Join us in providing essential services to our neighbors experiencing homelessness at our Downtown Orlando Comprehensive Mobile Drop-in Center. By volunteering to assist with our mail program, you play a crucial role in removing barriers for those without a mailing address, ensuring they have access to essential services and communications.
How to Sign Up:
To schedule your volunteer shift, click 'Respond' at the top right of the page or scroll below to view available shifts. While shifts are typically 3 hours, we are flexible with your availability if you need to leave early. Let us know in the notes if you need to adjust your shift duration so we can prepare and accommodate accordingly. Please sign up at least 24 hours in advance so we know how many volunteers to expect the next day.
Orientation Details:
Orientation sessions begin promptly at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, followed by a tour of our drop-in center for new volunteers. We ask that you arrive on time to participate in the orientation, complete your training, and sign in for your volunteer shift. During your orientation, you will receive a volunteer badge to wear during your shift. Please remember to return this badge at the end of your volunteer shift.
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Time-stamping and sorting new mail.
- Inputting new mail into our system and organizing it into mailbox sleeves.
- Creating sleeves for new mail clients.
- Assisting clients by checking for their mail.
- Stamping "Return to Sender" mail that has been held for over 25 days.
Attire Recommendations for Safety and Comfort:
- Tops: Plain T-shirts or non-offensive graphic tees, made of breathable fabrics.
- Bottoms: Knee-length or above knee-length shorts, or loose breathable pants (khakis, cargos, sweats, scrubs, jeans).
- Shoes: Closed-toe sneakers or shoes.
- Jewelry: Avoid large chains, large hoop earrings, or excessive rings, especially when gloves may be worn.
Additional Notes:
This role requires sensitivity to guest needs and a willingness to interact with diverse populations. Many of the individuals we serve are experiencing homelessness and may also be navigating mental health struggles or substance use. It's important to approach each interaction with empathy and respect for their circumstances.
While we ask for this level of consideration from our volunteers, we also prioritize the safety of our staff, volunteers, and guests. We have contracted a security company to help manage and deescalate any situations that may arise, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
We encourage volunteers to share their experiences on social media to help raise awareness and support for our cause. However, we ask that you always seek permission before taking photos with clients to respect their privacy and dignity.
Your commitment and compassion can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for your dedication to helping our community.
Additional Information on the Need for Mail Services:
Mail services are essential for people experiencing homelessness as they provide a stable point of contact, crucial for accessing various services and opportunities. Studies show that lack of a permanent address is a significant barrier that can prevent individuals from receiving healthcare, employment, and social services, further exacerbating their situation (CDC) (National Low Income Housing Coalition).
For instance, having a mailing address can significantly improve health outcomes by ensuring individuals receive important medical correspondences and appointment reminders. Additionally, access to mail allows individuals to receive job offers and legal documents, which are essential for moving towards stability and self-sufficiency (CDC) (Benioff Initiative). Your efforts in this program help bridge the gap for those without an address, providing them with a sense of stability and dignity.
