Opportunities From: Jewish Family Service of San Diego

The Community Need

In partnership with the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency’s Child and Family Well-Being Department (CFWB), JFS's Family Income for Empowerment Program (FIEP) gives 452 families, with children under 18 referred by CFWB, unrestricted monthly cash support of $500 for 24 months. This program looks at how direct, “no strings attached” economic support impacts well-being and strengthens families.

 

How You Can Help

On Friday October 17th, The Economic Mobility and Opportunity Team is hosting a family-friendly event for our FIEP participants, many of whom are parents who express great difficulties in participating in certain events and activities for themselves due to lack of childcare. At this event, we will encourage them to share vulnerable experiences and delicate subjects, as they discuss their experiences in the program. By having volunteers support the provided childcare at the event, the adults would get to fully participate and immerse themselves in the activities in a way that isn't usually possible while trying to supervise their children simultaneously. 

Tasks include

Engaging children ages infant to teens with activities Supervising free play Monitoring health and safety Maintaining a safe adult-to-child ratio

 

Time Commitment

This is a one-time opportunity on Friday, October 17 from 4:45pm-7:00pm. The event will take place at the JFS Jacobs Campus at 8804 Balboa Ave. San Diego, CA 92123.

 

Qualifications

Volunteer Waiver Volunteer Handbook Acknowledgement  Background Check  18+ years old

The Community Need

Older adults in our community often feel isolated and lonely and may also struggle with food insecurity.  Having a communal place to go for a meal and socialization can go a long way in improving an older adult’s mental and physical health.  JFS provides a hot meal and friendly companionship to seniors at the LGBT Center in Hillcrest every weekday, Monday through Friday.

How You Can Help

Volunteers will meet JFS staff at the Jacobs Campus and ride with staff to the LGBT Center for the congregate lunch program.  Volunteers will help older adult clients check-in as they arrive, set up dining tables with cups and cutlery, and assist older adult members as they enter the lunchroom.  A warm welcome and kind smile are additional desired attributes!  Volunteers are invited to socialize with older adults, hear their life stories and provide companionship.

Time commitment

It is appreciated if volunteers can help in an ongoing capacity, however we understand that volunteers are busy, go out of town, have other obligations, etc.  We are looking for folks who’d like to volunteer more than once to develop some rapport with the older adult clients. 

Things to Consider

Volunteers should meet at the Jacobs Campus weekdays (Mon-Fri) by 10:15am for each shift so JFS Nutrition staff is assured they will have necessary help that day.  If volunteers aren’t available, two staff members will be needed.  Volunteers will return to Jacobs Campus with JFS staff by 1:00pm.

Qualifications

·         Reliable transportation to Jacobs Campus by 10:15am

·         Interview with program staff

·         Must be 18+

·         HIPAA, False Claims & CDA Privacy & Security training (provided, online)

·         Background check (free of charge)

If you are interested in getting started with this volunteer opportunity, please reach out to volunteer@jfssd.org to get started.

Thank you for you interest in volunteering with the Immigration program! This opportunity is not currently taking new volunteers. If you are interested in being placed on our waitlist, please email volunteer@jfssd.org.

Program: 

The Immigration Services Program at Jewish Family Service provides quality, low-cost immigration services to refugees, asylees, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and undocumented immigrants within the community.

Goal of Position:         

The Immigration Case Aide supports JFS’s work in helping clients prepare and apply for various immigration benefits. The primary role of the Case Aide at the Jacobs campus will be to complete intakes for immigration clients (translating if needed), and to prepare case files for Immigration staff.

The primary role of the Immigration Case Aide at the SDRRN Shelter will be to assist Accredited Representatives and paralegals with Legal Empowerment presentations, EOIR-33’s (Change of Address), Change of Venue requests, and I-765 work authorization applications. Case Aide’s may also be asked to accompany caseworkers to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) check- in appointments and assist with other legal tasks on an as-needed basis.

Benefits to the Volunteer:                                     

Strengthen knowledge and understanding of the immigrant community in San Diego & learn about the U.S. immigration system. Work with and receive ongoing training from a group of knowledgeable, professional, and passionate staff dedicated to assisting immigrants. Make a positive impact on the community by assisting clients with the immigration process. Allow case workers to help their immigrant clients more effectively.

Tasks/Responsibilities:         

Assist clients with completing intake forms. Prepare and assemble case files and immigration applications. Schedule clients for further consultations and appointments with Immigration Specialists. Communicate with clients regarding updates in their immigration cases. Provide general administrative support as needed. Provide general knowledge to the migrant guest population at the Shelter in the form of legal empowerment presentations.

Qualifications and Requirements:

Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, show strong attention to detail and exhibit a professional demeanor in the office. Self-motivated and organized, comfortable with developing and building relationships. Fluency in a language commonly spoken by clients/ guests; ability to speak, read and write in the language. Able to work respectfully with people of all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Pursuing postsecondary education and/or interest in issues relating to immigration law, immigrant rights, advocacy and non-profits OR strong background in legal field Must be at least 18 years of age. Attend a JFS volunteer interview with Immigration Services Volunteer Coordinator. Attend a JFS orientation with Volunteer Engagement. Must honor confidentiality of client records and sign confidentiality agreement. Complete HIPAA Privacy/Security training. Background check. Vaccine Attestation Form.

Time Commitment:

Ideal candidates are able to commit to 8 hours per month for 3 months or more.

