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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs
Love Box®
Program
Love Box volunteers provide both practical and relational support.
Examples include:
• Helping with homework or school projects
• Bringing a meal
• Babysitting so caregivers can rest
• Attending sporting events or recitals
• Going to the park or planning simple outings
• Calling caregivers to ask, “What do you need to thrive this month?”
It’s about showing up consistently – and building relationships that change everything.
Yes, we love groups! Church small groups, groups of friends, businesses or workplace teams, ministry teams, and civic or community groups are all welcome to serve together. Volunteering as a group is a great way to share the responsibility, encourage one another, and support a larger family in a meaningful and sustainable way.
• Maintain consistent and meaningful communication with the family through regular outreach and check-ins
• Spend time with the family at least once a month to build and strengthen the relationship
• Communicate regularly with the assigned case manager for updates, support, and alignment
• Complete and submit monthly impact reports in a timely manner
Volunteers must be at least 22 years old.
Love Box volunteers commit to at least one in-person connection per month and a minimum one-year commitment, renewed annually. While many of our matches continue far beyond a year, we begin with one year to protect stability and ensure families can rely on your presence.
Yes. Volunteers must have access to a car to meet with families and provide consistent support.
Yes. For the safety and protection of the families we serve, all volunteers are required to complete the following:
• L&C Waiver and Photo Waiver
• Online background check through Sterling Volunteers
• Fingerprinting (You will be required to pay the fee of $45.95 when registering for the fingerprinting).
• CA/N (Child Abuse/Neglect) Form
These steps help ensure a safe, trustworthy, and supportive environment for everyone involved.
There is a one-time registration fee of $35 for an individual or $60 for a couple or group.
Our Love Box® program relies on the passion and commitment of trained volunteers. These fees help set you and your matched family up for success, safety, and a deeply meaningful experience. They cover:
• Background check
• Volunteer onboarding
• Volunteer training
• Thoughtful volunteer + family matching
In addition to the registration cost, volunteers are encouraged to practice intentional generosity toward the family they serve. This often includes providing a monthly Love Box, a small, tangible way to show care and encouragement, as well as occasional meals, activities, or practical support. The specific cost of this will vary depending on how you choose to engage, but it is an important and meaningful part of the commitment.
No – none at all. Our team will equip you through training, walk alongside you in your volunteer journey, and remain an ongoing resource for guidance and support.
We thoughtfully match volunteers and families based on compatibility, proximity, and mutual preferences to help ensure everyone is set up for success. We take into careful consideration the specific needs of each family, as well as the strengths, availability, and types of support each volunteer feels equipped and confident to provide.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and value diversity within our community. We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, marital status, ethnicity, age, financial position, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Could Volunteering Be Your Next Yes?

Dare to Dream®
Program
FAQs
Dare to Dream mentors walk one-on-one with youth ages 11–22 as they navigate life, goals, and big transitions.
Mentors might:
• Help with homework or explore college options
• Attend sporting events or performances
• Explore hobbies or try something new together
• Grab a sweet treat or meal and talk about life
• Practice job interviews or build resumes
• Simply listen and remind a young person, “I believe in you.”
The goal is simple and profound: consistent presence, steady encouragement, and a trusted adult relationship that lasts beyond the program year.
Mentors must be at least 22 years old.
Dare to Dream® mentors commit to at least two in-person connections per month and a minimum one-year commitment. This consistency creates the trust necessary for youth to set goals, take risks, and grow. While the program operates year by year, many of our mentor relationships extend far beyond that first year.
Yes. Mentors must have access to a car to meet consistently with their mentee.
Yes. For the safety and protection of the youth we serve, all volunteers are required to complete the following:
• L&C Waiver
• Online background check
• Fingerprinting (You will be required to pay the fee of $45.95 when registering for the fingerprinting).
• CA/N (Child Abuse/Neglect) Form
These steps help ensure a safe, trustworthy, and supportive environment for everyone involved.
There is a one-time registration fee of $25.
Our Dare to Dream® program relies on the commitment of trained mentors who are prepared to show up consistently for youth navigating foster care. These fees help ensure safety, structure, and a meaningful mentorship experience. They cover:
• Background check
• Mentor onboarding
• Mentor training
• Intentional mentor + youth matching
• Maintain consistent and meaningful communication with the youth and Caregiver through regular outreach and check-ins
• Spend time with the youth at twice a month to build and strengthen the relationship
• Communicate regularly with the assigned case manager for updates, support, and alignment
• Complete and submit monthly impact reports in a timely manner
No – none at all! You don’t need professional experience – just a willingness to show up consistently. We provide comprehensive training, clear structure, and ongoing coaching so you feel supported every step of the way.
We thoughtfully match mentors and youth based on compatibility, proximity, and mutual preferences to ensure everyone is set up for success. We take into careful consideration the specific needs of each youth, as well as the strengths, availability, and types of support each volunteer feels equipped and confident to provide.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and value diversity within our community. We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, marital status, ethnicity, age, financial position, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Could Mentoring Be Your Next Yes?
Volunteer & Mentor
What to Expect
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