Join us in providing essential services to our neighbors experiencing homelessness at our Downtown Orlando Comprehensive Mobile Drop-in Center. By volunteering at our laundry trailer, you play a crucial role in ensuring that our unsheltered neighbors have access to clean clothing.
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.
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Registering individuals for the laundry service.
- Calling guests to pick up their clean laundry via the mic.
- Receiving, washing, and rotating laundry loads from guests.
- Labeling and storing clean laundry loads and receipts.
- Assisting guests who are picking up their clean loads.
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 Laundry Services:
Access to laundry facilities is a critical aspect of support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Clean clothes are essential for personal hygiene, mental well-being, and self-esteem. Studies have shown that access to clean clothing can reduce the stigma associated with homelessness, improve mental health, and increase opportunities for employment and housing. Additionally, maintaining clean clothes helps prevent skin infections and other health issues related to poor hygiene. Your role in helping manage our laundry services is vital in breaking these barriers and fostering a sense of community and respect among our guests.
