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Service-Learning Handout

Adult Options in Education www.adultoptions.org Agency Description: Free, local classes include English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education (for adults who want to acquire or improve their math, reading, grammar or writing skills), GED preparation and testing, Basic Computer Skills, and Career Pathways. Volunteer Description: Classes are at the Community Education Centers in Hopkins and Minnetonka, and at the St. Louis Park Learning Center. Classes are held mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Adult students can enroll in class throughout the year. Most volunteers work closely with classroom teachers to implement academic lessons and lead small groups on conversation, math, reading, writing, computer skills, and more. Volunteers can assist with childcare and in the computer lab for on-line learning program. Volunteers may also help with outreach, marketing, and assessment. How to Apply: Contact Chelsea Ritland, Program Coordinator Chelsea Ritland: 952-988-5344 chelsea.ritland@hopkinsschools.org

Aliveness Project

Agency Description: The Aliveness Project links people living with HIV to resources for leading healthy, self-directed lives. Founded in 1985, Aliveness operates a member-based community center in south Minneapolis that houses supportive services for people living with HIV, including case management, care linkage, meals, food shelf, integrative therapies, member services, and nutritional therapy. The Aliveness Project also operates prevention and outreach programs. Anyone living with HIV in Minnesota can become a member of The Aliveness Project and access our community center and services at no cost.

Job Descriptions: Kitchen Volunteer Our kitchen volunteer is relied on to help establish a positive and welcoming environment. Specific duties include assisting the staff cook with prepping food, setting up the dining room, serving food cafeteria-style, running dishwasher, and cleaning up the dining room and kitchen.

Pendaz-Foster, Sadie Social Change in Action &

Service Learning SOC 1103-10

Fall 2017

www.normandale.edu/cee

952-358-8119

servicelearning@normandale.edu

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Hours: Lunch: Monday-Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Dinner: Monday-Thursday from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, Brunch: Saturday from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM Food Shelf Volunteer Our food shelf volunteer is relied on to help establish a positive and welcoming environment. Specific duties include assisting our Food Shelf Coordinator with filling bags of groceries for distribution, re-stocking shelves, record-keeping, and signing-out bags to members with appointments. Hours: Monday, Wednesday, or Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM or Saturday from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Dining Out for Life Volunteer Dining Out for Life is our largest fundraiser, where 200+ restaurants throughout the Twin Cities donate a portion of their proceeds to The Aliveness Project on April 27th. Students with an interest in event planning, marketing, and/or development are encouraged to apply. Duties can be tailored to fit interests. Flexible business hours; Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

How to Apply: 1. Email Laura Henry at laura@aliveness.org with the subject line “Normandale volunteer request” and your class

number(1). Email should include your resume, why you are interested in volunteering at The Aliveness Project, and what project interests you most.

2. Fill out an application online: aliveness.org/volunteer-application. 3. Complete orientation and volunteer paperwork, including a background check.

Bridging www.bridging.org Agency Description: Through the effective reuse of donated items, Bridging improves lives by providing quality furniture and household goods to those transitioning out of homelessness and poverty. Bridging serves over 80 households each week who are given a sense of dignity and stability as they rebuild their lives. We rely on volunteers to do just about everything at Bridging. Without your help, we simply could not help over 4,000 Twin Cities families in need every year. Listen to our story, meet the clients who benefit from our program and see the place in action. Website: www.bridging.org Position Description: Select from a variety of departments and offer up your talents and skills: Warehouse assistant, office support, shopping assistant, and product sorting OUR GREATEST NEED: Warehouse Assistance

Move donated furniture, bags and boxes throughout the warehouse.

Restock shelves for client shopping.

Accept community donations at the dock door.

Load and unload vehicles. Lifting required; carts and dollies available. Scheduling: Set a regular weekly schedule OR rotate from week to week/flexible scheduling. Current openings and schedules will be covered in your orientation tour.

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 11:30am, 9:30 - 1:00pm, 12:00 - 3:00pm, 3:00 - 6:00pm OR 12:00 - 6:00pm (Some 6-hour shifts will be available during the semester). Friday: 9:00 - 12:00pm OR 12:00 - 3:00pm

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Saturday: 9:00 - 12:00pm OR 12:00 - 3:00pm (fill fast!) NEXT STEPS:

Our ~30 minute new volunteer tour will give you a better idea of how individual volunteers make a positive impact in the lives of others. We’ll also explain the next steps to take if you’re interested in volunteering at Bridging (in particular scheduling) Tours are offered weekly throughout the year. Opportunities available in Bloomington and Roseville.

