Volunteer
Serving others = blessing others
You might have read that and immediately dismissed it as an exaggeration. But it’s true. None of the work we do would be possible without caring, committed friends who selflessly donate their time and talents.
In fact, last year 1,000+ volunteers donated 21,224 hours of their time… that’s equal to 10 staff members that we don’t have to pay, so more of our money can go right to the people in need!
And we’re always looking for new friends to join us! There are plenty of opportunities for you to choose from… whether you’re looking to volunteer on your own, or as part of a group. We can also help set up a service project for your family, business or youth group.
If you would like to make an impact through your volunteerism…
Please fill out our Volunteer Application by clicking the button below. One of our team members will be in touch after reviewing your online application.
If you would like to learn more about volunteering at Gateway Mission…
Please click the Contact Us button below and fill out a few questions to help us learn a little more about you and what you are interested in.
There Are Many Ways You Can Volunteer With Us On-site And In Your Community:
- Sort and organize donations or help retail staff at the Gateway Store
- Serve in one of our kitchens or dining rooms for food prep or meal service
- Organize food pantry and put away grocery items
- Provide haircuts for our shelter guests
- Administrative Support
- Host special events (game night, Superbowl party, etc.) in one of our shelters
- Hold a fundraising event and/or conduct a donation drive
- And so much more!
"God led us to volunteer at Gateway Mission when we saw how He was using the ministry to bring people to a personal relationship with Jesus and develop skills to help them redirect their lives in worthwhile service to the community."
Janelle | Volunteer
FAQ
While most volunteer positions are reserved for persons 18 and older, there are some opportunities for children to serve alongside their parents or grandparents—particularly during the holiday season. Please contact us for more information.
Most of our general volunteer opportunities do not need a background check. However, for the safety of our guests, there are a few positions that will require one.
Most volunteer shifts are 2-4 hours long. There are opportunities that can be monthly, daily, or anywhere in between. Be sure to ask about one time or seasonal volunteer needs!
If you are unsure which volunteer opportunity is right for you, please feel free to schedule a tour of our campuses to get a first hand look at the different areas of service. You may also wish to arrange a one-time volunteer shift in a specific place to see if it’s a good fit.
No. To protect the safety of our volunteers and our community, we cannot accept walk-ins at any time. Please contact us to learn more about and to register for volunteer opportunities!
Yes! Opportunities such as donation sorting or meal preparation can accommodate one-time volunteers or if your schedule changes frequently. We also have special events throughout the year where one-time volunteers are needed.
Gateway Mission operates seven days a week, every single day of the year — and we have volunteer opportunities to match! However, please note that our Thanksgiving and Christmas opportunities often fill up quickly. The Great Thanksgiving Banquet opportunities generally open up in mid-September (keep an eye on the website for this!). If you would like to volunteer during Christmas, please be sure to contact us a few months before.
Holidays are special for Gateway Mission guests, so days like Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, as well as other special days like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day (and the Super Bowl!) are GREAT days to get involved as many of our recurring volunteers take vacation or holidays, too. Please inquire if you are interested in serving on these days – we would be grateful!
Volunteers must arrive dressed appropriately for the work they will be performing. Our dress code exists to protect volunteer safety, follow safety standards, and show respect to our clients. Volunteers arriving dressed inappropriately may not take part in activities unless suitable accommodations can be made.
Meal Service:
Kitchen dress code is critical to ensure the safety of our volunteers as well as to preserve the quality of the food. Volunteers must wear:
- Closed-toed shoes
- Clothing that completely cover chest, shoulders, underarms, torso and knees
- Hairnets (provided by Gateway Mission) or a hat/cap (brought by the volunteer)
- Gloves and aprons (provided by Gateway Mission)
- No jewelry or watches
- Clothing must not portray themes related to alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, sex or violence
At Our Shelters:
- Casual attire is appropriate (jeans, khakis, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.)
- Clothing should cover chest, shoulders, torso and thighs.
- Clothing must not portray themes related to alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, sex or violence
Yes, you will be given instructions by a Gateway Mission staff member or volunteer leader at the beginning of your shift. In some cases, you will be required to shadow a current volunteer or staff member before volunteering on your own.
There is a limited number of group opportunities that can be done on-site. These are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Offsite opportunities that support Holland Rescue Mission are unlimited! Please contact us for opportunities and resources to engage your group.