Immediate Supervisor:

Immigration Specialist

 

 

 

The Community Need

Older Adults count on home-delivered meals to access healthy food and socialization. JFS serves over 300 older adults monthly through home-delivered meals. As part of the program, JFS conducts quarterly check-ins over the phone to assess the individual’s needs. As an office volunteer with the Home Delivered Meal team, you would call enrolled individuals and ask a series of provided questions.  

How You Can Help

The office volunteer role helps ensure older adults in the community can continue to receive vital nutrition assistance.  These quarterly assessments are required by our funding contract and completing them allows JFS to continue providing essential nutrition support to our older adult clients.  If you enjoy making phone calls and chatting with older adults this may be the opportunity for you!  This volunteer role will also require filing and scanning documents as needed, as well as entering data into different client management platforms on the computer.

Time Commitment

Since there is some training involved with this opportunity, we would appreciate a volunteer being able to commit to at least 3 months of volunteering.  Shifts would be Wednesdays from 1:00-3:00pm.  Multiple volunteers can be trained for this role so one person is not required to volunteer every week.  We understand volunteers go out of town and have busy schedules, we are not looking to have the same person every week, just that you are able to help in an ongoing capacity.

Things to Consider 

There may be some occasions where clients speak a language other than English.  We do have access to Language Link, which is a translation service if this resource is needed.

Qualifications

1.      Candidates will interview with program staff members

2.      Must be 18+ and pass a background check

3.      Some customer service experience is a plus

4.      Must complete HIPAA training, False Claims, and California Department of Aging Privacy and Security Training (can be done online, training provided free of charge)

5.      Must be comfortable utilizing Microsoft programs such as Teams

 

Please connect with the Community & Volunteer Engagement team if you are interested in getting started at volunteer@jfssd.org or 858 637-3050.

Program:

Foodmobile delivers warm kosher-style meals to San Diego's home-bound older adults and disabled younger adults. Volunteers are often the only visitors individuals have, making their smiles, time, and compassion go a long way for our clients! Warm meals and warm smiles are the essence of the Foodmobile program.

 

Goal of Position:

Volunteers assist in a critical area of need and help alleviate hunger in San Diego. The goal of this position is not only to fight food insecurity, but also to foster community relationships. Much more than a meal, volunteers provide a positive interaction in the lives of the older adults they serve. 

 

Responsibilities:

Schedule shifts in Galaxy Digital.Pick up meals (packed in hot & cold bags), supplies, and special items at 10:30am at the JFS Main Campus at the rear of the administration building located at 8804 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123. Review Route Summary and log into Mobile Meals app. Deliver meals as assigned on the Mobile Meals app, paying special attention to the driver instructions for each stop. Adhere to Food Safety & Food Handling guidelines at all times.  Maintain confidentiality of all client information (i.e. in your phone or on paper you should not include last names, addresses, or indicate their client status with JFS, etc.) Knock on door, ring doorbell, and/or call client upon arrival. Hand over meals or carry meals into homes (if asked and willing). Never leave meals unattended, unless the client is home and does not want to accept the meals face to face. At the end of the shift, volunteers call, text, or email their JFS contact to confirm completion of the route and report any unusual circumstances and difficulties they experienced. Volunteers send a photo of the food transport log to the JFS contact by email or text as soon as possible after the shift is completed. Return empty hot/cold bags to JFS campus. Do not return any undelivered meals. Please give them to another client or person in need.Occasionally volunteers may be asked to perform simple visual and verbal welfare assessments of clients. By the last day of each month, volunteer can submit a mileage log in order to earn mileage reimbursement. Please note: Mileage for Foodmobile routes is calculated round-trip from/to JFS since you will return to JFS at the completion of your route. Mileage to and from your home to JFS and from the last stop on the route back to your home is not reimbursable, as it is considered the "commute" to/from your volunteer location.

Note- Route locations vary. 

Qualifications:

Drivers:

25 years or older to comply with JFS insurance policy. Able to drive your personal vehicle to fulfill this volunteer role. Mileage reimbursement is available round-trip from/to JFS. Has a personal smart phone and willing to download and utilize a mobile app-based delivery software (Mobile Meals) during the route. Able to bend and twist, and lift up to 25 pounds. Willing to deliver to any area in San Diego County, based on the need for that day. Our routes are subject to change due to holidays or urgent needs. Able to commit to the entire shift. Review and sign Volunteer Waiver. Complete and pass background check. Possess a valid driver's license. Pass DMV check. Provide proof of current vehicle insurance. Complete HIPAA training annually (free training provided). Obtain a Food Handler's Certificate and renew when needed (every 3 years, free training provided).

 

Passengers:

Passengers may ride along to assist with navigation and delivering meals. They must complete all requirements as outlined in the Home-Delivered Meals Passengers opportunity, and must register for shifts under that opportunity. All passengers under 18 helping deliver meal boxes must be under the supervision of a vetted volunteer driver (i.e., parent/guardian) at all times, and must complete current requirements. As a Driver, if you intend to have a passenger come with you on your route, make sure to communicate this to Volunteer Engagement at volunteer@jfssd.org and that they are qualified and registered for the Passenger shift.

Fully vetted Volunteer Drivers may also complete their routes with other fully vetted Volunteer Drivers if they choose and may alternate driving responsibilities or choose one primary driver.

 

Please CLICK HERE to go to the FOODMOBILE PASSENGER opportunity in Galaxy Digital. 

 

After Signing Up for a Shift:
• You will receive a confirmation email with instructions the day before reporting for route.

