Each year, PFO works to bring together a small group of adults who act as positive role models for our teens. Each Advisor is assigned to a different committee based on their experience and talents. Because of the close working relationship that the Adults have with the teens, we use a thorough application and interview process. We are looking for adults who are passionate about what we do and want to be a part of our mission:
Mission: We provide a unique experience for teens by developing leadership skills, establishing relationships with children with special needs, and exploring passion for the arts.
The PFO Commitment: PFO strives to teach its teen’s commitment, teamwork & dedication. We expect our Advisors to be role models of this behavior. Please take a careful look at the “PFO season timeline” & the “Time Commitment for an Adult Advisor” before deciding to submit an application.
PFO Season timeline
| ▪ Late August | 4 day retreat | Times located on season calendar | Required attendance |
| ▪ September through March | Once a month Buddy Events | Sunday afternoon (2 – 4 pm) | Advisors required at 2 of the 6 |
| ▪ September through December | Optional once a month Special event | Friday evenings | Optional |
| ▪ January through February | Once a week committee meetings | Saturday mornings (10 am – 12 pm) | Required attendance |
| ▪ March through April | Rehearsals for one of three arts experiences; theatre, music or visual arts | Afternoons & Evenings | Optional |
| ▪ Late April early May | Arts Festival | Lasts three weeks | Required at some of the events |
| ▪ Mid May | Banquet | Sunday afternoon | Required attendance |
Time Commitment for an Adult Advisor
| Advisor Retreat | 2 day retreat for all Advisors for bonding, clear expectations, training in working with teenagers, children with disabilities, etc. | Mid-August | 8 hours |
| Full Advisor Meetings | 3 meetings throughout the year to touch base about committee work and Arts Festival Weekend | One in each of the following months:Oct., Dec., March | 3 hours |
| Retreat | 4 day intense meeting time with all PFO teens for bonding, teamwork & training | Late August | 17 hours |
| Buddy Events | Advisors are required to work 2 of the 6 buddy events throughout the year | Typically first Sunday of the month in the afternoon | 4 hours |
| Meetings with Chair & Secretary of committee | Once a month (Sep. – Dec.) individual meetings with teen chair & secretary to prepare for Jan/Feb. | Days/times up to individual Advisors/Chairs/Sec. | 6 hours |
| Committee Meetings | Full group meetings for all PFO teens and incorporate individual meetings with committee’s as well. Time of the year you have been preparing for with your Chair/Sec. | Saturdays from 10-12 during the months of Jan.& Feb. | 16 hours |
| Arts Festival | Culminating event for the PFO season. Shows, Concert, Silent Auction, Art Opening, Red carpet events & Check presentation. | Wednesday through Sunday during one of the final weekend of March | Attendance times TBD |
| In-direct hours | Checking & Responding to Emails from teens, parents, program director | On your own time | 30 hours |
| Total = 100 hours |
Steps to applying
1) Download and fill out an application available on our website (applications are accepted year round for the following season)
2) Email to playingforothers@gmail.com
3) Receive an invitation to continue on to the interview process
4) Attend an interview with Program Director
Questions? Email playingforothers@gmail.com
General Q & A about applying to be a PFO Advisor
Q: What is PFO doing for the community?
A: PFO is creating self-aware, passionate young leaders who believe in acceptance, inclusion, civic responsibility and giving back.
Q: What if I can’t attend every committee meeting?
A: As long as the conflicts are minimal, we can work around this.
Q: What if I can’t attend the retreat?
A: Advisors must be present for the retreat. This is non-negotiable.
Q: How old should an Advisor be?
A: Any age. (as long as they are over 21!) We have had Advisors young and old. It’s about the qualities they possess, not their age.
Q: Are Advisors paid?
A: Yes, we currently pay our Advisors a stipend which is divided up and paid over the course of the PFO season. Exact amount is determined each year once the budget for the upcoming year has been approved.
Q: Do I have to have previous experience with teens?
A: Previous experience is not necessary, but helpful. Again, it’s about the qualities the individual possesses. Everyone in PFO is on a learning curve. We expect that you are open and willing to learn and grow.
Q: What can I expect to get from working with teenagers?
A: Everything! You’ll laugh harder than you ever have and you’ll be frustrated more than you ever have been. It takes a special person to work with teenagers, but the reward is amazing. The most important thing is the difference between role model and friend. It is a very fine line.
Q: Do I have to have experience in working with children with disabilities?
A: It’s helpful but not necessary. You will receive training through our fall retreat.
Q: Do I have to have experience with the committee I am assigned to?
A: Not necessarily. You do have to be open to learning about your committee and using resources in the community to give your group of teens the best experience possible.
Q: Do I have a choice as to what committee I am assigned to?
A: Yes! We try to match Advisors with their talents & interests to the appropriate committee.
Q: Why should I be involved?
A: PFO is a nationally unique program that feeds its members in many, many ways. It is a comprehensive community service organization. To have the opportunity to help guide our future leaders is an experience like no other. There is a feel of total acceptance and inclusion.