The Organization
Shelter Movers is a national, volunteer-powered charitable organization providing moving and storage services at no cost to individuals and families fleeing abuse. We collaborate with local businesses and community agencies to support people, primarily women and children, as they transition to a life free of violence.
Volunteering at Shelter Movers means contributing to a mission that will make a meaningful impact on families experiencing abuse and supporting survivors as they transition to a life free of violence. It also means playing a role in ending gender-based violence. We are growing and looking to add caring, compassionate, and dependable people to our team.
The Role
Movers and Drivers are the backbone of the organization, as they carry out the mission on the ground by moving clients’ belongings to safety. In a group of 2-7 movers/drivers, guided by a detailed itinerary, volunteers will load/unload the client’s belongings into a vehicle and transport the client to the predetermined location. Rental vehicles are provided for the move, and movers who have a valid driver’s license are welcome to register as drivers.
This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to make a significant impact through volunteering their time in a hands-on capacity for small chunks of time. The duration of each move varies, with an average of about 4-4.5 hours long from the vehicle rental pick-up time. Each move will be characterized based on the risk level and accordingly be escorted by local police, security guards, or neither. Our moves will often entail driving within and sometimes outside of the city. Further information will be shared with volunteers on a per-move basis. With our flexible volunteering model, you can sign up to volunteer on moves according to your availability. Training hosted by professional movers to review proper lifting techniques is hosted every several months, in addition to truck driving lessons.
Responsibilities
- Meet with team members at an arranged time and place
- Maintain communication with the Lead Mover and team members during the move
- Move client’s belongings into vehicles and transport the client and belongings
- Liaise with teammates, security and/or law enforcement
- Maintain client confidentiality and provide trauma-informed care
- Uphold Shelter Movers’ protocols and procedures
Time Commitment
Scheduling is flexible; time commitment varies depending on the move. Each move takes approximately 4 – 6 hours. Volunteers can sign up for moves according to their schedule and availability.
A minimum of 2 moves per month is encouraged. This is an unpaid volunteer position.
Essential Skills and Knowledge
- Passion for Shelter Movers’ mission of supporting individuals and families fleeing violence and abuse.
- Tact, discretion, high maturity level and good judgment.
- Demonstrate ability to maintain confidentiality, provide trauma-informed care to clients, and remain calm during potentially stressful situations.
- Able to lift moderately heavy boxes/furniture, min. 20lbs
- A long-term interest in the Violence Against Women (VAW) sector is an asset
- Ability to speak additional languages an asset