volunteer

The next Project Homeless Connect will be held on December 7, 2009 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Project Homeless Connect brings volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels together to serve people in our community experiencing homelessness. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities, but the majority of volunteers will act as guides, partnering with guests to help them find the resources they want.

The guides and guests will complete a quick intake to identify service priorities for the day, and will then explore the site, visiting service providers, and eating a sit-down lunch. A background in social services is not required; however, you do need a sense of humor, the willingness to help, and the ability to be on your feet for relatively long periods. All first-time volunteers are required to attend a training and orientation session. Returning volunteers are strongly encouraged to attend. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Please register to volunteer by Friday, November 27, 2009.

FAQs

1) Are there any age requirements for volunteers?

Yes, volunteers must be 18 or older.

2) Do I need any special training to volunteer at Homeless Connect?

Training for the December 7, 2009 Project Homeless Connect is required for all volunteers except those who trained and volunteered for a previous event. To make the volunteer experience better and to offer the best service to the guests, however, current training for this event is strongly recommended for returning volunteers.

3) What hours do the volunteers work?

The December event will start at 10:30 a.m. and end at 4:00 p.m. with two shifts for volunteers: (1) 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and (2) 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All volunteers are asked to arrive by 9:00 a.m.

4) What services are available at Homeless Connect?

Housing providers, employment specialists, medical care, mental health care, benefits specialists, eye care, haircuts, transportation assistance, food and clothing.

5) Does Project Homeless Connect accept financial donations?

We welcome and need financial support for Project Homeless Connect. Please see the Donation page for details on making a donation.

6) Does Project Homeless Connect accept in-kind donations of clothing, toiletries, or other items?

We do not. Project Homeless Connect does not have the capacity to sort and distribute donations. We rely on our community partners to deliver these goods in an efficient way to the people who need them most. If you have items that you would like to donate, please contact agencies that currently distribute these items. If you would like to get connected to these agencies, feel free to call the PHC phone line and we will assist you.

7) How can I learn more about other opportunities to help end homelessness?

Go the Heading Home Hennepin web site for additional opportunities in the community to help end homelesness.