Please read the opportunities listed above to see what interests you. Many volunteers are often asked to help out with a variety of tasks during the course of their volunteering experience, depending on their interests, the flexibility of their schedule, and the current needs of BOSS. Volunteers are also welcome to submit their own ideas for projects.

What kinds of group volunteer opportunities are available?

Volunteer groups tend to contribute to facility projects, such as gardening, painting, and light construction projects. However, we also welcome groups that would like to organize events, such as family craft days or a social activity, or host donation drives.

What are you looking for in volunteers?

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experiences, although previous experience working with homeless individuals is helpful. Volunteers tend to possess these qualities:

• Open-mindedness, patience, and flexibility
• A willingness to learn and adapt
• Resourcefulness and the ability to work independently
• An interest in poverty, social work, public health, economic development, community building, social justice, education, and/or working with underserved populations

Are there any requirements to be a volunteer?

All volunteers who are working at a service site need to have completed a TB test within the last 6 months prior to the start of volunteering and will need to bring documentation of the test when they begin. There are also authorization and clearance forms that volunteers need to sign. Volunteers who work in the kitchen on meal prep also need to complete a hepatitis A test.

How many hours/days do I need to volunteer?

There is no minimum hour requirement for volunteering, although it is recommended that volunteers dedicate at least 3 hours a week in order to make a substantial contribution with their time. We also ask that volunteers maintain a fairly regular and consistent schedule, and let staff know as soon as possible of any foreseen conflicts.

I’m a Cal student – can I earn units?

Yes! If you volunteer at the Children’s Learning Center at the Ursula Sherman Village, you can earn Education 97/197 independent study course units (1 unit for 45 service hours/semester). Forms need to be signed and submitted at the beginning and end of each semester to the UC Berkeley Education Department. Please inquire early about volunteer for units in order to avoid paying a fee.