Volunteer

"To be a part of the transformation of these women from first-time mothers, a little unsure and sleep deprived, into more confident moms who are learning how to comfort and soothe and raise their children has been an exhilarating experience. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve them on their journey into motherhood."

¬ Suzanne McGrath, PEPS Newborn Group Leader

PEPS Group Leaders

Volunteer Group Leaders are vital to the PEPS Newborn and Baby Peppers Programs. Over 1,700 new families rely on these dedicated volunteers each year. Our volunteers tell us they find great joy and satisfaction in helping parents connect and share through their PEPS Groups!  You too can put your love of families and babies to work as a PEPS Group leader. 

What are the Requirements?

Newborn and Baby Peppers Group Leaders coordinate and facilitate parent peer support groups for new parents. A commitment of 12 consecutive weeks is necessary (fewer if you co-lead a Group with a friend, spouse or partner). Experience with new parents and infants is very helpful and preferred, but not an absolute must.

PEPS provides specialized training that helps volunteer leaders create an informal, positive, and accepting atmosphere in their Groups. Volunteers have access to experienced PEPS staff mentorship while they are leading a Group. For more information on leading a PEPS Group, please read our volunteer FAQs or contact PEPS Volunteer Manager Cate Palmer catep@peps.org.

Upcoming Group Leader Training Dates

(volunteers need only attend one training)

• Saturday, August 7, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
• Thursday, September 9, from 5:30 to 9:30 pm
• Saturday, October 2, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
• Thursday, November 4, from 5:30 to 9:30 pm

Board Member or Committee Members

If you are interested in contributing to PEPS’ mission through participation at the governance level, considering joining the board or serving on a committee. For more information on these opportunities, please contact us at catep@peps.org.

Special Events Volunteers

Want to assist with PEPS' annual fundraising and community building events? As a special events volunteer, you can help plan and staff the event that best fits your schedule.  Our upcoming event:

PEPSapalooza, our 2nd Annual Family Music Fest to benefit PEPS, on Saturday, August 14 at the Bowl at Redhook Brewery in Woodinville. For more information, please contact Cate Palmer catep@peps.org.

Guest Speakers for Groups

PEPS welcomes local professionals to speak at our groups on topics key to parenting babies. Some hot topics include: Brain Development and Early Learning, Couples' Relationship Skills, Self Care for Parents, Infant Safety and CPR, Infant Health. We do have a strict no-sales policy at our groups. Read an introduction to our Guest Speaking Program. If interested, complete an application and speaker agreement.

Being a PEPS Ambassador for Life

"My participation in PEPS and involvement with the organization over the past 4 years has been a rewarding "adventure." Like thousands of parents in this region, the newborn couples group (2004) was instrumental in our early months with Theo and I will always be grateful for the role PEPS played in my life. I will also treasure my experience as a volunteer group leader (2005), board volunteer (2006) and board member (2006-2008). Not only did I learn how to create an environment for peer support, I gained deep appreciation for the roles as well as the variety and volume of work that board members do to support and empower the nonprofit sector. The education, experience and connections I gained as a PEPS board member have directly influenced my career and I've never been more satisfied with my work.” ~ Cara Lewis, PEPS Board Member, 2006-2008