Volunteer to Open Up the Outdoors for Kids Impacted by Incarceration

Join the Mersades Ann Foundation to help children with a parent in prison feel seen, supported, and free to be kids again through nature, mentorship, and community care.

It takes just a few minutes to share your interests and availability. We’ll follow up personally with next steps.

Why Your Time Matters

Children with a parent in prison often carry quiet questions and heavy worry. Your presence offers something simple and powerful: steady, joyful moments in nature with adults who care.

Create safe, playful spaces outdoors where kids can just be kids.
Offer consistent encouragement as a mentor or activity helper.
Stand alongside families navigating the impact of incarceration.
Help build a local network of hope, healing, and connection.

Ways You Can Help

Choose the volunteer role that best fits your season of life and energy. We’ll equip you every step of the way.

Outdoor Program Support

Help lead hikes, nature games, and outdoor activities that bring joy, confidence, and calm to kids and families.

Mentors & Small Group Guides

Walk alongside a small group, listen well, and offer steady encouragement over events and seasons.

Family & Event Support

Welcome families, prepare meals, set up safe spaces, and offer practical help that makes gatherings feel warm and easy.

Behind-the-Scenes Support

Help with logistics, supplies, photography, or communications to keep programs running smoothly.

One-Time & Seasonal Volunteers

Offer a few hours for a special event, seasonal program, or a specific project that fits your schedule.

Who We’re Excited to Welcome

You don’t need a certain background or perfect words. You simply need a steady heart, a willingness to listen, and a desire to help kids feel safe, seen, and free to have fun.

Adults 18+ who value dignity, boundaries, and kindness.
People who enjoy the outdoors or are open to trying it.
Community members who believe no child should feel alone in this story.
Folks who can commit to clear communication and follow-through.

We provide training, clear expectations, and ongoing support so you never have to figure it out alone.

Volunteers and children smiling together outdoors

We welcome volunteers of many backgrounds, including those who have been personally impacted by the justice system and are ready to serve in a healthy, supported way.

Please add your details so we can contact you for upcoming volunteer opportunities.

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Volunteer Agreement and Acknowledgment

I, the undersigned volunteer, have read, understand, and agree to abide by the Mersades Ann Foundation's Volunteer Code of Conduct. I understand that failure to comply with this Code may result in immediate termination of my volunteer status.

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Rooted in Local, Trustworthy Care

The Mersades Ann Foundation (MAF) is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to walking with children and families impacted by parental incarceration. We create consistent spaces for play, rest, and honest conversation—often outdoors, where kids can breathe a little easier.

Community-based and relationship-focused programs.
Trauma-aware training and safety policies for volunteers.
Background checks for key volunteer roles.
Accountable leadership and nonprofit stewardship of resources.

When you volunteer with MAF, you’re joining a thoughtful, accountable effort to surround kids with stable, caring adults and meaningful outdoor experiences.

Our Mission

To support children experiencing parental incarceration through connection, outdoor experiences, and a community that chooses them—again and again.

MAF operates as a nonprofit organization. Your time, energy, and care are invested directly into local children and families who deserve steady, compassionate support.