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Volunteer

VOLUNTEER WITH BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SOUTH CENTRAL TENNESSEE

Volunteers are key in our mission of ensuring the young people we serve grow up to become productive, responsible citizens of our community. You can make a huge difference in the life of a child by giving your time, and positive adult role models are crucial in the successful development of our youth. Some of our youth may not even get those positive role models anywhere else outside of the Club.

Whether you volunteer in daily Power Hour homework help sessions, teach our youth special skills like piano or knitting, or mentor youth through programs like SMART Girls and Passport to Manhood, you can serve alongside our staff as we work together to create a safe, positive environment for our kids where they know that caring adults are invested in their lives and their success. Even just one hour per week can have a positive impact on a child’s life.

Volunteer opportunities are also available with administrative tasks such as cleaning, organizing, filing, stuffing and addressing envelopes for Club mailings, event set up/break down, etc.  These tasks are just as important in ensuring the success of our youth, and volunteer assistance within the administrative offices is greatly valued.

 

Volunteer

VOLUNTEER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ'S)

Do I need to apply before volunteering?

Yes! All individuals interested in volunteering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee must complete a volunteer application before getting started. This helps us ensure the safety and well-being of our members and match your interests with the right opportunities.

You can download the volunteer application [insert link], then submit it in one of the following ways:

  • Email: Send your completed form to dmclean@bgcsctn.org

  • In Person: Drop it off at our administrative office:

    210 W. 8th Street, Columbia, TN 38401

Once we receive your application, a member of our team will follow up with next steps, including any necessary background checks, training, or orientation details.

Volunteers are the heart of our mission—and your time, energy, and talents can make a lasting impact in the lives of local youth. We can’t wait to welcome you to the team!

Is a background check required?

Yes. If you plan to volunteer directly with youth on an ongoing basis, you’ll be required to complete a background check and a brief safety training session. These steps are essential to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for the kids we serve—and they help us maintain the highest standards of care and accountability.

We’re here to guide you through the process and make it as simple as possible. If you have any questions about what’s required, we’d be happy to help!

Can I start volunteering right away?

Not quite. Volunteer onboarding takes a little time to ensure we’re creating the safest and most effective experience for both you and our Club members.

Please do not arrive expecting to volunteer the same day. Once you submit your completed volunteer application, a staff member will reach out to schedule your orientation and a tour of the Club. This helps us get to know you, explain expectations, and match you with the best opportunity based on your interests and availability.

We appreciate your patience and commitment.

What are the Club’s volunteer hours?

During the School Year:
Monday – Friday | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(after-school programming)

During School Breaks & Summer:
Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(full-day programming)

Please note: Clubs are closed on weekends. Hours may vary slightly by location or on special event days—feel free to contact your local Club for the most up-to-date schedule.

Are there volunteer opportunities that don’t involve working with kids?

Yes! We have several meaningful volunteer opportunities that don’t involve direct interaction with youth—and therefore do not require a background check or safety training. These projects can often be completed outside of regular Club hours and are perfect for individuals or groups looking to make a difference behind the scenes.

Examples include:

  • Administrative or office support

  • Organizing or leading supply drives

  • Club beautification projects (like painting, organizing, or light landscaping)

These efforts play a vital role in helping us maintain a safe, welcoming, and efficient environment for the kids we serve. If you’re interested in helping out in one of these ways, we’d love to hear from you!

Where do I send my application?

You can submit your completed volunteer application in the way that’s most convenient for you:

  • Email: Send it to dmclean@bgcsctn.org

  • Mail or In-Person Delivery:

    Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee
    210 West 8th Street
    Columbia, TN 38401

Please note: The entrance to our administrative office is located around the back via High Street, in the shared parking lot with First Presbyterian Church.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help!

Who should I contact with questions?

Please reach out to Desiree’ McLean at (931) 490-9401 x2603 or dmclean@bgcsctn.org with any questions about volunteer opportunities.

READY TO GET STARTED?

If you wish to sign up as a volunteer, please click the button below to fill out the volunteer application.

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION
Email Subscription Form