Am I Able To Volunteer With My Family?
While most volunteer positions are reserved for persons 18 and older, there are some opportunities for children to serve alongside their parents or grandparents. Please contact volunteer@hopefoundhere.org to see what opportunities allow children to volunteer.
Do I Need To Have A Background Check To Volunteer At Gateway Mission?
Most of our general volunteer opportunities do not need a background check. However, for the safety of our guests, there are a few positions that will require one.
What If I Don’t Know Where I Want To Serve?
If you are unsure which volunteer opportunity is right for you, please feel free to schedule a tour of our campuses to get a first hand look at the different areas of service. Contact volunteer@hopefoundhere.org to schedule a tour!
Do You Offer Volunteer Opportunities During The Holidays?
Gateway Mission operates seven days a week, every single day of the year — and we have volunteer opportunities to match! However, please note that our Thanksgiving and Christmas opportunities often fill up quickly. The Great Thanksgiving Banquet opportunities generally open up in mid-September (keep an eye on the website for this!). If you would like to volunteer during Christmas, please be sure to contact us a few months before at volunteer@hopefoundhere.org
What Should I Wear To My Volunteer Service?
Volunteers must arrive dressed appropriately for the work they will be performing. Our dress code exists to protect volunteer safety, follow safety standards, and show respect to our clients. Volunteers arriving dressed inappropriately may not take part in activities unless suitable accommodations can be made.
Meal Service:
Kitchen dress code is critical to ensure the safety of our volunteers as well as to preserve the quality of the food. Volunteers must wear:
- Closed-toed shoes
- Clothing that completely cover chest, shoulders, underarms, torso and knees
- Hairnets (provided by Gateway Mission) or a hat/cap (brought by the volunteer)
- Gloves and aprons (provided by Gateway Mission)
- No jewelry or watches
- Clothing must not portray themes related to alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, sex or violence
At Our Shelters:
- Casual attire is appropriate (jeans, khakis, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.)
- Clothing should cover chest, shoulders, torso and thighs.
- Clothing must not portray themes related to alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, sex or violence
Will I Be Trained?
Yes, you will be given instructions by a Gateway Mission staff member or volunteer leader at the beginning of your shift. In some cases, you will be required to shadow a current volunteer or staff member before volunteering on your own.
