Treehouse Hope, a local nonprofit that works with Minnesota teens, is seeking adult volunteers who can mentor and support teens struggling with feelings of hopelessness.
“COVID-19 rocked everyone’s world but it hit young people the hardest. Coming out of the pandemic, we are seeing a surge in teens who feel hopeless,” said Jacori Soto, volunteer engagement coordinator for Treehouse Hope.
Adults who want to “put a toe in,” in Soto’s words, and would like to try participating with Treehouse Hope are invited to volunteer at their Fall Blitz on September 23.
That’s the night that Treehouse Hope youth will take over Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America for its back-to-school kickoff event.
Volunteers are needed at 6 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. to help set up, check in the teens, and cheer them on as they arrive. Volunteers will also be assigned to assist in roles as chaperones and photographers.
“This is a chance for the teens to have fun riding the rides and building community,” Soto said. “With the staff and volunteers, they see adults in the community who care about this generation and want to support them and bring them joy.”
Treehouse Hope is a faith-based nonprofit that works with about a hundred middle and high school teens at five sites in the Twin Cities: Brooklyn Park, Bloomington, New Hope, Minnetonka, and Eagan. The teens have regular gatherings where they build community and resiliency with their peers, mentors, and volunteers.
“These can be difficult years for teens. They may not feel loved at home or among friends at school; they may not excel as they hoped or have the disappointment of not making a team,” Soto said. “We don’t do therapy but we have a safe space where teens can come and talk about their feelings.”
The gatherings, often held in local churches, offer a free hot meal and free transportation in the Treehouse Hope van.
Founded in the Twin Cities more than 40 years ago by a middle school teacher, Treehouse Hope has expanded to communities across Minnesota and around the country.
In addition to the upcoming Fall Blitz, Treehouse Hope also seeks volunteers who want to engage with youth in an ongoing way, as mentors, support group assistants, program assistants, meal service and drivers. There are volunteer opportunities working directly with teens or in administrative or support capacities.
For more info, go to the website at treehousehope.org and click on Get Involved/Volunteer at the top of the webpage.
Teens who would like to participate can call Treehouse Hope at 952-238-1010.
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