Volunteer with The Uhuru Foundation
Volunteering with The Uhuru Foundation means walking alongside individuals who are determined to rebuild their lives and create new futures after justice system involvement. Our work centers dignity, opportunity, and community as the foundation for long-term change.
Uhuru creates pathways to stability and success through supportive housing, workforce development, and mentorship, serving adults and youth across Charlottesville and surrounding communities.
Volunteers can engage with Uhuru through two distinct programs.
Uhuru Trades & Workforce Mentorship Program
Become a Mentor or Lead a Workshop
The Uhuru Trades & Workforce Mentorship Program supports adults and youth as they work toward employment, financial stability, and long-term independence. Volunteers in this program provide guidance, skills, and encouragement that help participants prepare for the workforce and pursue meaningful careers.
Individuals, professionals, and churches are all welcome to volunteer in this program.
Become a Mentor
Mentors walk alongside participants as they navigate career goals, employment readiness, and personal growth. This role is relational and supportive, with clear boundaries and coordination from Uhuru staff.
Mentors may support participants with:
Career exploration and goal setting
Resume development and interview preparation
Workplace readiness and professional communication
Business and entrepreneurship guidance
Financial goal setting and accountability
Lead a Workshop
Workshop leaders facilitate structured group sessions that provide practical tools and knowledge participants can apply immediately. Workshops are time-limited and coordinated in partnership with Uhuru staff.
Workshops may focus on:
Resume writing and job search strategies
Financial literacy and credit building
Trades exposure and career pathways
Entrepreneurship and income generation
Wellness, stress management, and emotional regulation
Workshops may be hosted at Uhuru program sites or in community and church spaces.
Interested in facilitating a workshop with the Uhuru Trades & Workforce Mentorship Program?
Please complete our facilitator interest form using the button below. A member of the Uhuru team will follow up to confirm alignment and logistics.
Be an Anchor for Hope
Anchor for Hope Volunteer Program
The Anchor for Hope Volunteer Program is a separate initiative focused on supporting individuals during the most critical moments of reentry—particularly the first 24 hours and first 30 days in supportive housing.
This program centers presence, hospitality, and stabilization, complementing Uhuru’s professional services by ensuring individuals are met with care, dignity, and community during transition.
At this time, the Anchor for Hope Volunteer Program is designed exclusively for church partners, honoring the unique role faith communities play in providing consistent presence and hospitality during early reentry.
Anchor for Hope volunteer opportunities include:
Meals and hospitality
Home readiness and beautification projects
Welcome and care kit assembly
Prayer and encouragement
Events
If you are part of a church and interested in serving through our Anchor for Hope Volunteer Program please reach out to Robert Gray at rgray@theuhurufoundation.org
You may also complete the form below to explore volunteer opportunities with Uhuru.