A minimum of 20 service hours is required per volunteer/semester. All shifts are booked in advance. No drop-in volunteering.

How to Apply 1. Choose a Bridging Location (map & directions at www.bridging.org)

Bloomington: Please contact Sara King at 952.460.3750 or sara.king@bridging.org Roseville: Please contact Wendy Erickson at 651.319.9295 or wendy.erickson@bridging.org

2. Contact your selected location to RSVP for a new volunteer tour. 3. All volunteers must complete a volunteer profile (available at www.bridging.org)

Fraser

www.fraser.org Agency Description: Fraser has been serving children and families for over 75 years and is recognized as an innovator in serving those with special needs. Fraser involves the entire family - parents and caregivers are the experts when it comes to their children. Since 1935, Fraser has been helping children, adolescents and adults in the greater Twin Cities area reach their potentials. One of the largest community resources of its kind, Fraser offers a lifelong spectrum of services: diagnostic evaluations, comprehensive mental health services including individual and group therapy, rehabilitation services including physical, occupational, speech-language, and music therapy, child care and education for children with typical needs and special needs, housing for adults and children with developmental disabilities, workshops and seminars for parents, caregivers and professionals Position Description: With the support of our volunteers, Fraser serves nearly 10,000 children, adults, and families living with special needs! Volunteers use their time, energy, and passion to create bright futures for our clients. Create bright futures. Volunteer with Fraser. There's an opportunity for everyone. Our volunteers interact with Fraser clients, share their skills or talent, gain valuable experience in a diverse, inclusive environment, help plan and run Fraser special events. Some opportunities include:

Be a Buddy- As a Buddy, you can be a trusted friend to an adult with special needs living in our Independent Living Apartments and create memories that last a lifetime! Whatever it is you enjoy, odds are you'll enjoy them even more with your Buddy- whether it’s bowling, reading, cooking, or watching movies. Make a difference. Be-A-Buddy!

Fraser School- Explore the power of imagination with young learners! Under the guidance of our experienced staff, you’ll work with children ages 6 weeks to 6 years old on activities that integrate the imagination into various aspects of learning. Through this program you’ll travel through the unpredictable adventures in literature, provide important enrichment opportunities through art

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projects, and conquer the uncharted terrains of the playground. Fraser School Classroom Volunteers encourage learning and give valuable individual attention and encouragement to students.

Please go to our website at www.fraser.org/Volunteer for more opportunities. How to Apply:

1. Match your interests with one of our current volunteer opportunities. For more information on opportunities go to http://www.fraser.org/Volunteer 2. Complete our online application at https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?ap=1866138023 3. Once we receive your online application, we will contact you to arrange an orientation. 4. Contact Claire Sandahl, Volunteer and Intern Program Manager with questions: claire.sandahl@fraser.org or 612-798-8337

Free Arts Minnesota

http://www.freeartsminnesota.org/get-involved/ Agency Description: Free Arts Minnesota works with youth in challenging circumstances to support artistic and personal development through a unique combination of mentorship and arts learning. We help strengthen communities by partnering with social service agencies, community organizations, and local artists; engaging underserved youth with the arts allowing creativity to drive learning; building positive mentoring relationships; and expanding arts programming to under-resourced neighborhoods.

Free Arts is a secondary organization, meaning we travel to our partner sites to do art with youth that are already enrolled in their programming. We work with youth 3-18 years of age who have experienced the trauma and stress of poverty, domestic or sexual violence, mental health issues (anxiety, depression, etc.), addiction, and/or homelessness. Because we have 25 different partner sites throughout the Twin Cities area, we would not have the ability to run programming as we do without the help of over 130 volunteers each week. Our volunteers build trusting relationships with the youth by providing a safe, supportive, and consistent experiences while working alongside them as they engage in art projects. Our volunteers are required to go through multiple checkpoints before they are sent out to one of our partner sites to work with the youth. These checkpoints include a background check, volunteer application, volunteer training, and a partner site orientation.

