Do you need volunteers for Thanksgiving and Christmas meal services?
We hold a special meal service for needy families on both Thanksgiving and Christmas. We also have the regular meal services around the holidays and every day of the week for three meals a day. |
|
|
When do you serve your Thanksgiving and Christmas meals?
The Thanksgiving meal is served on Thanksgiving Day and the Christmas meal is served on Christmas Day. Both are generally held in the morning. |
|
|
Can I just show up?
No. Before you can volunteer we will need you to fill out a volunteer application form and speak with one of the coordinators in the volunteer department. |
|
|
Do you need donations?
Yes. We accept donations of food, clothing, hygiene items, over-the-counter medications, cleaning supplies, office supplies, household items, gift cards to low-cost eateries and department stores, gas stations and entertainment. |
|
|
Do you need Christmas gifts?
We are in need of new and unwrapped toys, clothing, or household items for our clients. |
|
|
Can I adopt a family for Christmas?
We run a program called Sleighbells for Christmas, which involves adopting a family from the Strong Beginnings program and providing their Christmas gifts and decorations. |
|
|
Do you need Christmas decorations?
We are in need of decorations that are in good condition and working for the different facilities. |
|
|
What is the age limit for volunteers?
Volunteers must be 13 years of age to volunteer. Any volunteer under the age of 17 will need adult supervision. |
|
|
What is the process for becoming a volunteer?
To begin, you must first fill out a volunteer application. Once this is returned to us, you may call and let us know your areas of interest and availability and we can schedule you to volunteer. |
|
Is it necessary to complete the entire packet?
Yes. Not only does it give us the information needed to create your file, but you will receive valuable information about the policies. |
|
|
What other volunteer opportunities do you have?
We have several opportunities ranging from meal service to tutoring to painting. Please check the volunteer opportunities page on the website. |
|
How much time is required to volunteer?
While you are not required to volunteer a specific amount of hours, there are some opportunities that require a commitment of three to six months. |
|
|
How do I sign up for specific volunteer opportunity?
Contact one of the volunteer coordinators at the Orange County Rescue Mission and let them know what you are interested in. |
|
|
Can groups volunteer?
Absolutely. Groups can volunteer for meal services, project days, food drives or many other opportunities. |
|
|
What if my group wants to volunteer but they are under 13?
The most helpful way to volunteer is to coordinate a drive of some kind. The facilities are always in need of donations such as food, clothing, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, household items, gift cards, etc. |
|
|
How long is the commitment to volunteer for a specific project?
It depends on the project. Some projects require a three to six month commitment while others are on a flexible basis. |
|
|
Can I volunteer for more than one project?
Yes. |
|
|
What if I can’t volunteer on a regular basis?
That is no problem. Just let us know when your schedule permits you to volunteer and you can volunteer in one of the more flexible projects. |
|
|
Is it safe to volunteer at your facility?
Yes. We take all necessary precautions to make the Mission a safe place for volunteers, clients, guests and staff. |
|
|
Can I use my volunteer time to complete a school requirement or community service?
Yes. If you are completing hours for community service, you will need to speak with a volunteer coordinator and go through a preliminary phone or in-person interview before you are allowed to volunteer. Please remember to bring in all necessary papers you will need signed when you come in to volunteer. |
|
|
I work Monday through Friday. What kinds of things can I do as a volunteer that aren’t during work hours?
We have several work projects that happen during weekends, as well as meal services. Keep checking the volunteer opportunities tab on the Orange County Rescue Mission website for updated information. |
|
|
Is there a dress code for volunteers?
Volunteers must wear close-toed shoes (no sandals or flip-flops) and have all long hair pulled back. Please wear appropriate clothing (nothing with derogatory images or words) while volunteering. |
|
|
What do I do if I can’t attend when I am scheduled to volunteer?
Please call the volunteer coordinator. If you can not contact them, call the facility where you were scheduled to volunteer to let them know. |
|
|
Do I need to complete a background check to volunteer?
At this point, you will need to complete a LiveScan with the Irvine Police Department if you will be working in the Child Development Center or with a bible study. In the future, LiveScans may be required for all volunteers. |
|
|
Can we eat with the clients?
You are allowed to eat with the clients after everyone has been served and if there is enough food. |
|
|
What if I have a special skill but you do not have it listed in the volunteer opportunities?
Let us know what your skills are! We love our volunteers to be creative. This can include anything from hair styling to a fitness class to drama team. Speak with a volunteer coordinator and we can create a special project. |
