Volunteer Arts Therapist

Volunteer Arts Therapist (Unpaid Position)

Maimonides Children’s Hospital | Brooklyn, NY

About A Free Bird

A Free Bird is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York City that empowers children affected by cancer through arts education. Our programs support emotional healing and self-expression through creative mediums including art, music, acting, writing, poetry, and singing.

Position Overview

A Free Bird is seeking a compassionate Volunteer Arts Therapist to facilitate in-person art therapy sessions for pediatric patients at Maimonides Children’s Hospital. This role supports children ages 4–18 by providing a safe, creative outlet within a hospital environment.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate art therapy sessions for children ages 4–18 on-site at Maimonides Children’s Hospital
• Create and submit structured lesson plans to the Programs Director and/or Take Flight Programs Coordinator
• Document sessions by photographing completed artwork and submitting required materials
• Complete pre-session and post-session evaluations via Google Forms to track progress and goals
• Observe participant well-being and promptly notify the on-site Child Life Specialist of any concerns (emotional distress, behavioral changes, bullying, or potential abuse)
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with children and guardians regarding session activities and objectives
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and engaging creative environment

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience in art therapy or a closely related therapeutic or educational arts role
• Prior experience working directly with children
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Creative, patient, and adaptable approach in a clinical setting
• Warm, professional, and child-centered demeanor

Time Commitment

• Volunteer position
• On-site at Maimonides Children’s Hospital (Brooklyn, NY)
• 4-hour shifts (weekly or as scheduled)

What You'll Gain

• Direct exposure to nonprofit leadership and operations
• Access to free educational workshops and open classes across multiple organizational departments
• Letter of recommendation and certificate of completion upon successful completion
• Networking opportunities with professionals, volunteers, and nonprofit leaders
• Professional experience in administration and executive support
• Most importantly, you'll directly support programs that bring hope and healing to children battling cancer.

Our Culture

At A Free Bird, we believe our volunteers are family.

We foster a friendly, collaborative, and positive environment where volunteers support one another, learn together, and work toward one shared mission: helping children with cancer discover hope through creativity.

We're passionate about using technology to improve how we serve our community and continuously innovate the way nonprofits operate.

How to Apply

Please send your resume and a brief statement of interest to hr@afreebird.org with the subject line: Volunteer Arts Therapist Application – A Free Bird