Volunteer at MountainStar
Volunteers are integral to our organization! Below you will find a list of volunteer opportunities that are typically available and our volunteer spotlight. If you are interested in getting involved, follow the link below to get started.
Applying to our Volunteer Program is a big step in supporting child abuse prevention. Thank you!
Please use the link below to sign up for our volunteer program. This form collects all your information and shares next steps around fingerprinting and background checks.
MountainStar LOVES its volunteers!
See how YOU can get involved!
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Interact with children in therapeutic classes. Requires positive attitude, sense of humor, patience, and a willingness to engage with kiddos and support staff. Shifts are typically once per week (M-Th) for 3 hours.
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Help with projects around the office including making posters, filing, administrative work and more. Requires ability to follow instructions, creativity, and attention to detail. Shifts are flexible, weekdays and vary in length.
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Help with current fundraisers or create one of your own! Requires flexibility depending upon the needs of each fundraising event.
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Become an official advocate, represent MountainStar at community events. Requires personable and approachable demeanor, ability to lift/carry/set up items. Speak to MountainStar’s mission. Shifts vary.
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Find out more here.
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Unpaid internships are available within our therapeutic classes, mental health program, and development (fundraising/marketing) department. Requires interest in the relevant area and dependability.
Follow the link below - using Signup Genius - to view available classroom volunteer shifts across our community.
This weekly calendar is an example of our classroom schedules (each site varies slightly).
When you sign up, you will select available shifts from across our five locations: La Pine, Bend, Redmond, Madras, and Prineville.
For more information, please connect with our Community Engagement Manager, Elaine Klautzsch, at elainek@mtstar.org
Volunteer Spotlight
Rusty the Dog!
At MountainStar, we know that every volunteer makes a difference in the lives of the children and families we support. But today, we want to introduce a very special volunteer who is bringing smiles, comfort, and calmness to our therapeutic classrooms: Rusty the Dog!
Rusty is more than just a furry friend. As a therapy dog, he plays a crucial role in supporting children through some of the hardest moments of their young lives. His gentle nature and friendly demeanor provide comfort to children who may be facing challenges at home. Whether it’s a warm cuddle during story time or being a quiet presence during group activities, Rusty helps create a safe and nurturing environment for the kiddos here at MountainStar.
With the guidance of his owner Kara Maddix (and dedicated human volunteer), Rusty visits once a month in Bend and has quickly become a beloved figure among both kids and staff. Children who may struggle with communication or feel overwhelmed often find it easier to open up around Rusty, showing the remarkable impact animals can have on emotional well-being.
We are so grateful to Rusty and to Kara, his human companion, for volunteering their time and talents to support MountainStar’s mission. The bond Rusty is forming with the children is a beautiful reminder that healing, and growth come in many forms—and sometimes, that support comes on four paws.
Thank you, Rusty and Kara, for making a difference in the lives of the kiddos here at MountainStar!