Volunteer at Opportunity Place (OP)
Opportunity Place is the center of operations at A-SPAN that functions both as our office location and as our client drop-in center. Here clients receive a wide spectrum of services focused on assisting them to achieve stable income and housing. With the support of staff and volunteers, Opportunity Place programs assist clients in addressing their personal barriers to self-sufficiency. A-SPAN staff relies on the support of OP volunteers to keep the drop-in center well-organized and efficient. There are several ways to get involved at OP, all of which involve close, direct contact with clients and/or staff.
Assistant Front Desk Monitor/Outreach Assistant
Hours of operation: Monday – Thursday, 12:30pm-5:00pm
Volunteers aged 18 years or older are needed to staff the front desk at Opportunity Place to function as the face and voice of OP. Front Desk Monitors greet clients, answer the phone, sort the mail, assist in the distribution of hygiene supply items and clothing, help to coordinate use of shower and laundry facilities, receive donations, and replenish and organize the clothing room. This is a direct service position and the ability to multi-task is essential. Volunteers are trained and supported by the Outreach Monitor as well as the Director of Opportunity Place. Bring a pen and a big smile!
Administrative Assistant
Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm
As A-SPAN grows, we need organizational and administrative support to keep our programs running smoothly and to maintain office organization. Organized, responsible volunteers are needed to assist with administrative duties such as filing, computer data entry, telephones, copying and periodic mailings. Volunteers must be comfortable working in a non-traditional office setting within Opportunity Place where staff provides direct services to the homeless, yet this position is a great way to gain office experience in a professional setting.
Opportunity Place is located in the Shirlington area of Arlington County at 2708 S. Nelson Street on the second floor. 703-820-HELP (4357).
Walk-In Hours: 1 to 5 PM, Monday through Thursday
Appointment Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday
Other group projects, donation organization and seasonal opportunities are available at Opportunity Place, depending on varying need.
Sign Up
To check the Opportunity Place volunteer schedule and to sign up for available shifts, please log in to the A-SPAN Volunteer Information: Volunteer Information Center.
If you’ve never volunteered with A-SPAN before or you’re new to our online Volunteer Information System above, get started now by submitting your A-SPAN Volunteer Application Form.
For more information or to schedule a time to discuss OP volunteer activities, contact Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Morse at smorse@a-span.org or call 703-842-0168.