Volunteer: Guest Intake & Admissions VolunteerLockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. The first step in a guest’s relationship with our ministry is a telephone conversation with a trained volunteer who listens with compassion, assesses eligibility, and helps determine appropriate next steps. We are seeking dependable, emotionally mature volunteers to serve in one of our most critical ministry roles: Guest Intake & Admissions Volunteer. Role Overview Guest Intake & Admissions Volunteers: Answer calls to the Lockport CARES intake line during scheduled on-call periods Listen carefully and compassionately to individuals experiencing housing instability Use established intake criteria (training provided) to determine eligibility Provide appropriate referrals when shelter placement is not suitable Occasionally assist with in-person admission paperwork and guest orientation This role requires sound judgment, clear communication, and the ability to follow structured procedures. Program Capacity & Boundaries Lockport CARES is a small emergency shelter with limited capacity. We are not equipped to admit individuals who: Have untreated severe mental health conditions requiring clinical supervision Are actively fleeing violent situations requiring specialized domestic violence services Are actively using substances Intake Volunteers are trained to recognize these situations and provide appropriate referrals when needed. Volunteers do not provide counseling or case management. This role focuses on screening, hospitality, and accurate documentation. Responsibilities Conduct structured phone intake interviews Complete required intake documentation accurately Communicate respectfully with all callers Maintain strict confidentiality Orient admitted guests to shelter guidelines and safety procedures (when assisting with in-person admissions) Document relevant information to support smooth staff transitions Report safety concerns promptly Volunteers serve under the guidance of the Lockport CARES leadership team and receive training and ongoing support. Qualifications We are seeking volunteers who: Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Demonstrate emotional maturity and good judgment Communicate clearly and compassionately Remain calm during crisis conversations Are dependable and able to carry and respond to the intake phone during assigned times Are willing to complete required orientation and training Background checks and training are required due to the sensitive nature of this role. Time Commitment Scheduled on-call shifts Consistent availability preferred Participation in periodic training and volunteer meetings Impact For many individuals, your voice on the phone will be their first experience of hope during a crisis. This role helps ensure shelter beds are used responsibly, guests are welcomed with dignity, and our ministry operates with safety and integrity. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. The first step in a guest’s relationship with our ministry is a telephone conversation with a trained volunteer who listens with compassion, assesses eligibility, and helps determine appropriate next steps. We are seeking dependable, emotionally mature volunteers to serve in one of our most critical ministry roles: Guest Intake & Admissions Volunteer. Role Overview Guest Intake & Admissions Volunteers: Answer calls to the Lockport CARES intake line during scheduled on-call periods Listen carefully and compassionately to individuals experiencing housing instability Use established intake criteria (training provided) to determine eligibility Provide appropriate referrals when shelter placement is not suitable Occasionally assist with in-person admission paperwork and guest orientation This role requires sound judgment, clear communication, and the ability to follow structured procedures. Program Capacity & Boundaries Lockport CARES is a small emergency shelter with limited capacity. We are not equipped to admit individuals who: Have untreated severe mental health conditions requiring clinical supervision Are actively fleeing violent situations requiring specialized domestic violence services Are actively using substances Intake Volunteers are trained to recognize these situations and provide appropriate referrals when needed. Volunteers do not provide counseling or case management. This role focuses on screening, hospitality, and accurate documentation. Responsibilities Conduct structured phone intake interviews Complete required intake documentation accurately Communicate respectfully with all callers Maintain strict confidentiality Orient admitted guests to shelter guidelines and safety procedures (when assisting with in-person admissions) Document relevant information to support smooth staff transitions Report safety concerns promptly Volunteers serve under the guidance of the Lockport CARES leadership team and receive training and ongoing support. Qualifications We are seeking volunteers who: Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Demonstrate emotional maturity and good judgment Communicate clearly and compassionately Remain calm during crisis conversations Are dependable and able to carry and respond to the intake phone during assigned times Are willing to complete required orientation and training Background checks and training are required due to the sensitive nature of this role. Time Commitment Scheduled on-call shifts Consistent availability preferred Participation in periodic training and volunteer meetings Impact For many individuals, your voice on the phone will be their first experience of hope during a crisis. This role helps ensure shelter beds are used responsibly, guests are welcomed with dignity, and our ministry operates with safety and integrity. