Volunteers are a key component to the continued success of GCNSSC. By working within the agency, both groups and individuals can participate in a number of important initiatives.
| • Kitchen Services • Artistic Group • Computer-Skills Training • Internet Job Search • Recreational Activities |
• Résumé Writing • Financial Workshops • Business Etiquette • Literacy Projects |
Kitchen Services
Working in our food services area is a great way to get started. If you have never worked in a drop-in center before, this might be a good introduction.
While we do offer our clients 3 meals a day, our volunteer shifts are during lunch (11:30-1:00 pm) and dinner (3:30-5:30 pm). During these shifts, volunteers serve meals to our clients. The men and women at Mainchance truly appreciate their interaction with volunteers during meal times. This volunteer program is open to all and available any day of the week!
Return to Top
Artistic Group
We are currently seeking volunteers to run artistic groups for our clients. All forms of art are welcomed and encouraged. In the past, clients have participated in general art workshops, photography workshops and painting parties. If any of those opportunities interest you or you have an idea of your own we would love to hear from you!
Computer Skills Training
Many of our clients want to learn computer skills - such as how to use the Internet - but lack the necessary training or experience. That’s where the role of the volunteers becomes crucial! Volunteers work with clients on general applications, going through step-by-step instructions on how to operate Microsoft programs (Word, Excel, etc.), how to set up an email account, and how to successfully conduct internet searches.
Computer skills training workshops are usually done in smaller groups so that volunteers can provide clients with individual assistance and instruction. This program is often combined with our résumé writing workshop and Internet job search program.
Internet Job Search
The Internet job search program involves volunteers working with clients to help them find job leads through the Internet. This alleviates some of the problems that our clients face if they are unable to successfully navigate the Internet to look for employment. We give volunteers a list of key websites and work with clients to target jobs, post résumés on job sites and follow up emails regarding training or business programs.
This program usually combines with our résumé writing and computer skills training workshops. We occasionally conduct weekend workshops, but most of our Internet workshops take place during the week.
Our Internet job search program is excellent for volunteers such as college groups, professionals and individuals!
Résumé Writing
In this workshop, volunteers and clients collaborate on resumes that reflect our clients’ skills, experience, and employment interests. All client resumes are saved electronically so they can be easily updated and printed.This workshop is excellent for individuals and volunteers interested in working directly with our clients. We especially appreciate college students and professionals who have the skills and experience to help clients organize and present their varied and unique talents. We occasionally host Saturday resume writing workshops, but the majority these programs take place during business hours.
Financial Workshop
Our financial workshops are an excellent way for professionals with business experience to share their knowledge. These workshops cover such topics as debt management, the significance of credit, and how to effectively save money.
But you don’t have to be a CEO to assist clients with financial issues. Volunteers without formal business education can still participate in our financial workshops by helping clients to look up credit scores and ratings, or to research general financial information via the Internet.
These workshops are best done in small groups of clients and volunteers. Each workshop usually lasts from 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours.
Business Etiquette
Clients looking for employment they often need to improve their business skills and interviewing skills before re-entering the job market. In this workshop, volunteers work with clients to answer such questions as:
* How should I answer interviewer’s questions properly?
* What questions should I ask at an interview?
* What is the best way to follow up with a potential employer?
By sharing their experiences, volunteers can help clients overcome some of their trepidations and insecurities about employment.
This project is usually conducted one-on-one but is also great for small groups of volunteers.Literacy Projects
Our literacy-based projects help GCN clients on the path to literacy. The main goal of these projects is to engage clients in activities that will improve their literacy. In addition, the projects are formatted to help them overcome their uneasiness about reading or speaking in front of a crowd.
Recreational Activities
We would love to have your bring your own unique interests to our clients through volunteerism. Whether it’s simply playing a card game with clients or teaching a yoga class, GCNSSC is always open to new ideas and programs.
If you’re interested in volunteering or need more information, please contact Maura Cook, Volunteer Coordinator, at maura.gcn@gmail.com or at 212-883-0680 Ext. 321