Needs From: United Way Acadiana

We are seeking individuals who care deeply about community impact and are ready to lend their voice, expertise, and leadership. Current opportunities include: ​ Board Member – Marketing & Communications​,Board Member-Legal Chair, Board Member-Program Chair.​ These roles offer the chance to contribute professional insight while working alongside a committed group of leaders who believe in creating stronger pathways to independence and success. What Do Board Members Do? Board members: ​ Champion the mission and values of The Family Connection, Provide governance and strategic guidance, Strengthen community connections and partnerships, Help ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability​​ Board service is voluntary, meaningful, and deeply impactful.

Help us create memorable events that raise awareness, build community partnerships, and support youth aging out of foster care. Events Committee Volunteers assist with planning and executing fundraising events, community outreach opportunities, volunteer appreciation activities, and educational events throughout the year.

This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy organizing, networking, and making things happen behind the scenes.

Additional volunteer hours during events are necessary.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Impact

Your support helps raise critical funding and awareness so more young adults aging out of foster care can receive the guidance and resources they deserve.

The D.O.T. (Developing Older Teens) Program pairs caring adult mentors with youth ages 16-21 who are preparing to transition from foster care into adulthood. Mentors provide encouragement, accountability, and consistent support while helping participants navigate life's challenges and celebrate milestones. For this role, a one-year commitment is preferred to provide consistency.

The goal is not to have all the answers—it is to be a trusted, dependable adult who believes in a
young person's potential.

Responsibilities
● Meet with your assigned mentee consistently.
● Build a positive, supportive mentoring relationship.
● Encourage educational and career goals.
● Assist with goal setting and problem solving.
● Introduce healthy life skills and positive decision-making.
● Attend occasional program activities and group events.
● Maintain regular communication with program staff.

Qualifications
● Minimum age of 21.
● Positive role model with good character.
● Strong listening and communication skills.
● Commitment to maintaining appropriate boundaries and confidentiality.
● Must complete mentor training and pass a background check.

Impact
A single caring adult can change the trajectory of a young person's life. Your mentorship can
help youth build confidence, achieve their goals, and successfully transition into adulthood.

College Tour Chaperones accompany youth during college visits and educational trips designed
to expose participants to higher education opportunities and career pathways. Volunteers help
ensure a safe, positive, and engaging experience while encouraging students to explore their
future possibilities. Chaperone dates are announced throughout the year.

Responsibilities
● Supervise students during college tours and travel.
● Assist with check-in, attendance, and group coordination.
● Encourage students to ask questions and participate.
● Help maintain a safe and respectful environment.
● Serve as a positive role model throughout the trip.
● Assist staff with logistics as needed.

Qualifications
● Dependable and responsible.
● Enjoy working with youth.
● Strong communication skills.
● Ability to walk for extended periods during campus tours.
● Must successfully complete a background check.

Impact
Many foster youth have never visited a college campus. Your encouragement and support can
inspire them to pursue higher education, career training, and opportunities they may not have previously imagined.

The Family Connection Inc. is seeking passionate volunteers to facilitate life preparation
courses for youth ages 16–21 who are aging out of or have aged out of foster care. Our Life
Prep Courses equip young adults with the practical skills and confidence needed to transition
successfully into independent adulthood.

As a facilitator, you will lead engaging workshops, encourage discussion, and create a
welcoming learning environment where participants feel supported and empowered.

Opportunities for this role are available throughout the year. 

Responsibilities
● Facilitate interactive life skills workshops.
● Teach topics such as budgeting, financial literacy, employment readiness,
communication, healthy relationships, housing, nutrition, and time management.
● Encourage participation and meaningful discussion.
● Share practical knowledge and real-world experiences.
● Assist with workshop setup and cleanup when needed.
● Collaborate with staff and fellow volunteers.

Qualifications
● Passion for mentoring and serving youth.
● Comfortable speaking in front of small groups.
● Reliable, patient, and encouraging.
● Experience teaching, coaching, training, or facilitating is preferred but not required.
● Must successfully complete a background check.

Impact
Your guidance helps young adults develop the life skills they need to build stable, independent, and successful futures.