teens and adults.

Want to find out more? Join us for an event to meet DCFYI participants. Contact us if you'd like to discuss a volunteer opportunity.