Volunteer
FREE matches volunteers, both corporate and individual, with specific interests. The gift of love, family and friendship that our volunteers receive is undeniable.
Referral Services (OPWDD, OMH, DOH)
Resource and Referral Services is the central point of information to assist individuals in finding services that match their needs, wants, hopes, and dreams.
QUICK LINKS
About FREE
Mission, values, and the work supporting people of all abilities in their communities every day.
Annual Report
A snapshot of the year’s milestones, measurable outcomes, and organization-wide impact.
Leadership Team
The people guiding strategy, operations, and the quality of support across the organization.
Board of Directors
Board stewardship, oversight, and accountability help guide the organization’s long-term direction.
Strategic Plan
The priorities and long-term goals guiding growth, innovation, and organizational direction.
Compliance
Policies, reporting, and safeguards that support accountability, transparency, and ethical practice.
Corporate Sponsors
Business partners whose support strengthens programs, expands opportunities, and increases community impact.
Become a Corporate SponsorFREE Network
Organizations across the network are working together to broaden services, share resources, and strengthen support.
Learn MoreCommunity Partners
Local partnerships that expand access, build stronger community connections, and deepen our shared impact.
See our PartnersThere are so many ways to show up. Support inclusion, raise voices, and stay connected to the work. Find the opportunity that fits you and make it yours.
Every gift makes a difference. Find the giving option that feels right for you and the people we serve. No matter the size, your support helps someone thrive.
Leave a legacy that reflects what you believe in and ensures our work lives on for generations. It's one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting difference.
Roll up your sleeves. Hands-on projects and service days that strengthen the spaces we all share. Your time and energy make a direct, visible difference in people's lives.
Beautification Projects
From fall clean-up to planting spring gardens, volunteers help to refresh the grounds in our Residential and Day Programs. Volunteers may work side by side with the individuals we support to help create a beautiful environment.
What's Involved:
- Painting rooms at day programs and residences
- Landscaping projects
- Building and/or clean-ups of residences and programs
- Power washing buildings and residences
- Mulching and more
Companionship
Become a companion to support one of our individuals if you have a specific interest or hobby that you would like to share with the individuals supported throughout FREE. Volunteers perform priceless work.
What's Involved:
- Visit individuals during hospital stays
- Read to and with individuals
- Crafts
- Games
- Outdoor activities
Events
Assist with all tasks related to fundraising events, hosting holiday parties for residents, and program events to name a few. Volunteers play such an important role in helping create successful and memorable events.
What's Involved:
- Auction Item Procurement
- Varied responsibilities at the event
- Cooking demonstrations at program
- Chaperone with programs at community events
- Photography
Clerical
If you are task-oriented, enjoy customer service, and like working in a friendly office environment, then volunteering in a clerical capacity may be a good fit for you. As an administrative volunteer, you would assist with operational responsibilities. Volunteer duties in this area can range from tasks such as answering phones to more involved program coordinator roles.
What's Involved:
- Volunteer your professional expertise
- Making cold calls or follow up calls
- Assist with mailings
- Filing
- Administrative support
Volunteer Testimonials
"We've been doing this [Thanksgiving Meal], for thirty years. The original owner of our bank, he donated money every year. We've continued doing this because personally, we get a lot out of it. As I always say to everybody when we get back to the office and we talk about what we did, this staff and group are phenomenal. We get so much out of it and look forward to it every year."
Kevin Kenny, VP of Santander Bank
“It was awesome to see everyone work together so well to complete the same common goal and make the 5k as fun as possible.”
Wilfred
“ This volunteer opportunity was awesome as a PT student because it is not typical PT work, but I got to see the ways so many different people move while completing the 5K. It also was fulfilling to help people set up an event they have worked so hard to make happen.”
Nicole
“The only thing hotter than the dogs was the burning passion I saw in those who participated”
Jorge
FREE is doing tremendous work in our communities and shares the same values of our founder Vincent Costello. At Costello's ACE, it is our privilege to serve our community and community partners such as FREE. Being locally owned we just don't work in our community, we live here as well. Thank you FREE for all that you do for us all."
Robert Feiler, EVP - Costello's Ace Hardware