Get Involved

How to Volunteer

Our volunteers play a big role at Seattle Children’s Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center. They assist with classes, outings and administrative duties and help make our communities more inclusive. Internship opportunities may also be available.

What to Expect

Volunteer opportunities are available Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Common volunteer responsibilities include helping participants follow schedules, encouraging participants to engage in classroom activities, setting up and cleaning up classrooms, facilitating transitions, attending outings and providing administrative support.
Most classes are at the Alyssa Burnett Center in Bothell. Class duration and the ratio of staff to participants vary depending on topic and instructor.
Outing locations and duration vary.

Volunteer Requirements

These requirements and expectations help ensure the safety and well-being of our participants and families:

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
We ask for a minimum commitment of 1 quarter (about 12 weeks). You are welcome to volunteer more.
We expect you to work 1 to 2 times each week for 2 to 4 hours, on the same day and time. We will set your weekly schedule for the quarter during your onboarding. To request a schedule change, talk with our coordinator.
State law requires that all volunteers consent to a background check and complete a disclosure statement. We will send you a link to our online portal so you can log in and fill out the forms electronically.
You must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and be up to date on required immunizations. If you have questions, please contact us.
You must always wear your volunteer badge (which will be provided to you) while you are at the center.
Please dress modestly. Casual clothes are fine for volunteering. You can wear jeans, pants, skirts, dresses or shorts that are not too short. For your safety and comfort, we require shoes with a closed toe and closed heel. We recommend soft-soled shoes. We ask you not to wear any fragrances because some of our participants have allergies.
Qualities we look for in volunteers include the ability to work with diverse individuals; follow directions; be flexible; communicate effectively and respectfully; and demonstrate self-motivation, initiative and good problem-solving skills.

Steps to Volunteer

1. Fill out an application

Fill out the volunteer application form, or email us about your interest.

2. Have an interview

After we receive your application, we will email you to schedule a 30-minute interview, which can be done virtually, over the phone or in person. During the interview, we will discuss your skills, interests and availability. This helps us figure out volunteer duties that fit you. We will discuss a potential weekly schedule with you and set your schedule during the onboarding process.

3. Finish paperwork and get an ID badge

After your interview, you will receive an email from Seattle Children’s with a link and login so you can complete the forms we need. After your background check is done, you will receive a follow-up email to schedule an appointment to get your photo ID badge.

4. Attend orientation

Once you finish the forms and have your ID badge, we will schedule an orientation. We’ll also set a start date for you. We look forward to your first day at the Alyssa Burnett Center!