The Homeless Children's Playtime Project (HCPP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing healthy child development and reducing the effects of trauma among children living in temporary housing programs in the District of Columbia. Our trained and screened volunteers provide weekly activities, healthy snacks, and opportunities to play for children at five emergency shelter and transitional housing sites in D.C. where there are otherwise are no services or programs for children. As homelessness among families grows across the nation and in our own community, we are looking for new energetic and passionate volunteers to help lead our programs. Help relieve the stress of homelessness with play-doh, soccer balls, and board games!
We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers at four of our sites: (1) In our two playrooms at DC General Emergency Family Hypothermia Shelter on Tuesday or Thursday nights from 6:30-8:30pm. It is right across the street from the Stadium Armory metro station. (2) On Monday or Wednesday nights in our site by Anacostia metro station. (3) In our playroom(s) in Columbia Heights and NE DC on Monday and Thursday nights.
- Volunteers are expected to make a weekly commitment to HCPP from 6:15-8:30 p.m. Consistency and relationship-building is important in the lives of children in transition and we need to be able to count on you every week to maintain a safe volunteer-child ratio every week.
- Volunteers should come with experience working with children and an interest in learning about the special population that we serve in order to support healthy child development.
- We are looking for people who will take initiative to lead creative playtime activities with children including arts and craft projects, ball games, infant/toddler activities, reading, games and imaginary play to encourage children to be creative and use their imagination. Volunteers should also be comfortable setting appropriate boundaries to maintain order, safety, structure and respect for our rules.
- Volunteers will be expected to undergo a background check and attend a mandatory introductory training session scheduled once a month in our office in Columbia Heights. Our next training date is Wedneday, April 10th from 6:00-8:30pm. Our trainings are at St Stephen's Church at 1525 Newton St, NW.
This is your opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of a child in your own city while having fun after work!
