Q: When can I volunteer?
A: ht dinner table is open every Wednesday. We also need volunteers between events to help collect donated food, manage volunteers, fundraise, distribute flyers, and do prep work for meals.
Q: When should I arrive?
A: Set-up is at 4:30; we appreciate help from anyone who is available. New volunteers should arrive by 5:00 for the new volunteer briefing. (If you are a new volunteer arriving later, please make arrangements to receive your orientation in advance with the volunteer coordinator.)
Q: Can I just show up to help?
A: Because volunteers need orientation and we need a specific number of volunteers in various roles for adequate coverage, we ask that you sign up in advance with Kris at warden@trinityspokane.org. Please indicate when you will arrive and when you need to leave. Let us know as far in advance as possible if your schedule changes. We’re counting on you!
Q: Can my kids volunteer?
A: Sure. We recommend you contact Kris @ 701.1826 or warden@trinityspokane.org. Depending on their ages, we have some recommendations about how to prepare them for the evening.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Casual clothes (e.g. jeans) and comfortable non-slip shoes. We have aprons available or you may bring your own.
Q: How long does the evening last?
A: We are usually completely done (including clean-up) by 8:30 pm. Not all volunteers need to stay for the full clean-up so let the volunteer coordinator know what time you need to leave when you sign up.
Q: How do I sign up?
A: Contact the volunteer coordinator, Kris at warden@trinityspokane.org.
Q: I want to bring something special for the guests–like cookies or a gift card. Is that OK?
A: No. Except for special occasions–like Christmas–when we provide gifts for all of our guests, we only specific forms of support on dinner table nights. We can’t provide additional support for all of our guests, so this is an issue of fairness. Also, providing such items would distract us and our guests from dinner table’s primary experience of food and fellowship.
Q: What should I do if a guest asks me for money or a ride?
A: This doesn’t happen often, but if it does, politely explain that volunteers are not allowed to provide money or rides to guests. If the person persists, refer them to the floor manager.