Volunteer

Why Volunteer?

Volunteers at Martha’s Village & Kitchen work alongside staff to make a difference in the lives of neighbors in the Coachella Valley.

Our program goes beyond shelter and the hundreds of thousands of meals we serve every year. Our clients are able to regain their self-sufficiency through our transformational services that include emergency and transitional housing for singles and families, job skills, career counseling, case management, vocational and education services, health and counseling services, licensed child care, and after-school programs for children. Martha’s Village is one of the largest providers of homeless services in the Coachella Valley and has helped thousands of our neighbors in need regain their lives and become independent, productive citizens.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

• Food Services

  Help prepare and serve nutritious meals to residents and neighbors in need.



• Maintenance

  Perform maintenance tasks, such as window washing or painting.



• Health Services

  Donate your expertise as a doctor, nurse, medical or clerical assistant.



• Children’s Services

  Care for infants and young children, help children with their homework or lead after-school activities. Also, assist in family-oriented activities to promote family interest in reading.



• Thrift Store

  Provide customer service and help staff maintain, manage and organize store merchandise and daily donations.



• Emergency Services

  Help staff assemble canned/ dry goods baskets for impoverished families in the community. Maintain and organize the food pantry, provide basic client services and referrals.



• Career & Education Center

  Tutor adults in basic education subjects and family literacy, helping people develop computer skills; and assisting clients in their job search activities.



• Front Desk Reception

  Greet and assist guests, residents, clients and members of the community at the lobby desk.



• Other Ways to Volunteer

  Charitable giving activities, host special events, translate, lead workshops, motivational speaking, give tours, and much more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can volunteer?

We welcome individuals, groups, families, students and children 10 years and older (10- to 15-year-olds need to be accompanied by a guardian).

How much time would I be expected to devote to volunteering?

That's up to you. Our programs offer flexible day, evening or weekend schedules to accommodate your work or school responsibilities. Regular volunteers commit to serving for at least 15 hours or three months.

How do I become a volunteer?

New volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation. At orientation you will complete a volunteer application, take a tour of our facility and be presented with a list of volunteer opportunities. The Volunteer Services Coordinator will help determine the best placement for you based on your skills and talents. Program staff will train you so you can get the most from your experience and discover the many rewards of volunteering.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please attend Volunteer Orientation. Call our Volunteer Services Coordinator at 760.347.4741, ext. 306 for dates and times.