Now accepting applications for Volunteers and Occupational Therapy Students for 2024!
Functional Roots is dedicated to providing a strong foundation for learning, growth, and development within the Pittsburgh community. Our volunteers are an important part of families feeling supported in their journey. Functional Roots provides unique hands-on mentorship so you have the tools to be a successful occupational therapist in your future.
Unlike many other volunteer roles observing from afar, you’ll have the opportunity to work beside an occupational therapist, interact with families and children of various ages and abilities, be immersed in sensory-rich nature-based programs that take a proactive approach to development, learn the real-life challenges caregivers may face, and learn tools for how to support not only a child, but the entire family.
If you’re ready to play and learn along the way, keep reading…
Volunteers are required to provide consistent attendance for the duration of at least one group series (6-8 weeks). If interested in applying for a volunteer mentorship position, please apply and contact jamie@functional-roots.com with any questions.
"I volunteered with Jamie at her nature groups the summer before applying to occupational therapy school. I had no idea what to expect when I arrived and was very impressed by the impact she made on every one of the kids. Each of the different groups I interacted with had a unique dynamic where all of the kids seemed the thrive, socially and otherwise. I learned so much about the interaction of our body’s sensory systems and nature. I was able to see how Jamie’s diverse knowledge and wisdom helped many caregivers with their children, allowing me to learn a lot of new things every session. This experience helped me to grow more confident that I wanted to do occupational therapy. It was inspiring to see how her creativity enabled her to do so much under the scope of occupational therapy. Jamie was helpful with telling me about the field in general and giving me advice on applying to occupational therapy school. She allowed this experience to be more of a mentorship by making sure I understood the reasoning behind all of the activities she did. I felt like this was a unique approach compared to other experiences I have had where I feel like I don’t truly learn anything due to sitting off to the side. Overall, I would highly recommend Functional Roots to everyone, whether it be for occupational therapy services or an educational volunteering opportunity!"
