Volunteer
General Volunteer Help
You can volunteer for COTS in many ways, and we appreciate all types of skills and areas of expertise. COTS volunteer needs are constantly changing, so if you’d like to stay up-to-date on our volunteer opportunities, we encourage you to fill out our brief volunteer application to keep you on our volunteer list.
Join our general volunteer list
Help needed throughout the year:
- First Sunday in May COTS Walk
- First Saturday in August Back to School Bonanza
- Week after Thanksgiving Phonathon
See the "get involved" tab to learn more.
Respite Provider
Where: COTS Family Shelter, 278 Main Street Burlington, VT
When: anytime Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm (flexible, based on need)
Who: Adults 18+, background check needed, experience working with infants and young children
What: As a Respite Provider, you will provide short-term respite (up to 2 hours) for 1-2 children living in shelter. Caregivers will remain in shelter and be available to assist when needed during respite. A COTS staff member will be present for support. The family will provide supplies and food as needed for the duration of the respite.
Activity Facilitator
Where: COTS Family Shelter, 278 Main Street Burlington, VT
When: Monday-Friday 4 pm to 8 pm (flexible) or anytime on the weekends
Who: Adults 18+, background check needed, experience working in education or mental health
What: As an Activity Facilitator, you will prepare and facilitate a short activity (up to 2 hours) for our families in shelter. Possible activities include arts and crafts for all ages, social and emotional learning for youth, and much more! Ideal activities will promote mental health and well-being, child development, and social connection.
