Join us in providing essential services to our neighbors experiencing homelessness at our Downtown Orlando Comprehensive Mobile Drop-in Center. By volunteering to organize donations, you play a crucial role in ensuring that these essential items reach those in need.
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 can 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:
- Maintain the station's cleanliness and order.
- Receive and log donations.
- Sort and label donations by category and size if applicable.
- Sunday Service Day - On Sundays, we operate a clothing distribution. Volunteer responsibilities:
- Greet and assist guests in identifying clothing items they require.
- Retrieve clothing items and assemble outfits according to client specifications.
- Assist in organizing and restocking clothing racks as needed.
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 de-escalate 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 Clothing Services:
Clothing services for people experiencing homelessness are vital as they provide not only physical comfort but also a sense of dignity and self-worth. Adequate clothing can have a significant impact on an individual's ability to secure employment, attend medical appointments, and integrate into society.
- Employment and Self-Esteem: Appropriate attire is crucial for job interviews and employment opportunities. A study found that individuals with access to clean, suitable clothing had a higher chance of gaining employment compared to those without (CDC).
- Health and Hygiene: Proper clothing helps protect against the elements, reducing the risk of health issues such as hypothermia in colder climates and heatstroke in hotter climates (Benioff Initiative).
- Social Integration: Access to clean and appropriate clothing helps individuals experiencing homelessness feel more confident and accepted in social and professional settings, which is essential for their mental and emotional well-being (National Low Income Housing Coalition).
By volunteering with our clothing program, you help provide these essential items, offering not just warmth and comfort, but also hope and dignity to those in need. Your efforts contribute to their journey towards stability and self-sufficiency.
