Drop-in Program Volunteer

Role Purpose: To welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds to our drop-in with warmth, hospitality, dignity and respect; provide immediate support such as coffee and food; and foster an inclusive and non-judgmental environment. Demonstrate empathy and compassion and comfort working with individuals from a wide range of lived experiences.

Reports to: Drop-In Coordinator

Shifts: Weekdays – 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Location: 719 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON.

Qualifications

• Ability and willingness to follow instructions;
• Ability to work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff;
• Ability to provide support without judgment, fostering a safe and inclusive environment;
• Demonstrate empathy, compassion and sensitivity to individuals from diverse backgrounds;
• Demonstrated understanding and sensitivity towards the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness or who are precariously housed or living with fixed incomes;
• Demonstrated understanding of mental health disorders and substance use issues and the impact these have on individuals’ lives;
• Ability to remain patient and resilient in challenging situations;
• Demonstrated awareness and respect for cultural differences, enabling effective work with diverse populations;
• Reliable, consistent attendance and a 6 month minimum commitment (flexible depending on experience)
• Must be at least 18+ years of age;
• Required to complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Commitment to maintaining the confidentially and privacy of individuals participating in the program

Duties

• Greet participants as they arrive to foster a warm, inclusive environment;
• Prepare and serve coffee and tea to participants;
• Distribute food to participants ensuring everyone receives a breakfast meal and accommodate any dietary restrictions.
• Provide a friendly ear and engage in conversations with participants to offer companionship and build an inclusive community;
• Maintain cleanliness and ensure hygiene standards are met – keep the drop-in food and beverage counter clean and tidy, including cleaning up after coffee and food are served, sanitize the counter/tables;
• Assist drop-in staff with various tasks and respond to any immediate needs as required;
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants by being vigilant and report any concerns to staff;
• Keep track of food supplies and notify staff when items need to be replenished;
• Clean and sanitize the table surfaces in the drop-in after the drop-in closes;
• Other duties as assigned by the Drop-In Coordinator.

Our Vision: Nurturing Community, Dignity and Spirit.

Our Mission: Inspired by the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph, we foster community, and wellbeing through welcoming and inclusive programs for the most socially isolated among us.

Our Values:

• Respect: We value each person as a distinct expression of God’s love and invite each other to discover and to celebrate our unique gifts.
• Advocacy: We respond to society’s evolving needs and mobilize positive change through transformational leadership.
• Community: We give our full attention to each person and show understanding, empathy and sensitivity to their needs.
• Compassion: We give our full attention to each person and show understanding, empathy and sensitivity to their needs.
• Accountability: We use the resources entrusted to us with care and make sustainable choices that will benefit future generations.

How to Apply / Contact

Please email volunteers@fontbonneministries.ca to receive the volunteer application form or call 416-465-2889 (ext. 2644) for more information.

You can learn more about us on our website: fontbonneministries.ca

We are looking forward to hearing from you!