VIP Youth Volunteers FAQ
Q: What is the time commitment for volunteering?
A: The VIP program meets approximately 8 Saturday afternoons in both the Fall and Spring soccer seasons. The time commitment is 90 minutes for each practice including set-up, snack and clean up. Volunteers are encouraged to attend weekly because the players look forward to seeing their specific buddy. Occasional practices can be missed; please let the Volunteer Coordinator know in advance if you will miss a practice.
Q: Can I get community service hours for my time?
A: Yes, the volunteer coordinator will keep track of your attendance and sign any forms required by your school to demonstrate your attendance.
Q: What qualifications do I have to meet to volunteer?
A: Volunteers need to have a basic knowledge of the game of soccer.
Q: What qualities should a volunteer display?
A: Volunteers need to be open-minded and flexible. They need to have respect for people with disabilities and an interest in assisting them.
Q: Do volunteers get any training?
A: Volunteers are encouraged to attend the basic training session and other training opportunities offered throughout the year. Community service credit hours can be obtained for participation. Ongoing support is also provided during all practices.
Q: What does the volunteer do?
A: Volunteers encourage the player verbally, and guide the player physically, if necessary. Volunteers often run along side the player and accompany the player in all aspects of an activity, guiding the player through each step. The volunteer aim’s to work toward the player’s independence on the field. Volunteers are expected to assist the coach with set up and take down of equipment, and to sit and socialize with the players during snack time.
Q: What kind of disabilities do these players have?
A: Players may have mental, physical and/or social disabilities that affect their mobility, strength, comprehension or safety. Examples of these disabilities may include Autism, Downs Syndrome, learning disabilities or Cerebral Palsy.
Q: How old are the players that a volunteer works with?
A: The players may range in age from age 4 to 18. VIP Administrators will work to pair each volunteer with a player appropriate for that volunteer’s age or skills.
Q: How many players is a volunteer responsible for during a session?
A: Ideally, there is at least one volunteer for each player.
Q: Can I start volunteering in the middle of the season?
A: Volunteers can start in the middle of the season only with approval of the Volunteer Coordinator.
Q: Do I need to bring any of my soccer equipment or water?
A: We suggest you wear shin guards and cleats. Although cleats are not required, you should wear a sturdy, sensible shoe for kicking a soccer ball. Please do not wear flip flops! J
Q: What else do I need to know about becoming a volunteer?
A: Please register online as a youth volunteer by going to www.eAYSO.org. Every volunteer must register annually. In most cases, a volunteer will complete the process each year at the beginning of the Fall season.
For questions or further information, Linda Vaintrub, VIP Youth Volunteer Coordinator, at linda@vaintrub.org or 773-525-1791.
3/10
|