Volunteer Opportunities: One-time Volunteers: Free Arts Days are art festivals that are sponsored by corporate, civic or faith-based groups, who generally supply their own volunteers to work directly with the youth. Free Arts still needs additional volunteers to assist with these events. Commitment: 3-6 hours, for one day. Expectations: Volunteers engage with the youth and their families in art activities and projects at the chosen community nonprofit and create a safe environment for creative self-expression. Volunteers will lead and support youth in various art activities provided by Free Arts. Supervised by site and Free Arts staff. Requirements: At least 16 years old, passionate about serving youth in the community, excellent communication skills. Next Steps: If you would like to be contacted about volunteering for available Free Arts Days, contact Annemarie at annemarie@freeartsminnesota.org to be added to the Free Arts Day Volunteer Email list. As Free Arts Days are confirmed, you will receive invitations to register for volunteer shifts. Following registration you will receive an email

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with confirmation of your shift and your role and duties for the day. An on-site orientation will be provided on the day of the event.

Create Workshop: CREATE Workshop is a less intensive program in which volunteers commit to at least 3 sessions over an entire term. These sessions with the youth are less frequent (1-2 times a month), but longer (1.5-2 hours), and take place at our partner sites where youth are in high transition (average stay is less than 3 months). Projects are in depth and intensive; they are created by the Free Arts staff, but chosen by the partner site staff before the term begins to make sure that the art will be relevant and engaging for the cohort of youth they may have at that time. Commitment: Volunteers will sign-up for a minimum of 3 CREATE Workshop sessions per term which are 1.5-2 hours in length (spring, summer or fall). They will be teamed up with 3-5 other volunteers at a transitional site. Expectations: Volunteers lead and conduct art projects provided by Free Arts Minnesota. Each set of planned arts curriculum is unique to the site because it focuses on the areas of development and themes relevant to the site. The workshop will include a short lesson about the medium, artist, or style that is being introduced to the youth followed by the completion of an art project. Requirements: At least 16 years old, passionate about serving youth in the community, ability to engage with youth. Next Steps:

1. Attend an Informational Session: http://www.freeartsminnesota.org/get-involved/become-a-mentor/

2. Submit 3 references 3. Submit background check 4. Attend Weekly Mentorship/CREATE Workshop Volunteer Training

Weekly Mentors: Weekly Mentorship is the bedrock of our programming and the more intensive of the two volunteer opportunities. Volunteers commit to an entire term (Spring/Fall term= 12 weeks; Summer term= 8 weeks), in which they go out weekly to a partner site and engage in an hour of art programming with the youth. Weekly Mentorship takes place at our partner sites that work with/house the youth for three months or more, therefor the volunteers are building long-lasting relationships over the term due to the fact that they are seeing the same youth each week. These volunteers are also in charge of creating the projects they lead, but we ask them to get input from the youth before creating them. This gives meaning to the projects and helps with youth engagement. Commitment: 45-60 minute sessions (plus set-up and clean-up time), once a week for at least 1 term (spring, summer & fall terms, 8-13 weeks long) Expectations: Fully commit to mentoring youth at one of Free Arts’ long-term partner sites for the duration of a term. Work with a team of 3-5 mentors to plan and conduct arts projects each week. All sessions are supervised by partner site staff. Requirements: At least 16 years old, passionate about serving youth in the community, ability to engage with youth. Next Steps:

1. Attend an Informational Session: http://www.freeartsminnesota.org/get-involved/become-a-mentor/

2. Submit 3 references 3. Submit background check 4. Attend Weekly Mentorship/CREATE Workshop Volunteer Training

How To Apply: Submit an application and references online: http://www.freeartsminnesota.org/get-involved/become-a-mentor/ If you have questions, contact Annemarie Gillispie at annemarie@freeartsminnesota.org or 612-824-2787.

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Ginew/Golden Eagles

Agency Description: The Ginew/Golden Eagle program is an after school prevention program serving at-risk Native American youth ages 5-18 in South Minneapolis. The goal of the program is to help American Indian youth develop and strengthen skills they need to make positive life choices and live healthy lifestyles. Ginew Golden Eagle is located in the Minneapolis American Indian Center at 1530 E Franklin Ave Minneapolis, MN 55404.

