Volunteer in our Circle of Friends Academy Classrooms
Help Children Feel Safe, Supported & Included
Become a caring, consistent presence for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in our inclusive early learning program.
Volunteer Information Sessions
The first step toward volunteering at Circle of Friends Academy is attending an information session.
Dates
TBA
Times
TBA
Location
The Schreiber Center
625 Community Way,
Lancaster PA 17603
During this session you’ll:
- Learn about Circle of Friends Academy
- Tour the classrooms
- Meet the teachers
- Learn about volunteer expectations
- Receive guidance on the required onboarding process
What Makes Circle of Friends Academy Special
Circle of Friends Academy is an inclusive early learning and childcare program where children of all abilities learn and grow together.
Volunteers become part of each classroom community by supporting teachers and creating meaningful moments of connection throughout the day. Consistent volunteers help children feel comfortable, confident, and excited to learn.
What You’ll Do
Volunteer opportunities may include:
- Reading with children
- Assisting with classroom activities
- Supporting play and learning
- Helping with meals and classroom routines
- Encouraging friendships and positive interactions
- Assisting teachers with classroom preparation
Volunteer activities vary based on classroom placement and the age of the children.
What Happens Next?
After attending an information session, you’ll receive everything you need to complete the volunteer onboarding process.
Our team will guide you through each step, answer your questions, and let you know when you’re ready to begin volunteering.
Volunteer Requirements
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification (Free for Volunteers)
- Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Record Check (Free for Volunteers)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal History Clearance ($23.85)
- National Sex Offender Registry Verification (Free for Volunteers)
- Mandated Reporter Training (Free Online Training Available)
- Health Assessment (Free and coordinated by Schreiber) completed by a physician, physician assistant, or certified registered nurse practitioner (CRNP), including:
- Physical examination
- TB screening
- Communicable disease screening
- Assessment of any medical conditions that could affect the ability to provide care
- Provider determination that the individual is suitable to work with children
- Two non-family references
- Emergency planning training (provided by Schreiber)
If your required clearances are still valid within the past 60 months, we’re happy to accept them where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Because Circle of Friends Academy is a licensed childcare center, volunteers complete additional onboarding requirements.
The information session introduces you to the program, explains the volunteer role, walks you through the onboarding process, and gives you the opportunity to ask questions before moving forward.
We welcome retirees, college students, parents, grandparents, and community members who enjoy working with young children.
There’s no minimum time commitment to volunteer. Many of our volunteers give just one morning or afternoon each week for an hour or two. We simply ask that, whenever possible, you volunteer on a consistent schedule so children and staff can build meaningful relationships with you.
Yes!
We welcome seasonal volunteers and understand that availability may change throughout the year. If you’re available for just the summer or another season, we’d still love to have you join us.
No problem!
You’re a volunteer, and we’re grateful for any time you’re able to share with us. Simply let us know when you’ll be away, and we’ll work around your schedule.
Circle of Friends Academy is a licensed childcare center, so the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services requires additional screenings and training to help ensure a safe environment for every child in our care.
We’ll do our best to match your interests and availability with our greatest classroom needs.
Absolutely.
We’ll guide you through each step, answer your questions, and let you know when you’re ready to begin volunteering.
Questions?
Contact Sara Anderson at sanderson@schreiberpediatric.org
Ways to Give
Donating to the Schreiber Center is an investment in a child’s future.
Your contributions allow us to continue offering life-changing services to children in need, providing them with the tools and support to achieve their dreams. Whether through one-time gifts, recurring donations, or legacy giving, your generosity makes a lasting difference in the lives of Schreiber kids.