Volunteer
Make an impact by sharing your skills
Volunteer at Ventures
Every CEO starts somewhere – and some start in basements, pop-up markets, shared kitchens, and living rooms. At Ventures, we believe entrepreneurship is attainable for all. Join us in supporting local entrepreneurs as they rise above barriers to build thriving businesses of their own.
We are currently seeking volunteers – especially Spanish speakers – to support our Business Basics Courses and other programs. Business ownership experience and strong financial fundamentals are especially valuable as we equip entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. Our Business Basics Courses are held from 6:00–9:00 pm, making it possible to serve after work hours. Volunteers must be 21 years or older. We provide a comprehensive volunteer orientation to ensure you feel prepared and confident in your role.
If you’re passionate about empowering small business owners and strengthening our local economy, we’d love to hear from you. Please email Volunteer@venturesnonprofit.org to express your interest and share any relevant experience. Our HR Manager will follow up with a volunteer application and guide you through the next steps.
Business Coach
Coaches work alongside small groups of entrepreneurs in our 8-week Business Basics Course. Coaches help students become more familiar with the business concepts they learn in class and guide them in applying those concepts to their specific businesses and situations.
Responsibilities
- Attend weekly classes that are held virtually via Zoom or in-person.
- Work one-on-one and in small groups of entrepreneurs to apply concepts and lessons to their businesses via breakout groups.
- Participate in large group discussions and assist the instructor in explaining key business concepts as needed.
- Coaches are expected to attend at least six out of the eight sessions of the Business Basics Course. The Orientation that is held before the course begins is optional as well as the graduation.
Time Commitment
- Business Basics Courses: 3 hours per week in class or online depending upon the current course structure.
Qualifications
- Experience starting or growing your own business or basic knowledge of at least two key areas of small business development: sales, marketing, finance, and operations.
- Passion for Ventures’ mission and belief in the abilities and potential of Ventures entrepreneurs.
- Must be able to suspend judgment and listen deeply.
- Patience and understanding of the many personal and systemic barriers to business-ownership that our business owners encounter.
