ARHA utilizes individuals and groups to help support and increase services provided to our residents and support annual events.  Many of our volunteers also serve as advocates helping to increase community understanding and cooperation around the many programs ARHA provides. 

Volunteers are an important part of our team and are deeply invested in our work.  As a result, interviews and background screenings may be required for some volunteer positions prior to placement. 

If you are interested in volunteering, please browse the available positions listed below and call the Ruby Tucker Family Center at 703-535-3175.

After School Program

An after-school homework assistance and tutoring program is provided to help K-5th grade students improve in the areas of Reading and Language Arts. Volunteers will work with kids in a small group setting of no more than 4 students, for an hour. Instructional session is usually indoors but volunteers are encouraged to try new approaches, even taking the youth outdoors. Knowledge of computers is helpful as the program relies heavily on their use. Volunteers may also be given opportunities to chaperone kids on field trips where applicable. Critical need time is between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm. 

Community Garden

The "I Can Shine" Garden is an award winning community garden initiative serving low income families in Alexandria, VA. With the assistance of Master Gardeners and a team of volunteers, elementary school aged youth are engaged with a variety of gardening activities, including growing their own vegetables, as well as utilizing a curriculum to develop social skills and an appreciation for environmental science. There is also an associated nutrition component which guides the program participants about the benefits of increasing fresh fruits and vegetables in a daily diet. Volunteers work in teams and commitment is 1 hour per week from March to October. No previous gardening experience is required.

Youth Arts Festival

This one day festival is a showcase of visual and performance arts from youth across the city of Alexandria, giving them an opportunity to share their immense creativity with a broad audience. This free, family friendly event, includes over 25 live performance acts and hundreds of visual arts pieces, combined with over 12 interactive arts booths to engage patrons from all ages and walks of life. This event, which started in 2010 is made possible through partnerships with various City of Alexandria agencies, the Alexandria City Public Schools as well as ARHA.  Recruitment for volunteers starts in April.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland

The Santa's Winter Wonderland event is the largest toy distribution event in the City of Alexandria. The event is sponsored by the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority in partnership with the Alexandria Department of Recreation Parks and Cultural Activities.  The event is free and open to families across Alexandria. Children get an opportunity to receive toys, books, and other gifts during the 4 hour event. Over 100 volunteers are needed for this undertaking which will see approximately 1,500 youth in the city served. Many of the toys are made available through Toys for Tots and donations from community partners. Volunteers will be asked to attend an orientation, prior to involvement in the event. Recruitment for volunteers starts in November.