Time Commitment:

Minimum 3-month commitment preferred. Volunteer shift begins at 10:30 AM and ends at 12:30 PM or sooner. Volunteer shifts will last about 2 hours or less. 

 
 

Program: 

The Loonin Family Kitchen of Jewish Family Service prepares nutritious and medically supportive hot and frozen Kosher-style meals for delivery to clients enrolled in our Home-Delivered Meals programs and various offsite congregate meal sites.

 

Goal of Position: 

Meal Distribution Prep Volunteers will assist with preparation of same-day hot meals and the following day’s frozen meal deliveries including preparing and packaging entrée sides, cutting and packaging fresh fruit, assembling side packages for delivery, and labeling meals. On some days, we might require assistance with loading/unloading delivery driver vehicles, cleaning, and/or straightening the kitchen and storage facilities, or other one-off tasks as needed.

 

Responsibilities: 

Assist with preparation and portioning of entrees and side items. Clean, cut, and package fresh fruit and vegetables. Package bread, rolls into individual servings. Assemble packages of side items from a prep list. Assist with clean up of prep area at the end of shift. Label meals and side items and ready them for distribution. Provide 24 hours minimum notice if you must cancel your shift.

 

Qualifications/Requirements: 

Must be 15+ to volunteer independently, or 12-14 years of age if accompanied by a parent or guardian (contact volunteer@jfssd.org to get your children scheduled with you) Be able to provide own transportation to the Turk Family Center located at 8804 Balboa Ave, 92123. Complete and sign Volunteer waiver. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing with sleeves.Be able to stand for up to 2 hours at a time. Wear gloves and restrain hair in hat or hairnet (provided). Wash hands before handling food and follow all food safety guidelines. Follow all directions of the Kitchen Volunteer Lead Staff.

 

Time/ Service Commitment: 

2 hours per shift

 

***Please report to the Warehouse after checking in with reception.***

 

 

If you feel you would be unable to meet the physical demands of the opportunity, please reach out to volunteer@jfssd.org before scheduling a shift to discuss possible accommodations or alternative opportunities.

Thank you for you interest in volunteering with Diaper Distribution!

Program

Did you know babies need around 50-85 diapers a week? And that parents who qualify for federal and state safety net programs cannot use their benefits to purchase diapers? Even though diapers are a necessity for little ones, they are not covered by programs like CalFresh and WIC. This $80+/month expense can be a challenge for many families who have a tight budget due to the rising costs of housing, healthcare, utilities, and other necessities.

Caregivers also need a full supply of diapers to be able to send their kids to daycare or preschool. Parents may have to miss work if they don’t have enough diapers on hand for an entire day, which jeopardizes their job security and income. If families try to stretch their diaper supply, a child may go longer periods of time between diaper changes, putting them at risk of negative health effects.

Thanks to a partnership with the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and other community donors, Jewish Family Service has its own diaper distribution for families in our community.  Through this program families can access 75 diapers a month for each child in their family that needs them. Our diaper distribution program helps break down barriers that can prevent families from achieving health and success.

Goal of Position

Diaper Distribution Volunteers support families in our community by keeping babies happy and healthy! Volunteers connect caregivers to diapers on a monthly basis by preparing and distributing the correct sizes and quantities of diapers to clients, as well as organizing and unpacking diaper inventory in our storage facility.  Volunteer shifts are Wednesdays and Fridays, and duties and shift times vary by day of the week.

Responsibilities

Wednesday shifts:

Bundle and label diapers to prepare them for Friday pick-up. Occasionally lift and move diaper boxes using a cart. Occasionally organize and stock cupboards with diapers by size. Occasionally breakdown cardboard boxes and dispose of in recycling dumpster.

Friday shifts: 

Bring the correct diaper order outside to our clients and communicate warmly and effectively with them during pick up.

 

Please provide at least 24-hour notice if you need to cancel your scheduled shift.

 

Qualifications and Requirements

Must be at least 13 years of age (with a guardian present) or 16+ to volunteer independently. Complete HIPAA/Privacy and Security training. Complete and sign Volunteer waiver. Must be able to lift 25 pounds occasionally. (Mostly Wednesdays) Must be able to bend, twist, and crouch to move and unload diapers. (Wednesdays) Must be able to push/pull cart loaded with boxes. (Wednesdays)

 

Program:

Foodmobile delivers warm kosher-style meals to San Diego's home-bound older adults and disabled younger adults. Volunteers are often the only visitors individuals have, making their smiles, time, and compassion go a long way for our clients! Warm meals and warm smiles are the essence of the Foodmobile program.

 

Goal of Position:

Volunteers assist in a critical area of need and help alleviate hunger in San Diego. The goal of this position is not only to fight food insecurity, but also to foster community relationships. Much more than a meal, volunteers provide a positive interaction in the lives of the older adults they serve. Foodmobile Volunteer Passengers assist drivers by providing home deliveries of hot meal bags and/or pre-packaged groceries. This role is both physically and emotionally supportive, and is great for those who no longer drive, are unable or unwilling to drive, or for minor children accompanying a fully vetted, adult volunteer. 

