The South Hills Stars Special Needs Programs are completely volunteer-run. While the Bethel Park Community Center graciously hosts our classes, all instruction, planning, fundraising, performances, and day-to-day operations are organized and led by South Hills Stars Founder and Director, Emily Columbus-Szczur, along with our incredible team of dedicated volunteers.

Without our volunteers, South Hills Stars simply would not exist.

Thank You to Our Amazing Volunteers!

Each season, we are fortunate to have volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who give their time, talents, and hearts to our Stars. Over the years, our volunteers have included middle school, high school, and college students, parents, grandparents, teachers, teacher aides, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, color guard members and instructors, and many other community members.

Every volunteer brings unique experiences and perspectives that help make our programs successful. Some volunteers have years of performing arts experience, while others simply have a passion for helping others. No matter your background, there is a place for you on our team.

Whenever possible, we strive to provide a 1:1 volunteer-to-Star ratio so that every participant receives the individualized encouragement and support they need to be successful.

What Do Volunteers Do?

Volunteers play an important role before, during, and after each class. Opportunities include:

• Assisting participants one-on-one or in small groups

• Teaching and demonstrating skills (if interested)

• Setting up and putting away equipment

• Helping organize performances and special events

• Assisting with fundraising activities

• Encouraging participants and celebrating their accomplishments

• Helping with clean-up after each class

Volunteer Schedule

We practice every Monday at the Bethel Park Community Center for the Fall and Spring Seasons.

Color Guard Volunteer arrival: 5:30 PM

• Class: 6:00–7:00 PM

Drum Line Volunteer arrival: 6:30 PM

• Class: 7:00–8:00 PM

Whether you can volunteer for one season or many years, your time makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our Stars.

Becoming a Volunteer

If you are interested in volunteering with the South Hills Stars Special Needs Programs, we ask that you complete the following volunteer packet. The first two pages include our standard volunteer application, followed by a photo permission form and clearance information. To help ensure the safety of all of our Stars, volunteers are required to obtain two Pennsylvania clearances (or three if you have not lived in PA for the required residency period). 

Once your forms and clearances are complete, please email them to SouthHillsStars@gmail.com

♥️ Thank you for considering becoming part of the South Hills Stars family. Your kindness, encouragement, and dedication help make it possible for every Star to learn, grow, perform, and shine. ⭐

Together We Shine

Not sure if you want to join yet? Click here to see some videos in Google Drive to convince you! https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1M6FFEGO2hgljaHN9uliW8kP8M4Ftxh2H?usp=sharing