Outreach Help to homeless individuals in Albany, NY

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Provide direct service to people living outside: handing out water, food, blankets, and personal supplies, accompanied by Joseph's House staff who drive the vehicle, and address the long-term housing needs of the people served.

This opportunity is for one volunteer per 4 hours shift to support our staff as they travel in and around Albany, NY.

The van leaves the above address and runs from 12-4pm and 4-8pm, 7 days a week, year-round.

Shifts are chosen on an online calendar: you do not need to have the same availability week-to-week. You can choose how often you volunteer but suggest volunteer help at 2-4 shifts each month.

Because we have limited numbers of shifts we are accepting only people who anticipate doing this on a long-term basis out of a concern for homelessness. Unfortunately this means we are not currently accepting students doing service as part of their course or those who have mandated hours.

We will start with a phone interview so we check this is the right opportunity for you, followed by a short online application form. We will require and contact two references who can attest at your ability to be non-judgmental and confidential - and willing to engage with the clients in a friendly manner. There is an information/ orientation meeting to familiarize you with general Joseph's House policies and safety issues. At that point you will be an accepted agency volunteer. However, to be a volunteer on the van, applicants will meet with outreach staff to further describe this opportunity. Helping people staying outside can be an emotional and difficult - though extremely rewarding- task: staff will help you check this is a good opportunity for you and you can provide the support the team needs.

You can access the volunteer application from our website.