Project Clean the Way: Neighborhood Clean Up Crew!

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The Harm Reduction and Street Outreach Team at Damien Center is looking to relaunch our monthly neighborhood cleanup initiative with clients, volunteers and other Damien Center community partners. Our goal is to help promote public health and wellness within the greater Indianapolis area while helping to "beautify" and revitalize our community spaces.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Work alongside Damien Center HRSO staff and other Damien Center volunteers to remove trash, garbage, debris and waste from the designated neighborhood.

2. Ensure adherence to proper health and safety protocols and procedures, as directed by the HRSO team or other Damien Center staff.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Have a friendly and approachable demeanor - be a people person!
• Ability to work well both in a team and independently.
• Be sensitive to, and respectful of, a diverse and LGBTQ+ friendly clientele and staff.
• Be sensitive to, and respectful of, community members who might be living outside as well as their belongings.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stand and walk, with or without assistance, for up to 3 hours at a time (with breaks as necessary).
• This position involves bending, twisting, and using hands and arms to lift and/or manipulate equipment like a grabber or bucket.
• Volunteers should be able to comfortably traverse outdoor spaces like sidewalks, trails, roads, crosswalks and green spaces which may or may not have clearly marked paths.

Time Commitment and Training:

• Volunteers will complete a New Volunteer Orientation and Training either virtually or in-person prior to their first volunteer shift. This is required regardless of the position you are applying for.
• Interested volunteers will then utilize their CERVIS profile to register for this event by selecting the time, date and location that they wish to attend.
• Neighborhood Clean-Up Crew shifts are available on the first Saturday of each month, from 9:00am - 12:00pm unless otherwise scheduled or cancelled in advance. Locations, dates and times for each shift will be posted to CERVIS for interested volunteers to register.

About the Environment:

This role takes place in various locations around Indianapolis, predominantly in outdoor public spaces like parks, gardens and neighborhoods. Weather and temperatures will be closely monitored for volunteer and staff wellbeing, but everyone who attends should also dress for the appropriate weather during their shift. Volunteers should pay close attention to the meeting location of their selected shift and should reach out in advance with any questions or concerns related to the space. Volunteers will not be responsible for cleaning up or working within encampments or where folks might be living outside.