Beyond Homeless eyes additional volunteers, sets Nov. 11 info meeting

Beyond Homeless is interested in recruiting some additional volunteer staff.

Such volunteers are community members who become part of the Beyond Homeless team. Team members apply for volunteer jobs covering weekly shift(s) as a site supervisor. The volunteers attend monthly staff meetings and actively participate in shelter operations.

An informational meeting for interested persons is set for 6 p.m Tuesday, Nov. 11 at the shelter, 309 E. Franklin St., Greencastle.

Beyond Homeless is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Without our volunteer employees, we could not stay open. It's that simple," Executive Director Tanis Monday said. "We would close without volunteer help and financial donations."

Volunteers are the best means to reduce operating cost, she said.

"The best gift you can give our residents is the donation of your time," Monday said. "Because this level of volunteering works directly with our residents, we are selective. We require an interview, training, background check and a commitment."

These committed volunteers arrive in a timely manner, fulfill the shift they commit to (giving two weeks' notice if they cannot), complete a log entry of their shift, and participate with residents in activities.

"It is so important for our residents to see the same faces to build trust and confidence," Monday noted. "These positions are considered a volunteer job and only dedicated and trustworthy volunteers are selected to fill these positions."

Current volunteer staff openings available at Beyond Homeless include:

-- Weekday morning staff, 6-8 a.m. Opens shelter for morning hours and ensures residents are supported during morning activities.

-- Weekday mid-day staff, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Helps cover front desk, phones and resource desk during open office hours.

-- Weekend morning staff, 8-11 a.m. Helps with morning opening and ensures residents are supported during morning duties and activities.

-- Weekend evening staff, 7-10 p.m. Supervises chores and secures and locks shelter for the night.

Beyond Homeless is also interested in recruiting additional activity volunteers interested in sharing their talents to plan, organize and deliver an educational, inspirational or entertaining activity or program.

Sewing, cooking, exercise, game night, spa/pedicures, songwriting workshop, DIY craft projects, etc. are all programs that have been offered, Monday said.

Anyone interested can attend the Nov. 11 volunteer informational meeting.