UNITED COMMUNITIES AIDS NETWORK 317 Fourth Ave E - Olympia, WA 98501-1106 Telephone - 360.352.2375 Facsimile - 360.352.1494
BUDDY COMPANION: This program matches volunteers to clients who are in need of one-on-one support. This could entail anything from accompanying one on outings, appointments and events, to emotional support and just being there for someone. Client needs for a Buddy Companion vary; one month there may be extra support needed, another month could be just the need for a friend. This is a six-month time commitment required of volunteers, and a specialized training workshop is mandatory. If you would like more information on this worthwhile volunteer opportunity email Michael Waggener. CLEANING: Volunteers give cleaning assistance to clients not able to keep up with household chores. Some clients are physically unable or their energy level is very low. We supply cleaning materials. The UCAN office also needs volunteers to give the office a basic weekly cleaning. MAILINGS: Occasionally we have mass mailings where volunteers are needed to fold mailings, stuff and stamp envelopes, label packages, and other preparation tasks. TRANSPORTATION: We offer rides to clients who may need transportation for a doctor’s appointment, shopping, or other errands. A valid driver’s license and insurance are required. Reimbursement for mileage is available. OFFICE ASSISTANT: During office hours, we use volunteers to staff a receptionist position. Duties include answering phones, greeting visitors, and working on small projects. Shifts are four hours long, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. We are looking for people willing to commit on a weekly basis, as well as those being interested in being “on-call” if the scheduled volunteer is unable to come in. SPECIAL EVENTS: When we have a fund-raiser or other event, volunteers are needed to help with promotion materials, distribution of flyers, event set-up and break-down, serving as greeters, or in other capacities. These events usually require many volunteers. UCAN depends on volunteers to insure success of these events. We will cover these events in more detail later in the training. MOVING: It is difficult for any one person to move on their own, but this is especially true with people living with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers are needed who have trucks or the capability to move furniture and heavy objects. OTHER: We have volunteers who provide special services such as haircuts, massage therapy and acupuncture, to name a few. We are always interested in new ways for people to become involved in ways that benefit our clients. If you have a special skill or interest that you would like to volunteer doing, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 360-352-2375.