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Volunteering with S.H.I.F.T.
Our volunteers are passionate and dedicated to partnering with us in our goal to ensure that participants feel safe, supported, and welcome.
S.H.I.F.T has operated predominantly on volunteer manpower since our start. Our volunteers are the backbone of our organization, ensuring that all aspects of our programming run smoothly day after day. S.H.I.F.T. volunteers come to us from all sorts of backgrounds and experience. We actively welcome volunteers with lived experience.
Volunteering with S.H.I.F.T can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The most important personality traits of a S.H.I.F.T volunteer include consistency, compassion, and communication and the abilities to set boundaries and maintain confidentiality.
Our volunteers are screened by our team, undergo a Vulnerable Sector Screen and complete mandatory, role specific training before they are able to commence duties in their particular role. Volunteers are crucial members of our team and they provide us with support in various roles. Check our Volunteer Opportunities tab for more information about volunteering in specific roles with S.H.I.F.T and to fill out an online application for volunteering.
Time Commitment
Volunteer time commitment varies depending on the volunteer role; this may be anywhere from one (1) shift per week to one-off events based on the role.
Program volunteer shifts range from 2 to 5 hours in length.
Behind-the-Scenes volunteer shifts vary, depending on the role and tasks assigned.
Event volunteer shifts vary, depending on event and need.
Volunteer Requirements
Volunteers in roles that work directly with participants are required to complete the following prior to commencing volunteer duties:
Vulnerable Sector Screening
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A recent Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) Criminal Check
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Returning volunteers will submit a yearly verification document to attest that nothing has changed since the initial VSS submission.
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Volunteers will be asked to submit updated VSS documentation every 3 years.
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Volunteer Training
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Volunteers will participate in training including: program/role-specific training, health & safety, and orientation modules before beginning duties as a volunteer.
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Other training opportunities may become available throughout the year, including First Aid Training, Mental Health Education, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, etc. Volunteers are encouraged to participate as able.
Health and Safety
S.H.I.F.T health and safety measures are in place to protect, not only our staff, volunteers, and participants of all of our programs, but also the community around us. Volunteers are expected to cooperate and adhere to these protocols in order to ensure that we are able to continue to provide services to our community.
S.H.I.F.T health and safety measures include: Screening – Hand Hygiene – Physical Distancing – Enhanced Cleaning – Use of PPE
Head back to the HOME page to see our vision, mission and values! If this sounds like you be sure to apply and you can become a part of something bigger.