Volunteer

Your community needs you.

North Carolina has been in the Top 10 resettlement states in the U.S for the last few years, and that’s thanks in part to a large network of big-hearted volunteers. Are you interested in doing the work of building a more inclusive community? Do you believe in a Charlotte where everyone has a place to call home and the space to thrive? Us, too! Volunteer today to help us build welcome.

Volunteer Application

about volunteering

Come as a neighbor,
leave as a friend.

Every year, hundreds volunteer through RSS, putting thousands of service hours toward the Work of Welcome.

As a volunteer, you are:

Supporting program participants as they transition into their new lives in the USA
Providing support, mentorship, and resources alongside program participants and other volunteers
Bridging cultures and fostering an understanding within our community
Helping run events, workshops, and other initiatives to build welcome and belonging across the Charlotte metro area
Enriching your own life with new experiences, cross-cultural insights, and lifelong friendships
Educating yourself through trainings such as our free 30-minute Refugee 101 class

No experience working alongside refugees and other immigrants? No problem! We offer training and support for all our volunteers to help you feel confident and equipped in your role.

getting started

Become a volunteer
in 5 easy steps:

1.

Fill out a volunteer application.

2.

Attend an orientation session on Zoom (we’ll send an email invite within 48 hours of receiving your application - make sure to check your spam!).

3.

Complete a survey and a background check.

4.

Choose a volunteer role that aligns with your skills and interests.

5.

Get started as an RSS volunteer!

volunteer FAQ

Questions?
Answers.

What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for individuals?

We have individual volunteer opportunities in all of our program areas during the week. Program areas include the Workforce & Artisan Programs, the Mentor Programs, the Youth Education Programs, the Food & Community Information Programs, the Community Navigation Programs, and special events.

Do you have volunteer opportunities for groups?

Great question! Occasionally we have in-person opportunities for groups through special events and workshops. Collection drives, such as sourcing fresh produce for the Park & Pick Market or items for RSS Welcome Kits, are a great way for groups to get involved. For more information about current group volunteer opportunities, please email us.

What if I can’t volunteer on-site during the week?

No problem! We have special weekend events throughout the year and will send out emails with sign-up opportunities for those. We also have weekend opportunities for markets and events through our Knit Together Group program. Collection drives and item donation opportunities are also always a possibility as well.

What are the requirements to volunteer?

Great news! There is no prior experience required. All in-person volunteers are required to complete a background check. Volunteers must be 18 or older to volunteer. Volunteers can also be 17 (with parental consent) or under 17 (with a parent or guardian present).

Do you accept interns?

Yes, RSS occasionally accepts interns who are 17 or older. If you are interested in an internship, please send your resume and information about your internship program requirements to info@refugeesupportservices.org.

I’d love an RSS volunteer t-shirt for myself or as a gift. Where can I get one?

Awesome! You can place orders for RSS volunteer shirts here.