 

Responsibilities:

Schedule shifts in Galaxy Digital. Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothes (bringing a jacket or wearing layers is recommended). Adhere to Food Safety & Food Handling guidelines at all times.  Maintain confidentiality of all client information (i.e. in your phone or on paper you should not include last names, addresses, or indicate their client status with JFS, etc.) Knock on door, ring doorbell, and/or call client upon arrival. Hand over meals or carry meals into homes (if asked and willing). Never leave meals unattended, unless the client is home and does not want to accept the meals face to face. If the client or caregiver does not answer the door or phone to accept the meal bags, the volunteer driver must call their JFS contact to report the situation. HOT MEALS & GROCERY ITEMS SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT BACK TO JFS MAIN CAMPUS - PLEASE GIVE FOOD TO ANOTHER CLIENT. At the end of the shift, volunteers call, text, or email their JFS contact to confirm completion of the route and report any unusual circumstances and difficulties they experienced. Volunteers send a photo of the food transport log to the JFS contact by email or text as soon as possible after the shift is completed. Return empty hot/cold bags to JFS campus.  By the last day of each month, volunteer must log their hours into Galaxy Digital. Please note: Non-Driving passengers are not eligible for mileage reimbursement. 

 

Qualifications:

Volunteers are allowed to serve as Home-Delivered Meals Passengers to assist with navigation and delivering meals. All passengers under 18 helping deliver meals must be under the supervision of a vetted volunteer driver (i.e., parent/guardian) at all times. As this volunteer opportunity requires frequent stops to deliver 25-pound boxes to each client’s door, we do not suggest children requiring car seats or hand-holding participate. However, this position provides a meaningful family opportunity, especially for those with teens gaining experience and completing hours for local community service groups.

Non-driving Passenger Volunteers must complete the following before scheduling a shift or riding along:

Able to commit to the entire shift. Complete and maintain a Volunteer profile in Galaxy Digital. Review and sign JFS Volunteer Waiver (parent or guardian will sign on behalf of minors). Review HIPAA confidentiality requirements and complete/sign the acknowledgement form (18 years or older only). Complete and pass background check (18 years or older only). Obtain and maintain a Food Handler's Certificate (18 years or older only, renewable every 3 years) - certification will be provided at JFS free of charge.

 

Please CLICK HERE to go to the FOODMOBILE DRIVER opportunity in Galaxy Digital. 

 

 After Signing Up for a Shift:
• You will receive a confirmation email with instructions the day before reporting for route

Time Commitment:

Minimum 3 month commitment preferred Volunteer shifts will be between the hours of 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM Monday – Friday Volunteer shifts will last about 2 hours

 

 

 

Program:

The Hand Up Food Pantry believes in helping clients reach self-sufficiency by providing a ‘hand up’ not just a hand out to clients experiencing food-insecurity. They accomplish this by connecting clients to resources in addition to providing emergency food relief to 800 families each month at distributions throughout San Diego County. The Hillcrest Food Distribution serves a multitude of clients from various backgrounds and life circumstances.

 

Goal of Position:

Volunteers can help assist in a critical area of need and help alleviate hunger for individuals and families throughout San Diego County. Volunteers are able to gain valuable nonprofit experience and learn about food insecurity and hunger in their local community while serving those in need. Many of these clients also lack housing and almost all are on a fixed income. We provide more than food assistance - we provide smiles as well!

 

Responsibilities:

Unload box truck and set up shopping area in parking lot outdoors Assist Food Pantry staff in running the client check in process Bag produce and bread for distribution Distribute food to clients Educate clients on additional resources available to them Answer client questions Clean up parking lot and load box truck

 

Qualifications/Requirements:

Must be a minimum of 10 years old (volunteering with a parent or guardian) or 15+ (volunteering on their own).  Must be friendly, patient, and can develop and maintain good rapport with community members. Must provide own transportation to distribution site at Ohr Shalom synagogue. Ability to lift bins and boxes up to 25 pounds. Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing that can get dirty (bring layers as needed). Must complete and sign Volunteer waiver.

 

Time Commitment:

The Hillcrest distributions are from 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm on the 3rd Thursday of each month

 

Location:

Ohr Shalom Synagogue, 2512 Third Avenue, San Diego, 92103 Volunteers must park on the street with limited parking

 

 

If you feel you would be unable to meet the physical demands of the opportunity, please reach out to volunteer@jfssd.org before scheduling a shift to discuss possible accommodations or alternative opportunities.

Program:

On the Go, Rides and Smiles offers one-way trips to older adults who no longer drive. Provide rides at convenient times in your schedule. On this one-way ride, volunteers donate their time and energy while infusing dignity and independence into the lives of these older adults who still value connection to community—without changing your plans! Rides are offered seven days a week from 7:00am to 7:00pm. Overall, On the Go is more than just a ride: it is about fueling a sense of connection, independence, and mobility that defines aging well.

Goal of Position:

Volunteer drivers utilize their personal vehicles to provide these rides for older adults. This safe and reliable transportation enables older adults to attend medical appointments, meet shopping needs, visit a spouse in a nursing home, take a class, attend religious services, and more! Volunteers are able to provide safe and reliable transportation, ensuring that these adults remain active, healthy, and connected to their community.

Responsibilities:

Provide at least 2 rides per month Accept rides that work best for you using an award winning web-based scheduling system Provide friendly conversation during transport Maintain a clean, upkept vehicle and observe “rules of the road”

Qualifications/Requirements:

Possess your own vehicle Have valid insurance coverage for the vehicle driving client’s Have a current driver’s license Attend a general volunteer orientation Attend driver training Must be able to pass a background check Must complete HIPAA 3 training Enjoy driving and meeting new people Be comfortable with JFS submitting a request for driving records

Time Commitment:

Volunteers can self-select rides that work with their personal schedule Volunteers are required to give at least 2 rides a month Minimum 6 month commitment 

Thank you for you interest in volunteering with Patient Advocacy! This opportunity is not currently taking new volunteers. If you are interested in being placed on our waitlist, please email volunteer@jfssd.org.

