Who can volunteer with AFS?

Almost anyone dedicated to making a difference in the world by promoting peace through international and intercultural learning experiences can volunteer for AFS. We accept volunteers from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. You do not need to have a background working with youth to volunteer with AFS.

What do AFS Volunteers do?

How do I know if there are volunteer opportunities in my part of the country?

How big is AFS’s Volunteer Network?

How old do you have to be to volunteer with AFS?

How do I get started?

I have a pretty busy schedule. Is there a time commitment for volunteering?

Will I get any training before I start?

Is hosting an exchange student with AFS a volunteer position?

What are the general requirements to become a volunteer?

To keep our students safe and supported, all volunteers with AFS are required to be registered. New volunteers must complete an application, provide references, pass a background check, participate in an interview, and complete an online volunteer orientation. Additional training may be required for certain volunteer positions after completing the registration process.

Does AFS require a background check to volunteer?

The safety and welfare of our participants is our highest priority. For that reason, the criminal background check is an integral part of the screening process that AFS-USA staff, volunteers and host family members must undergo before becoming affiliated with our organization. AFS requires background checks for everyone age 18 years and older. Your Social Security number is required in order to perform the background check. This information is not saved in any database and is not shared with anyone. For more information on AFS Safety Standards, visit our section on Health and Safety.

State Specific Requirements: Pennsylvania Residents are required to submit up to three additional screening requirements which include the Pennsylvania State Police Search, Child Abuse History Clearance and FBI Fingerprint Background Checks. The FBI Fingerprint Background Check is only required if you have not been a resident of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the previous 10 years consecutively. These requirements apply to all volunteers 18 years and older.

Who should I list as references?

How long is my volunteer registration valid?

Get in Touch

Feel free to contact the Volunteer Resources Team with any further questions, at [email protected] or 800-AFS-INFO, Option 4.