Position Description: Volunteers assist with the after school prevention program including helping with homework during the Indian Youth Study Time and helping kids get involved with sports during the recreation time. Volunteers also help prepare meals occasionally and assist with programming and are encouraged to share their talents and interests. Schedule: The after school program is Mondays through Thursdays at the following times:

Monday 4:30-7:00 pm (5-10 year olds) Tuesday 4:30-7:00 pm (5-10 year olds) Wednesday 4:30-8:00 pm (11+ year olds) Thursdays 4:30-8:00 pm (11+ year olds)

How to Apply: Contact Julie Green, Program Director, at jgreen@maicnet.org or by phone at (612) 879-1708 to

apply. (E-mail is preferred).

Interact Center for the Arts

http://www.interactcenter.com/ Agency Description: At the Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, our mission is to create art that challenges perceptions of disability. 80 adult artists with a range of disability labels work in our studio and rehearsal room developing original work in a radically inclusive, creative environment. Our artists are supported by a team of staff instructors and collaborate with guests artists. Instructors and guest artists are active in the arts community in a variety of disciplines, mediums, and performance forms. This is the ideal learning opportunity for fine arts, theater, music, dance, and art education majors. Visual artists, musicians, songwriters, performers, and dedicated art lovers also add a lot to our program. Those interested in disability issues and alternative programs for people with disabilities are also a great fit. Rehearsal Assistant: In the performing arts program, our artists participate in improvisation exercises and workshops to develop new pieces of theater. Singing, dancing, physical work and dramaturgy (writing and research) are a regular part of the rehearsal day. Volunteers participate in these activities, coach artists as peers, lead games and add to the fun and playful vibe that guides our performing work. They offer light care assistance and serve the maintenance of the rehearsal studio. They also contribute to research related to upcoming projects and lead small groups creating scenes, characters, and songs.

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Studio Assistant: As a volunteer in the visual arts department, you would be an extra pair of hands in the studio, whether it be working one on one with one of the artists on a specific project, assisting staff members with gallery preparation and special events. This position will provide practical assistance as requested for instructors and artists. There are also possibilities to help out in the gallery, particularly when we are installing a show. How to Apply: Email Scott Reynolds for opportunities, Volunteer/Internship Coordinator at scott@interactcenter.com P: (651) 209-3575 include "Volunteer" in the email subject.

Minnesota Internship Center

Agency Description: Minnesota Internship Center (MNIC) is a decentralized charter high-school with four locations located in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The students MNIC reaches out to are primarily low-income, African American youth, ages 15-21, who are motivated to earn their high school diploma despite facing barriers to their education. MNIC strives to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. This includes practicing restorative justice and incorporating circles into the daily routine. Circles create community, build trust, and provide staff and students with a safe place to talk about their concerns. In addition, MNIC staff provide support services to meet holistic student needs including college and career assistance, health advocacy, housing support, and social and emotional support. Position Description: Volunteers are prized members of the MNIC team who work as tutors and advocates. They work on various tasks tailored to their learning goals and MNIC program needs. Volunteers will work closely with staff/faculty in either the Welcome Center or the classroom to meet and work with students. The student success coordinators will help them develop a schedule, introduce them to teachers and be their primary point of contact at the Sabathani, Unity and St. Paul sites. Amy Libman will provide that same support at the Downtown site. Learning tends to be more individualized at MNIC as students are often behind in credits, so tutors often spend one-on-one time with students in a variety of subjects and levels of ability. As a tutor, you will get to know our incredible students and gain real-world experience in an urban education setting. Volunteers must commit to work at least 2 hours a week, and will receive an individual tutor training before beginning service. School hours are Monday - Friday from 8:30 to 3:00. Locations: Sabathani Community Center- 310 E 38th Street, Minneapolis St Paul - Griggs Midway Building 1821 University Ave W, St. Paul. Downtown MNIC- Education Wing, Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church - 511 Groveland Ave, Minneapolis Unity House- 2507 Fremont Ave North, Minneapolis How to Apply: To volunteer, email Cindy Hanh: chahn@mnic.org

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Open Arms

Agency Description: Open Arms of Minnesota offers a unique model of care for people in our community who are sick, need nutritious food, and have nowhere else to turn for assistance. Open Arms is the only nonprofit organization in the state that cooks and delivers free meals specifically tailored to meet the nutrition needs of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, MS, ALS, cancer and more than 60 other diseases. Position Description: Open Arms was founded as a volunteer-driven organization and we continue to rely on the dedication of our volunteers for every aspect of our operation. Our volunteers have fun while they make a profound difference in the lives of our clients. Join us in one of the following volunteer opportunities, designed to fit any schedule!

