A: Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone. Even with a guardian, some opportunities have age restrictions, please inquire with the volunteer coordinator at the time of sign up.

A: We require all volunteers to create an account and schedule your volunteer shift in advance. With covid precautions that are in place, this allows us to plan for and staff our events and locations appropriately.

A: Time commitments vary. We ask that you sign up for a minimum of a two hour time commitment unless otherwise stated in the volunteer opportunity. Some opportunities require a long-term volunteer commitment while others can be one-time opportunities.

A: Because our guests are vulnerable adults and children, and safety is our top priority. We must get to know the volunteers who will be coming in contact with them.

A: Yes, there are many one-time volunteer opportunities but we hope that you'll want to come back and bring some friends.

A: Yes, we can accommodate groups of various sizes here at MTM. Based on the size of your group, volunteering options may be limited. When you register your group, please include the number of people in your group; the ages of the people in your group; and when you group is usually available to volunteer. Please be as specific as possible for the quickest and most accurate response. 

A: Yes. The safety of our guests, visitors, volunteers and staff are the top priority at Mel Trotter Ministries. That's why we have Guest Safety Services staff that greet all visitors to the Mission and ensure that everyone feels welcome and safe. We also ensure the building is secure in various areas so the public cannot access living spaces, offices etc. without a security badge.

A: Prior to your volunteer shift, be sure to contact the Volunteer Coordinator Dawn VanHorn with questions about volunteer parking at dawnvanhorn@meltrotter.org or 616-588-8723. You can either park on the street or there is a ramp near the mission. 

A: The very first step is to create a volunteer account.

• When you create an account be sure to write down your username and password so you remember it.
• Please note that most of our volunteer opportunities have an age limit of 18 and up with a few opportunities available for ages 14 and up.
• After creating your account, it will await activation (1-2 days) by a member of our staff. All volunteers must undergo a background check screening before volunteering.
• All "ongoing" volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation. Subject to change with covid precautions. 

Once you've created an account, your account will await activation by a member of our staff pending a background check and interview with the volunteer coordinator (1-2 days).

A: Having a criminal history does not necessarily prevent you from being able to serve. Please indicate this when you create your account so that we can reach out to you to discuss your service further. 

A: Please dress appropriately for the conditions and performance of your volunteer duties.  Volunteers should be in modest attire. For safety reasons, closed toed shoes should be warn for all food service and facilities activities.