Program Description:

Do you hate injustice? Do you like fighting for the underdog? Would you like to be a part of and provide support to a dynamic and dedicated team of advocates who assist clients receiving behavioral health services? The Patient Advocacy Program is looking for an outstanding, hard-working individual to assist in day-to-day administrative tasks, who loves challenges and gets satisfaction from helping others in need. 

https://www.jfssd.org/patientadvocacy

Goal of Position:

Patient Advocacy volunteers are vital to helping run a busy program that assists clients in over 400 behavioral health facilities. In the office, volunteers prepare boxes of Patient Rights Handbooks to be distributed to local hospitals, enter data into ETOi, and help organize and stock brochures and inventory. Volunteers get to help ensure that some of our most vulnerable clients have their rights protected.

Responsibilities:

Enter data into ETOi database Stamp Patients’ Rights Handbooks and box up and label for delivery to hospitals Prepare greeting cards for delivery to volunteers, and assist with screening once returned Count and bundle brochures for placement in storage, as well as labeling and organizing brochure storage Scan financial reports, logs, forms, invoices for archive storing Prepare Annual Provider Surveys to go to hospitals

Qualifications:

Candidates will interview with program staff members Must be 18+ and pass a background check Some college or related experience a plus Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds Must complete HIPAA training, privacy training, and 4 hours of cultural competency (annually) Must wear PPE (if you do not have your own, it will be supplied) Must be able to work in a fast-paced office environment Must be able to provide own transportation to the Turk Family Center

Time/Service Commitment:

We are looking for a minimum 3-month commitment 3 hours per shift, one day per week with opportunities for more shifts if desired Days and time of shift is flexible (between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday).

 

Program:

The Hand Up Food Pantry believes in helping clients reach self-sufficiency by providing a 'hand up' not just a hand out to our neighbors experiencing food-insecurity. We accomplish this by connecting families to resources in addition to providing emergency food relief to 800 families each month at distributions through San Diego County. In the past year, the Hand Up Food Pantry has provided 8,969 clients with 310,000 meals.

Goal of Position:

Volunteers are needed to help keep the Corner Market and Hand Up Food Pantry Warehouse shelves stocked, organized, and clean. In addition, volunteers will be transporting food to the Corner Market from the Warehouse. Volunteers will also make sure that displays are attractive, clean, and well maintained to enhance the shopping experience of our clientele.

Benefits:

Learn about food insecurity and hunger in your community The knowledge that you are making a difference in the lives of hundreds of families and individuals Help fight food insecurity with dignity

Tasks/responsibilities:

Sort through food donations Organize and re-stock shelves in the Corner Market as needed Keep the Corner Market area clean and in compliance with food safety standards Locate food in the warehouse and load carts Provide at least 48 hour notice if you need to cancel your volunteer time by emailing handup@jfssd.org

Qualifications & Requirements:

Must be 15+ to volunteer independently, or 10-14 years of age if accompanied by a parent or guardian (contact volunteer@jfssd.org to get your children scheduled with you)Be able to follow stocking and merchandising procedures.Sign volunteer waiver. Be organized, detail oriented, and able to work independently Retail experience is helpful, but not necessary Must be comfortable walking in and out of the refrigerator and freezer

Time Commitment:

Our Corner Market is open Monday through Friday and needs to be organized before shopping appointments Volunteers will need to give 48 hours notice if they will not be able to fulfill a commitment to their shift

Worksite/Department:

Jewish Family Service of San Diego

Turk Family Center

8804 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123

Immediate Supervisor:

Hand Up Food Pantry Assistant or

Hand Up Food Pantry Coordinator or

Nutrition Operations Manager

Program:

The Hand-Up Food Pantry provides food relief to 800+ families monthly throughout San Diego County. We believe in helping clients reach self-sufficiency by providing a ‘hand up’ - not just a hand out - to clients experiencing food insecurity. As part of our Hand-Up Food Pantry, the Corner Market is just as it sounds - a small shop designed to create a shopping experience for clients who need extra support with their groceries each month. Clients are able to select fresh produce, meat, bread, dairy, and non-perishable shelf-stable pantry items in familiar environment, with no money exchanged. Instead, we use a "points" system which assigns a number based only on how many people are in the household. In this way, clients can meet their family's basic needs while customizing their choices to their unique food preferences and dietary restrictions.

Goal of Position:

Volunteers are able to help assist in a critical area of need and help alleviate hunger in San Diego, with an impact that can be seen and felt in every client interaction. Volunteers are needed to assist clients with checking in, shopping, answering questions about food preparation and storage, tallying points used, bagging groceries, and scheduling future appointments. We aim to provide a warm and welcoming experience for all, meeting each client where they are, and providing help without judgment. 