Meal Delivery: From the Open Arms kitchen to our clients’ doors, meal deliveries are an essential part of our organization and our greatest volunteer need. Delivering is the number one way to truly see the impact of our work on our clients, as you get to personally hand them delicious food and see their smile in return. Meal deliveries start at 11 a.m. Monday through Friday. A typical route consists of 4 - 6 stops in an area of the Twin Cities and takes 1 hour - 2 hours to complete. Volunteers deliver in their own vehicles. You can volunteer in a pair if you prefer.

Kitchen Support: Chopping fresh, organic veggies and packaging savory soup in our state-of-the-art kitchen; baking mouthwatering cookies in our warm, sunny bakery-- there's plenty to be done at Open Arms. Join us as a kitchen volunteer for a 2-hour shift and work with our chefs to create delicious, nutritious food for our clients. Shifts fall between 7:30am-9am, 9am-11am, 11:30am-1:30pm, 5pm-7pm during the week. We offer two Saturday shifts from 8am-10am and 12pm-2pm.

How to Apply: First, go to Open Arms' website (http://www.openarmsmn.org/new-volunteers/) and sign up for a required New Volunteer Orientation (which lasts 2 hours). Orientations fill up quickly so sign up as soon as you can. During this required training, you'll learn all about the work of Open Arms and the volunteer opportunities available. After you complete new volunteer orientation, you will be able to sign up for volunteer shifts online!

Resource

www.resource-mn.org Agency Description: RESOURCE’s mission is to increase well-being through recovery, employment, and career advancement. We believe everyone deserves the chance to be “well”-economically, socially, and in health. We are committed to a vision of communities that are free of economic and health disparities. We provide licensed clinical treatment, care coordination, and recovery support to ensure that successes achieved are long-lasting. Our workforce development services include assessment, credentialed career training, education placement, job search assistance, placement, retention & follow-up services, and wrap around support services. Volunteer Description: Chemical Health Division: Several opportunities are available in the chemical health division to help within the Mothers Achieving Recovery for Family Unity (MARFU) program. This program allows mothers who are in need of chemical health services to remain united with their children while utilizing our treatment and recovery maintenance services. RESOURCE's family services are also designed to help educate the mothers

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about parenting, childhood development, and healthy families. Volunteers in this area must have experience working with children. 1. Childhood Development Assistants are needed for morning or afternoon programming designed to prepare children ages infant to 5 years old for kindergarten. Volunteers interact with children one-on-one or in small groups completing short lessons based around developing cognitive skills, motor skills, and creativity.

Where: Minneapolis

When: Monday-Friday Mornings 8:30am-12pm OR Monday-Friday Afternoons 1pm-4pm

Commitment: 3 months

2. Children's Activities Assistants are needed in the afternoon to interact with youth in our family program while mothers engage in a parenting workshop. Volunteers could work with youth from infant to high school aged, but more commonly volunteers help with the infant to 5 year old group. Activities may include homework, play, games, crafts, reading, etc.

Where: Minneapolis

When: Every Monday or Tuesday 3:30 to 5:30 pm

Commitment: 3 months

3. Celebrating Families Curriculum Assistants are needed to assist with leading activities for children in the youngest age group (0-5 yr old). This curriculum is a 16 week lesson plan that we will rotate - we require that volunteers in this opportunity make the 16 week commitment or if beginning in the middle of the rotation, to commit to at least that session, preferably the following as well.

Where: Minneapolis

When: Beginning Feb. 2nd, Every Thursday 4:30-7pm

Commitment: 16 weeks minimum

Training Division RESOURCE Career Education Services is a training and education center that provides training to people with disabilities or other barriers to employment. Our training division supports adult students in both beginner and advanced Microsoft Office Suite courses.

