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.
