Celebrating National Volunteer Week at Covenant House

April is Global Volunteer Month, and from April 19-26, 2026, we are celebrating National Volunteer week. At Covenant House, volunteers give their time, energy and resources toward the mission of ending youth homelessness as we know it.

Some give up the comfort of their own beds for a night to participate in Sleep Out events, raising awareness and funds to donate. Others serve as volunteer mentors, creating a safe space for youth to learn and have a person to lean on for support. Many bring joy and creativity by decorating our sites during the holidays or spending time building connections with youth.

No matter how big or small the act may seem, every effort truly matters, and it all comes from the heart. Volunteerism at Covenant House looks different for everyone and that’s what we’re celebrating this week.

Ashleigh Uzoaru began volunteering with Covenant house two years ago through her company’s employee resource group, when she saw a call for volunteers to help with mock interviews. Growing up, she and her siblings had to deal with unsafe housing, so the mission of Covenant House was close to Ashleigh's heart.

In November 2024, she participated in her first Sleep Out. "This work is life-changing, not just for the youth we support, but for us as well. The joy, the fulfillment, the purpose you feel — it’s indescribable. If you’re looking for a way to make a real difference, to connect with others on a deeper level, and to do something that truly matters, I can’t think of a better place to start than with Covenant House," Ashleigh says.

For others, volunteering can look like decorating and participating in programs during the holidays. At Covenant House New Jersey, volunteers bring holiday cheer with friendly competitions such as gingerbread house and door and room decorating contests with youth residents. These joyful moments create a sense of community and hope during difficult times.

Covenant House Alaska has a robust volunteer program, where community members can mentor youth as they navigate a season of homelessness. Jennie, having lived in Alaska for 12 years, was eager to find ways to serve her community. Covenant House Alaska had plenty of opportunities available to do just that.

As a mentor in the Rights of Passage program, Jennie offers guidance, encouragement, and sometimes even something as simple as a ride to a job interview. These everyday acts of kindness can have a lasting impact, helping young people feel seen, supported, and empowered.

“Volunteers are an essential part of Covenant House Alaska’s team — we truly could not do all that we do without them,” says Holly Payne, volunteer manager at Covenant House Alaska. “Some volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our fundraising events are successful or that clothing donations are accessible for young people. Others work directly with the young people we serve, mentoring or facilitating workshops and activities.

“Each volunteer makes an impact,” Holly says, “both for the young people we serve and the staff they work alongside.”

No matter where or how you choose to get involved, there’s a place for you at Covenant House.

This National Volunteer Week, we invite you to learn more about volunteering. Whether you give an hour of your time at one of our sites, or give up your bed for a night to Sleep Out, you can help change a life, and help end youth homelessness as we know it.