1. Classroom Assistant/ Lab Assistants are needed to assist RESOURCE training staff with helping adult students while they are in the classroom learning Microsoft products. Students are adults of varying ages and abilities. Duties include but aren't limited to: Assist adult learners with computers, programs, procedures, and projects related to their specific class. Other tasks may be given by instructor. Volunteer must be fluent and able to clearly give instructions on Microsoft Office 2010 products - may be asked to take an assessment before beginning to volunteer.

Where: Minneapolis

When: Morning or Afternoons, 3 hours/week

Commitment: 3 month minimum

How to apply: Contact Courtney Flug, cflug@resource-mn.org or 612-752-8030 to begin application process. Volunteers are required to attend an orientation session.

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Restorative Justice Community Action

http://www.rjca-inc.org/ Agency Description: Restorative Justice Community Action is a community-based nonprofit organization that utilizes community conferencing to address livability crimes with adults and youth. Community conferencing consists of small group meetings that allow all stakeholders to have a voice in the justice process. Community members who may live, work, or worship in the neighborhood where the crime occurred meet with the offender to discuss and come to an agreement on how the offender will repair the harm that was done. Participants that successfully complete the program have a lower recidivism rate (less likely to reoffend) than those who go through the court system. Position Description: Conference Volunteers: Volunteers first must observe 2 adult conferences before participating in small-group community conferences as a community member. Adult community conferences are 6 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 10 am on Saturdays. Adult conferences are approximately 2 hours long with an average of 7-10 conferences scheduled per month. Time commitment is 1-2 hr/wk (24 hr/semester) or 5-10 hr/wk (54 hr/semester).There is the opportunity to participate in youth conferences also. Those dates and times are more fluid, based on the availability of the youth and their family. How to Apply: Contact Tina Sigel 612-746-0780, or email tsigel@rjca-inc.org. Volunteers are required to attend a volunteer/intern orientation.

Sholom Home

Mission Statement: Sholom, in partnership with our community, supports adults in need across the continuum of care, to live fully in a Jewish environment where ALL are welcome.

Agency Description: Sholom is a nonprofit organization that has built a reputation for excellence in providing high quality senior care that has spanned over 100 years. With two convenient metro locations, Sholom offers a continuum of care ranging from independent senior apartment homes and assisted living to short-term rehab and skilled nursing care, hospice services, memory care, adult day services, and meals-on-wheels. Sholom is dedicated to serving the best interest of our residents through a holistic approach that includes the individual, their family, the staff and the community at large.

Position Description: We love volunteers at Sholom and believe that our volunteer program is only limited by imagination and execution. With that being said, the department that requires the most volunteer support at Sholom is Therapeutic Recreation. This department is critical to the success of our mission and for the growth and support of our residents’ health and wellbeing. Examples of this departments needs would be for escorting residents to/from programming and special events; helping to facilitate activities; enjoying some one-on-one time with a resident; and chaperoning for outings around the community. The hours are flexible, within reason, with most volunteers committing to at least a 1 to 2 hour shift on a regular basis.

** We have a large Russian speaking population and those residents would certainly benefit from an interaction with someone who also speaks Russian. In addition, there is a need for pet and music interaction. There would also be an opportunity to create special group volunteer opportunities so please consider inviting friends and family if this is cleared with your professors ahead of time.

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How to Apply: Students are required to fill out a volunteer application: http://www.sholom.com/about/volunteer.html. In addition there will need to be a background screening with fingerprinting – this is due to the interaction with Vulnerable Adults – there is no charge for this. There is also a requirement for a 2-STEP Mantoux (TB) test (or proof of a recent test) if volunteering with Sholom more than 10 hours per week – again there is no cost to the student. In addition, there will be a brief orientation, about 30 minutes, which will include completing the remaining paperwork – easy peasy lemon squeezy. ***Come help us serve the generation that has already served*** Questions: Contact Ed Johnson at edjohnson@sholom.com or (952) 939-1596.