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 14094 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Shelter Support Volunteer – Cleaning & FacilitiesLockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. We believe that a clean, safe, and orderly environment communicates dignity, stability, and care to every guest we serve. We are seeking volunteers to assist with routine cleaning and special facility projects that help maintain a welcoming and well-maintained shelter environment. Role Overview Shelter Support Volunteers assist with: General cleaning of common areas, bathrooms, and guest spaces Laundry support as needed Organizing supply closets and storage areas Seasonal or special projects (washing windows, deep cleaning, minor organizing projects, etc.) Maintaining an orderly and safe environment for guests and staff Tasks are assigned based on current needs and volunteer comfort level. Why This Role Matters A clean shelter environment: Promotes physical health and safety Reinforces structure and stability for guests Supports trauma-informed hospitality Allows staff to focus on care management and housing navigation This is a practical but deeply meaningful way to serve individuals working toward stability. Qualifications We are seeking volunteers who: Take pride in detail and organization Are dependable and able to complete assigned tasks Respect guest privacy and confidentiality Are comfortable working in an active shelter environment Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission No specialized experience is required. Training and direction are provided. Program Boundaries Shelter Support Volunteers do not provide counseling, supervision, or direct case management services. This role focuses on maintaining the physical environment of the shelter. Time Commitment Flexible scheduling based on availability One-time and recurring volunteers welcome Group service opportunities may be available for special projects Impact By helping maintain a clean and safe environment, you contribute directly to the dignity, stability, and hope experienced by every guest who enters our doors. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. We believe that a clean, safe, and orderly environment communicates dignity, stability, and care to every guest we serve. We are seeking volunteers to assist with routine cleaning and special facility projects that help maintain a welcoming and well-maintained shelter environment. Role Overview Shelter Support Volunteers assist with: General cleaning of common areas, bathrooms, and guest spaces Laundry support as needed Organizing supply closets and storage areas Seasonal or special projects (washing windows, deep cleaning, minor organizing projects, etc.) Maintaining an orderly and safe environment for guests and staff Tasks are assigned based on current needs and volunteer comfort level. Why This Role Matters A clean shelter environment: Promotes physical health and safety Reinforces structure and stability for guests Supports trauma-informed hospitality Allows staff to focus on care management and housing navigation This is a practical but deeply meaningful way to serve individuals working toward stability. Qualifications We are seeking volunteers who: Take pride in detail and organization Are dependable and able to complete assigned tasks Respect guest privacy and confidentiality Are comfortable working in an active shelter environment Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission No specialized experience is required. Training and direction are provided. Program Boundaries Shelter Support Volunteers do not provide counseling, supervision, or direct case management services. This role focuses on maintaining the physical environment of the shelter. Time Commitment Flexible scheduling based on availability One-time and recurring volunteers welcome Group service opportunities may be available for special projects Impact By helping maintain a clean and safe environment, you contribute directly to the dignity, stability, and hope experienced by every guest who enters our doors. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 14094 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Grounds & Maintenance VolunteerLockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Our shelter facility is a well-used, older home that requires ongoing care and upkeep to remain safe, welcoming, and fully operational. We are seeking skilled and service-minded volunteers to assist with grounds and light maintenance projects that help us steward our property responsibly and create a stable, dignified environment for our guests. Grounds & Maintenance Volunteers may assist with: Light carpentry and minor repairs Painting and touch-up projects Landscaping and seasonal yard work Basic plumbing or fixture replacement (as appropriate to skill level) Organizing tools and maintenance areas Small improvement projects that enhance safety and livability Projects are assigned based on current needs and volunteer experience. All work is coordinated with shelter leadership to ensure safety and compliance. A well-maintained property: Promotes safety for guests, volunteers, and staff Preserves the longevity of our facility Communicates dignity and care Strengthens community confidence in our operations Your skills directly support the stability and daily functioning of