We connect amazing people and resources with kids who need support.

It's simple, rewarding, and designed to serve our students best!

SQUASH THE GAP / Volunteer with us

Want to make a difference?
Join us as a volunteer tutor or coach!

We’re looking for talented individuals like you to support our students at SquashSmarts.
​Students may need help with:

• Academic tutoring (any subject)
• Squash coaching
• School supplies or athletic gear
• Other types of support​

Our Goal:  To bridge the gap between potential and opportunity—by connecting generous volunteers like you with students who truly benefit from extra support.
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How it works:

Step 1: Fill out the form
Let us know how you'd like to get involved. Are you a tutor? A squash coach? Someone who can donate or help in another way? Just complete the form below with your information and what you can offer.
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Step 2: We’ll match you with a student
Based on your skills and availability, we’ll connect you with a SquashSmarts student and/or a cohort practice time when we can use your support.
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Step 3: Get the details
You’ll receive an email with the confirmed time and date for your session. Please note that SquashSmarts needs in-person volunteers for tutoring and squash at both facilities. Tutoring via Zoom is only used on rare occasions when an in-person relationship has already been established.
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A few notes:

• Most tutoring and coaching happens Monday–Friday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM during SquashSmarts practice hours.
• We’ll work with your schedule as best we can.
• Be sure to fill out the clearances (shown at right or below) if you're interested in coaching or tutoring.

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Ready to help?
Just fill out the volunteer form and we’ll be in touch soon!
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All volunteers and tutors over the age of 18 are required to complete the following three clearances in order to participate in the program:

1. Child Abuse (Child Welfare Portal): https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home

2. State Police (PA Access to Criminal History): https://epatch.pa.gov/

3. FBI Criminal (Identigo - requires fingerprinting appointment) *: https://uenroll.identogo.com/
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* Residents of PA for 10+ years may complete and submit the FBI's Affidavit Form in lieu of fingerprinting
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​Why do I need clearances?

​​Note: If you are attending a large event you do not need clearences, this is only if you are spending one on one time with the students.

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Service and Event Volunteers

Group Volunteer Opportunities

SquashSmarts organizes a variety of service projects and special events for our students throughout the year. Volunteers play a fun and vital role with activities like: Philly Spring Clean Up, Junior Squash Tournaments, Graduation, the BestShotBall. This is an ideal fit for individuals who can't commit to our afternoon sessions!

We welcome your company, organization, squash team, etc. to plan a group volunteer project with us! For groups of 10-100, we'll design a meaningful experience in the classroom and on the squash court, or build a day around your specific service interests! 
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​Donate Here:​

If you are unable to tutor and / or would like to do more, please consider making a gift to SquashSmarts.

All funds will support SquashSmarts' mission to improve the lives of underserved youth from Philadelphia public schools by providing intensive, long-term academic tutoring and squash instruction, while imparting high standards of personal integrity, health and fitness, and service to the community. 
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SquashSmarts is a federal tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization
All donations are tax-deductible in accordance with the laws governing non-profits​

Questions: Individual & Group Volunteers
Jeanie Shanahan 215-221-6860
[email protected]

This page is powered by Squash The Gap, a project envisioned by Rishaan Nagar, Shipley School student and SquashSmarts volunteer.