Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for considering volunteering with UCR!

Upcounty Community Resources, Inc. (UCR) is a private, non-profit organization that believes we are enriched by all persons in our community. We promote the full inclusion of persons with developmental differences into every aspect of community life through our social events and therapeutically based programs.

Our programs and events take place at various locations in upper Montgomery County. UCR programs are facilitated by professionals, and staffed by trained and experienced UCR staff. Volunteers like YOU make a difference by supporting UCR members, staff, and professionals at programs and events.

Who Can Volunteer?

ALL adults and teens ages 15 and over are welcome to volunteer with UCR. No previous experience is required. We have many opportunities, so when choosing a event or program to volunteer with, pick an activity that you enjoy!

1. Fill out the online Volunteer Registration Form.
2. Choose a UCR program (or programs!) for which you would like to volunteer.
3. Contact Jenn Lynn with the date you will start volunteering.
4. Review the Volunteer Expectations, Volunteer Role, and Training Resources (see below) and register to attend a training session before volunteering with UCR.
5. All volunteers must bring a copy of their completed registration form to their first UCR program or event. Give the copy of your volunteer registration to the on site UCR staff person. A new registration form is required with each new program year.
6. Follow UCR on Facebook for program and event updates and opportunities!
7. SSL HOURS AVAILABLE Dan Finn or Jenn Lynn may fill out the required volunteer evaluations or SSL forms.
8. Be aware of UCR’s inclement weather policy and sign up for Alert Montgomery by texting 411911 “MONTGOMERY” to receive updates from Montgomery County regarding weather, etc.

Volunteer Roles and Expectations
Participate fully in every activity by supporting UCR members and staff. Follow instructions given by UCR staff, and interact with UCR members.

• Volunteers are expected to engage in appropriate conversations and interactions
• Find a way to help members without doing activities for them
• Model appropriate behavior
• Assist instructors or staff by handing out any necessary information and following directions
• Encourage and assist UCR members facilitating participation to the fullest extent
• Try creative communication techniques with members – DO NOT ASSUME because a person is nonverbal or has a speech impairment that they cannot communicate
• Ask questions, have fun and make new friends!

Volunteers should NEVER be alone with a UCR member for any reason. Volunteers should also NEVER perform personal care tasks for members (i.e, personal care, feeding, lifting, transferring, and positioning). UCR has the right to dismiss any volunteer who does not appropriately follow these expectations.

Training Resources
Examples of People First Language
Tips for Interacting with People with Disabilities
Wheelchair Etiquette
The Case Against “Special Needs”
The training resources provided above are from Potomac Community Resources, Inc., and Kathie Snow of www.disabilityisnatural.com.

This form must be completed by the applicant.  Mandatory fields marked with *.