Volunteering With Common Ground
At Common Ground Free Store Ministries, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do! We literally cannot open our doors without them. Each time we're open, 15-20 volunteers make or serve food, run the store, and take in donations. There are lots of opportunities to interact and connect with shoppers and other volunteers at Common Ground. Checking customers out, keeping the store stocked and clean, serving meals, receiving and sorting donations - there's something for everyone!
We invite individuals, families, and groups to sign up to volunteer. Every person and skill set can be a part of making a difference! Join our mission today!
Volunteer FAQs
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When can I volunteer?
CGFS needs volunteers during the following hours:
Monday: 9:15am–1:15pm, 5:15–8:15pm
Tuesday: 5:15-8:15pm
Wednesday: 9:15am–1:15pm
Thursday: 5:15-8:15pm
Saturday: 9:15am–12:15pm -
Is there a separate training for volunteers?
Nope! You'll get all the training you need the day you show up to volunteer. We meet for a huddle before the store opens to walk you through everything you need to know. Additionally, our staff is always available to help or answer any questions you may have during your time with us. So come prepared to smile, work hard and have a great time!
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Could my sorority or college sports team come as a group?
Absolutely! We'd love to partner with your group to serve those in need! This is also a great way to hang out with your friends and bond while doing something truly meaningful, investing in your community and making a real difference in people's lives. If your group is large (more than 8) we will split you into two groups - one to work in the Free Store; the other in the Donation Center. Hope to see you soon!
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Can I volunteer with my family?
Yes! CGFS appreciates and welcomes families who want to volunteer together. We do require that children who are in 5th grade and below work directly with their guardian (1 parent/guardian per child). Please also note that younger children sometimes have a hard time volunteering for that long!
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Can my youth group/school group volunteer?
Yes! CGFS welcomes youth volunteer groups. The largest number of youth that CGFS can accommodate is 15. All youth group volunteers must have completed 5th grade. If there are any middle school aged youth (currently in or entering 6th grade through 8th grade), CGFS requires a ratio of 1 adult for every 5 youth. For high school student groups, a minimum of 2 adults must be present.
An individual youth (not with a group) who wishes to volunteer at CGFS without a guardian present must be 15 years of age and/or started their freshman year of high school.
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I need community service. May I volunteer at Common Ground?
CGFS welcomes people who need community service for the following reasons:
- Housing
- School
- Organizational (churches, social groups, etc.)
- Court-ordered*A community service volunteer under age 15 must have a parent/guardian to volunteer with them.
*Please note: Common Ground reserves the right to turn anyone away for court-ordered community service and will not allow community service for people with the following offenses: sexual assault or predation, violent crimes, or theft.
Have more questions? For all you Enneagram Type 1's out there who love to know all the nitty-gritties ;) feel free to download and read our Volunteer Policies & Procedures Handbook:
You can also contact Bethany Vasek our Director of Outreach by email at bethany.vasek@commongroundfreestore.org or by phone at 740-815-1333.
