Volunteer FAQs

Most volunteer roles require a minimum age of 16 due to the nature of our work. Some roles are open to volunteers as young as 12 when accompanied by a parent or guardian, and are considered on a case-by-case basis. We also welcome younger volunteers to get involved by organizing supply drives or attending special events as guests.

All volunteer shifts must be scheduled in advance — there are no walk-in opportunities. Use our volunteer portal to browse and sign up for available shifts.

No. We cannot accommodate additional people who aren’t already registered to volunteer at that time.

For most roles, plan on about 3–4 weeks from your first conversation to your first shift. You'll start with an interview with our Community & Volunteer Engagement team. Once approved, there's some paperwork to complete, which may include a background check, and those can take a few weeks to process.

NVFS offers opportunities for volunteers to complete court-ordered/recommended and school-required hours at the NVFS Thrift Stop and the Hunger Resource Center. Visit those links to view available shifts and sign up. NVFS cannot accept anyone charged with violent crimes, gun charges, shoplifting or theft. Students completing hours for school who are under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and both the youth and the adult need to register.

Many volunteer positions require a background check, depending on the role and licensing requirements. Volunteers who interact directly with clients complete a criminal background check through Sterling Volunteers, our online screening platform. Those working with youth also complete a Child Protective Services Central Registry Check. Volunteers at Early Head Start and Head Start programs are required to complete fingerprinting and provide proof of a negative TB test annually. You'll know what's required before you commit to a role.

Please put your phone on silent or vibrate and save personal calls for after your shift, unless it's urgent. If you do need to step away for a call, just let a staff member know. Keeping phones tucked away helps all of us stay present for the families and communities we serve.

Many companies offer paid volunteer time off, matching gift programs, or dollar-for-dollar matches for employee donations. Check with your HR department to find out what's available to you. If your employer has a program like this, let your Volunteer Engagement Specialist know and we can help you make the most of it.