Responsibilities:

Provide excellent and professional customer service to clients Demonstrate a high level of professionalism and empathy at all times and in all encounters on campus Be compassionate, friendly, patient, and to develop and maintain good rapport with clients Be mindful of client arrivals, greet them quickly, check them in for their appointment, and explain the rules and processes of the market Keep accurate and confidential records at all times Answer questions, scan grocery items, and bag selections as needed Assist with scheduling future appointments, as needed Escort clients between the parking area and the market Keep the pantry area clean and in compliance with food safety standards Organize and restock the pantry as needed Make reminder calls to clients as needed using the provided script

Qualifications:

Must be at least 18 years old. Be able to lift bins and boxes up to 25 pounds. Be able to bend, twist and lift, and stand for extended periods of time. Comfortable working with and serving people from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures. Demonstrate a high level of customer service and empathy skills. Be able and confident in computer use. Be able to volunteer in person at Balboa Campus. Be willing to follow all current health, safety, and security guidelines. Schedule shifts in advance in Galaxy Digital and give 24 hours advance notice if unable to keep your commitment. Complete and sign current Volunteer Waiver. Pass background check. Complete HIPAA/Privacy and Security training and demonstrate full understanding of the material.

Time Commitment:

Preference given to volunteers who can make an ongoing commitment of at least a 3 months Volunteer shifts will be 2.5-3.0 hours long Volunteers can register for multiple shifts, days, and times as desired Volunteers will need to give 24 hours’ notice if they will not be able to fulfill their commitment 

 

If you feel you would be unable to meet the physical demands of the opportunity, please reach out to volunteer@jfssd.org before scheduling a shift to discuss possible accommodations or alternative opportunities.

Program:

The Hand Up Food Pantry believes in helping clients reach self-sufficiency by providing hand-up - not just a hand-out - to clients experiencing food insecurity. We connect clients to a variety of JFS and community resources in addition to providing food relief. We make and distribute nearly 1,500 meals and hundreds of pounds of groceries each day to individuals and families through our Home-Delivered Meals programs, onsite emergency food distributions. Corner Market, SmartChoice online ordering platform, and community food distributions throughout San Diego County. The JFS Warehouse is located at our main office at 8804 Balboa Avenue, where we receive and process thousands of pounds of food donations daily, and pick and pack orders for home, offsite, and in-person distribution.

 

Goal of Position:

In this dynamic and reimagined role, Volunteers can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors struggling with food insecurity in a tangible way. Each shift will allow Volunteers to do a variety of tasks depending on the day’s focus. Tasks may include: packing frozen home-delivered meals boxes; assisting drivers to get their vehicles packed and ready to go; packing and distributing emergency food bags to clients during drive-up hours; preparing SmartChoice orders; checking-in clients as they arrive for appointments; gathering food boxes and bags and/or helping to load vehicles with their orders; sorting through food donations; gleaning and bagging produce; helping to restock the Corner Market; other tasks as needed.

 

Responsibilities:

Provide excellent customer service and friendly and professional interactions to all drive-up clients Retrieve orders in their entirety from the pantry and refrigerator as needed Replenish produce and bread racks as necessary Help clients load groceries into their cars Prepare boxes of freshly prepared frozen meals for home delivery Stock food pantry shelves  Assemble food bags for SmartChoice online order distribution Assemble and distribute emergency food bags Help to pack and load boxes into Home-Delivered Meals driver vehicles Assist with bagging produce and sorting through food donations as needed Provide at least 24-hour notice if you need to cancel your scheduled shift Check in with reception before making your way to your assigned work area

 

Qualifications:

Must be 15+ to volunteer independently, or 10-14 years of age if accompanied by a parent or guardian (contact volunteer@jfssd.org to get your children scheduled with you) Ability to lift up to 25 pounds Able to bend, twist and lift and remain standing for extended periods of time. Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes that you don't mind getting dirty (bring layers for the weather as needed) Wear safety gear as needed Wash hands before handling food and follow all food safety guidelines Be able to work in a fast-paced and often physically intense environment Be able to provide own transportation to the Turk Family Center at 8804 Balboa Ave Be willing to work outdoors (canopy provided for shade and shelter) and inside the warehouse as needed Complete and sign Volunteer waiver

 

Time Commitment:

2-3 hours per shift (depending on day and time)

 

*If you feel you would be unable to meet the physical demands of the opportunity, please reach out to volunteer@jfssd.org before scheduling a shift to discuss possible accommodations or alternative opportunities.

Program:                    

The immigration journey is different for everyone, and applications and petitions can be complicated. From answering questions about legal status to translating and submitting paperwork, to assisting with removal defense, we offer clear information and free or low-cost legal assistance for immigrants and their families.

Goal of Position: 

Translate documents for Immigration Services staff members or work under direction of immigration attorney to interpret in-person or telephonic correspondences with clients. 

Languages Needed:

Arabic, Farsi, French, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Amharic, Somali, Burmese

Minimum commitment of 2-3 hours per week for 4 months or On-Call Position, as needed basis Fluent understanding of written English and a second language is required Must be 13 or older

Highest need:

Darsi/Farsi Pashto Nuristani languages

Benefits:                      

Help refugee and immigrant families access urgent and necessary services Create meaningful cultural exchange and develop intercultural communication skills                              

Tasks/Responsibilities:        

Translate various immigration documents from a second language to English or vice versa Attend meetings between clients and department staff while acting as an interpreter

Qualifications and Requirements:            

Fluent understanding of written English and a second language Able to communicate with non-English speakers Must be compassionate, caring, and culturally sensitive Ability to work independently and as a member of a team Must be an organized individual that follows directions well Attend a JFS volunteer interview with Immigration Volunteer Coordinator Attend a JFS orientation with the JFS Volunteer Engagement Must honor confidentiality of client records and sign confidentiality agreement Complete HIPAA training

Time Commitment:

Ideal candidates are able to make a minimum of 2-3 hours per week for a minimum of 4 months.