the only emergency shelter serving this region. We are seeking volunteers who: Have experience in light carpentry, maintenance, landscaping, or general home repair Work safely and responsibly Are dependable and able to complete assigned projects Respect guest privacy and confidentiality Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Volunteers may be asked to complete a Maintenance Volunteer Application depending on the scope of work. Grounds & Maintenance Volunteers do not provide guest supervision, counseling, or case management services. This role focuses exclusively on property care and facility support. Flexible scheduling based on project needs One-time and recurring volunteers welcome Group service days may be available for larger projects By helping maintain and improve our facility, you help ensure that Lockport CARES remains a safe, stable place where individuals can begin rebuilding their lives. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Our shelter facility is a well-used, older home that requires ongoing care and upkeep to remain safe, welcoming, and fully operational. We are seeking skilled and service-minded volunteers to assist with grounds and light maintenance projects that help us steward our property responsibly and create a stable, dignified environment for our guests. Grounds & Maintenance Volunteers may assist with: Light carpentry and minor repairs Painting and touch-up projects Landscaping and seasonal yard work Basic plumbing or fixture replacement (as appropriate to skill level) Organizing tools and maintenance areas Small improvement projects that enhance safety and livability Projects are assigned based on current needs and volunteer experience. All work is coordinated with shelter leadership to ensure safety and compliance. A well-maintained property: Promotes safety for guests, volunteers, and staff Preserves the longevity of our facility Communicates dignity and care Strengthens community confidence in our operations Your skills directly support the stability and daily functioning of the only emergency shelter serving this region. We are seeking volunteers who: Have experience in light carpentry, maintenance, landscaping, or general home repair Work safely and responsibly Are dependable and able to complete assigned projects Respect guest privacy and confidentiality Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Volunteers may be asked to complete a Maintenance Volunteer Application depending on the scope of work. Grounds & Maintenance Volunteers do not provide guest supervision, counseling, or case management services. This role focuses exclusively on property care and facility support. Flexible scheduling based on project needs One-time and recurring volunteers welcome Group service days may be available for larger projects By helping maintain and improve our facility, you help ensure that Lockport CARES remains a safe, stable place where individuals can begin rebuilding their lives. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 14094 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Shelter Shift VolunteerLockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Our shelter is staffed primarily by trained volunteers who provide structured hospitality, oversight, and support within a safe and orderly environment. Serving as a Shelter Shift Volunteer is one of the most meaningful ways to directly support individuals working toward housing stability. Shelter Shift Volunteers help maintain a calm, structured, and respectful shelter environment during scheduled shifts. Responsibilities may include: Welcoming guests and maintaining a hospitable presence Monitoring common areas to ensure safety and adherence to shelter guidelines Assisting with light meal preparation (breakfast or lunch shifts) Supporting daily routines and structure Completing basic documentation as directed Communicating any concerns promptly to shelter leadership Two volunteers are scheduled for each shift to ensure accountability and support. All new volunteers participate in a structured training process that includes a progressive shadowing model. New volunteers are scheduled alongside experienced volunteers or staff to learn shelter procedures, safety protocols, and guest interaction guidelines before serving independently. Ongoing training and guidance are provided to ensure confidence and clarity in the role. Volunteers are needed for the following shifts: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Consistent scheduling is preferred to provide stability for guests and staff. Shelter Shift Volunteers: Provide hospitality and structured presence Do not provide counseling, therapy, or case management Refer complex situations to designated leadership Follow established shelter guidelines and safety procedures Lockport CARES maintains clear admission criteria and program boundaries to ensure the safety of guests, volunteers, and staff. We are seeking volunteers who: Demonstrate emotional maturity and sound judgment Remain calm in structured but sometimes challenging environments Respect confidentiality and guest dignity Are dependable and able to commit to scheduled shifts Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Due to the nature of this role, training and background checks are required. Your consistent presence helps create a stable, structured environment where guests can focus on securing housing, stabilizing income, and rebuilding their lives. Volunteers play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and daily operation of the only emergency shelter serving this region. