Empower Your Community.

Grow as a Leader.

Join the Youth Team.

Application Now Open

The What

The SDC Youth Team is made up of passionate, dedicated young leaders who go beyond volunteering. As a Youth Team member, you’ll help shape our programs, drive fundraising initiatives, and bring your creative ideas to life, as well as making a real difference in the lives of children with special needs. This is a multi-year commitment where you'll grow your leadership skills, collaborate with like-minded peers, and create lasting impact in your community.

The Who

We’re looking for changemakers - students and youth who care deeply about inclusion, creativity, and community. If you’ve volunteered with SDC before, that’s a bonus! But if you’re someone who brings ideas, energy, and a team-first mindset, we want to hear from you.

Ideal candidates:

  • Are committed, dependable, and passionate about making a difference

  • Have strong communication and collaboration skills

  • Want to develop leadership experience in a meaningful setting

  • Are open to sharing ideas and taking initiative in projects, events, and outreach

The How

Youth Team applications open annually between April and June, with roles beginning in August and lasting for one year.

Here's what to expect:

  • Application Opens - April

  • Submit Application Form + Resume - April to May

  • Screening & Interview Process - May to June

  • Team Selection & Offers - June to July

  • Kickoff & Orientation - August to September

Stay tuned for announcements each spring and get ready to take your impact to the next level.

Annete T.

“My experience with SDC has been incredibly rewarding as it allowed me to contribute to creating a more inclusive environment while gaining insight into their resilience and unique perspective.”

Lois C.

“SDC has given me opportunities as a youth to tangible serve my community and leave a meaningful impact.”

FAQs

  • Volunteers help run weekly programs and events, while Youth Team members take on a bigger leadership role. As part of the Youth Team, you’ll also support fundraising, help shape new initiatives, and collaborate on bigger-picture projects throughout the year.

  • It’s a great opportunity to grow as a leader, gain hands-on experience, and make a lasting impact. You’ll strengthen your skills in communication, collaboration, and project management, while helping build a more inclusive community.

  • Yes! Prior volunteer experience with SDC is preferred, but not required. We’re looking for passionate, committed youth who are eager to learn and lead.

  • Keep going! Many Youth Team members started out as program volunteers. Continue getting involved, learn from the experience, and apply again next year. We’d love to see you grow with us.

  • Absolutely! Many of our returning Youth Team members and alumni are happy to share their experiences. You’ll have opportunities to connect, ask questions, and learn from their journeys during training sessions and team events.

  • The Youth Team has three levels: Member, Core, and Executive. Based on your experience, qualifications, and interests, you’ll start where it makes sense for you - and have the chance to grow into new roles through ongoing involvement and leadership in SDC initiatives.