Volunteering at Church

[PearlyLemons 13]

Hi everyone

I've been asked if I would mind volunteering at a children's Sunday school at our local church. Now, we have just sent off my AOS package, and awaiting my EAD card. I totally get that I am unable to accept payment or any other benefits from a voluntary position, however, I do hold a degree in Early Childhood Ed. I'm hoping this voluntary position will help stave off boredom, help me meet new people, and have some insight into children's education(I know it's religious in this instance). They will not offer me a job and nor do I want to work there in a paid position at the Church, but in a way, I guess I see it as getting an insight into American culture and American education, in addition to helping children grow in the Christian faith. I suppose I'm over thinking this but does this count as deriving benefit from it? If I went for a job as a pre-school teacher once I receive EAD, would I be able to reference the fact I've volunteered as a Sunday School teacher? Do you think it's perhaps safer to volunteer in a position that I have no relation to? Like a hospital, animal shelter, etc? I really don't want to break any laws here - but maybe I'm waaay over thinking this. Any input would be greatly appreciated. For those who have volunteered whilst waiting for work authorization, what did you do?

Thank-you .

** Edit, none of the Sunday school teachers get paid - it is strictly a voluntary position. The only person who gets paid is the director of Christian Ed. I don't believe I would be taking work from a U.S citizen.

Edited November 14, 2013 by PearlyLemons

[h13rma 35]

As i remember it as long as you aren't doing anything that somebody could be paid to do then it is okay. I'm sure somebody will give fuller info if required.

[Umka36 781]

As long as no compensation is involved, and the opportunity is officially advertised as a volunteer position, the foreign national may participate.

http://www.usavisanow.com/h-1b-visa/h1b-visa-resources/uscis-views-on-volunteering/

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

Do it. Sounds like a nice opportunity.

[agnesb 47]

I have been volunteering at elem. school as a classroom assistant through official volunteer program in our county. I wonder if there!s something like that in your area too?

Btw i found it by going into Parents or Staff section on our local schools website.

[JohnR! 5,495]

Hi everyone

I've been asked if I would mind volunteering at a children's Sunday school at our local church. Now, we have just sent off my AOS package, and awaiting my EAD card. I totally get that I am unable to accept payment or any other benefits from a voluntary position, however, I do hold a degree in Early Childhood Ed. I'm hoping this voluntary position will help stave off boredom, help me meet new people, and have some insight into children's education(I know it's religious in this instance). They will not offer me a job and nor do I want to work there in a paid position at the Church, but in a way, I guess I see it as getting an insight into American culture and American education, in addition to helping children grow in the Christian faith. I suppose I'm over thinking this but does this count as deriving benefit from it? If I went for a job as a pre-school teacher once I receive EAD, would I be able to reference the fact I've volunteered as a Sunday School teacher? Do you think it's perhaps safer to volunteer in a position that I have no relation to? Like a hospital, animal shelter, etc? I really don't want to break any laws here - but maybe I'm waaay over thinking this. Any input would be greatly appreciated. For those who have volunteered whilst waiting for work authorization, what did you do?

Thank-you .

** Edit, none of the Sunday school teachers get paid - it is strictly a voluntary position. The only person who gets paid is the director of Christian Ed. I don't believe I would be taking work from a U.S citizen.

You will be just fine, especially if all who hold the same position are voluteers. Once you get your EAD you can reference the volunteer position in your resume, for it counts as experience. Community work is always a good way to become part of a new community! Good luck!

[Kajikit 65]

Of course you can do it... teaching sunday school is not, and has never been, a paid position in your typical church.