Volunteers Are at the Heart of the Y

Founded by a volunteer and continuously governed by volunteers, the Kenosha YMCA thrives on the dedication and passion of community members. When you volunteer at the Y, you take an active role in creating meaningful, lasting change right here in Kenosha County.

Community engagement has never been more important. As families face rising costs, youth seek positive role models, and local nonprofits work to meet growing needs, volunteers play a critical role in strengthening our community. Whether you enjoy working with children, supporting special events, coaching sports, or helping behind the scenes, the Kenosha YMCA offers opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to make a difference.

Why Volunteer with the Kenosha YMCA?

Volunteering is more than giving your time. It is an opportunity to build stronger communities, develop new skills, make meaningful connections, and create lasting impact.

According to the latest AmeriCorps and U.S. Census Bureau research, more than 75.7 million Americans volunteered through organizations, contributing nearly 5 billion hours of service and generating an estimated $167.2 billion in economic value. Volunteerism has experienced its largest growth in more than two decades as Americans recognize the importance of supporting their communities.

The value of volunteer service continues to rise. Independent Sector estimates that one hour of volunteer time is now worth $36.14 nationally, demonstrating the tremendous impact volunteers have on nonprofits and communities across the country.

Why Giving Back Matters More Than Ever

Today’s communities face increasing challenges, from youth development and food insecurity to social isolation and mental health concerns. Volunteers help bridge these gaps by providing support, mentorship, and connection where it is needed most.

When you volunteer at the Kenosha YMCA, you are helping create opportunities for children, families, seniors, and individuals throughout our community.

Volunteer 2
Volunteer 1
Volunteer 3
Volunteer 4
Volunteer 5
Volunteer 6

Summer Volunteer Opportunities

Looking for School Volunteer Hours?

The Kenosha YMCA is an excellent place for middle school, high school, and college students to earn volunteer hours while making a real impact.

Students can gain hands-on experience in leadership, teamwork, event planning, youth development, coaching, and community service. Volunteer experience also strengthens scholarship applications, college admissions, resumes, and future career opportunities.

Many YMCA volunteer opportunities offer flexible scheduling, making it easy for students to balance service hours with school, sports, and extracurricular activities.

Kick off Independence Day by supporting one of Kenosha’s favorite community traditions. Volunteers are needed for packet pick-up, race-day registration, course safety, water stations, and event support.

Volunteer Benefits:

  • Free Firecracker Run volunteer T-shirt
  • One-week pass to the Kenosha YMCA
  • Opportunity to support local YMCA programs and community wellness

Questions?
Contact Tenille Thornton at tthornton@kenoshaymca.org

The 12th Annual Tri My Best Triathlon is an adaptive swim, bike, and run event designed for children and young adults with developmental disabilities. This inspiring event will take place on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the Kenosha YMCA.

We need volunteers before, during, and after race weekend to help create an unforgettable experience for our athletes and their families. Opportunities are available for individuals, families, students seeking volunteer hours, corporate groups, and community organizations.

Volunteer roles include:

  • Athlete buddies and guides
  • Course support
  • Registration and check-in
  • Setup and teardown
  • Awards and hospitality
  • Volunteer check-in
  • Event logistics and support

We have volunteer positions available for people of all ages, abilities, and experience levels.

Help ensure local children and families have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.

Volunteer opportunities are flexible and available throughout the summer. Individuals, families, groups, and friends are encouraged to get involved.

Volunteer opportunities may include:

  • Helping serve meals
  • Sitting and talking with children and youth during meals
  • Building relationships with children and families
  • Helping with set-up and clean-up
  • Playing simple games and activities with children after meals

To learn more or sign up to volunteer, please contact Dr. M. Rachel Mall, EdD, Education and Community Impact Director, at rmall@kenoshaymca.org.

Join us for the 6th Annual Fall Fest — a Festival with EVERYTHING! Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer Tent, Family Activities, Bounce Houses, Games and more!!

Help create a fun and welcoming experience for families through games, activities, crafts, food service, setup, and event support while raising funds for important YMCA community programs.

Questions?
Contact Mel Robinson at mrobinson@kenoshaymca.org.

Year-Round Volunteer Opportunities

Ready to make a difference?

Whether you can volunteer for a single event, mentor a young person, coach a team, or support programs throughout the year, your time and talents can help strengthen our community. Join the Kenosha YMCA’s dedicated network of volunteers and play a role in creating opportunities for youth, families, and individuals to learn, grow, and thrive.

Sign up today to explore volunteer opportunities and start making an impact at the Kenosha YMCA. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.

Volunteer Application

Certain volunteer positions require completion of a Volunteer Application as part of the Kenosha YMCA’s child safety and screening practices through our Praesidium Accreditation process.

If your role requires additional screening, YMCA staff will direct you to complete the application.

Interested in Sponsoring an Upcoming Event?

Contact Chris Finkel, Development Director, at 262-564-6813 to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how your business can support the Kenosha YMCA’s mission.