Become a FriendMaker: Jewish Teen Volunteer Opportunities in Cleveland
Build friendships. Build leadership. Build a better community.
Looking for meaningful Jewish teen volunteer opportunities in Cleveland? As a FriendMaker with Friendship Circle of Cleveland, you'll be matched with a child or teen with social needs and build a real friendship through games, outings, and shared experiences — while earning community service hours and growing as a leader that actually changes someone's life.
Questions about volunteering? Fill out our contact form, call 216.377.3000 or email [email protected] 😊
What is a FriendMaker?
FriendMakers are Jewish teens who build genuine, lasting friendships with children and teens who have social needs, through one-on-one connections and group programming. It's volunteering that doesn't feel like a chore — teens consistently say it becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their week.
Friendship Circle is part of an international network of more than 80 chapters, and every chapter shares the same mission: pairing teen volunteers with individuals with special needs to build friendship, confidence, and belonging. In Cleveland, that mission comes to life through weekly programs, home visits, camps, and community events — all powered by Jewish teen volunteers like you.
As Friendship Circle's Development Director Eli Shomer put it, "The focus is friendship and connection." That's the whole job description.
Why Volunteer With Friendship Circle
Becoming a FriendMaker is one of the most meaningful ways for Jewish teens in Cleveland to rack up community service hours while actually building leadership skills and real relationships — not just checking a box.
Ways to Get Involved
There's no single way to be a FriendMaker. Whether you want a weekly commitment or an occasional event, there's a volunteer opportunity that fits your schedule.
Sunday Circle
Pair up one-on-one with a child for an afternoon of music, games, crafts, and play. A great entry point for new FriendMakers.
Teen Scene Boys & Girls
Help lead games, outings, sports, baking, and creative projects for teens ages 13–19 who are building their own social circles.
Better Together
Visit senior residents at King David Independent Living alongside your Friends, building intergenerational friendships through conversation and shared activities.
Friends @ Home
Team up with a fellow FriendMaker for weekly visits to a child's home — games, crafts, and conversation, one-on-one, on your own schedule.
Kulanu Hebrew School
Help children explore Jewish traditions, holidays, and Hebrew language through hands-on, experiential learning and friendship.
Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead
Guide hands-on science, tech, engineering, art, and math activities for kids ages 9–12, focused on building social skills through fun.
Day Camps
Volunteer a full camp day at Social Skills Winter or Summer Camp, MLK Day Camp, President's Day Camp, or Kulanu Discovery Camp.
Special Events
Can't commit weekly? Volunteer at MyWalk4Friends, the Chanukah Party, Giving Day & Phone-a-thon, or the Purim Megillah Reading & Party.
How to Apply
Getting started as a FriendMaker takes just a few steps.
- 1
Reach out
Call or email our Volunteering team to share your interests and availability.
- 2
Get matched
We'll match you with a program or a child based on your schedule, interests, and personality.
- 3
Get oriented
New FriendMakers receive orientation and guidance so you feel confident from day one.
- 4
Start building friendships
Show up, show your Friend you care, and watch the friendship grow week by week.
Ready to become a FriendMaker?
Reach out today and we'll help you find the right volunteer opportunity, whether you're looking for a weekly commitment or a one-time mitzvah project.
Reach Out to VolunteerFrequently Asked Questions
Who can become a FriendMaker?
FriendMaker opportunities are open to teens and young adults of Jewish ancestry, ages 12–20, in the Pepper Pike/ Beachwood / Greater Cleveland area. If you're outside that age range or have a specific situation, reach out — we're happy to help you find the right fit.
Do I need any experience to volunteer?
No experience is necessary. New FriendMakers receive orientation and ongoing guidance from our team, so you'll feel prepared before you're matched with a program or a Friend.
How many community service hours can I earn?
Hours depend on which programs you participate in and how often. Many teens volunteer weekly through programs like Sunday Circle or our after school programs, while others earn hours through single events. Contact our Volunteering team for help documenting your hours for school or honor society requirements.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
Not necessarily. Some programs, like Sunday Circle and Teen Scene, run weekly throughout the school year, while special events like MyWalk4Friends or the Chanukah Party are one-time opportunities. Tell us your availability and we'll find something that fits.
Can this count as a mitzvah project?
Yes. Many teens use their FriendMaker volunteering, especially ongoing commitments like Sunday Circle or Kulanu programs, as the basis for a bar or bat mitzvah mitzvah project. Reach out and we can help you shape it.
Can my friend group or youth group volunteer together?
Group volunteering is a great fit for events like MyWalk4Friends, the Chanukah Party, and other community events. Contact our Volunteering team to coordinate a group.
What if I'm not sure which program is right for me?
That's completely normal! Email or call our Volunteering team and tell us a bit about your interests and schedule — we'll help match you with the right program or Friend.
Friendship Circle of Cleveland · 27900 Gates Mills Blvd., Pepper Pike, Ohio 44124 · (216) 377-3000 · Volunteering: [email protected] · General: [email protected]
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