VOLUNTEER
Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Charlie's Place! Whether you are interested in volunteering one time, once a month, or every week, we have a volunteer opportunity that is right for you. Charlie's Place is a volunteer-driven organization, and without you, we would not be able to meet our guests’ various needs.
We are incredibly thankful for each individual who volunteers with us. We feel fortunate to work alongside you in accomplishing our mission.
Click on the button below:
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to see volunteer opportunities
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to learn of the latest volunteer needs
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to sign up
THE ROLE OF OUR VOLUNTEERS
Every week, Charlie's Place volunteers are an essential part of providing our neighbors in the Dupont Circle neighborhood who are homeless with nutritious meals, case management, health care, clothing, a lending library, and so much more.
Charlie's Place also nurtures the spirit of our guests with an environment of civility, care, and fellowship. We provide a safe, quiet, and companionable space. Treating our guests with dignity and respect is our most important priority.
Charlie's Place strives to be a welcoming environment for everyone. While volunteers may be helping in the kitchen or the clothing closet, our biggest priority at Charlie's Place is the relationships we have with each other. We understand that sometimes it can be intimidating to talk to people with different experiences than your own, and we hope that you take the time to get to know people while you are here.
TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERS TO CONNECT WITH GUESTS
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No preferential treatment (i.e., giving guests money, taking them home, participating in physical contact, or giving out your contact information).
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We encourage you to talk about your experience with others, but photos of our guests are not allowed. If you’re posting to social media, take photos only in the two areas where guests are not visible in the pictures – the kitchen and the clothes room. Please use the @CharliesPlaceDC X handle in your posts. Also, please ensure your photos are respectful to the issue of homelessness.
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Please feel comfortable getting guests anything they might need. If they need it and we have it, you are more than welcome to give it out.
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Please refer any questions about the program or services to staff.
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Let staff take care of any conflicts that may arise.
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Ask staff if you have any questions about anything!
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR INTERACTING WITH GUESTS
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No preferential treatment (i.e., giving guests money, taking them home, participating in physical contact, or giving out your contact information).
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We encourage you to talk about your experience with others, but photos of our guests are not allowed. If you’re posting to social media, take photos only in the two areas where guests are not visible in the pictures – the kitchen and the clothes room. Please use the @CharliesPlaceDC X handle in your posts. Also, please ensure your photos are respectful to the issue of homelessness.
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Please feel comfortable getting guests anything they might need. If they need it and we have it, you are more than welcome to give it out.
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Please refer any questions about the program or services to staff.
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Let staff take care of any conflicts that may arise.
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Ask staff if you have any questions about anything!