Volunteer Placements - First Step - Wayne County's Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Comprehensive Agency

Placement availability is subject to change. Volunteers are placed based on a multitude of factors, including but not limited to need, interest, availability, scheduling, qualifications, and fit.

Please note: At this time we do not have any evening or weekend volunteer placements available.

INDIRECT SERVICE PLACEMENTS

Indirect Service Volunteers provide assistance “behind the scenes” that helps to further First Step’s mission and makes our work with survivors run efficiently.

Weekdays, Monday- Friday 9am-5pm (2-4 hour pre-scheduled weekly or shifts)

Our Shelter Serenity Squad works closely with our custodian to tackle various facility cleaning duties, including suite turnovers for incoming families and kennel preparations for new furry companions joining them. These tasks encompass a range of tasks including, but not limited to sweeping, mopping, restocking, and disinfecting, ensuring that our environment remains a welcoming and serene space for everyone coming into our shelter. Part-time on-call availability is helpful but not required.

Weekdays, Monday - Friday 9am-5pm (1-2 hour pre-scheduled weekly, biweekly or monthly shifts)

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping our on-site bikes in optimal condition. This entails a comprehensive set of tasks, including cleaning, inspecting tire pressure, assessing the frame for safety issues, lubricating moving components, adjusting brakes, tightening bolts, and ensuring the stability of training wheels.

DIRECT SERVICE PLACEMENTS

Direct Service Volunteers provide assistance with various roles and will need to uphold First Step’s mission, vision and values. These roles tend to be interacting with the community and/or clients and require extra training and background checks. Additional interviews may also be necessary.

Weekdays, Monday - Friday 9am-5pm (3-4 hour pre-scheduled weekly shifts)

A front desk volunteer at First Step plays a crucial role in providing a warm and welcoming space to survivors and visitors. They greet and welcome individuals with sensitivity, ensure a secure environment, answer questions, manage calls, answer doors, welcome appointments, , and contribute to a safe and compassionate atmosphere. Through effective communication and empathy, they help create a supportive space for those seeking assistance from the organization. Other tasks and duties may be asked as needed. This position requires shadowing staff or other volunteers before going solo.

Weekdays, Monday - Friday 10am-5pm (2-3 hour pre-scheduled weekly or bi-weekly shifts)

First Step provides open nurturing time for parents to receive services and/or respite. These times are often hosted by volunteers. Occasionally, we also need evening support for parents receiving services as well as nurturing for ongoing support groups. Childcare can be a barrier for survivors to receive services such as and our volunteers help prevent that barrier. This position requires shadowing our current Children’s Support Specialist before going solo.

Schedule Varies, Volunteers are requested as events are scheduled (Not a set schedule)

At First Step, volunteers can assist in providing awareness, education, and information about services to survivors and community members through hosting/attending tabling events and fundraisers. Additionally, volunteers can co-facilitate training and presentations to schools, universities, and law enforcement agencies. This position requires shadowing staff or other volunteers before going solo.