Volunteer!

As a volunteer, you’ll change lives…theirs and yours!

“I was hoping to pay forward at least some of what I’d gotten as a UU youth to the current generation of youth. What I didn’t expect was… I got all of that same good stuff all over again! A sense of welcoming, loving community that I’d been longing for, special connections with unique, inspiring and kind individuals both young and old, and a feeling of being part of something bigger.” ~Stephanie, a CoA volunteer

There is a lot of support for Religious Education volunteers!~

  • Training
  • Prepared lesson plans, with the flexibility to adjust to your interests
  • Supplies and materials ready for you in advance
  • Teaching partners (always at least 2 adults at a time in any classroom)
  • Flexible scheduling

We want our volunteers to get the most out their roles! If you have questions about any of the programs below, or if you’d like to volunteer but aren’t sure which spot is right for you, please contact the Director of Children and Family Ministries, who would be happy to help find a good fit for your interests and availability: jendeldeo@southchurch-uu.org

Young Church (PreK through 4th Grade): Sessions that use a hands-on approach to faith formation. Kids learn about UU identity through a variety of activities, including art, storytelling, music, games and even LEGOs. Fun and connective!

Volunteering in Young Church:

  • What Volunteers Commit To: Volunteer training, then some Sunday mornings, with very flexible scheduling.
  • What They Get In Return: Multigenerational relationships; active exploration for yourself of UU identity; grounding through play and creativity; deepen connection with other adults on the volunteer team

Sparks & Flames (Grades 5 through 7): Kids interact with associate programs and other South Church groups to learn about and help with many activities that make our church thrive. They will also connect with some local organizations to participate in good work outside the church walls.

  • What Volunteers Commit To: Volunteer training, then some Sunday mornings and occasional Friday evening social events, very flexible scheduling.
  • What They Get In Return: Multigenerational relationships; hands-on exposure to various church groups and projects; inspiration from adolescents who are passionate about changing the world; active learning along with kids about organizations who are addressing local issues; deepen connection with other adults on teaching team

Coming of Age (8th grade): A UU rite of passage program.  Its purpose is to support participants as they make the transition from childhood to youth. There is a somewhat larger time commitment to teaching in this program, but volunteering as a facilitator or Mentor in COA is a deeply rewarding experience.

  • What Volunteers Commit To:
    • Facilitator: Volunteer training, then average 2 Sunday mornings per month.
    • Mentor: Approximately 10 specific Sunday mornings between Oct-May
  • What They Get In Return: Multigenerational relationships; explore UU identity; great opportunity to check in with your own values and personal beliefs each time, as you guide youth to do the same; you will develop rich and meaningful connections with the youth and other adults in this program.

Senior Youth (9th-12th grades): Youth group gives our teens an opportunity to continue fostering their spiritual selves and make meaningful connections with others through shared experience. This is a place of community, service, and empowerment. Group meets weekly, plus there are occasional field trips, overnights, and a service learning trip in June.

  • What Volunteers Commit To: Volunteer training, then average two Sundays per month. Meets on Sunday afternoon/evening (you can still go to worship.) Optional field trips or service learning trips.
  • What They Get In Return: A fun and dynamic experience that builds valuable intergenerational relationships; actively explore social justice issues and your own values while guiding youth in the process. An incredibly connective travel experience in June, related to a justice topic.

Other Volunteer opportunities: In addition to the program teams listed above, we also look for folks who can help with social groups, who are interested in becoming training as OWL (sexuality education) instructors, and occasional roles as a workshop leader, help with special activities, etc. If you do not see something in the above options, send an email and let us know you’d like to get involved! jendeldeo@southchurch-uu.org

Get In Touch

Director of Children and Family Ministries Jen Del Deo-Barry: jendeldeo@southchurch-uu.org

Director of Lifespan Ministries Kirsten Hunter: kirsten@southchurch-uu.org

Drop By

Our offices are located at 73 Court St in Portsmouth.

Generally the office is open Tues through Fri, 9am-2pm.

You are welcome to drop in during those hours, but it’s always a good idea to call or schedule an appointment if you would like to meet with a staff member.

Mailing Address:

South Church Meeting House

73 Court Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801