(716) 856-4494
(716) 856-4494
The generosity and dedication of a volunteer has the potential to create lasting positive effects in the lives of those we serve at Catholic Charities. Recognizing such, we respect and appreciate the gifts and talents of all of our volunteers. Every day we rely on their efforts to help run many of our programs and services.
Looking to get involved? Browse our list of volunteer opportunities below.
Employment Volunteer: Volunteers are needed to help update refugee employer database. This position involves calling employers in Catholic Charities' system to confirm of update information. Volunteers are needed approximately 20 hours per week.
English as a Second Language (ESL): Volunteers will provide English language tutoring and conversation practice for newly arrived refugees, as well as help clients read through paperwork or instructional materials. This is a remote opportunity through WhatsApp or other secure video chat applications. Volunteers are needed for approximately 6 to 10 hours per week.
Drivers: Volunteers are needed to transport newly arrived refugees to the grocery store, the pharmacy and appointments. A clean NYS driver's license and compliance wth traffic laws ae required. Volunteers are needed approximately 2 to 6 hours per week.
Transportation Guide: Volunteers are needed to meet with newly arrived refugees to help them learn how to use public transportation, and to show clients how to read bus schedules, route maps, and buy and use bus tickets. Experience with using Buffalo public transit is preferred. Volunteers are needed approximately 2 to 6 hours per week.
Donations: Volunteers are needed to assist the donations coordinator and case managers in setting up refugee apartments before their arrival, and to help with donation pickups from the community. Volunteers must be able to comfortably help lift/move furniture.
Perferred Communities Mentor: A Preferred Communities mentor helps newly arrived refugees get acclimated to their new home here in Buffalo. This program is created for our clients enrolled in the Preferred Communities (PC) program. The PC program provides specialized assistance to especially vulnerable refugee groups, particularly those refugees suffering from medical and/or mental health challenges. The program offers individualized intensive case management to eligible individuals in order to help them become medically self-sufficient, independent, and healthy members of their community. Mentors will be matched with a client enrolled in the PC program. Key responsibilities of mentors include meeting with the client once per week for activities (day trips, library, help setting up their home), and completing a weekly PC mentorship log via Google Forms to track progress. Mentors must be willing to travel to and from the client's home or a public meeting space for activities. Mentors will need to submit a background check, and must maintain a professional relationship with the client. Mentors are expected to spend a minimum of two hours a week with their assigned client, and are asked to fulfill a three-month placement with their client. To fill out an application to be a Catholic Charities Preferred Communities Mentor, please click here.
Pantry Volunteer: Volunteers are being sought for the South Buffalo, Lovejoy and Kenmore pantries. Volunteers must be fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine.
Receptionist: Volunteer receptionists would be responsible for general office support with a variety of activities and related tasks. Volunteer receptionists will also be responsible for answering incoming calls, directing calls to appropriate associates, as well as additional clerical duties. Full-time and part-time positions are available.
For all inquiries regarding volunteer opportunities, please contact Jennifer Pitisi at [email protected]. To apply for a volunteer opportunity, please complete the Volunteer Application Form. |