Simpson Housing Services Agency Description: In the heart of Minneapolis, Simpson Housing Services offers a variety of services that strive to bring people in off the street and help them find and obtain stability. Their mission is to house, support and advocate for people experiencing homelessness. Position Description: Simpson Housing Services’ shelter provides one-on-one advocacy services and overnight shelter for 22 women and 44 men every night of the year. Shelter guests may stay at the shelter from 30 days to three months, depending on their situation. Staying at the shelter provides individuals with housing advocacy, healthcare services, toiletry and basic clothing supplies, showers, lockers, and three meals a day. Simpson’s goal is to help shelter guests move into safe, affordable, and stable housing as soon as possible. Around 120 individuals move out of the shelter and into their own home each year. Three Shelter Support volunteer shifts are available every day of the year:

Evening Shift: 4:45 pm - 10 pm

Overnight Shift: 9 pm – 7 am, this includes a sleeping shift from 11 pm – 4 am

Morning Shift: 7 am - 9 am Volunteers assist staff with welcoming guests to the shelter, distributing supplies, providing wake-ups, and answering questions. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older and orientation and training is provided. Shifts are available every day of the year and scheduling is done online. This site requires a minimum commitment of 50 hours in a 6 month period. Timeframe: This volunteer opportunity is available 7 days a week, year round. Benefits: Service-learning at the shelter is an excellent way to provide a direct service to people experiencing homelessness and talk with people you've never met before. Past service-Learning students have said the following:

"The most rewarding aspect of volunteering has been the impact we make on the guests' lives. They seem so pleased when a familiar face continues to volunteer, it makes their day and it also makes mine. It is also rewarding to see so many people laying their head down in a shelter, versus outside."

"Doing something for someone other than myself is a privilege and Simpson makes it easy to make this a habit."

"I really liked hearing 'thank you' from the guys, being able to fix a plate for the late arrivals, hearing their stories and making that human connection, learning more about myself, seeing an improvement in my patience and humility."

"I enjoyed the great conversations with intelligent men and working with really great, well rounded staff."

"Some of the Simpson guests are wonderful people and great conversationalists, but sitting down and having meaningful exchanges on the sidewalk is not an option. Simpson provides a safe place to get to know new people and learn from their life experiences. I appreciate this interaction."

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How to Apply: Please see our volunteer process below.

1. Complete our online application: http://www.simpsonhousing.org/volunteer_ap.html by noon on Friday, September 9th. Be sure to select “Shelter Support Volunteer” in the volunteer position drop down menu.

2. Simpson staff will review the application and contact you to schedule a 15 minute phone interview for Tuesday, September 12th.

3. Volunteers who are accepted will be invited to register for an orientation session. 4. After orientation, Simpson Housing Services will process a criminal background check. When that is complete,

you will be invited to schedule a training shift. 5. The minimum commitment is to share 50 hours in a six month period.

Contact Christina Giese at cgiese@simpsonhousing.org or (612) 455-0859 with questions.

St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP) Agency Description The St. Louis Park Emergency Program’s mission is to identify, address and respond to the critical and emergency needs of residents in St. Louis Park. We are the St. Louis Park community food shelf and social service agency. We directly provide food and clothing to residents in need, as well as advocacy, referrals, and build a collaborative relationship. Since 1975, STEP volunteers and professional staff have been empowering lives and restoring hope. Position Description Individuals that volunteer on an on-going basis during STEP’s office hours are critical to supporting the daily service needs of St. Louis Park families. Volunteers assist in various areas of STEP–the most common roles are listed below although STEP is always open to talking about how your talents and skills can meet the needs of our organization. STEP is open for volunteering Monday through Thursday from 8am-4pm and Friday from 8-12. Please note: All volunteers must be at least 18 years old to help during STEP’s office hours.

Food Shelf Volunteer: 4 hr. shifts: sorts food donations, stocks the shelves in the food shelf, packs up groceries for clients (must be able to lift at least 10 lbs)

Clothes Closet Volunteer: 3 hr. shifts: sorts clothing donations, staffs the Clothes Closet and assists clients in finding their clothing needs

Volunteer Client Driver: hours vary: drives SLP individuals from their home to medical appointments or drives clients in to STEP to get their groceries

Data Entry Volunteer: 2-4 hr. shifts: enters donations to STEP and volunteer hour information into STEP’s database, supports other office needs

Food Rescue Volunteer: All shifts would take place in the morning, from 8-12, Monday through Friday. You can help out in food rescue in a variety of ways:

o Driver: Volunteer drivers would pick up rescue items at a local store, deliver to STEP and help unload items. This will require the use of a personal vehicle able to transport 750 pounds of food, so an SUV or hatchback model would be necessary. Volunteer would need to be able to lift boxes up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. Valid divers license, current insurance and clean background check required.

