Volunteering with Surmount
Empower New York with Surmount
Make a difference where it matters most. At Surmount, we’re on a mission to support access to resources, empowering New Yorkers to strengthen their families and communities while fostering opportunities for personal growth.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer on an ongoing basis, contribute to a specific program, or lend your expertise as an advisory or board member, we have opportunities for you to create real, lasting change.
Join us and help build a stronger, more empowered New York—one volunteer at a time. Discover how you can get involved below and sign up today!
Ongoing Volunteers
Be part of the core team that drives Surmount forward. Our ongoing volunteers commit 5–10 hours weekly to keep our mission thriving and are mainly remote. These individuals play key roles in managing operations, coordinating programs, and leading strategic initiatives. Join a dedicated group of change makers working behind the scenes to make a lasting impact. Below are roles we are currently recruiting for:
Role Overview:
The Director of Data Resources plays a pivotal role in advancing Surmount’s mission by overseeing data collection, management, and analysis to measure impact, guide resource allocation, and inform decision-making. This role involves crafting and managing internal and external surveys, utilizing local, state, and federal data sources, and collaborating with the leadership team to design and implement effective, data-driven programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Data Collection & Management:
- Design and oversee the implementation of internal surveys (for volunteers, staff, and program participants) and external surveys (for community members and stakeholders) to collect meaningful, actionable data.
- Research and compile relevant local, state, and federal data to provide context for Surmount’s initiatives.
- Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and security.
Analysis & Reporting:
- Analyze survey results and external data to identify trends, measure program effectiveness, and report on organizational impact.
- Create accessible reports and dashboards for internal and external stakeholders, in collaboration with the Marketing Team.
Program Development Support:
- Collaborate with the leadership team to integrate insights from surveys and external data into program design and decision-making.
- Ensure programs address current community needs.
Resource Development:
- Collaborate with the Development Director to leverage data for grant applications, fundraising efforts, and impact reporting.
- Use insights to guide resource allocation and planning.
Collaboration & Training:
- Provide ongoing data reports to the Leadership Team.
- Train volunteers and team members on survey design, data tools, and best practices.
Partnership Support:
- Assist in identifying and evaluating potential partnerships using data to align opportunities with community needs.
Preferred Experience:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Experience with survey design and data collection tools (e.g., Google Forms, SurveyMonkey).
- Proficiency with data management and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets, CRM software).
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Background in data analysis, nonprofit management, or a related field.
- Familiarity with local, state, and federal data sources.
Time Commitment:
- Approximately 5-10 hours per week (flexible).
- Monthly check-ins with the Leadership Team.
Role Overview:
The Assistant Program Director will support the Program Director in the planning, execution, and evaluation of Surmount New York’s programs. This role is essential to ensuring that programs align with the organization’s mission to support access to resources, empowering New Yorkers to strengthen their families and communities while promoting opportunities for personal growth.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Development and Planning
- Assist in designing program goals, objectives, and timelines in collaboration with the Program and Resource Director.
- Help create and update materials, such as curricula, event plans, and resources for program participants.
Program Implementation
- Coordinate with program volunteers to ensure the successful execution of initiatives, including the Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive and other community-based projects.
- Act as a point of contact for program participants and partners, addressing questions or concerns.
Evaluation and Reporting
- Collect and organize program feedback and data to measure impact.
- Assist in preparing reports for internal and external stakeholders, including donors and the community.
Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with the Operations Team to ensure seamless logistical planning for programs.
- Partner with the Marketing Team to promote programs and share success stories.
Volunteer Management
- Assist in the oversight and management of program volunteers.
- Ensure clear communication of responsibilities and guide as needed.
Preferred Experience:
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Passion for community development and Surmount’s mission.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.
- Basic experience with project management tools or willingness to learn.
- Prior nonprofit or program management experience (preferred but not required).
Time Commitment
- 5–10 hours per week
Role Overview:
The Volunteer Recruitment Specialist plays a critical role in expanding Surmount’s capacity to serve the community by identifying, recruiting, and engaging passionate individuals to join our volunteer team. This individual will work closely with Surmount’s leadership to develop and execute effective recruitment strategies, ensuring we attract diverse, committed volunteers to support our programs and initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Engage with the Community
- Build relationships with local organizations, schools, businesses, and community groups to promote volunteer opportunities.
Promote Volunteer Opportunities
- Create and distribute marketing materials, including flyers, emails, and social media posts, to advertise available roles.
- Maintain an up-to-date list of volunteer opportunities and ensure clear, compelling role descriptions.
Screen and Onboard Volunteers
- Conduct initial screenings to match volunteers with suitable opportunities based on their interests and skills.
- Support onboarding processes, ensuring volunteers feel welcomed and understand their roles.
Track and Evaluate Efforts
- Maintain records of outreach activities, volunteer applications, and placements.
- Analyze recruitment data to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies and make improvements as needed.
Foster Volunteer Relationships
- Collaborate with the Leadership Team to ensure volunteers have a positive experience.
- Provide ongoing communication to keep volunteers engaged and informed about Surmount’s mission and events.
Preferred Experience:
- Passion for community service and Surmount’s mission.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience in recruitment, marketing, or volunteer coordination.
