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.

At this time we have very limited evening or weekend volunteer placements available. Please look at our 'Volunteer Placements' with evening/weekend availability and see if they are of interest to you.

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-4:30pm (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.

1-2 Committee Meetings a Month

We have our You Are the Light Gala every October (Domestic Violence Awareness Month) to bring awareness to our cause and raise critical funds to continue serving the community. This event is also our largest fundraiser to provide the amazing free services to our clients. Volunteers must attend monthly meetings as decided by their sub-committees (Decor, Auction, Fundraising, and Marketing). Each sub-committee must send 1 member to the Main Committee meeting once per month in the evening, this year it is one Tuesday per month at 6pm.

Weekdays, Monday-Friday 9am-8pm (1-4 pre-scheduled monthly shifts)

As the A.R.K. Sanctuary Steward, you will play a vital role in ensuring the A.R.K. remains a welcoming and hygienic space for both our animals and their families. This placement is perfect for volunteers who want to contribute to the well-being of animals through hands-on support in maintaining a clean and organized facility. Ensuring they follow First Step's protocols to prevent the spread of illness.

🚨 Please note: This role does not include direct contact with animals, which is strictly prohibited. Volunteers will be assisting with cleaning and organizing duties only.

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-4:30pm (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 (2-3 hour pre-scheduled 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.