Food Shelf Volunteer

Food Shelf Volunteer

Purpose: The Food Shelf volunteer is responsible for providing clients with great customer service while creating a positive and welcoming environment in the Food Shelf.

Description of Role:

The role of Food Shelf volunteer enhances our organizations ability to destigmatize the food shelf shopping experience byproviding great customer service to clients shopping in the food shelf.By demonstrating our organizations values, volunteers will employ empathy and understanding as well as practicing non-judgement and inclusion to foster a welcoming environment.Volunteers in this position will receive initial training and ongoing support from food program staff and work alongside several fellow Food Shelf Volunteers.

Volunteer Duties and Responsibilities

Roles included: Scale attendant, Aisle attendants, Personal care/household items attendant.

• Greeting clients
• Explain any item limits and answer any questions.
• Maintain area cleanliness and organization.
• Notify staff when additional items are needed for restocking.
• Notify staff before leaving your station.

Volunteer Requirements and Expectations:

• A desire to serve others.
• Be punctual for your volunteer shift.
• Follow Valley Outreach Standard of Appearance guidelines.
• A willingness to follow specific directions.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work and speak directly with clients throughout the shift.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor.
• Patience and a desire to serve others.
• Respect for client confidentiality, consistent with treating clients with dignity and respect.
• A commitment to racial equity and social justice and a willingness to learn and be curious.

Physical Demands:

• Able to tolerate walking and standing on hard surfaces for 3-4 hours at a time.
• Able to bend, reach in front, above and below the waist.
• Some volunteers may be tasked with stocking products in boxes (up to 15 pounds).

Time Commitment: 3-4 hours

Food Shelf volunteer shifts vary by the day of the week. See below for time ranges.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

9am-1pm

1pm-4pm

Closed

1pm-4pm

9-1pm

4pm-7pm

4pm-7pm

Training and Support:

The Food Shelf volunteer will receive training from the Food Program Assistant or experienced volunteer prior to working the position alone. All volunteers will receive training applicable to their position as needed.