Volunteer Opportunities
The YMCA volunteer program is one of the finest in the United States. At the Embarcadero YMCA, over 200 dedicated volunteers from all over the Bay Area give approximately two to four hours a month of their time. It is the commitment of these individuals, in all areas of the Embarcadero YMCA, that changes the lives of people in our community, one at a time. If you wish to join our commitment to the continued well-being of our youth and community, please consider becomming an Embarcadero YMCA volunteer. Review these program descriptions, and follow the steps at the bottom of the page to get involved.

Orrick After School Program
Located at Bessie Carmichael Elementary School, on 7th Street at Folsom. There are 95 children enrolled in this program who benefit from one-on-one volunteer tutoring and homework help with improved test scores, reduced behavioral challenges in the classroom and at home and higher self-esteem. Volunteers are especially needed during the school year, but are welcome year-round, Monday - Thursday from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Contact Laura Grishaver, 415-250-2432, or send an email.

Strong Communities Campaign
A volunteer-run annual fundraising campaign that raises $280,000 to support the Embarcadero YMCA's community programs for at-risk and disadvantaged youth, teens and families. The Community Support Campaign takes place during the first quarter of the year. Volunteers will be trained as campaign workers and provided with the tools and support needed to succeed. Contact Grace Reddy, 415-615-1318, or send an email.

Group Exercise Instructors
A great way to stay in shape while helping others. Volunteer instructors lead weekly group exercise classes in such areas as stretching, aerobics, cycling and kickboxing. We will provide your training and certification. Contact Ross Goo, 415-615-1336, or send an email.

Youth Day Camps (seasonal, summer only)
Volunteers help youth participate in a variety of experiences that challenge them physically and creatively. Activities include Bay Area field trips, swimming, sports, arts and crafts, cooking, and more. Volunteers are needed on weekdays to help with activities and lead specialized workshops. Contact Troy O'Leary, 415-615-1309, or send an email.

Youth Chance High School
The Embarcadero YMCA offers the only non-tuition private alternative high school in San Francisco. Youth Chance High School provides at-risk youth with a non-traditional school setting in which they are able to succeed. Volunteers are needed on weekday mornings for tutoring, specialized workshops, teacher support and special events. Contact Patrizia Guiotto, 415-615-1334 or send an email.

Begin to Swim Week
This one week program of free swim lessons is designed to introduce water safety and basic swimming to children who otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to take lessons. Ever year, as many as 250 children participate for a week in early Spring. Participants include children from San Francisco, with an emphasis on youth who can't afford to pay for lessons. Volunteers are needed to help with swim instruction and water safety for this 2-week program. Contact the Aquatics Department at 415-615-1305 or send an email.

Water Fitness Instructors
Do you love being in the pool and staying in shape? With training, you can get fit and help others by instructing one of our popular aqua fitness classes. Volunteer instructors are needed for Aqua Fitness, Modified Aquarobics and Water Running. Contact Ross Goo, 415-615-1336., or send an email.

How to Volunteer
  1. Select a program or area of interest.
  2. Contact our Volunteer Specialist at 415-615-1310 or send an email, with your interest and availability.
  3. The Volunteer Specialist will contact you to direct you to your area of interest.


Staff Opportunities

To view available staff positions at the Embarcadero YMCA, visit our human resources page. For more information, or to submit a resume, contact our Personnel and Volunteer Specialist, Sandy LaSalle.


Embarcadero YMCA 169 Steuart Street SF, CA 94105 (415) 957-9622