What is GIG?
The GIG: Giving Is Good Summer Volunteer Program is an opportunity for teenagers…
- to learn about helping children with different levels of ability.
- to gain firsthand experience with early childhood education and rehabilitative therapies (i.e., physical, occupational, and speech) to explore potential career interests.
- who attended Hand In Hand to return and relive fond memories.
This program (formerly known as Jean Teens) has been a part of our organization for decades. In fact, many former teen volunteers have returned to work at United Ability or have enrolled their children in our services.
Who can be a GIG?
All GIG volunteers must meet the following requirements:
- Be a responsible, compassionate individual entering 8th – 12th Grades.
- Be comfortable interacting with children under the age of 5 and with individuals with disabilities.
- Commit to serving a minimum total of 5 shifts during the 7-week program.
- Attend 1 of 2 scheduled orientation training sessions before starting service.
- If accepted, submit schedule availability and pay $20 volunteer fee (covers t-shirt and other program items).
What does a GIG do?
Volunteers serve in classrooms at our Hand In Hand 
Early Learning Program. Activities include:
- Assist with classroom lessons
- Participate in Water Play Days on the playground
- Assist Office Staff
- Help staff prepare lessons, supplies, etc.
Where does a GIG serve?
All volunteer service will be conducted at the Hand in Hand Early Learning Program on the United Ability campus on Oslo Circle – off Lakeshore Parkway between Red Mountain Park and Ross Bridge.
What if I cannot attend a scheduled orientation?
Unfortunately, we can no longer accommodate orientations outside of the scheduled sessions.
All volunteers (returning and new) must attend orientation to ensure everyone is up-to-date on program operations and expectations.
How will scheduling work?
All scheduling will be done online using When I Work (which may be accessed using a computer or cell phone app).
Each volunteer will be assigned ONE account. It is the responsibility of the parent and volunteer to determine how to manage schedule sign-up and notifications.
More details will be shared with an acceptance announcement.
Questions?
Contact Lee Thrash – lthrash@unitedability.org or 205.944.3909.
