Thank you for your interest in volunteering. Our volunteers play an important role in our service model. Volunteers bring smiles to the faces of both our staff and clientele and help make all we do possible.
Clinical and Support Options (CSO) has a variety of volunteer opportunities across multiple programs and Western & Central Mass. locations. (See All CSO Locations) At our emergency homeless shelters, our volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Volunteer assignments can be as regular or infrequent as you're able to schedule.
Shelter Meal Service - Our primary place of volunteer need tends to be at our emergency homeless shelter locations, particularly in Springfield. At Friends of the Homeless (755 Worthington St., Springfield), we serve 3 meals a day, 7 days a week, 365 days/year. We can always use a hand serving meals (Breakfast: 8-9; Lunch: 12-1; Dinner: 4:30-5:30).
Shelter Campus Enrichment Programs-Our shelter programs provide enrichment activities (Bingo, Game Days, Arts & Crafts Hour, Gardening Club, etc.).
Shelter Campus Cleanup Projects - These can include trash pickup, light gardening, or even painting and maintenance projects. These tend to be great for volunteer groups.
You can also propose your own ideas. In the past, we've had individuals host "pop-up shops" to give away new clothing items, provide fun mid-day treats, or even play live music to sooth the environment. Let me know any ideas you might have.
