KEEN Chicago



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“A KEEN parent once told me that the time I spend with his child is a gift to his child, but the truth is I am the one getting a gift!” – KEEN coach

Volunteers
Photos of Volunteers in action.

Volunteers are the backbone of KEEN. We could not exist without their support and dedication. In 2005 KEEN Chicago was launched. KEEN Chicago currently serves 60 children with disabilties and offers both recreational Sports and Swim opportunities. In addition to working with some great kids and young adults with disabilities, KEEN volunteers, or “coaches,” meet a variety of interesting community-minded people. Volunteering for KEEN is fun and offers opportunities for occasional participation, regular involvement, and leadership on our coaches committee. Volunteers don't need any prior experience working with individuals with disabilities – KEEN provides training prior to each session. Coaches don't need to be athletic, either. Our athletes will love you just as you are!

KEEN’s programs are structured so that each volunteer is assigned one program participant, or “athlete.” A coach’s job is to help athletes take part in different sports activities and to have a good time. Just before the athletes arrive and the session begins, coaches receive a profile with details about their athlete’s abilities as well as helpful coaching hints for that particular athlete.

Register for a session!

Who are KEEN's volunteers?

KEEN draws volunteers from 3 main groups:

Individuals/Young Professionals
High school students
Corporate/University groups

Young Professionals are the core of KEEN’s volunteer base. KEEN understands the demands on these dedicated coaches, and does not ask them to make a formal commitment of time – they are welcome to show up when they can. But the rewards from interaction with their athlete and the other volunteers make them come back, time and again.

High school volunteers are welcome and KEEN provides student service hours. Spaces for high school student volunteers are limited, and to reserve a space, they need to register for each session. Registration may be done on-line.

Corporate/University Groups are welcome to volunteer at KEEN. Groups wishing to volunteer please email info@keenchicago.org to reserve a program and a date.

How can I become a volunteer?
Volunteers need to be at least 15 years of age and to provide their social secruity number and date of birth for a background check at their first session.

Once you’ve met the age requirement, becoming a volunteer coach for KEEN is easy:

Decide which KEEN program date fits your schedule.
Note the time for the New Volunteer Orientation held prior to each session, and bring the names and your social secruity number and date of birth when you attend your first session.
Wear comfortable, proper clothes and non-marking gym shoes.
Show up and have fun!

Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN) - P.O. Box 06255, Chicago, IL 60606-6255 - info@keenchicago.org