Scheduling is coordinated between the volunteer and staff. The position is on-call.

Worksite/Department:          

Jewish Family Service

Immediate Supervisor:

Immigration Staff

For more information on our safety protocols, please visit our JFS Safety page here.

Program:

The Hand Up Food Pantry believes in helping clients reach self-sufficiency by providing a ‘hand up’, not just a handout, to clients experiencing food insecurity. They accomplish this by connecting clients to community resources in addition to providing emergency food relief at distribution sites throughout San Diego County. The Chabad Downtown Food Distribution serves a multitude of clients from various backgrounds and life circumstances.

Goal of Position:

Volunteers can help alleviate hunger for individuals and families throughout San Diego County. Volunteers gain valuable nonprofit experience and learn about food insecurity and hunger in their local community while serving those in need. Many of the people served also lack housing and almost all are on a fixed income. We provide more than food assistance - we provide smiles as well!

Responsibilities:

Set up shopping area in parking lot outdoors.  We operate rain or shine so bring an umbrella if it’s raining! Bag produce and bread for distribution (if needed). Distribute food to clients. Answer client questions. Help re-pack truck and clean up shopping area at end of shift.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Volunteers can be 10 years old (volunteering with a parent or guardian) or 15 years old and older (volunteering independently). Please contact Betty Munoz at bettym@jfssd.org to schedule children ages 10-14 so she can ensure that the child and guardian are scheduled together. Be friendly, and patient, and maintain good rapport with community members. Provide own transportation to distribution site at Chabad Downtown.  Only metered and/or street parking is available. Ability to lift bins and boxes up to 25 pounds preferred (accommodations can be made). Wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing that can get dirty (bring layers as needed). Must complete and sign Volunteer waiver.

Time Commitment:

The Chabad Downtown distributions are from 9:00-10:00am each Friday (certain holidays excepted). Volunteers should arrive at 8:30 and the shift concludes at 10:30.

Location:

Chabad Downtown, 275 Island Avenue, San Diego 92101

*If driving to this location, volunteers must park on street or metered parking spaces.

Program:

Throughout Jewish Family Service’s 100+ year history, we've remained focused on our responsibility to the Jewish community, while also serving the greater community. Through the Center for Jewish Care, we provide critical services to the Jewish community including the elderly, single parents, Holocaust Survivors, and Jewish individuals and families during their most challenging times. In addition to connecting Jewish clients to critical resources, we also strive to bring joy and community connection to those we serve through the delivery of holiday packages, including Rosh Hashanah, Shabbat, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Purim, Passover, and more.

 

Goal of Position:

Center for Jewish Care Volunteer Drivers provide home deliveries of holiday packages to Jewish Community members in need on a Quarterly basis. Volunteers may also be contacted as needed for unexpected or emergency deliveries. Using their own personal vehicles, Volunteer Drivers report to the JFS Joan and Irwin Jacob’s Campus at 8804 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92123 to pick up pre-assembled packages and delivery items, receive their route, and deliver to JFS clients' homes.

 

Responsibilities:

If the client or caregiver does not answer the door and take the package, volunteer driver must attempt to leave voicemail, notify a neighbor, or contact apartment manager. No package should be left if there is no contact through voicemail, apartment manager, nor neighbor at time of delivery. If package was not delivered, volunteer driver will contact the JFS number provided on route sheet to advise of outcome. Driver will return package(s) to JFS at the end of route. At the end of each shift, volunteers are asked to either return to JFS or properly destroy (I.e., shred or burn) route sheets per HIPAA guidelines. At the end of the shift, volunteers are asked to call, text or email their JFS contact to confirm completion of the route and report any additional comments about clients. All passengers under 18 helping deliver holiday packages must be under the supervision of a vetted volunteer driver (i.e., parent/guardian) at all times.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Be at least 25+ years for driver role. Minors can accompany as passengers with parent or legal guardian. Complete a background check (if 18 years or older). Drive personal vehicle. Mileage reimbursement is available. Submit driver’s license and provide proof of insurance. Review and sign HIPAA training agreeing to maintain confidentiality around client information, including name, address, and appointment location. Review JFS Volunteer Handbook and sign required waivers.

 

Time Commitment: Quarterly and as needed driving opportunities. Staff will contact volunteers in advance to schedule times and routes.

 

Program:

Throughout Jewish Family Service’s history, we've remained focused on our responsibility to the Jewish community, while also serving the greater community. Through the Center for Jewish Care, we provide critical services to the Jewish community including Holocaust Survivors. In addition to connecting Jewish clients to critical resources, we also strive to bring joy and community connection to those we serve through the delivery of holiday packages, including Rosh Hashanah, Shabbat, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Purim, Passover, and more.

 Goal of Position:

The Serving our Survivors (SOS) program is looking for volunteer drivers in Orange County, CA. Volunteer drivers utilize their personal vehicles to provide rides for Holocaust Survivors. This safe and reliable transportation enables older adults to attend medical appointments, meet their shopping needs, visit a spouse in a nursing home, take a class, attend social events and religious services. Volunteers are able to provide safe and reliable transportation, ensuring that these adults remain active, healthy, and connected to their community. Volunteers may also be contacted as needed to make deliveries of holiday or special event packages for both expected, unexpected or emergency deliveries. Using their own personal vehicles for their shift to pick up pre-assembled packages and delivery items, receive their route, and deliver to JFS clients' homes.

