Volunteer

Volunteer with Youth Outlook

Volunteers are essential to Youth Outlook’s ability to support LGBTQ+ youth and families across northern and central Illinois, and throughout the state. Whether working directly with young people or supporting outreach efforts, volunteering offers a meaningful way to build community, grow skills, and be part of a welcoming network committed to inclusion and belonging.

Join us for our Fall 2026 volunteer training! Apply here by September 12th. Training begins September 19th. Must be 21 or older.

Drop-In Center Volunteers

Drop-In Center volunteers help support affirming, youth-driven spaces where LGBTQ+ youth and young adults can connect, express themselves, and feel accepted. Volunteers work alongside trained staff to co-facilitate activities, model inclusion, and help maintain a welcoming environment.

In-person opportunities are available across northern and central Illinois. Virtual volunteer roles are also available to support online Drop-In programming. Drop-in Center volunteers must be 21 years or older.

Why volunteers choose this role:

Flexible commitment: minimum 3.5 hours, one evening per month
Opportunity to join a welcoming group of like-minded individuals
Hands-on experience supporting LGBTQ+ youth in community-based spaces
Free training provided: offered every spring and fall. Apply for Spring Training here by September 12th. Training begins September 19th. Must be 21 or older.

Drop-In Center Locations

Apply Now

Learn About Our Drop-In Centers

Outreach & Event Volunteers

Outreach and event volunteer opportunities offer flexible ways to support Youth Outlook’s mission without direct youth facilitation. These roles are ideal for individuals who enjoy community engagement and want to contribute time in ways that fit changing schedules.

Volunteers may support outreach and resource tables at community events, school functions, and Pride celebrations held throughout the year. Pride is the busiest season.

What to expect:

Shifts typically 2–4 hours
Sign-up is as needed, with varied days and times
Opportunities to represent Youth Outlook across communities statewide

Learn About Our Events

Apply Now

Learn About Our Mission

Join the Board of Directors

Members of Youth Outlook’s Board of Directors serve as key leadership volunteers, advancing the organization’s mission, vision, and long-term sustainability. Board members work in partnership with staff to help shape priorities, support organizational growth, and steward Youth Outlook’s future.

Prior board or nonprofit experience is helpful but not required. Youth Outlook welcomes board members who are committed to learning, collaboration, and advancing equity for LGBTQ+ youth and families.

Learn About the Role

Apply Now

Meet Our Board

Join a Committee

Committees are an impactful way to support Youth Outlook’s work while collaborating closely with staff and fellow volunteers. Committee members help move essential initiatives forward and provide insight, expertise, and thought partnership. Committees meet monthly on Zoom and offer a tangible way to support programs and strengthen our mission.

Finance

Partners with organizational leadership on fiscal oversight, budgeting, and long-term financial sustainability, helping ensure Youth Outlook remains strong and resilient.

Marketing

Creates communications and outreach efforts, including messaging, materials, special projects, and campaigns that amplify Youth Outlook’s mission and impact.

Fundraising

Works alongside Development staff to execute fundraising and donor engagement strategy, supporting the financial foundation that makes Youth Outlook’s programs possible.

People & Culture

Leads board member recruitment, development, and retention initiatives while partnering with staff to promote inclusive, people-centered practices that help the organization grow and thrive.

Subcommittees

Subcommittees provide flexible ways to get involved through time-limited projects and event-based support throughout the year.

Special Events

Help us plan and execute special events throughout the year to benefit Youth Outlook.

Dare to Dream Gala in October, Pride events May-September, OutSpoken Storytelling quarterly, and all-ages events across the service area bi-monthly.

Future Outlook Conference

Collaborate on our two-day professional development conference supporting those working with LGBTQ+ young people. Opportunities include speaker-submission evaluation, session monitors, and on-site registration support.

Apply Now

Learn About Committee Membership