Crisis Cold Weather Shelter Volunteer

Unpaid Internship

Full Year

Job Summary:


From November 1st through March 31st, volunteers are critically needed for a variety of roles with Crisis Cold Weather Shelter sites: staying at shelters overnight, helping to prepare and serve meals, delivering supplies, and transporting pets. All volunteers will receive site-specific training, and shelter coordinators are always available via phone to answer questions. Overnight volunteers are needed from approximately 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., are always paired with another volunteer, and can sleep for part of the night. Most overnight volunteers work 1 or 2 shifts per month. Note that volunteers will be volunteering with Crisis Cold Weather Shelter host sites, not Community Partnership of the Ozarks.

Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Evening shelter sign-in
  • Hospitality – serving snacks, beverages, assistance with passing out blankets and pillows
  • Cleaning and packing up supplies/cots/blankets
  • Pet transportation
  • Fire watch overnight (typically 4 to 6 awake hours)
  • Serving/passing out meals

Essential Qualifications/Skills:


  • Not currently experiencing housing instability
  • Must be over the age of 18
  • Ability to work with people from all socio-economic levels and backgrounds
  • Ability to be on your feet for extended periods of time or lift 20 pounds, if needed
  • Strong communication skills

Position Clarification:


Point of Contact: While Community Partnership of the Ozarks assists with volunteer recruitment, this volunteer position works directly with Crisis Cold Weather Shelter host sites and points of contact will vary. Position Clarification: This is a non-paid, volunteer position.