top of page
coates pic4.jpg

Volunteers Are Essential Partners

 

At Coates Inc., volunteers are not “extra help” — they are critical to expanding college access and career exposure for high school students.

​

Because of volunteers:

  • Students receive mentorship and career guidance

  • FAFSA completion increases

  • College enrollment rises

  • Over $50 million in scholarships has been secured

​

When you give, you help build a future!

day of caring united way.png

Volunteer with Coates Inc

United Way Day of Caring

Join COATES Inc. for United Way Day of Caring! Volunteers will write encouraging cards for students and share their career journeys to show young people that every path is unique—and every career is valuable.

Volunteer Positions Available

Event Volunteer

Fuel Scholarships Through Community Impact - Support our annual fundraiser and events that powers scholarships, mentorship, and college access programming.

​

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist with event planning & logistics

  • Support vendor coordination

  • Help with marketing outreach

  • Assist with guest activations & silent auction procurement

  • Assist with setup & teardown

​

Commitment:
2 hours per month (Dec–Aug) + event day support for 12–20 hours total for the Coates & Corks Wine Fest

​

When you help bring our events to life, you fuel scholarships and mentorship for Lake County students.

Career Guest Speaker

Expand Students’ Vision of What’s Possible - Students need exposure to real professionals. Your story can open doors they didn’t know existed.

​

What You’ll Do:

  • Share your career journey (including pivots & lessons learned)

  • Explain required education or training

  • Discuss salary ranges and growth potential

  • Answer honest student questions

​

Commitment:
One 1.5–2 hour session during the school year.

​

Give two hours. Expand a student’s future.

College Ambassador

Share Your Real College Experience - Are you currently enrolled in a 2-year, 4-year, trade, or graduate program? High school students need to hear from someone who’s actually living it.

​

What You’ll Do:

  • Share why you chose your college

  • Talk about classes, campus life, and time management

  • Offer honest advice on choosing the right fit

  • Answer student questions

​

Commitment:
1–2 speaking sessions per semester (virtual or in-person)

​

When you share your real college experience, you help a student choose the right path — while strengthening your leadership and communication skills.

Volunteer Interest Form

Fill out to let us know you are interested in volunteering. A staff member will contact you within the next business day!

Thanks for submitting!

CONTACT US

There are many ways to join us and support our mission. Contact us to learn about volunteer and partnership opportunities, fundraising, and other ways that you can get involved.

3709 Broadway, Suite 31

Gary, IN 46409

Phone: 219-472-9928

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed

Coates Inc Logo

Copyright © 2025 Coates Inc | Equity in Education – All Rights Reserved.

bottom of page