Essex County Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students 2025-2026

High school students in Essex County, NJ, have a bunch of volunteer opportunities available to pursue to build resumes, earn service hours, and gain skills for the spring semester starting January 2026.

Apply now via online forms or emails, as some roles require orientations or background checks.​

Essex County Volunteer Roles High Schools Students Should Consider

• New Eyes for the Needy (549 Millburn Ave, Short Hills; 973-376-4088):
  Sort eyeglasses for global aid. 
  https://unitedwaynnj.galaxydigital.com/agency/detail/?agency_id=81230

• Street Squash Newark (50 Park Place, Newark)
  High schoolers tutor and mentor grades 7-12 in academics, squash, and leadership; no sports experience needed, in-person shifts during school year.
  Details: https://streetsquash.org/volunteer/; contact volunteers@streetsquash.org.​

• All The Way Up Adult Education Center (ATWU) (31 Mulberry St, Newark):
  Tutor adults in GED/ESL/basic skills in small groups; free in-house training at semester start, Tuesdays/Thursdays 10am-1pm, no experience required.
  Apply through an online form.

• Covenant House Newark (330 Washington St, Newark):
  Lead youth sessions in art/music/science; 1-2 hour weekly shifts, 3-month minimum. 
  More info: covenanthousenj.org/get-involved/get-involved-volunteer/ email: NShabazz@covenanthousenj.org, 973-286-3400.
  ​

• New Jersey SEEDS (494 Broad St, Suite 105, Newark):
  Assist with academic enrichment for underserved students; roles in mentoring and events, flexible for teens.
  For more information about becoming a volunteer, contact Jamie McClintock at 862-227-9146

• Greater Newark Habitat for Humanity:
  Home builds/repairs (no power tools for under 18, adult required); individual slots available. 
  Details: habitatnewark.org/volunteer/ Parent waiver needed.​

• West Caldwell Public Library (31 Fairfield Ave):
  Grades 8-12 shelve books/run events; interest form for spring. 
  More details at: wcplnj.org/volunteer-opportunities/
  ​

• AAPI Montclair NJ:
  AAPI Montclair NJ, now part of the statewide AAPI New Jersey nonprofit, promotes Asian American and Pacific Islander visibility, rights, and culture through events and advocacy in Montclair and Essex County.
  Email: volunteer@aapinewjersey.org.

Where are you volunteering in Essex County that could use more high school student support? Share details with us.