Volunteering at Outreach is Feel-Good Fun!

Volunteer alert - Outreach is in need of volunteers to work in our Intake area. For more information, please complete and submit the Volunteer Sign-up Form or contact Cathy Rogerson, Volunteer & Events Manager at [email protected] or 828-894-2988.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of Outreach services, programs and support operations.  Over 85 volunteers participate and help carry out the mission of Outreach each year.  As a volunteer you will have an opportunity to positively impact Polk County families, individuals and children. All volunteers will receive proper training to ensure they are prepared and ready for their jobs.

Volunteer Opportunities

Receptionist 
​Our receptionist greets clients in a respectful, friendly and timely manner while ensuring client confidentiality is maintained at all times. 

Data Entry 
Data Entry Specialists enter client or donor information into a customized database. These jobs require strong computer aptitude and the ability to input information accurately with minimal error.​

Feed-a-Kid Delivery 
​These volunteers deliver packed Feed-a-Kid bags to Polk County Schools on Thursdays which are then distributed to school children on Friday afternoons. There is some physical labor involved when loading and unloading the Feed-a-Kid bags. ​

Food Pantry 
​Food Pantry volunteers assist clients and help them shop for food and other staples in the pantry. Pantry volunteers also stock shelves, accept food and other donations, perform routine cleaning tasks, and help organize and maintain the food pantry. There are two food pantry shifts each day: 8:45am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:15pm.

Administrative and Fundraising Support 
Volunteers assist with the day to day duties of our administrative staff and help with special projects. Significant computer work is often required, but training is provided. 

Intake
Intake volunteers interview Outreach clients who are seeking assistance. Intake volunteers have significant contact with the public, clients and staff. Duties may also include general office support. Intake workers must be able to commit to volunteering on a regular weekly basis. There are two intake shifts each day: 8:45am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:15pm.

Feed-a-Kid Packers
​Feed-a-Kid packers pack bags of food, which are delivered to Polk County Schools each Friday during the academic year. Volunteers work together to assemble bags for school children who are enrolled in the program, following a pre-established menu. 

Wood Yard 
Outreach distributes wood to help clients heat their homes during the cold winter months. We need individuals in groups to help split and stack firewood. This position requires moderately intense physical activity. 

Special Events 
Special events volunteers support Outreach special events and programs and help organize fundraising activities working before, during, and after the event. This is a great way to become involved with Outreach if your schedule can not accommodate a weekly volunteer shift. 

Summer Food Program packers

Volunteers working in data room

Reception & Intake area