How to Get InvolveD
Help build our teens' journey
There are many ways to support our program. Choose a role that matches your time, gifts, or interests.
Volunteer roles
Help run events, teach skills, provide transportation, coach or referee a sporting event, or co-lead service activities.
Teen leadership volunteers
Join our Youth Advisory Committee and help shape Journey's future. Earn service hours while developing collaboration and leadership skills.
Learn more about this
Career positions
Look for full-time and part-time opportunities to help build something meaningful together.
Teen Leadership Program
Journey provides opportunities for teens to develop leadership skills through our Youth Advisory Committee
Teens shape the direction
Your voice decides what Journey becomes and where we go next.
Real influence, real stakes
Advisory members sit at the table where decisions are made.
Apply now
We are looking for teens ready to lead from the inside out.
Join our team!
Available roles
Journey strives for inclusivity. We will make every effort to provide accommodations that support participation in the application and interview process, enable the performance of essential job functions, and ensure equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment.
Please contact hello@chicagojourney.org if you need assistance.
Full-time
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Part-time roles
Youth Minister/Youth Group Leader (Part-Time)
Compensation
$45/hour
Compensation
Hybrid – work from home and at the parishes in the Beverly/Morgan Park area of Chicago
Schedule
Flexible hours that include a mix of evenings and weekends
Report to
Executive Director
Overview
We are seeking a creative and relational Youth Minister/Youth Group Leader to help build and implement a multi-parish program that responds to the needs of young people. This ministry emphasizes service experiences, contemplative practices, and spiritual development while integrating Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospels. The Youth Minister/Youth Group Lead will help young people encounter God through diverse entry points that include social activities, service experiences, contemplative practices, field experiences, mission trips, retreats, small group discussions, and other meaningful activities relevant to today’s youth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Co-design and lead youth group activities that include service, contemplative practices, spiritual development, social events, and retreats.
- Create inclusive spaces that welcome teens from varied levels of religious practice.
- Facilitate spiritual development by leading reflection and shared faith experiences, while guiding teens to discover their purpose and deepen their connection with God.
- Integrate Catholic Social Teaching into programming in ways that are engaging, practical, and relevant to young people.
- Build strong, supportive relationships with youth and their families.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director, parish staff, volunteers, and community partners to develop innovative programming.
- Encourage intergenerational connections through parish and community involvement.
- Assist with recruitment, communications, training, and support of volunteers.
- Contribute ideas to long-term planning and program innovation.
- Assist with various committee meetings.
- Must complete CPR certification, VIRTUS training, and all required child safety protocols.
Qualifications:
- Demonstrated experience successfully working with teens in ministry, education, social work, educational psychology, or related settings.
- Strong understanding of Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospels.
- Must be a practicing Catholic.
- Ability to engage youth through diverse activities: service, arts, sciences, sports, and more.
- Demonstrates creativity, flexibility, and a deep understanding of adolescent development.
- Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
- Able to mentor young leaders, equipping them to take responsibility for aspects of the ministry.
- Must live in the Chicagoland area.
Preferred:
- Completed or in-progress degree or certification in Pastoral Studies, Theology, Religious Education, Youth Ministry or related field.
- Experience in Catholic school education or parish ministry.
Internships
Stay informed about future opportunities
Roles might become available in the future. Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime. Read our Privacy Policy
High Need Volunteer Roles
Sports Chaperone
Overview
Sports Chaperones support youth participants during athletic events, practices, games, and related activities. This role helps ensure a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment where young people can grow in teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal development.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise and support youth athletes during sports-related activities and events
- Ensure safe behavior and adherence to program guidelines at all times
- Provide positive encouragement and foster healthy team dynamics
- Assist staff with attendance, transitions, and group organization
- Remain present at assigned locations for the duration of the activity
- Communicate any concerns or incidents promptly to program staff
Requirements
- Must be 25 years old or older
- Must complete background checks and Virtus child safety training
Time Commitment
Varies based on season and schedule of events (evenings and weekends may be required).
Driver – Service Projects & Off-Site Activities
Overview
Volunteer Drivers provide safe and reliable transportation for youth participants to service projects, retreats, and other approved off-site activities. This role is essential in helping youth access meaningful service and community engagement opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Transport youth participants to and from designated service project locations
- Follow all traffic laws and safe driving practices at all times
- Ensure all passengers are accounted for before departure and upon arrival
- Maintain a calm, respectful, and safe vehicle environment
- Communicate clearly with program staff regarding timing, routes, and updates
- Support occasional logistics such as loading supplies when needed
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and clean driving record
- Access to a safe, reliable vehicle or ability to rent a vehicle (if applicable)
- Must be 25 years of age or older
- Must complete background checks and Virtus child safety training
Become a part of and support the Journey
Fill out the form below to get started with Journey.
How much time do I commit as volunteer?
It depends on what you do. Some volunteers show up for one event a month. Others work with us weekly. We will help to build a schedule that works for you.
What about background checks?
Yes. Journey prioritizes safety. All adult staff and volunteers complete Virtus youth safety training and background checks. We will guide you through the process.
Can I volunteer remotely?
We offer both in-person and remote volunteer roles and welcome the opportunity to discuss how you can get involved.