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Our shelter is staffed primarily by trained volunteers who provide structured hospitality, oversight, and support within a safe and orderly environment. Serving as a Shelter Shift Volunteer is one of the most meaningful ways to directly support individuals working toward housing stability. Shelter Shift Volunteers help maintain a calm, structured, and respectful shelter environment during scheduled shifts. Responsibilities may include: Welcoming guests and maintaining a hospitable presence Monitoring common areas to ensure safety and adherence to shelter guidelines Assisting with light meal preparation (breakfast or lunch shifts) Supporting daily routines and structure Completing basic documentation as directed Communicating any concerns promptly to shelter leadership Two volunteers are scheduled for each shift to ensure accountability and support. All new volunteers participate in a structured training process that includes a progressive shadowing model. New volunteers are scheduled alongside experienced volunteers or staff to learn shelter procedures, safety protocols, and guest interaction guidelines before serving independently. Ongoing training and guidance are provided to ensure confidence and clarity in the role. Volunteers are needed for the following shifts: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM Consistent scheduling is preferred to provide stability for guests and staff. Shelter Shift Volunteers: Provide hospitality and structured presence Do not provide counseling, therapy, or case management Refer complex situations to designated leadership Follow established shelter guidelines and safety procedures Lockport CARES maintains clear admission criteria and program boundaries to ensure the safety of guests, volunteers, and staff. We are seeking volunteers who: Demonstrate emotional maturity and sound judgment Remain calm in structured but sometimes challenging environments Respect confidentiality and guest dignity Are dependable and able to commit to scheduled shifts Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Due to the nature of this role, training and background checks are required. Your consistent presence helps create a stable, structured environment where guests can focus on securing housing, stabilizing income, and rebuilding their lives. Volunteers play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and daily operation of the only emergency shelter serving this region. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Agency Requirement: >18 years old Zip Code: 14094 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Meal Ministry Volunteer (Dinner Provider)Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Providing consistent, nutritious evening meals is a foundational part of the stability and care we offer to every guest. Through our Meal Ministry, volunteers prepare and deliver dinner for shelter guests. This ministry communicates dignity, hospitality, and the love of Christ in a practical and meaningful way. Meal Ministry Volunteers: Prepare and deliver a complete dinner meal for current shelter guests Coordinate scheduling and meal details with our Meal Ministry Coordinator Provide meals on a recurring basis (commonly once per month) or as scheduled Follow basic food safety and packaging guidelines provided by the shelter All dinners are coordinated to ensure consistency, appropriate portions, and safe food handling. Breakfast and lunch preparation is handled by scheduled shift volunteers. An evening meal: Provides nourishment and routine Reduces stress for guests navigating housing instability Creates a sense of normalcy and care Reinforces that guests are seen and valued For many guests, a thoughtfully prepared dinner is a meaningful expression of community support. We are seeking volunteers who: Enjoy preparing meals for others Can follow basic food safety guidelines Are dependable and communicate clearly regarding scheduling Respect guest dignity and confidentiality Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission No professional culinary experience is required. Meal Ministry Volunteers provide dinner service only. Volunteers do not provide counseling, supervision, or case management services. All scheduling and meal coordination must be arranged through the Meal Ministry Coordinator. Most volunteers provide dinner once per month Flexible scheduling arranged in advance A shared evening meal provides more than nourishment — it offers stability, comfort, and hope at the end of a difficult day. Your participation strengthens the daily foundation that allows guests to focus on rebuilding their lives. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Providing consistent, nutritious evening meals is a foundational part of the stability and care we offer to every guest. Through our Meal Ministry, volunteers prepare and deliver dinner for shelter guests. This ministry communicates dignity, hospitality, and the love of Christ in a practical and meaningful way. Meal Ministry Volunteers: Prepare and deliver a complete dinner meal for current shelter guests Coordinate scheduling and meal details with our Meal Ministry Coordinator Provide meals on a recurring basis (commonly once per month) or as scheduled Follow basic food safety and packaging guidelines provided by the shelter All dinners are coordinated to ensure consistency, appropriate portions, and safe food handling. Breakfast and lunch preparation is handled by scheduled shift volunteers. An evening meal: Provides