Our Volunteers Inspire Futures and Transform Lives

Q: What are the requirements to become a volunteer?

Must have a 4-year college degree Must pass a criminal background check, undergo child protection training, and sign-off on youth protection policies Commit to attending at least 80% of Saturday sessions throughout your time in the program

Q: Do volunteers receive support?

Yes! We provide ongoing support. New volunteers receive onboarding training, and we offer supplemental trainings during your time with MMNYC. Additionally, our Team Leaders and Program Directors work closely with staff to ensure you have the resources you need. And of course, staff is also available to offer support and answer questions.

Q: Do I need to come up with lesson plans?

Volunteers are not responsible for lesson/curriculum planning – we provide you with the materials to structure each session. You will receive a preview of the week’s curriculum before each session, and the Team Leader or Program Director will review the material at the session’s beginning.

Q: I don’t have time to volunteer but I’d still like to contribute. What can I do?

You can contribute to our work in many ways outside of volunteering, including: Supporting our programs with a one-time or monthly gift Spreading the word about our mission on social media or with your network Checking if your employer offers donation matching or other programs to amplify your support Asking your employer if they’d like to become a corporate partner

Volunteering with Minds Matter NYC means more than giving back—it’s about mentoring driven students, growing as a leader, building community, and creating lasting impact.

APPLY TO VOLUNTEER

A man distributes pencils to three women sitting at desks in a classroom, with colorful posters on the walls and stacked chairs nearby.

Volunteers are at the heart of our students' journey to and through college, providing mentorship, guidance, and support every step of the way. In return, we provide opportunities for volunteers to expand their networks and build friendships through social events, and level up their leadership skills through participation on our Associate Board or Executive Committee.

Volunteer Opportunities

If you believe in the power of a college education and are committed to helping students succeed, there is a place for you at MMNYC.

Mentors

Mentors build relationships with their students and guide, challenge, and celebrate them throughout their time in the program. They also offer educational and personal insights to support students’ journeys through high school, college, and into the workplace. Learn more about the role in this FAQ.

College Admissions
Advisors

Mentors commit to working with students every Saturday from 11 AM-12:30 PM for three academic years (following DOE schedule).

College Admissions Advisors support high school seniors throughout the college application process, providing guidance on admissions strategy, financial aid, and helping students identify their best-fit college. Learn more about the role in this FAQ .

College Admissions Advisors commit to working with students on Saturdays from 10:30 AM to 1 PM for one academic year (following DOE schedule).

Writing & Critical
Thinking Advisors

Writing & Critical Thinking Advisors work with groups of junior or senior students to develop their personal expressive skills by giving weekly essay assignments and reviewing summer program and college applications. Learn more about the role in this FAQ .

WCT Advisors commit to working with students from 12-2:30 PM every Saturday for one academic year (following DOE schedule).

College Coaches

College Coaches mentor a small group of students through their first two years of college, offering guidance, building relationships, and connecting them with critical resources. Learn more about the role in this FAQ.

College Coaches commit to working with students 4-8 hours per month for two academic years. Note: this position is virtual.

Career Coaches

You can become a Career Coach through your organization’s participation as a Corporate Sponsor. Learn more about Corporate Sponsorships.

Career Coaches commit to working with students for 6 hour-long conversations over a 3-month span.

Associate Board

Composed of dynamic young professionals, Associate Board members engage in fundraising, advocacy, and volunteer efforts for MMNYC.

Associate Board members are asked to fulfill a fundraising commitment and maintain active participation in monthly meetings and events.

Apply to Volunteer

APPLY NOW

Step 1

Submit your volunteer application.

Step 2

Participate in a 30-minute interview.

Step 3

You will receive a decision within two weeks of your interview.

“The journey to and through college is fraught with challenges, particularly for low-income and first-generation students. But I can confidently say that they have taught me nearly as much as I have taught them. These students are incredibly hard-working and their commitment to their education is inspiring.”

—Madeline, MMNYC Volunteer

FAQs

What are the requirements to become a volunteer?

Do volunteers receive support?

Do I need to come up with lesson plans?

I don’t have time to volunteer but I’d still like to contribute. What can I do?

Can volunteers contribute in other ways?

Absolutely! Most of our volunteers learn of MMNYC by word of mouth, so you can encourage your friends and colleagues to become volunteers, too. Many volunteers also connect us to their workplaces for partnership opportunities and share our work with their networks.

Volunteers are encouraged to apply for matching donations through their employers. Many companies will match employee contributions, which can double the impact of your support!

Matching Gift and Volunteer Grant information provided by