VOLUNTEER
A NEW PATH FORWARD •
VOLUNTEER
A FEW HOURS CAN MAKE MORE CARE POSSIBLE
Volunteers are vital to Compass Outreach’s mission and vision. Our volunteers help serve meals, prepare for cold nights and respond when an extra set of hands is needed. Some people join us regularly, while others help during seasonal services, special events or community projects.
All you need to be a great volunteer is a willingness to listen, to follow the lead of Compass staff and treat everyone with dignity and respect is a good place to begin.
Volunteers make all the difference. We can’t do what we do without you.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
WHERE YOU CAN HELP
01
MEALS AND KITCHEN SUPPORT
Help prepare, package and serve food at Compass meal sites. Volunteers may also assist with setup, kitchen support and cleanup so meals can be served safely and smoothly.
Food service experience is welcome but not required for every role. Compass will explain any food safety requirements connected with your assignment.
02
WARMING CENTER SUPPORT
When severe weather activates a warming center, volunteers help Compass provide a warm and welcoming place for people to come in from the cold.
Opportunities may include helping with sign in, preparing the space, organizing supplies and supporting staff during evening, overnight or on call shifts. Volunteer needs depend on the location, weather conditions and staffing.
03
OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Volunteers may help with the shower and laundry trailer, outreach activities, special events and other services taking place across the community.
The work will vary, but Compass staff will explain your role and make sure you know what is expected before you begin.
04
GROUP AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS
Churches, workplaces, service organizations and other community groups can contact Compass about helping with a project.
Opportunities depend on what is needed at the time and may include seasonal drives, property projects, event support or practical work that helps Compass facilities and services continue operating. Groups with questions can get in touch before applying.
GET STARTED
WHO CAN VOLUNTEER?
Compass welcomes adults with different skills, experiences and schedules.
Experience in food service, first aid, behavioral support, crisis response or trauma informed care may be helpful for some assignments, but these qualifications are not required for every role.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to serve at a warming center unless Compass has approved a separate youth volunteer arrangement.
Placement may depend on the role, schedule, orientation, training, reference checks or background checks. Submitting an application does not guarantee placement, but the Compass team will consider your interests and availability alongside current needs.
WHAT COMPASS ASKS OF VOLUNTEERS
Every volunteer helps create an environment where people are treated with dignity, care and respect. Meal services, warming centers and outreach events can become busy. Patience, flexibility and a willingness to work as part of a team matter more than having a particular professional background.
COMPASS ASKS VOLUNTEERS TO:
Follow staff direction, site rules and safety procedures
Keep commitments and let the team know promptly if plans change
Respect the privacy of people using Compass services
Maintain appropriate boundaries with the people Compass serves
Avoid taking photographs or recordings without authorization and informed consent
Work cooperatively with staff and other volunteers
Follow food safety and sanitation requirements when helping with meals
Report safety concerns or serious incidents to a Compass supervisor
Avoid using a volunteer role to promote personal, political or religious views
VOLUNTEER WITH COMPASS OUTREACH
HOW TO GET STARTED
01
COMPLETE
THE VOLUNTEER APPLICATION
Tell us how you would like to help, when you are generally available and about any relevant experience or accommodations.
02
HEAR FROM THE COMPASS TEAM
A team member will review your application and contact you about suitable opportunities and any next steps.
03
PREPARE FOR YOUR ROLE
Depending on the assignment, you may receive an orientation, training or additional instructions before your first shift.