nourishment and routine Reduces stress for guests navigating housing instability Creates a sense of normalcy and care Reinforces that guests are seen and valued For many guests, a thoughtfully prepared dinner is a meaningful expression of community support. We are seeking volunteers who: Enjoy preparing meals for others Can follow basic food safety guidelines Are dependable and communicate clearly regarding scheduling Respect guest dignity and confidentiality Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission No professional culinary experience is required. Meal Ministry Volunteers provide dinner service only. Volunteers do not provide counseling, supervision, or case management services. All scheduling and meal coordination must be arranged through the Meal Ministry Coordinator. Most volunteers provide dinner once per month Flexible scheduling arranged in advance A shared evening meal provides more than nourishment — it offers stability, comfort, and hope at the end of a difficult day. Your participation strengthens the daily foundation that allows guests to focus on rebuilding their lives. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 14095 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Administrative Support VolunteerLockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Behind every stable shelter operation is strong administrative support that ensures accuracy, organization, and responsible stewardship. We are seeking detail-oriented volunteers to assist with office and administrative tasks that help keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently. Role OverviewAdministrative Support Volunteers may assist with: Filing and organizing paperwork Preparing and mailing donor letters or communications Data entry and record organization Assembling informational materials Light clerical support for program staff Special organizational projects as needed Tasks are assigned based on current needs and volunteer skill sets. Why This Role MattersStrong administrative systems: Support accurate documentation and compliance Strengthen donor stewardship and communication Allow program staff to focus on guest care and housing navigation Contribute to the long-term sustainability of the ministry Your behind-the-scenes support plays a direct role in maintaining operational excellence. QualificationsWe are seeking volunteers who: Are organized and detail-oriented Have basic office or clerical skills Are comfortable handling confidential information Can work independently with clear direction Are dependable and professional Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Some tasks may require basic computer proficiency. Program BoundariesAdministrative Support Volunteers provide clerical and organizational assistance only. Volunteers do not provide counseling, guest supervision, or case management services. Confidentiality and discretion are essential due to the sensitive nature of shelter operations. Time CommitmentFlexible scheduling based on availability Ideal for volunteers with limited but consistent time Project-based opportunities may also be available ImpactAccurate records, organized systems, and timely communication strengthen the integrity and effectiveness of Lockport CARES. Your administrative support helps ensure that our shelter remains responsive, accountable, and sustainable. Agency: LockportCARES Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Behind every stable shelter operation is strong administrative support that ensures accuracy, organization, and responsible stewardship. We are seeking detail-oriented volunteers to assist with office and administrative tasks that help keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently. Role OverviewAdministrative Support Volunteers may assist with: Filing and organizing paperwork Preparing and mailing donor letters or communications Data entry and record organization Assembling informational materials Light clerical support for program staff Special organizational projects as needed Tasks are assigned based on current needs and volunteer skill sets. Why This Role MattersStrong administrative systems: Support accurate documentation and compliance Strengthen donor stewardship and communication Allow program staff to focus on guest care and housing navigation Contribute to the long-term sustainability of the ministry Your behind-the-scenes support plays a direct role in maintaining operational excellence. QualificationsWe are seeking volunteers who: Are organized and detail-oriented Have basic office or clerical skills Are comfortable handling confidential information Can work independently with clear direction Are dependable and professional Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission Some tasks may require basic computer proficiency. Program BoundariesAdministrative Support Volunteers provide clerical and organizational assistance only. Volunteers do not provide counseling, guest supervision, or case management services. Confidentiality and discretion are essential due to the sensitive nature of shelter operations. Time CommitmentFlexible scheduling based on availability Ideal for volunteers with limited but consistent time Project-based opportunities may also be available ImpactAccurate records, organized systems, and timely communication strengthen the integrity and effectiveness of Lockport CARES. Your administrative support helps ensure that our shelter remains responsive, accountable, and sustainable. Agency: LockportCARES Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 14094 Allow Groups: No |