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Volunteer

“I’m calling on all Americans to make volunteering and community service part of your daily life and the life of this nation.” - President Barack Obama
Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Program at the Obama Foundation.
At this time training cohorts are at capacity. Please check the website for updates on future training cohorts.
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About the Obama Foundation Volunteer Program

The Obama Foundation Volunteer Program is a key component in achieving the Foundation’s mission. By engaging community members for a variety of volunteer positions, the program ensures a high-quality visitor experience, both at the Obama Presidential Center and for specialized  programs.

This commitment to civic participation reflects President Obama's belief that every individual possesses the ability to create positive change, starting locally and extending globally.

Our volunteers represent the Obama Foundation Values both onsite and in the community. They embody President Obama's message of “ordinary people doing extraordinary things”.

We are looking for passionate individuals who represent our Hope to Action values as you greet, welcome and assist our visitors from down the street and across the world. 

Change starts when ordinary people decide they're going to do extraordinary things.”

President Obama
Volunteer Roles
Campus Ambassadors 

Campus Ambassadors support general operations as well as special programs and events. Shifts may be located both indoors and outdoors, and throughout the campus, including the Museum Building, Forum, and Home Court athletic center.

  • Providing general information (hours, pricing, parking)

  • Greeting and support getting around campus

  • Customer service

  • Providing information on exhibitions, programs, and events

  • Task-related staff support

Above all, these Ambassadors ensure that everyone who steps foot on campus feels welcome and valued.

School Group Ambassadors

These volunteers support the next generation of changemakers by supporting student visits on campus. Specific tasks include: 

  • Greeting school groups and support them from arrival through check in

  • Being friendly and engaging with educators and students of all ages 

  • Distributing appropriate educator resources for each age group

  • Answering questions and curiosities about the Obama Presidential Center, and following-up with the appropriate staff members if answers to questions are unknown. 

Special Events Volunteers:

Show your enthusiasm for The Obama Foundation mission by volunteering at one of our community events!

Responsibilities will vary depending on the program or event, and each opportunity will include training. 

We are looking for volunteers who are:
  • Adaptable and able to follow directions

  • Reliable and enthusiastic

  • Possess good communication skills 

  • Able to use computerized online scheduling system

FAQs

Donate
Today

We need your help to turn hope into action—to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.

Visit
  • 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.
  • 1-(773)-900-0044
  • The Museum

    The Obama Presidential Center Museum is a world-class landmark that tells the story of our democracy through the lens of America’s first Black president and First Lady. Dynamic exhibits across four floors will highlight the events, policies, challenges, and accomplishments of the Obama presidency. The Museum is comprised of four levels of exhibitions and the Sky Room, a 5,000 square foot space that offers soul-stirring perspective and panoramic views of Chicago. Entry to the Museum is by time-ticket or event participation. Monday | 1 - 8 p.m. CTTuesday - Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT

  • Forum Building

    The Forum Building is a vibrant community center that celebrates creativity and innovation. The Forum’s two levels are brought to life through power performances at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, creative forms of expression in the Media Suite, and collaborative thinking in the Democracy in Action Labs. The Forum also features the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium, Tafari’s Kitchen, our Cafe, two courtyards, and one-of-kind pieces of art by Theaster Gates, Spencer Finch, and Tyanna Buie. Monday | 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

  • Home Court

    Home Court is a 60,000-square-foot athletic and events space designed to strengthen the entire community and motivate people of all ages. Home Court offers programs inspired by President Obama's belief in the power of sports, mentorship, and connection. The two level space includes an NBA-sized regulation basketball court, seven flexible multipurpose rooms, two outdoor courtyards, and several multi-level seating areas for visitors.Monday - Sunday 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. CT

  • Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

    Libraries are the beating heart of a strong democratic culture. Here we welcome local residents, scholars, and visitors from around the world to connect, reflect, and act. The Obama Presidential Center campus features a new branch of the Chicago Public Library that celebrates the rich history of Chicago’s public libraries and the powerful legacy of the Obamas. The Library Branch includes a YOUMedia Suite, a City Maker’s Space, a Children’s Area, and the exclusive President’s Reading Room, a collection of written works that reflect the interests, histories, and readings of President and Mrs. Obama.Mon & Wed12 - 8 p.m. CTTues & Thur10 a.m. - 6 p.m. CTFri & Sat9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CTSun1 -5 p.m. CT

The Obama Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. Read more  about our tax-exempt status.

© 2026 The Barack Obama Foundation.