Can I bring my children or family?
Only to opportunities that are family-friendly, and the listing says if children can come. Children under 14 must stay with a parent or guardian for the whole shift.
Fictional policy for a demo non-profit. Last reviewed 2026-10-18.
Who this applies to
This applies to parents, grandparents, and guardians who want to volunteer with children or a family.
How it works
- Read each listing for a note about children or families and its minimum age.
- If the listing is silent, do not assume children can come. Ask a coordinator.
- Plan for a parent or guardian to stay with any child under 14 for the whole shift.
- If a teen will volunteer, expect a consent form.
- For a family of eight or more, ask for a coordinator.
What to know
- Children under 14 must stay with a parent or guardian during the whole shift.
- Some roles, such as shelters or clinics, do not allow children.
- Family groups of eight or more are handled as groups.
- Ages 14 to 17 usually need a signed parent or guardian consent form.
- Minimum ages differ by listing.
- Volunteers under 18 get help from a coordinator.
An example
Priscilla in Brooklyn wants to garden with her 9 year old daughter. She reads a garden listing that welcomes families, so she plans to stay beside her daughter the whole time. She skips a clinic role that does not allow children.
What we cannot do
- Say children are welcome when the listing is silent.
- Let a child under 14 volunteer alone.
- Book a large family group from inside the chat.
Need a person?
Ask for a coordinator if you are unsure or have a large family. Say "I want to volunteer with my children and need options."