Youth Work Volunteers Needed

Our youth programmes run Monday to Friday in the afternoons and evenings, offering various activities and support that empower young people to reach their full potential. 

Volunteers play an essential role in this mission by assisting with:

• Homework Clubs: Help students tackle their schoolwork, build study habits, and achieve academic success
• Drop-in Clubs: Engage with young people in activities such as sports, arts, and discussion groups, fostering creativity, teamwork, and self-expression
• Junior Leadership Programme: Mentor and guide young people as they develop leadership skills, build confidence, and prepare for future challenges

Your involvement will directly support the personal growth of our youth, helping them develop essential life skills, build meaningful relationships, and create lasting memories.

By volunteering with YMCA Dublin, you’ll not only be making a positive impact on the lives of young people but also becoming part of a community dedicated to fostering healthy, confident, and connected individuals. Whether you can commit to a few hours per week or more, your contribution will be invaluable in helping us create a brighter future for our youth.

Join us in making a difference. Volunteer with YMCA Dublin today and be a part of something truly transformative.

Volunteer Requirements

• Garda Vetting
• Interest in working with young people

Time Commitment 

5 – 30 hours per week

Volunteer Benefits

• Hands-On Experience: Build practical experience in community and youth work, enhancing your understanding and capacity to make a real difference
• Skill Development: Strengthen essential skills such as social interaction, teamwork, adaptability, and group facilitation, which are critical in youth and community work
• Enhanced Awareness and Responsiveness: Develop the ability to recognize and effectively meet the diverse needs of young people.
• Comprehensive Training: Gain valuable knowledge through training in child protection, LGBTQ+ issues, resilience and self-care, and trauma-informed approaches

How to apply

Fill in the form below. 

Application deadline

31st August

How YMCA Dublin Helped Jake Find His Way

Jake was referred to YMCA Dublin's Alternative Suspension (AS) programme, which is designed to support students facing challenges in traditional school settings. Recognizing his need for personalised support, he transitioned to the PlusOne Youth Mentoring programme, marking a pivotal moment in his journey. With one-on-one guidance from a dedicated mentor, Jake learned to reflect on his choices and explore new possibilities, gradually rebuilding his sense of control. With this support, he re-engaged with education through Youthreach, and discovered interests in mechanics and childcare. “I was lost, but now I have a direction,” he said, reflecting the significant impact this intervention has had on his journey.

The Role of Community-Based Programmes in Mental Health

YMCA Dublin's holistic wraparound approach tailors services to meet each individual’s specific needs, providing young people like Jake with a strong foundation for making informed choices and pursuing brighter futures. This comprehensive model addresses immediate challenges while fostering resilience and self-efficacy—critical components for sustaining long-term mental well-being.

Jake’s journey exemplifies the vital role community-based programmes play in the broader mental health landscape. Initiatives such as Alternative Suspension and PlusOne Mentoring equip youth with essential tools to navigate challenges, stay engaged in education, and build emotional resilience, particularly in underserved areas where poverty and social disconnection heighten mental health risks.

By offering a wide range of services, including youth mentoring, educational initiatives, and family support, YMCA Dublin serves as a crucial resource for addressing the complex challenges faced by at-risk youth. This wraparound model ensures that no issue is treated in isolation, promoting sustainable well-being and development for those in need.

Supporting Programmes That Support Youth

As mental health challenges among adolescents continue to escalate, sustained investment in community-based programmes is essential. YMCA Dublin is actively expanding its reach through the development of new community hubs across Dublin, ensuring that vital support services are accessible to underserved communities.

This World Mental Health Day, we must recognise the importance of a holistic approach that combines community support with access to professional care. Continued investment in early intervention programmes like PlusOne Mentoring and Alternative Suspension is critical to helping young people like Jake overcome challenges, make positive choices, and thrive. The well-being of our youth and the future of our communities depend on it.