Barker’s 2026 Phone-A-Thon
September 14–20, 2026
About Barker’s Phone-A-Thon
Our annual Phone-A-Thon is an opportunity to reconnect with the community that makes Barker’s work possible.
Throughout the week of September 14–20, Barker volunteers will reach out to donors, families, alumni, volunteers, and friends to share updates, express appreciation, and strengthen relationships that sustain our mission.
On Tuesday, September 15 and Wednesday, September 16, volunteers will join Barker staff in the office to help make calls and support outreach efforts.
Every conversation helps strengthen our community. Every gift to Barker’s Annual Fund helps ensure Barker’s trusted programs and services remain available and accessible to children, families, and individuals who need them today—and for generations to come.
Part of Barker’s 2026 Annual Fund
Phone-A-Thon is one way our community comes together to support Barker’s larger Annual Fund.
Annual Fund gifts help bridge the gap between what program fees, insurance reimbursements, grants and other funding cover and what it actually takes to provide Barker’s programs and services.
This year, eligible Annual Fund gifts are being matched, with a special
2:1 match for first-time donors through September 30.
Why Your Time Matters
Phone-A-Thon is about more than making calls.
It’s about reminding our community that Barker is here—offering trusted guidance, compassionate support, and lifelong services that strengthen families and honor every story.
The relationships we build during Phone-A-Thon help sustain the philanthropic support provided through Barker’s Annual Fund, allowing Barker to continue serving children, families, adoptees, birth parents, and professionals for years to come.
No fundraising or volunteer experience is required! We’ll provide everything you need, including training, conversation guides, and support throughout your shift.
Volunteer Role
Your time, your voice, and your support can make a lasting impact.
Caller
Call Barker families, supporters, and community members using Barker office phones. You’ll follow a simple conversation guide and help us reconnect with members of our community.
Great for: Friendly, outgoing volunteers who enjoy conversation.
Shifts & Expectations
All volunteer shifts take place in person at Barker’s office on Tuesday, September 15 and Wednesday, September 16.
Volunteers may register for one or multiple shifts based on their availability.
Shift Times
Morning
10:00 AM – Noon
Afternoon
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Evening
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Prior to your shift, you’ll receive:
A brief orientation
Call scripts and conversation guides
Contact lists and materials
Staff support throughout your shift
Light refreshments
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. Barker staff will provide training, conversation guides, and support before your shift begins.
All volunteer shifts are held at Barker’s office (7979 Old Georgetown Road, First Floor, Bethesda, MD 20814) and you’ll be using Barker phones and materials.
Yes! We welcome individuals, friends, family members, and colleagues to volunteer together. Please have your guest complete their own registration, or email development@barkerfoundation.org with their name and contact information so we can do our best to schedule you together.
Yes. Many of the calls will include an invitation to support Barker’s 2026 Annual Fund. Volunteers will receive training, a conversation guide, and staff support throughout their shift, so no prior fundraising experience is required. Some are also an opportunity to express gratitude and reconnect with members of the Barker community.
Yes! We’d love to have you join us for multiple shifts if your schedule allows.
Thank you for considering volunteering with Barker’s 2026 Phone-A-Thon.
Your time and generosity help strengthen the relationships that sustain Barker’s mission and support the Annual Fund, ensuring Barker’s programs and services remain available to the children, families, and individuals we serve.
Please complete the registration form to select your preferred volunteer role and availability. A Barker team member will follow up with your confirmed schedule and next steps.
Questions?
We’re happy to help.