YMCA Volunteers		THE DEFINITION OF A VOLUNTEER A YMCA volunteer is defined as anyone who willingly gives time to help the YMCA accomplish its mission without receiving any compensation or special privileges of any kind.
Volunteer found and volunteer led, the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley depends on the generosity of more than 2,300 volunteers across Chester County to meet the needs of the children and adults we serve. THE YMCA IS VOLUNTEERS! Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. Without them we could not provide our community with the extensive services and programs currently offered. Volunteers provide essential assistance in the administration of each branch, serving on committees and working with staff to meet the needs of YMCA members and participants. WHO IS A YMCA VOLUNTEER? Committee Volunteers:  Volunteers who individually or as part of a group, advise either management or program staff. Policy Volunteers:  Volunteers on the Board of Directors and/or its Committees and are responsible for determining policy, monitoring and evaluating the work of the YMCA. Volunteers for Credit:  Provide school-required volunteer services. Fundraising Volunteers:  Volunteers who undertake roles in fundraising for the YMCA's Good Kids Annual Support Campaign or Capital Campaigns. Program Volunteers:  Provide enhancement to activities designed to meet the needs and interests of the members, program participants and youth, such as youth sports coaches, member service volunteers, etc. THE YMCA VOLUNTEER AND STAFF PARTNERSHIP The YMCA partnership of volunteers and staff is central to the work of the YMCA.  This partnership supports the dedication of the YMCA to involve people in programs and services to “build strong kids, strong families and strong communities”. The volunteer-staff partnership allows the volunteer to: Develop leadership skills Give back to the community Develop a higher sense of self-esteem Develop a self-discipline through goal setting Expand the quality and the quantity of programs and services Increase the opportunity to deliver the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility through programs and services Multiply contacts and increase communication with members and the community Maximize participation and individual experiences through the variety of skills and knowledge For information about volunteering at the YMCA, contact your YMCA's Executive Director. See the contacts page of each branch for information.