Give Help

Volunteer

Ryther is known for handling some of the most challenging and heart-breaking cases of child abuse and neglect in the state system. We prepare every child in our care to succeed in a stable, caring home, and you can help.

Cottage Program Activity Volunteer

You can volunteer in the cottages on a regular basis as an activity volunteer leading activities such as sports, art, crafts, games, dancing, reading, music, movement or other activity that would benefit children in the Cottage Program. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and complete a criminal history background check.

Special Projects Volunteer

Help behind the scenes in the Cottage garden program, assisting staff with clerical duties, special events, photography, organizing donations, etc. Some assignments can be completed off site. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and complete a criminal history background check.

Best Buddy

Help build a healthy and positive relationship with a child learning to cope with a history of abuse and trauma. Best Buddies have the rewarding task of acting as a role-model to a child. Best Buddies must commit to scheduled visits once a week with their buddy for a minimum of six months, be 21 or older, and pass a criminal background check.

At this time, we are not currently in need of best buddies but please fill out an application and submit to janelles@ryther.org or send to Ryther, 2400 NE 95th Street Seattle, WA 98115

Canine Therapy

Therapy Dog Seattle Certified handlers and their certified therapy dogs spend time with children for 60-90 minutes weekly. Depending on the needs of the child, visits may consist of playing ball, talking or reading to the dog, or just simply petting/brushing the dog. The handler must be able to maintain control over the dog at all times and should be aware of all interactions to ensure safety.

Note: Every canine must be certified as a therapy dog, and all volunteers working with children must be at least 21 years old and complete a criminal history background check.

Since 1937, has supported Ryther through fundraising, volunteer work and financial donations. Join an existing unit or start your own with friends, family or co-workers. Units have as few as 6 members and some as many as 40. The League is a separate 501(c)(3) organization and is run by a volunteer Executive Board. For information, contact Robin Bennett, Ryther League Liaison, at or at 206.517.0215.

If you are interested in volunteering in or learning about supporting the in old Ballard, please email to inquire about opportunities.


To volunteer at Ryther, download the or and return to Janelle or mail to Ryther, 2400 NE 95th St., Seattle, WA 98115.

Please or call Janelle at 206-517-0286 with any questions.


Volunteer Groups

Teen Substance Use

Build team spirit while strengthening our community when you work together at Ryther's 10‐acre campus or one of our offsite locations. You’ll learn about our programs and issues facing children impacted by abuse, neglect, mental illness and substance abuse while enhancing the lives of the children and Staff who live and work here. We can accommodate both large and small volunteer groups in spring and summer. Email or call 206-517-0204.

For internship opportunities at Ryther, please visit our .