VOLUNTEER

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Sojourner House!

Sojourner House is an organization that was founded by a group of dedicated volunteers in 1976. Though we have experienced tremendous growth over the last 40+ years, we still rely on the generosity of those who choose to donate their time to our cause.

Sojourner House volunteers are a group of individuals who are passionate about our cause and are committed to ending domestic and sexual violence in our communities. Though our needs vary throughout the year, we often are in need of dedicated, reliable individuals to provide administrative support, residential support and to assist outreach events. Volunteers are provided with free training in topics related to domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking, including trauma-informed approaches, mandated reporting and more.

For those unable to commit to regular shifts, we offer opportunities for collaboration with individuals, local businesses, and community organizations for skills-based training for our staff or clients, service projects, donation drives, and more throughout the year. For more information, please review the “Other Ways to Engage” options below.

For those looking for information on internship opportunities, please note we have recently moved that information to its own page, available here.

Regular Volunteer Positions

We ask that volunteers commit to working a minimum of a shift each week, either at one of our Emergency Shelters, or at our Administrative Offices, based on their position.

Due to the sensitive nature of our work, the following is required of all volunteers prior to the start of their service:

  • Be at least 18 years of age by the start of their service;
  • Provide a valid BCI (state background criminal investigation).
  • Attend our multi-session volunteer and intern training (offered quarterly) which is held in part online, in person, and on-the-job at our agency.

Full participation in our multi-session training is mandatory.

Stay tuned for more information regarding the upcoming training session.

Other Ways to Engage

We rely almost entirely on donations to keep our Safe House and our Transitional Housing apartments furnished, stocked, and comfortable. Consider hosting a donation drive at your workplace, school, or faith community to collect some of these much-needed items. We are always in need of:

  • Gift cards to places like Stop & Shop, Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, etc. enable our clients to purchase items we may not be able to provide to them, and gives them the freedom and autonomy to make decisions around what items they use for their family.
  • Cleaning supplies. With all of our different residential programs, we in constant need of cleaning supplies for general maintenence as well as for deep cleanings when clients move in and out of our programs.
  • Bed Linens. As clients move in and out of our shelter and apartments, we are often in need for NEW twin-sized sheets, blankets, and pillows.
    Please note: due to the bed bug epidemic at shelters across the state, we are unable to accept any used bedding.
  • Towels. Often clients arrive to our shelter with nothing more than a garbage bag containing clothes and other necessities. There are few comforts that make someone feel home than a set of fresh (new) towels.
    Please note: for sanitary reasons, we are unable to accept any used towels.
  • RIPTIKS. Many of our clients rely on public transportation to get around. This includes those in our residential programs in Northern Rhode Island who need to access our Drop-In Center in Providence on a regular basis.
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We are always looking for dynamic individuals to help us plan some of our most anticipated fundraising events, such as our Masquerade Ball or Spring Campaign! This is a great opportunity for folks who are looking to get their feet wet with event planning, add skills to their resume and/or to volunteer with an organization that makes an incredible impact on families and individuals in Rhode Island.

For more information, please contact coconnell@sojournerri.org or 401-861-6191.

Many of our supporters enjoy planning and managing their own special event to raise money for Sojourner House. Host a cocktail party at your home where you encourage your guests to make a donation to Sojourner House, or consider asking friends to donate to us in lieu of gifts for your next birthday. There are many easy and fun ways to give that make a huge impact!

For more information and assistance, please email info@sojournerri.org or call 401-861-6191.

Help a family or individual turn their new apartment into a home by putting together a Welcome Home Kit. These kits are laundry baskets filled with all the household necessities clients need to feel comfortable in their new housing. The contents of Welcome Home Kits vary according to the individual needs of the household, but commonly included items include:

  • Dishes and utensils
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Laundry supplies
  • Paper towels
  • Toilet paper
  • Shower curtains
  • Towels (new only)
  • Kids’ pajamas (new only)
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrushes
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Shampoo
  • Pillows (new only)
Create-a-Welcome-Home-KitDownload

Sign up below for our email list and receive updates about new programs, events, and volunteer opportunities. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and share our mission with your friends and family!