Time Commitment:
- 5–10 hours per week
Role Overview:
The Lead Graphic Designer | Marketing Coordinator will play a key role in advancing Surmount’s mission: to support access to resources, empowering New Yorkers to strengthen their families and communities while promoting opportunities for personal growth. This volunteer will craft compelling visuals and coordinate marketing efforts to engage the community, inspire action, and amplify Surmount’s impact.
Reports to: Marketing Director
Key Responsibilities:
Graphic Design
- Create visually engaging materials that communicate Surmount’s mission and initiatives, including digital and print content like social media graphics, flyers, banners, and promotional materials.
- Ensure all designs reflect Surmount’s brand identity and core values of collaboration, community, and empowerment.
- Develop templates and branding guides to streamline communication efforts and maintain consistency.
- Collaborate with program teams to create visuals that effectively highlight resources, opportunities, and success stories.
Marketing Coordination
- Plan and execute marketing strategies to promote Surmount’s programs, events, and campaigns.
- Manage and schedule content across social media platforms, focusing on engaging the community and increasing awareness of Surmount’s mission.
- Collaborate with the Executive Team and volunteers to identify and develop content that resonates with Surmount’s audience.
- Research and incorporate innovative ways to inspire community involvement and showcase Surmount’s impact.
Leadership and Collaboration
- Provide guidance and feedback to junior design volunteers to ensure high-quality and mission-driven content.
- Serve as the primary contact for all marketing-related projects and design requests from internal teams.
- Foster a collaborative environment to generate ideas that support Surmount’s goals.
Preferred Experience:
- Proficiency in graphic design software such as Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
- Strong eye for design, including color, typography, and layout.
- Experience with social media platforms and digital marketing strategies is a plus.
- Excellent communication and time management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Prior experience in graphic design or marketing is beneficial but not required.
Time Commitment:
- 5-10 hours a week
Ongoing Volunteer Application Process
1
Apply
Submit your application to express interest.
2
Interview
Schedule and discuss your skills, questions and interests with us.
3
Onboarding
Join a call to set up systems, technology, and learn our policies.
4
Training
Complete a self-paced online module to prepare for your role.
Program-Based Volunteers
Make an impact where it matters most by supporting Surmount’s programs and events. These short-term volunteer opportunities allow you to engage directly with our mission. Whether it's assisting with community drives, leading workshops, or participating in special events, program-based volunteers are essential to helping us reach our goals. Timeframe and commitment vary by program or event.
More Information coming soon - this will take place in April 2025.
Advisory and Board Volunteers
Lend your expertise and leadership to Surmount’s future. Advisory and board volunteers provide strategic direction, financial oversight, and community connections to strengthen our mission. These roles are perfect for individuals passionate about driving systemic change and fostering organizational growth.
Overview:
Surmount New York is committed to supporting access to resources, empowering New Yorkers to strengthen their families and communities while promoting opportunities for personal growth. As a member of our Board of Directors, you will play a pivotal role in advancing this mission and shaping the future of our organization.
Role and Responsibilities:
Board members are responsible for providing strategic leadership and governance to ensure the success and sustainability of Surmount. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership: Help shape the organization's mission-aligned goals and guide its long-term direction.
Resource Development: Support efforts to expand access to resources by fostering partnerships, raising funds, and identifying opportunities for growth.
Community Advocacy: Champion Surmount’s work, building awareness about our mission to empower New Yorkers and strengthen communities.
Financial Oversight: Ensure financial health through budget approvals, resource allocation, and stewardship of funds.
Governance: Uphold Surmount’s values of Collaboration, Community, and Empowerment while maintaining compliance with nonprofit regulations.
Committee Engagement: Actively contribute to specialized committees that align with Surmount’s strategic priorities, such as resource development, program planning, or community impact.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A strong passion for Surmount’s mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.
- Skills or experience in areas such as nonprofit governance, community engagement, resource development, marketing, finance, or law are beneficial but not required.
- Commitment to equity, collaboration, and personal growth for all New Yorkers.
- Willingness to dedicate time and energy to the organization’s success, including quarterly board meetings, committee involvement, and organizational events.
Time Commitment:
- Quarterly Board Meetings: Approximately 2 hours per meeting.
- Committee Work: 3–5 hours monthly, with additional time for events or special initiatives as needed.
How to Apply:
If you share our vision of fostering opportunities for all New Yorkers to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives, we invite you to apply to join the Surmount New York Board of Directors. Submit your resume and a brief statement of interest to elijah@wesurmount.org.
Make a lasting impact—support access, empower communities, and create opportunities for growth.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about volunteering with Surmount New York.
Anyone passionate about our mission, who can commit to their assigned tasks, and eager to make a difference is welcome to apply. We typically only onboard ongoing volunteers who are 18+, email if you are under that age, prior to applying.
Yes, many of our roles offer remote opportunities, depending on the position.
Yes, all volunteers complete a self-paced online training module before starting.
Yes, but you must have been actively tracking them in our System, Jibble. You can email our People & Culture team at volunteer@wesurmount.org for more information or assistance.
We provide clear guidance, ongoing support/routine check-ins, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Email our People & Culture team at volunteer@wesurmount.org for more information or assistance.