Notice: Please Do Not Sign up for a shift without checking in with the Volunteer Coordinator. This is for groups who are approved to independently sign up. Contact us at volunteers@pmsc-dtfb.org to join us!
Are you looking to make a tangible difference in your community? Join us as a friendly and compassionate Grocery Distribution Volunteer, helping neighbors in the Seattle area access nutritious food in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Grocery Distribution volunteers are essential to one of the Pike Market Food Bank's core programs, which serves neighbors from the Seattle area every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Volunteers play a crucial role in creating a welcoming, organized, and efficient experience for clients as they receive their groceries. We invite teams of up to 5 people to join us. Please note the group size for this particular opportunity is inflexible due to space constraints.
Responsibilities:
On the Line:
Greet and welcome clients with warmth, creating an inclusive and dignified environment.
Guide clients through the grocery line, packing their bags while attentively explaining options and helping them select items based on their preferences.
Connect with clients from diverse backgrounds, including those who may speak a different language, with patience and understanding.
As a Runner:
Support staff and volunteers on the grocery line by ensuring the line is stocked with items as needed.
Open boxes, bags, and containers to allow easy access for line volunteers.
Keep pathways clear of boxes, plastic, and crates to maintain a safe working environment.
Restock dry goods and other essentials on the distribution line.
General Duties:
Uphold grocery distribution guidelines and food safety practices at all times.
Assist clients in carrying their grocery bags to the repacking tables or nearby locations, as needed.
Work in a fast-paced environment that can be noisy and busy, while maintaining a positive and calm demeanor.
Qualifications:
Friendly and approachable, with a desire to help individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Comfortable in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
Physically able to stand for extended periods and lift grocery bags or items weighing up to 25 lbs.
Willing to follow food safety and operational guidelines.
Open to communicating and collaborating with staff, volunteers, and clients.
Star Qualities (not required but are very helpful):
- Multi-Lingual
- English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Russian
- Experience in Customer Service
- Experience with client-facing social services, (in a volunteer or employment capacity)
