Volunteer
Onsite and offsite volunteering
Onsite volunteering fits those best who:
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can work Thursdays. Time commitment varies between 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM depending on task.
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can lift 10–25 pounds
(we have options for lighter tasks) -
like being part of a team
Offsite volunteering fits those best who:
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can pick-up Wednesday late afternoons or early evenings
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can pick-up and/or deliver Thursdays late mornings
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have a car
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have special skills or professional services
A typical onsite volunteer shift
Elisha’s Pantry offers a range of roles and ways to help the pantry. Ideally, volunteers commit to a recurring weekly shift. If your schedule is flexible, we also have a need for substitutes who can assist with tasks on a short notice.
From 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM on Thursday, approximately 20 volunteers are needed to help set up, run, and clean up the pantry. Our work involves setting up tables, tents, and chairs, receiving and unloading food donations from volunteers who deliver them, sorting food, and bagging and distributing bags.
Then more than 180 households drive through or walk in to collect their food. Finally, volunteers reshelve food, clean up the tables, pack up equipment, sweep the facility area, and get it ready for the following Thursday.
Safety precautions for pantry volunteers
We take the health and safety of our volunteers seriously, so we provide gloves, a bathroom, and free bottled water. We ask that you wear close-toed shoes (no sandals), and tie your hair back when helping at the pantry.
Our volunteer process
At Elisha’s Pantry, we honor that when you volunteer, you give the most precious gift of all — yourself. And in so doing, you become an essential part of our organization.
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STEP
3
Join us on your scheduled Thursday at 2 PM for your training and first shift.
STEP
4
After your first shift you can log onto the SignUp Genius to view, edit, and sign up for volunteer shifts.
Please note that we have a minimum age of 12 years for all pantry volunteers and any volunteer under 15 years must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or supervising adult(s).
Group volunteer opportunities
Are you a group of three to eight people looking for a community-centered volunteer experience?
Then join our friendly and compassionate community of volunteers for a day or on a per-project basis. We can almost always use willing hands.
Email elishaspantry@gmail.com one month in advance to become volunteers for a day at Elisha’s Pantry.
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Where is Elisha’s Pantry located?Find us at Christ Church United Methodist, 1717 Yulupa Ave., Santa Rosa, CA. We’re in the small buildings adjacent to the parking lot.
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When can I volunteer?Volunteers can do a range of shifts in various roles during our pantry’s operating hours every Thursday, 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM. After completing first shift, you’ll be able to sign up for future volunteer shifts via our on-line sign-up sheet.
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Do I need to attend training?On your first shift, new volunteers must bring completed application and waiver to pantry. Your first shift will serve as your pantry training. You’ll get acquainted with our pantry’s processes, procedures and operations.
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What will I be doing as a volunteer?Volunteers are the lifeblood of the pantry. Your role in providing food to those in need is direct, impactful, and rewarding. Roles include: Set Up Crew, Food Sorter, Food Delivery Team, Bag Assembly, Distribution, Clean Up Crew, and more. Let us know your interests and your skills, and we hope to find you the perfect fit.
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What do I do if I need to cancel my shift?We encourage volunteers to utilize SignUp Genius to set their own schedule. If you need to make changes to your recurring schedule or to cancel within 24 hours, phone Stephen, 707.527.0196.