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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I expect on my first shift, and how do I check in to volunteer?
A: Come to Rose Haven’s front door on 18th Ave and ring the bell to be let inside. You should plan to arrive about a half hour early for your first shift. So if we open at 9:00 am, please arrive at 8:30 am. First you should wash your hands in the clinic or the bathroom, then do a temperature check, and then sign in at the volunteer station. You will receive a volunteer name badge, and a locker, and then you will get a short tour of the facility. We will also train you for the area you are working in. Most volunteers start with donation support.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Volunteers may park at a small lot nearby, owned by Temple Beth Israel. Most people find street parking for their first shift, and then take the pass and location map to use next time. You can also come a little earlier to get the pass and move your car to the lot before your shift.
Q: Where should I put my personal belongings during my shift?
A: We have lockers near the volunteer office. Please use these to store your personal belongings. Rose Haven is not responsible for lost belongings, and we wouldn’t want any of your things to accidentally get mixed in with the donations!
Q: How does scheduling work?
A: Scheduling generally takes place via email. Choosing a weekly shift, in advance, is the preferred method, and also the way to guarantee you get the shift time and role that you prefer. It’s okay if you want to get to know the agency a bit before choosing your weekly shift. I generally try to connect with these volunteers around the 20th of each month, to confirm shifts before opening them up to newer volunteers. Once these are confirmed, I send an email to all volunteers listing all of the available shifts for the following month. This is helpful for volunteers with a variable schedule. Occasionally I may do a short notice outreach email. If you available to fill last minute shifts please let me know!
Q: Will I need to do a background check?
A: Yes, volunteers may do one shift without a background check, but not in a direct service role. If you want to continue volunteering, and work directly with our guests, you will need to do a background check. We use Legal Locator, a local woman owned background check service. After receiving a link via email, you will submit your personal information to their website.
Q: What should I do if I feel sick, or have any symptoms of COVID-19?
A: If you are experiencing any symptoms of illness, especially any symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home! We work with a vulnerable population; many of our guests are elderly or immune compromised. We would prefer to err on the side of caution, and ask that you stay home until your symptoms are resolved. Please follow the Oregon Health Authority guidelines on whether or not you should be tested before returning to volunteer. You can call the shelter at 503-248-6364, or email volunteer@rosehaven.org if you need to cancel your shift.
Q: What should I do if I need to cancel my shift for another reason?
A: We understand that things come up and you may need to cancel a shift. We appreciate as much advance notice as possible so we can try to find a replacement. Please us at 503-248-6364, or email volunteer@rosehaven.org if you need to cancel your shift.
Q: What if my comfort level changes?
A: This is not uncommon as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Some volunteers have preferred to stay in behind the scene roles to minimize contact with others, and later decided they were comfortable with direct service roles once they saw how we are operating with Covid protocols in place. Other volunteers have had to scale back the direct service aspect of their role as they navigate conversations with family and household members. Please know that we want to find a role for you that you feel most comfortable with, and we understand if that varies throughout your time here. This pandemic is uncharted territory for all of us, and we want to be flexible and supportive as you volunteer your time at Rose Haven.
Q: What should I do in case of an emergency?
A: Remain calm, and follow staff's lead during and emergency and review the following protocols:
In case of earthquake, fire, or other natural disaster, or in case of dangerous situation, exit out nearest exit. There are three exits: the door that connects to the food pantry (near room 1), the ramp door (near the clinic), and the double doors (near the supply room). For wheelchair access, exit out ramp door.
All guests, volunteers, and staff will cross Irving Street, and convene on the NW corner of the 18th and Irving intersection.
All guests, volunteers, and staff may not re-enter the building until we have clearance from appropriate authorities, i.e. the fire department.
There are fire extinguishers located in the hallway and the kitchen. To use, pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher to release lock. Point the extinguisher toward the base of the fire. Squeeze the lever slowly. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out.
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