Support Us
There are many ways to connect to the work of Side by Side, here are just a few opportunities.
Youth Volunteers (ages 14-25)
Youth may be interested in volunteering with Side by Side, including fulfilling volunteer hours required for school or other activities. Side by Side has opportunities for youth to volunteer and help out around the Side by Side Youth Center including organizing and cleaning the center as well as providing support for special events like our annual Queer Prom.
Richmond Youth Center Volunteers
Side by Side regularly needs volunteers to assist around our youth center in Richmond, Virginia. Tasks include cataloging books in our library, organizing storage and craft areas, cleaning the center, and gardening outside. We also welcome groups of volunteers interested in special projects including general upkeep of the Side by Side Youth Center.
Community Based and Special Event Volunteers
Side by Side is invited to numerous community based events each year and always need support in tabling at these events. We also host special events, including our annual Glitter Glam Jam, Springtime fundraiser and our annual Queer Prom that we need support with.
Apply to any of the above opportunities by filling out our online Volunteer Application.
If you have any questions or are interested in support group volunteering please contact info@sidebysideva.org directly for more information
Graduate/Post-Graduate Internships
Side by Side offers internships in LGBTQ+ mental health support and LGBTQ+ housing services where you will work directly with our youth and young adults. Internships are open to any graduate or post-graduate student in social work, psychology or a related field. Internships are available Fall, Spring & Summer, and please be advised that spots are limited.
If you’re interested, please contact us at jobs@sidebysideva.org.
Undergraduate Internships
Side by Side provides regular volunteering hours for individuals in associate and undergraduate programs. We are happy to provide verification for these completed hours. Due to our programming age range, associate and undergraduate students may not able to directly work with our youth and young adults, but will engage in a wide-range of projects that support Side by Side’s programming and mission.
If interested, please contact us at jobs@sidebysideva.org.
Volunteer Facilitators
Side by Side utilizes volunteer adult facilitators to assist with our weekly support groups in Richmond. We are looking for people dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. We provide training and resources to support our facilitator team, so no prior experience is necessary.
Requirements for Becoming a Side by Side Facilitator:
Be able to physically attend groups in Richmond
Be at least 21 years old
Complete facilitator training
Pass a background check
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer facilitator please contact us at jobs@sidebysideva.org
Board Service
Side by Side has three boards who provide support, guidance, and advice to our organization. Our Board of Directors is responsible for the governance and has fiduciary responsibility for the organization. Our Junior Board works to spread the word about Side by Side and manages a few smaller fundraising campaigns. And our Advisory Board is made up of community leaders who help advise the organization on strategic planning.
If you’re interested in connecting with Side by Side through Board Service on any of our boards please contact our chairperson, (chair@sidebysideva.org)