Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions
What hours may I work?
Volunteer hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. You MUST SIGN IN AND OUT each day to comply with worker’s
compensation insurance and for proper record keeping of agency statistics.
How do I apply to be a volunteer?
Go to our website: www.vinnies.org
How do I schedule my hours?
Volunteer hours must be scheduled through our website, www.vinnies.org.
Your login name is your email address. Your password is your phone number (7 digits).
If you do not know your Volunteer ID, just click on the “forgot your password” link on the login page and we’ll send you an email with your login name and password.
Do I need to bring anything with me to volunteer?
You will need to know your sign- in name and password (phone number) for logging into our Volgistics volunteer program. Please leave any cash or valuables at home. Of course, alcoholic beverages or drugs are never allowed on our property.
What should I wear while volunteering in the kitchen?
Health regulations require volunteers to wear closed toed shoes while volunteering in the kitchen. We cannot make any exceptions to this rule at any time. In addition, long hair must be pulled back and secured or covered by a hairnet (hairnets will be provided if needed). In addition, we cannot allow tank tops or spaghetti strap shirts. Upon your arrival, you will put on a blue apron and a name tag. Health regulations require everyone to wash their hands and wear latex gloves while working in the kitchen and dining room.
Are there any specific rules I need to know?
Volunteers are subject to the same rules of conduct and confidentiality which apply to paid staff members, including those that apply to sexual harassment and a hostile work environment. We ask volunteers to act in a responsible and professional manner when providing services to our guests.
Volunteers are encouraged to get to know our guests. You are encouraged to sit and eat with our guests, to learn guests’ names and develop a positive rapport with the people we serve. While we encourage you to be a good listener and a compassionate presence, agency rules forbid staff members and volunteers from giving cash or other material aid to dining room guests. Staff members and volunteers are also prohibited from giving guests a place to stay, even for one night. Instead, staff members and volunteers are trained to help guide guests to the appropriate resources available to them in order to provide the best long term support possible.
