WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTEERS!
God calls on us to be His hands and feet, to get involved and take the actions needed to help restore others. That is why The Ephraim Project exists! But we depend on fantastic individuals, like you, who generously dedicate their time, energy, and talents to effectuate this life-changing work. Last year, we relied on more than 2,019 volunteers to feed 17,650 meals to 14,719 guests. It's both inspiring and humbling to see so many compassionate and committed members of the community grace our lot every Friday with a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of Orlando's hurting and homeless. And when you give your time, you get back something amazing in return: the feeling that you are helping families who need it. No matter what happens in the world, you absolutely have the power to make a difference.
More than half of the non-profits that cater to the homeless through food pantry and meal service programs rely entirely on volunteers. The Ephraim Project is no different. We are 100 percent donor-supported and volunteer-powered. Because we have no paid staff, we are able to invest 94 percent of our budget into programs that directly serve the homeless. So your donated time, funds, and resources go to helping the homeless get more than a handout; it helps them get a hand up as well as the love, motivation, and hope they need to land on their feet again.
Our various volunteer opportunities offer fun and rewarding ways for individuals and groups to make a meaningful difference in our community. If you or your group would like more information about The Ephraim Project's volunteer service projects, please contact us.
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VOLUNTEER GUIDELINES
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The Ephraim Project makes every effort to accommodate the needs of our volunteers in order to ensure a rewarding and mutually beneficial volunteer experience. Please carefully read through our volunteer guidelines and inform us of any concerns or special needs you or your group may have PRIOR to registering for a volunteer shift.
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Dress Code
We encourage all volunteers to dress comfortably and casually for our Friday foodshares. Jeans, tank tops, t-shirts, and shorts are all permitted. However, we ask that you refrain from wearing tight or revealing clothes. For volunteers' safety, it's best to wear gym shoes while on the lot.
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Personal Belongings
​Please leave any personal belongings of value at home or secured in a locked vehicle. The Ephraim Project cannot be held liable for lost or stolen property.
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Gifts and/or Loans
We discourage volunteers from giving money of any kind to the guests we serve. If you have questions or concerns regarding this policy during your shift, please locate an Ephraim staff member for help.
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Personal Information
Volunteers are asked not to provide guests with personal information, such as last names, telephone numbers, addresses, or work information.
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Age
The Ephraim Project does not set an age limit for volunteers. However, all children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult (18+) chaperon or a be part of a chaperoned group.
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Inappropriate Behavior or Situations
All instances of inappropriate behavior or situations must be immediately reported to a staff member.
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Illegal Substances and Alcohol
Possession, use, or being under the influence of illegal drugs, controlled substances, or alcohol products is prohibited. Volunteers and guests who violate this policy with be asked to leave the premises.
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Smoking
The use of tobacco products is not allowed on the lot.
Medication
We ask volunteers to refrain from dispensing medication - prescription or over-the-counter - to our guests. If you feel that a guest is in need of medical attention, please immediately notify an Ephraim staff member.
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Foul Language and Violence​
Neither foul language nor violence will be tolerated. Any suspicion of assault, sexual harassment, or other inappropriate behavior will be reported to the proper authorities.
Soliciting
No solicitation of goods or services is allowed on the lot.
Court Ordered Community Service
We do accept volunteers that need to fulfill court ordered community service hours. You must be willing to provide all of the information regarding the court order and/or Probation/Diversion officer information for follow up by our organization on your FIRST volunteer shift. Please contact us regarding your court-ordered status PRIOR to signing up for a volunteer shift.