VOLUNTEERING
Discover the ways you can help meet the needs of children and families in our community.
Here at Rainbows, we see every child as a masterpiece waiting to be revealed, but treasured works of art don’t just happen on their own. They take time, resources and talent. And that’s where you come in! If you have a passion for fostering potential and finding beauty within, we’d love to find a place for you. There are many ways you can help meet the needs of children with special needs and their families in our community. We offer a variety of ways for volunteers to lend a hand, and if you aren’t sure which option is right for you, our skilled Volunteer Coordinator is happy to assist. Both one-time and long-term volunteer opportunities are available for individuals and/or groups.
“I’ve come to love my time at Rainbows. I’ll see a smile from one of the children, or hear a parent say ‘thank you.’ And I realize what I’m doing is the easy part.” – Volunteer
Individual Volunteers
Individual volunteers can choose from a wide variety of options. Rainbows has many needs in the classroom, outdoors and around the office. There are often special projects that also require volunteers.
To volunteer for general positions at Kids’ Cove or Kids’ Point locations please fill out our Volunteer Application or contact Melani Kliewer, Volunteer Coordinator at 316.871.8959 or mkliewer@rui.org.
Group Volunteers
Volunteer groups serve Rainbows in a variety of ways. You might take part in a work project (cleaning, gardening, building), facilitate a classroom activity (games, art project, one-on-one mentoring) or help with a special event (field day, dance party, fundraiser). Each group is matched to a project based upon the age of the participants, when the volunteers are available, and the needs of the agency. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator directly to discuss current needs and tailor an opportunity to fit your group specifically.
Become a Specialized Foster Care Home
You can share your home with a child with special needs through foster care. Find out more here.
Helpful Links
Wishlist
- Walmart/Dillon's Giftcards
- Various Restaurant Giftcards
- Therapy Dogs
- More items...
A Special Note for Students:
If you are seeking a practicum or internship requiring the evaluation of a supervising professional please contact Lindsay Kral, Vice President of Programs and Services, at lkral@rui.org. Include your class requirements and area of study with the subject line “student practicum” in this important communication. Any student requiring less than 10 observation hours, may contact Michelle Croomes at mcroomes@rui.org or 316.267.5437 to make arrangements.
Volunteer Stories
Family connected to Rainbows through volunteerism
Dora Chihuahua-Davis has been volunteering at Rainbows since 2015. It was her son, Regan who first volunteered at Camp Woodchuck and sparked Dora’s interest in
“Kids’ innate joy, goodness, and honesty have truly enriched my life.”
Sheryl Smith, an enthusiastic volunteer, comes weekly to Rainbows and reads to children of different backgrounds and learning abilities. She encourages them to select suitable
Volunteering Makes Life Happy
“I don’t do anything I don’t want to do,” said Jimna Knapp, Rainbows volunteer. “Doing what I enjoy is important. It’s my fulfillment, my happiness
LifePoint Church Youth Group
Youth Pastor Nathanial Thurman has been bringing the LifePoint Church Youth Group to help serve Rainbows for 10 years this year. “I lead a small
Rob Ralston
“As long as I can remember, I’ve held a soft spot in my heart for individuals with special needs,” said Rainbows’ Volunteer Rob Ralston. Prior
Mary Ellis
Volunteering at Rainbows impacts not only the children with special needs and their families, but it also changes the life of the volunteer. “I enjoy
