Volunteer with Disability Services
Volunteers support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
ACE Ally
The Arts and Community Exploration (ACE) program is a person-centered initiative designed to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As an ACE Ally, you'll support activities that help participants build skills, connect with others, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Volunteers currently assist with a variety of activities such as cooking classes, basketball, Special Olympics bowling, pet therapy, and field trips.
Commitment: Flexible – volunteer once a month or once a week, depending on your availability. A commitment of at least six months is preferred.
Additional Requirements: Background check and proof of first two Covid vaccinations. CPR certification preferred. Ages 18 and older.
Adaptive Bike Companion
Join the adaptive cycling pilot program for Douglas County residents in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community as an Adaptive Bike Companion! This program will run seasonally and participants will get to explore various trails in the area. This will break barriers to exploring the outdoors and help people with disabilities increase mobility, enjoy benefits of improved physical and mental health, build social connections, work on bike and safety skills and have fun in their community!
Commitment: May through September. Once or twice a week. Shifts will vary throughout the week but will be in 3-hour increments. Approximate times: Mondays-Friday 8:45am-11:45am and/or 12:15pm-3:15pm. A commitment of 4-5 weeks preferred.
Additional Requirements: Brief interview with adaptive bike coordinator, background check, and proof of first two Covid vaccinations. Ages 16 and older (with adult) or 18 and older.
Best Buddies
Make a difference in your life and your community and join the Jewish Family Service Citizens chapter of Best Buddies International for adults in their one-to-one friendship program. In the JFS chapter, Jewish adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) become buddies and are matched with Jewish neurotypical adults who become their peer buddies. When you become a buddy, the lasting friendship that develops helps to reduce the social isolation that is frequently associated with individuals with IDD.
Commitment: Flexible. Visit once a week or twice a month, monthly chapter programs. A commitment of at least six months preferred.
Additional Requirements: Must be Jewish, background check, driver’s license, proof of first two Covid vaccinations. Submit application through Best Buddies International and select “Jewish Family Service Citizens.” Ages 18 and older.