Volunteer FAQ
Do I have to schedule in advance or can I just show up to volunteer?
All volunteering must be scheduled in advance.
What should I wear?
Volunteers must wear closed-toed shoes to work in the warehouse. Sneakers are best, please no high heeled shoes. Jeans or shorts and sweatshirt or T-Shirts are best. Please dress for the weather as our warehouses are not heated or cooled.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
Each location and each activity has different age limits. However, the general limit is that volunteers must be 11 years old to work in one of the warehouses. Volunteers ages 11-15 must have one adult supervisor per five youth.
Do I need to bring anything to my volunteer session?
Please bring your positive attitude, flexibility, and compassion!
Is there a place to lock up my personal belongings?
There are a limited number of lockers available in the emergency food pantry in Columbia. Our other locations do not have any. Please do not bring valuables with you to volunteer. Volunteers may not listen to MP3 players or talk on cell phones while volunteering due to safety reasons.
Do I have to attend a training session prior to volunteering?
All individual volunteers are required to attend a 1-hour orientation and food safety class. Group leaders are asked to attend and disseminate the information for their group.
Will I be required to lift heavy objects?
Each job has different levels of physical activity including some that have none at all. If this is a concern please speak to us before coming in.
How do I get started?
Sign up for a volunteer orientation online or call the branch closest to you for more information.
“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead