Program Search Results

Goal of Program

To provide opportunities for volunteers who wish to connect people who are homeless with human needs of food, shelter, respect, and compassion. This setting offers volunteers the opportunity to develop relationships with our guests and encourages volunteers to examine their own values and develop their personal strengths in a concrete lived reality. Franciscan Outreach Volunteers program is based on the values of Service, Community, Spirituality and Simple Living.

Type of Placement

Volunteers work at Franciscan Outreach, a non-profit agency providing emergency and long-term services to those who are homeless, poor, and marginalized in Chicago. Volunteers work directly with those who are homeless, providing hospitality and services. Soup Kitchen: serves a full meal to an average of 85 guests a day and offers drop off laundry service, showers, mail service, and access to health care workers and case management. Franciscan House Shelter: 215 men and 35 women nightly, dinner and breakfast, showers, clothing, mail service, access to medical personnel and case workers. Case Management: Collaborating with staff to connect guests to social services, distribute donations, mail service, develop programming.

Service Area

Chicago, IL

Service Length

One year, renewable

Program Size

8 volunteers

Requirements

Bachelors degree preferred. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma and a valid drivers license. A desire to live out the core values of Spirituality, Service, Community and Simple Living. Applicants must be able to pass background checks. Ability to live in community environment with up to 12 other individuals. Ability to handle responsibility and treat guests with respect and dignity. Previous experience with people who are homeless is helpful but not necessary.

Financial Arrangements

Room and board, monthly stipend of $200, medical insurance, transportation stipend, vacation time and two days off per week.

Living Arrangements

Volunteers from both work sites live together in a two story house in Bridgeport, Chicago. Volunteers each have private bedrooms with shared bathrooms, kitchen, living room, laundry, etc.

Training

Three retreats a year, weekly reflections, meetings and community nights. Orientation at beginning of service commitment. Volunteers matched with local volunteer alum mentors.

Application Deadline

Priority deadline March 1. Applications will continue to be accepted until openings are filled, please contact [email protected]

Start Date