The Riverdale Y is a robust, community engaging nonprofit that values its volunteers. Hundreds of community members share their talents with us, contributing thousands of hours of time.
Volunteers work alongside staff to embody our universally held values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. They strengthen our community by being determined, nurturing, genuine, hopeful, and welcoming. We are truly honored and grateful for each of our volunteers.
All Are Welcome!
No matter your age, background, or experience, everyone is welcome here. Young enthusiasts (ages 6 to 13) are invited to join with a guardian. Volunteers ages 14-17 can participate with parental consent, and those over 18 are, of course, welcome as well. Volunteers can opt for drop-in events or become committed impact makers. Whether you’re an individual or part of a group, explore personalized volunteering opportunities that make a positive impact on our community.
Volunteer Benefits
- Resume Building: Boost your resume with valuable volunteer experience.
- Making Friends: Connect and build lasting friendships with like-minded individuals.
- Learning New Skills: Grow personally and professionally by acquiring new skills.
- Proof of Community Service Hours: Get official documentation for your community service hours.
- Recognition and Awards: Clock in your hours for a chance at recognition! Awards, certificates, and acknowledgments are up for grabs based on your dedicated time. Young volunteers up to 18 might snag the prestigious Young Leadership Award, and those over 18 are considered for the Community Service Award.
Become a Committed Volunteer
Ready for a lasting impact? Apply to join our committed team. Enjoy a seamless check-in process via a logbook or Better Impact App, contributing to the continuous growth of our community programs. To learn more about being a regularly committed volunteer, please contact anyashina@riverdaley.org.
Join us for a pop-up volunteer activity
Spontaneity awaits! Sign up 48 hours in advance, receive a confirmation email, and check in with the dedicated staff member on the event day to make a difference on your time.
Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities
Pool Deck Assistant
Every Sunday
Roles: 2 positions available
Activities: Assist visitors and staff to ensure a welcoming environment.
Requirements: Must be over 14, possess a friendly demeanor, and ability to follow directions.
Training: Onboarding and extensive training required for long-term commitment. Email volunteers@riverdaley.org for details.
Sunday Market Support
Every Sunday in March from 9am to 3pm
Roles: 2 positions available each Sunday
Activities: Assist in setting up, managing, and cleaning up at the Sunday Farmer’s Market during the Winter Market season.
Requirements: Ability to stand for up to 5 hours, friendly demeanor, capable of lifting up to 10lbs, good interpersonal skills.
Training: On-the-job training provided before each shift.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
In May, our biggest volunteer need is at the Riverdale Run & Fun Day on Sunday May 19
Celebrate community health and social impact programs by participating in the 5K/1K run/walk or volunteering for the event.
Set up water stations, give out medals, play with kids at the bouncy house, and help direct many other activities that make our community not only impactful but also fun and exciting.
Other volutneer opportunities in May
May 5th – Sunday – 9:30am – 10:30am – New Members Brunch at Riverdale Y’s Older Adult Center – we serve a warm welcome and treats to new older adult members.
May 5th – Sunday – 10:30am – 1:00pm – Sunday Lunch at Riverdale Y’s Older Adult Center – Set up, serve, and clean up for Senior Sunday Lunch.
May 5th – Sunday – 10:30am – 11:30am – Intergenerational Conversation at Riverdale Y’s Older Adult Center – Join local high school students and older adults to discuss upcoming summer plans, including the G2G – Generations to Generations internship in July.
May 5th – Sunday – 11:00am, 11:30am, 12:00pm, 12:30pm – Reading Corner at Sunday Market – Read books for the littlest members of our community. Point of Contact: Shira Silverman, phone number 718-877-1270
May 5th – Sunday – 10:00am – 3:30pm – Riverdale Art Fest Support at Sunday Market – Set up tents, tables and supplies, run kid-friendly activities and clean up after the Art Fest is over as we reintroduce local artists, musicians, and vendors to over 600 members of the community. Point of Contact: Shira Silverman, phone number 718-877-1270
May 12th – Sunday – 7:00pm – 8:00pm – Community-Wide Yom HaZikaron Ceremony at SAR High School – Join the welcoming team led by Rabbi Scott at 7:00pm to check IDs, bags, and direct attendees before the 8:00pm ceremony. Point of contact: Rabbi Scott Kalmikoff, phone number 718-737-8883
May 14 – Tuesday – 9:30am – 1:30pm – Birthday Lunch at Riverdale Y’s Older Adult Center – Set up, serve, and celebrate April Birthdays with Older Adults.
May 15 – Wednesday – 11:00am – 2:00pm – Food pantry at AmPark Norc – Distribute over 5,000 lbs of food to those in need; this is a rain or shine activity, please dress accordingly. Point of Contact: Shira Silverman, phone number 718-877-1270
May 19 – Sunday – 7:00am – 12:30pm – Riverdale Run & Fun Day at Riverdale Y- Celebrate community health and social impact programs by participating in the 5K/1K run/walk or volunteering for the event. Set up water stations, give out medals, play with kids at the bouncy house, and help direct many other activities that make our community not only impactful but also fun and exciting.
To participate, register here | To volunteer, register here
May 22 – Wednesday – 12:30pm – 2pm – Food Pantry at Riverdale Y – Join us to distribute over 5,000 lbs of food to those in need; this is a rain or shine activity, please dress accordingly. Point of contact: Shira Silverman, phone number 718-877-1270
May 28 – Tuesday – 10:30am – 1pm – UJA Dining Room Dedication at Riverdale Y’s Older Adult Center – Join us as we celebrate the official unveiling of the fully renovated Dining Room, made possible by generous donations from the UJA. Then, stay to volunteer in serving a delicious meal as we celebrate with over 100 folks for the dedication.
Explore Volunteer Stories
Our Volunteer’s April Impact
Thank you to all our volunteers!
Celebrating Random Acts of Kindness: 50 Acts of Service at Riverdale Y
A Magical Holiday Celebration for Children in Need
