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MIND Institute Volunteer Program
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering at the MIND Institute offers an opportunity to join a caring team of professionals dedicated to supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families. Volunteers play an important role in creating welcoming, inclusive experiences through direct engagement, program support, and community involvement.
Our volunteer community includes people from many backgrounds, including high school and college students, retirees, and working professionals.
Why Volunteer with Us?
As a volunteer, you may:
- Support children, adults, and families during clinic visits and programs
- Gain meaningful experience in healthcare, education and human services
- Volunteer alongside interdisciplinary professionals and trained staff
- Contribute to programs that value inclusion, respect and collaboration
Volunteer Requirements
To ensure a positive experience for volunteers and families, all volunteers must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Time commitment: Minimum of 4 months
- Availability: Approximately 4-6 hours per week
- Completion of required onboarding, training and background checks
Please note that volunteer roles are subject to availability and program needs.
How to Get Started
If you are interested in volunteering with the MIND Institute, please contact one of our volunteer administrators for current opportunities and next steps:
Diane Larzelere: MIND Volunteer Program Manager
Email: larzelere@health.ucdavis.edu
Veronica Tuss: Child Life Program Manager
Email: mindchildlife@health.ucdavis.edu
Our team will guide you through the application process and help determine the best fit based on your interests and availability.
What to Expect
Volunteers receive:
- Program-specific orientation and training
- Ongoing guidance and support
- Opportunities to learn more about neurodevelopmental care and family-centered services
Child Life Program
Support children and families during clinic visits by:
- Engaging children in play and developmentally appropriate activities
- Supervising play spaces
- Assisting with special events and group programming
- Supporting light administrative and preparation tasks
Interested candidates may review the Volunteer Information Packet (PDF) and complete the interest form on the last page. Submit the form to mindchildlife@health.ucdavis.edu to be notified of future openings.
Resource Center
Assist visitors at the MIND Institute Resource Center by:
- Greeting families and community members
- Helping locate educational materials and resources
- Supporting workshops, outreach events and demonstrations
- Assisting with organization and restocking