Volunteer
As a full-scholarship lower and middle school, Chicago Jesuit Academy depends on the dedication of many volunteers to help care for our students. Volunteer orientation takes place twice a year, at the start of each semester, and it is mandatory that interested individuals attend one session. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Dave Zalesky, at zalesky@cjacademy.org or (708) 762-3603 if you would like more information or to register for an orientation session.
Upcoming Orientation Dates
Fall Semester Orientation
Tuesday, September 6th: 9:00 – 10:30 AM, In-person, CJA cafeteria
Wednesday, September 7th: 4:00 – 5:30 PM, via Zoom
Spring Semester Orientation
Spring orientation dates will be announced in January 2023. Specific details will be posted here when available.
“My group Guided Independent Reading classes are quite rewarding: I get to see firsthand how the young men’s reading and comprehension grows throughout the year.”
Brendan McCormick, CJA Volunteer, 6 years
Volunteer Opportunities
Most volunteers support students for 2-3 hours a day, twice a week and assist with a combination of the options listed below.
Guided Independent Reading (GIR)– Volunteers enjoy reading one on one with students. This supports and improves student reading comprehension and fluency.
Study Hall– Study halls occur throughout the academic day and are a great opportunity for volunteers to work with students one-on-one. Volunteers can preference the subject area that they would like to support.
Push-In/Pull-Out Model– Volunteers can support teachers inside the classroom or pull individual students outside of the classroom for more individualized attention and support. Volunteers can preference the grade- level and subject area that they would like to assist.
Other Options– If you have time to offer, we can most likely find a volunteer opportunity that will match your interests and help our students. If you are more comfortable outside of the classroom, we offer non student-facing opportunities as well.
Requirements
Click here to review the necessary steps to take before volunteering at CJA. If you have any questions, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Dave Zalesky, at zalesky@cjacademy.org or (708) 762-3603.
“During such a difficult time for all of us, it is the greatest pleasure to be able to spend time with the gentlemen of CJA. Even now, they are working hard, sharing jokes, and bringing light into my home and my life.”
Rebecca Malley, CJA Volunteer, 1 year