Register to Volunteer!
We work to match each individual or group to a volunteer job that matches their interests and talents. If you don’t see the perfect fit, we will work with you to create it. Ready to get started? Fill out your application today!
Have questions about volunteering? We’ve got answers. Learn how you can get involved, what to expect, and how your time can make a difference.
Provide a Meal
Anderson Emergency Overnight Shelter
We have a number of opportunities at our Emergency Overnight Shelter including:
- Meal Provider: Volunteers donate a full hot dinner, and/or continental breakfast, and/or sack to-go lunches for 40 people. *NOTE: MEAL PROVIDERS are separate from HOST(S). If you are interested in SERVING your meal, please ALSO sign up to be a HOST.*
- Evening Shelter Host: Volunteers help get set-up for the evening, greet the shelter guests as they arrive help them to set up their sleeping area, host dinner, and interact with clients until lights out.
- Overnight Attendant: Volunteers support staff in ensuring a safe experience for the shelter guests.
- Breakfast Host: Volunteers serve a light breakfast, help shelter guests exit and assist with light clean-up.
Interim Housing Program
We have a number of opportunities at our Interim Housing Program site, including:
- Meal Provider: Volunteers donate a full hot dinner, and/or continental breakfast, and/or sack to-go lunches for 40 people.
- Morning or Evening Service Aid: Volunteers support in setting out meals, help with inventory, and assist with cleanup.
- On-Site Assistant: Support front desk duties (e.g. invite guests in, accept deliveries, help with filing) and help with other administrative or cleaning tasks.
Other Opportunities
Administrative Support
House to Home Kits
Economy Shop
Other Opportunities
Volunteer News
What About the PADS Shelter?
Since it began in 1992, our PADS emergency shelter program provided overnight shelter to anyone in need of a place to sleep, seven days a week. It included 11 rotating sites in Berwyn, Forest Park, and Oak Park and four secondary sites designated for families.
In March, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic compelled us to suspend our emergency shelter services. We transitioned clients to safe, individual accommodations at area motels. There, clients received stable, socially-distanced housing and daily meals. Case management services were provided and medical needs were addressed onsite. That September, we leased an Oak Park hotel to create a new interim housing model where every client has a clear exit plan from the program to permanent housing.