 Responsibilities:

Volunteer drivers are needed to drive Holocaust survivors living in Orange County, CA to appointments, shopping trips, social engagements and any other place they need to go.   Volunteers will wait in the vehicle or in the waiting room depending on the preference of the Holocaust Survivor. When delivering a package, If the client or caregiver does not answer the door and take the package, volunteer driver must attempt to leave voicemail, notify a neighbor, or contact apartment manager. No package should be left if there is no contact through voicemail, apartment manager, nor neighbor at time of delivery. If package was not delivered, volunteer driver must contact the JFS number provided on route sheet to advise of outcome. Driver will return package(s) to JFS at the end of route. At the end of each shift, volunteers must either return to the Volunteer Engagement Coordinator or properly destroy (I.e., shred or burn) route sheets per HIPAA guidelines. At the end of the shift, volunteers are expected to call, text or email their JFS contact to confirm completion of the route and report any additional comments about clients. All passengers under 18 helping deliver holiday packages must be under the supervision of a vetted volunteer driver (i.e., parent/guardian) at all times. All passengers over the age of 18 must: complete a LiveScan background check, sign HIPAA Level 3 training, review JFS Volunteer Handbook and sign required waivers, and adhere to all safety precautions.

 Qualifications/Requirements:

Must be 25+ to comply with JFS insurance policy. Complete a LiveScan background check. DMV Check Must be able to drive own personal vehicle to fulfill this volunteer role. Mileage reimbursement is available. Sign Mileage Reimbursement Opt-In/Opt-Out form annually. Submit driver’s license and provide proof of insurance. Review and sign HIPAA Level 3 Training agreeing to maintain confidentiality around client information, including name, address, and appointment location. Sign volunteer waiver.

Time Commitment As needed driving opportunities. Staff will contact volunteers in advance to schedule times and routes.

Masks are required to be worn for this opportunity. For more information on our safety protocols, please visit our JFS Safety page here.

 

Program

The Friendly Visitor Program matches Holocaust Survivors with volunteers who provide enriching social visits. The program seeks to foster meaningful relationships between volunteers and Survivors. It also aims to enhance the individuals’ connection to the community.

Goal of Position

By providing a social element to the lives of clients, volunteers are making a tangible impact. These older adults need a connection to the community and friendly visitors provide just that! Both clients and volunteers benefit greatly from the relationships that they develop through these warm visits.

Responsibilities

Visit client as often as possible. Report monthly hours and case notes to volunteer engagement coordinator Report any noticeable changes to client’s behavior, appearance, or demeanor to program coordinator Read and respond to email messages from volunteer engagement coordinator

Qualifications/Requirements

This volunteer position is ideal for individuals who find it is easy to engage in conversations, enjoy the company of older adults, and who are comfortable with issues of older adulthood such as declining health and frailty Must be able to pass a background check Must attend volunteer orientation and program interview Complete HIPAA training Must be over 18 years of age Volunteers must be able to provide their own transportation to seniors’ homes Possess a valid CA driver’s license and current proof of insurance if they wish to transport client DMV check Must be willing to adhere to a strict confidentiality agreement Complete a one-hour Volunteer Orientation/Training with Program Coordinator before the first solo visit with the older adult

Time Commitment

This position requires a minimum of a six-month commitment. Scheduling of visiting hours is at the discretion of the volunteer and client(s)

Program:

Jewish BIGPals matches children 2nd grade through high school from Jewish single parent or non-traditional families with a Jewish mentor from the community. Jewish BIGPals support the children they are matched with in facing life transitions and helping them develop positive self-images, new behaviors, coping skills, and a strengthened Jewish identity. Volunteers and Little Pal families make a one-year commitment and meet twice per month.

Goal of Position:

To provide companionship, friendship, and life-enriching experiences to children from single-parent and non-traditional homes and to help them achieve their full potential through a 1:1 mentoring relationship.

Benefits:

Serving as a positive role-model in the life of someone who needs it the most Helping to enrich the lives of children or teens from single-parent or non-traditional homes Personal satisfaction in performing the act of Tikkun Olam - helping to repair the world

Tasks/responsibilities:

Meet with a child or teen in a 1:1 setting at least two times per month Participate in fun and engaging esteem-building activities with child or teen Maintain open communication with Program Coordinator Provide regular updates regarding activities with Little Pal through monthly Survey Monkey

Qualifications:

Must identify Jewish and reside in San Diego County Must show stability in personal life, relationships, and work history Must be reliable, responsible, flexible, patient, and non-judgmental Must enjoy interacting and spending time with children 2nd grade through high school

Requirements:

Must be able to provide own transportation Participate in a screening interview Must have Current California Driver's License and Valid Proof of Auto Insurance Must be at least 25 years of age and under 80 years of age (over 80 years must obtain doctors note) in order to be able to drive on behalf of JFS Complete volunteer application at jfssd.org/volapp Attend an in-person interview Attend Big Pal Training prior to being matched Participate in supervision meeting with Big Pal, Little Pal, Parent, & Program Coordinator Have and maintain a clean criminal history and driving record 

Time Commitment:

One year* Two outings per month recommended Scheduling is flexible

*The commitment is one year but many of our matches have lasted for several years (up to 11 years).

Worksite/Department:

There is no specified worksite for this opportunity. Big Pals are with their little pals all throughout San Diego County.

Immediate Supervisor: Jewish BIG Pals Program Coordinator

For more information on our safety protocols, please visit our JFS Safety page here.