Opportunities From: United Way of Passaic County

This spring, United Way of Passaic County is bringing the joy of reading directly to students through special sponsored Scholastic Book Fairs—and we invite you to be part of this meaningful experience.

School 15, Paterson (98 Oak St) — April 21–24

School 17, Clifton (361 Lexington Ave) — May 18–22

For many of the children we serve—especially those in ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families—purchasing books is often a luxury. These book fairs create a truly special moment where every child can choose books of their own to take home, building not only literacy, but confidence, excitement, and a sense of ownership.

We are seeking volunteers to serve in a variety of roles, including:

✨ Assistant Shoppers – Help students find their “just right” books

✨ Check-Out Support – Keep the experience smooth and organized

✨ Greeters – Welcome students and create a warm, joyful environment

Whether you join us for a few hours or multiple days, your time will help create a memorable experience—placing books, joy, and opportunity into the hands of children across our community.

Sign up below to be part of this special experience. Please keep an eye out for an email from info@unitedwaypassaic.org for confirmation on your days and times.

Book Fairs Volunteer Interest Form – Fill out form

United Way of Passaic County is expanding our Reading Buddies program, and we’re looking for passionate volunteers to join us in making a lasting impact!

Reading by 3rd grade is a critical milestone—but too many kids are falling behind. As a Reading Buddy, you’ll work one-on-one or in small groups with K–3rd grade students during the school day (Monday–Friday, 9AM–2PM), from October-June, helping them build skills, grow their confidence, and spark a love of reading that can change their future.

No teaching experience? No problem! We provide full training and support to set you up for success. All volunteers must complete a background check and fingerprinting prior to being matched with students.

Why Volunteer?

Make a real difference in a child’s life

Gain meaningful experience and give back to your community

Join a team of caring, committed changemakers

Ready to get started?

Contact Bethsaida Olds at bethsaida@unitedwaypassaic.org.

Together, we can help every child become a confident, capable reader.

In our social media centered world, we need volunteers who are savvy in creating content to share the UWPC story of empowering Passaic County residents.

If you have a passion for making a difference and have experience in short form content creation (reels, Canva graphics, caption writing), then we need YOU!

For more information, contact Bethsaida Olds at bethsaida@unitedwaypassaic.org.

Please note that a portfolio, or a folder of your work, will need to be submitted.

There are so many wonderful events happening in Passaic County, and we need photographers to capture it all!

If you have a passion for helping others and experience in photography, or have a passion for it, then this volunteer position is perfect for you!

Contact Bethsaida Olds bethsaida@unitedwaypassaic.org for more information!

Please note that a portfolio, or a folder of original pictures, would need to be submitted for review.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Assistant Site Coordinators/Interns need to be reasonably computer literate to prepare taxes. All interns must attend a short orientation course and software training. VITA interns and tax preparers become certified with the IRS through the Link and Learn program. All materials needed for the certification process are available online. The certification exams are open book and do not have time limits.

Roles:

Provide free income tax return preparation for eligible taxpayers. To establish the greatest degree of public trust, Interns have a responsibility to provide high quality service and uphold the highest of ethical standards. Provide on-site review of all tax returns completed by other VITA preparers at UWPC VITA site. Ensure every customer visiting the site receives top quality service and that the tax returns are error-free.