The Urban Rest Stop, a project of the Low Income Housing Institute, provides a safe, clean and dignified place where as many as 500 homeless individuals, families, elders and youth access restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities each day. This innovative hygiene center located in downtown Seattle is open seven days a week, with extended hours specifically designed to assist homeless persons who are working or seeking employment. In fact, 60% of our patrons have steady employment, but can't earn enough income to afford the rent. While staff is present during every shift, URS relies heavily on regular volunteers to sustain its operations. We are looking for volunteers so we can continue serving as many members of the homeless community as possible.
Goal of the Volunteer Position: Help improve the well-being and self-sufficiency of individuals and families experiencing homelessness by providing access to essential hygiene services. Through working collaboratively with staff and other volunteers, maintain a welcoming atmosphere, provide friendly customer service to URS patrons, assist in administrative tasks, and help maintain a high standard of facility cleanliness. Your duties during a volunteer shift may include:
*Ensure that the Urban Rest Stop provides a welcoming, clean and safe environment.
*Respect the confidentiality of URS patrons.
*Assist with the maintenance of a daily laundry and shower use appointment lists.
*Stock and sort hygiene and cleaning supplies.
*Distribute personal care items as requested and when donations are available.
*Distribute and monitor towels and coveralls use and return.
*Assist with the collection of demographic and facility use information.
*Help maintain a high level of facility cleanliness.
Skills and Requirements: Sincere desire to help people experiencing homeless. Comfort working with low income, homeless, diverse populations with differing levels of physical and mental abilities. Great customer service skills. Reliability. Cooperative and positive attitude. Be able to work in a busy, fast-paced environment. Enthusiasm and a sense of humor a plus! An interview and background check are required.
Time commitment: At least a three-month commitment of one 2 hour shift per week or more.
Schedule: The Urban Rest Stop is open on weekdays from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM, and weekends from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Flexible volunteer shifts are available. Afternoon volunteers are especially needed right now.
Location: The Urban Rest Stop is located in downtown Seattle at 1924 Ninth Avenue
Benefits:
*Be part of an innovative, locally and nationally-recognized program working on the frontlines of homelessness.
*Build your resume by expanding non-profit and social service experience - references provided upon request.
*Fast-paced highly sociable environment.
*Location easy to access via public transit.
*Flexible schedule. Evening and weekend shifts available.
*If desired, two friends or family members can partner up to volunteer together.
Email volunteer@LIHI.org today to sign up!