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o Driver Assistant: Accompany volunteer drivers on pickups to local store, assisting with loading and unloading vehicle. Volunteer would need to be able to lift boxes up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

o Warehouse Volunteer: Help unload, sort, organize and get rescue product out to food shelf clients. Volunteer would need to be able to lift boxes up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

How to Apply 1. Fill out the STEP Volunteer Application Form found online on our website:

http://stepslp.org/volunteer/volunteering-options/weekly-volunteer-opportunities/. Then, please attach the application to an email addressed to allison@STEPslp.org.

2. Within a few days, Allison will contact you to schedule a Volunteer Interview.

If you have questions, contact: Allison Bittner Volunteer Coordinator and Food Shelf Manager allison@stepslp.org or (952) 925-4899 ex. 11 6812 West Lake Street, St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Volunteers should apply 2-4 weeks before their desired start date. Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer for STEP!

WATCH www.watchmn.org Agency Description: WATCH is a court monitoring and research organization based in Hennepin County focused on improving how the justice system responds to crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and neglect and human trafficking. The mission of WATCH is to make the justice system more effective and responsive in handling cases of domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking so victimized women and children can rebuild their lives and experience safety and stability and to create a more informed public. Position Description: Volunteers are sent into courtrooms in Hennepin County (Minneapolis), Ramsey County (St. Paul) and Washington County (Stillwater) to observe and take notes on cases pertaining to violence against women and children. Volunteers are required to fill out the necessary forms provided by WATCH each time they observe a case and to turn them into the WATCH office after each shift. WATCH volunteer shifts take place Monday through Friday. Shifts are divided into morning 8:45-12:45pm, and afternoon 12:45-4pm. There is no deadline to apply as a volunteer because WATCH has an online training that is to be completed on the applicant’s own time. Applicant is required to fill out a volunteer application, interview with the Program Manager and pass a background check before volunteering.

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How to Apply: Please contact the Program Manager Ellen Sackrison at watchvolunteer@watchmn.org. There is a link to our application in the volunteer section on our website http://www.watchmn.org/. Please complete the form and e-mail it to the above e-mail or send via mail.

WISE

Agency Description: Women's Initiative for Self-Empowerment (WISE) is a multicultural 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization serving immigrant/refugee women and girls from all countries, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds. WISE started in 1995 to provide opportunities for women and girls in the immigrant communities to achieve their full potential and to increase their skills towards economic success. WISE utilizes volunteers in many of its programs & benefits greatly from the involvement of college students. Position Description: GGAL is a college preparation, career exploration, and leadership development program for immigrant/refugee girls in grades 6-12. The focus behind the GGAL Mentorship Program is to connect women in educational or professional settings with GGAL participants. This connection is designed to allow the mentors to share their life/school experiences with the girls to encourage, inspire, and empower them to achieve their educational goals. The program is structured around:

Educational Workshops: Provide information on planning, financing, preparing for college and career exploration.

Group Activities/Discussions: Provide resources on organization, time management, self-esteem, public speaking, and other issues that the girls need and want to discuss.

Support Services: Provide individual assistance in areas of academics, scholarship searches, job/internship research, and personal issues.

Responsibilities: o Participate in weekly workshops (3-4 workshops per month) o Time Commitment: One academic school year, although one semester may be accepted based on

individual circumstances o Facilitate small group activities and work one-on-one with girls during workshops o Attend Mentors Training Session to maximize your impact as a mentor o Immigrants and women of color encouraged to apply o Volunteers are encouraged to come in 30 minutes earlier or stay behind for 30 minutes to help

participants with their homework, scholarship applications, and college applications

Hours and Locations: o GGAL is held at three different sites each week

2 after school sites: Washington Tech Magnet School & LEAP High School 1 school day site: Fairview Alternative High School (likely will be around noon)

o Please contact Robyn Gerrells for more scheduling information –complete scheduling details can be found at www.womenofwise.org/programs/ggal/

How to Apply: o Email Grete Oanes, Communications VISTA, at goanes@womenofwise.org to schedule an informational

interview – the volunteer application will be completed during the informational interview o Questions: Email Grete or call 701-388-1013

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