Can someone under 18 volunteer?
Yes, for opportunities that allow their age. A Volunnear coordinator helps every volunteer under 18, and most 14 to 17 year olds need a signed parent or guardian consent form.
Fictional policy for a demo non-profit. Last reviewed 2026-10-18.
Who this applies to
This applies to anyone under 18, and to parents or guardians helping a teen or child find a place.
How it works
- Tell the assistant the volunteer's age. It searches with that age and asks a coordinator to help.
- Look only at the listings the assistant shows. They already fit the age.
- Expect a coordinator to explain the parent or guardian consent form and the next steps.
- Have the parent or guardian sign the consent form before the first shift.
- If the volunteer is under 14, plan for the parent or guardian to stay for the whole shift.
What to know
- Ages 14 to 17 need a signed parent or guardian consent form for most opportunities.
- Volunteers under 14 must be with a parent or guardian during the whole shift.
- Volunnear does not ask minors for their name or contact details in chat.
- Minimum ages differ by listing, with 14, 16, 18, and 21 being typical.
- A listing that does not state a minimum age is never shown to anyone under 18.
- Volunnear does not issue school credit, and a coordinator cannot promise a spot.
An example
Camille is 15 and lives in Brooklyn. She tells the assistant she wants to help at a park cleanup. The assistant shows a park listing that allows 14 and up and asks a coordinator to follow up. The coordinator explains the consent form, and Camille's parent signs it before her first shift.
What we cannot do
- Collect a minor's name, phone number, or email in chat.
- Promise a spot or a start date.
- Waive the consent form.
Need a person?
Ask for a coordinator as soon as age comes up. Say "I am under 18, please connect me with a coordinator."