Volunteers

“A KEEN parent once told me that the time I spend with his child is a gift to his child, but the truth is I am the one getting a gift!” – KEEN coach

💚 Volunteer with KEEN New York💚

KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) is powered by volunteers who make a difference — one athlete, one session at a time.

Whether you’re joining us for the first time or coming back to coach again, we’re excited to have you!

🧒 Who You’ll Work With

As a KEEN volunteer, you’ll be paired one-on-one with a young person with disabilities — our athletes! Your job? Just be a friend, guide them through activities, and have fun.


No experience is needed — KEEN provides a quick training before each session and a profile with helpful coaching tips for your assigned athlete.


You don’t need to be athletic. You just need to show up and care.

🔒 Volunteer Guidelines & Screening

KEEN is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.

• Volunteers are never alone with athletes.

• Volunteers must be 16 years of age or approved by KEEN Staff.

• First-time volunteers are asked to show official ID.

• All volunteers are screened through child safety registries and/or reference checks.

• Two adult references are required in the application.

• No walk-ins unless part of a registered group or accompanied by a current volunteer.

• KEEN reserves the right to approve or remove volunteers in the best interest of the organization.

📝 How to Get Started

1. Apply to Be a Volunteer

All new volunteers must complete an application.

👉 Click here to register


2. Watch the Volunteer Orientation Video

👉 Click to watch

Learn how KEEN sessions work and what to expect.


3. 📅 Sign Up for a Session

Once you’re approved, you can register for upcoming KEEN sessions.

Weekend sessions open for registration every Monday of the same week.

👉  Sign up for sessions here


Important Notes:

• No password needed — just verify with your email.

• If your email isn’t recognized, apply first!

• If no sessions appear, check back later.

• Be sure to click “Submit” at the top right of the form to complete sign-up.

• You can only sign up once per day. For cancellations, email registration@keennewyork.org.


Volunteer FAQ

  • Who Volunteers with KEEN?

    Individuals & Young Professionals

    Volunteers from all over NYC show up when they can — no long-term commitment required.


    High School Students

    Ages 16+ can volunteer and receive service hours. Pre-registration is required due to limited space.


    Corporate, University & Community Groups

    Group volunteers are welcome! Please email info@keennewyork.org to coordinate a date.

  • Where can I find more information about disabilities?

    🌈 Disability Information


    KEEN athletes may have a range of disabilities, including:

    Autism Spectrum Disorder

    ADHD

    Down Syndrome

    Cerebral Palsy

    Intellectual or Learning Disabilities

    Epilepsy

    Spina Bifida



    Each athlete is unique, and KEEN is a space where everyone is celebrated.

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