Volunteer with Children Experiencing Homelessness in Attleboro

Join a team of over 700 volunteers across Massachusetts empowering children through play and making a difference in the lives of children experiencing homelessness! Horizons has designed and installed child-centered rooms, called Playspaces, in shelters throughout Massachusetts with the intention of creating a safe and nurturing environment where children experiencing homelessness can do the things that all kids need…express themselves, build relationships with adults and other children, and have fun! The Playspace program gives volunteers the opportunity to give back to their community in a meaningful way that works with their schedule - just two hours, one evening a week makes a difference for a child living in shelter. Volunteers are supported by a dedicated team of staff committed to the success of the volunteers, the program, and the families we serve. What should I expect from my volunteer experience?- Playspaces are designed for children ages 0-6, but we welcome children who are a little older who can enjoy the toys and materials provided. Volunteers will have the flexibility to come to Playspace with ideas for activities and games, or simply provide the opportunity to allow children to lead without an agenda or specific curriculum.

• We serve wonderful, thoughtful, creative, and imaginative children who reside in the shelter with at least one parent and possibly other siblings. Consistent, supportive relationships outside of their family (like with a volunteer) can have a profound impact on their positive development.
• Playtime can be a stress reliever for both children and adults. A child’s ability to interact and play can be an outlet for creativity and builds resiliency for the future. What are you looking for in a volunteer?
• We are looking for people who want to make a difference in their community and positively impact the lives of young children through play.
• We want volunteers who are caring, creative, consistent, and want to have fun and be silly (if you like Play-doh, costumes, arts & crafts, story-reading, and making a child’s day, then this is the volunteer opportunity for you!)
• Many have said that being a volunteer gives them a renewed perspective and sensitivity for those living in poverty, an opportunity to give back in a tangible and valuable way, and provides the human connection that makes life richer.