Kitchen Support for Homeless Youth Drop-In Center (age 23+) Referral

What if you could use your kitchen skills to create stability and hope for youth experiencing homelessness? About the Program At New Avenues for Youth, our mission is simple: to end youth homelessness. Our Drop‑In Center is often the first place a young person turns when they have nowhere else to go. We’re looking for supportive, reliable volunteers who enjoy working in a kitchen to help prepare and serve meals that do more than feed – they build trust and open doors. How You’ll Impact Our Mission Every meal you serve is an opportunity to prevent youth from becoming homeless by connecting them to stability, and to help those already experiencing homelessness move toward safety and self‑sufficiency. The kitchen is where trust begins. When youth feel welcomed and fed, they are far more likely to stay, ask for help, and access the services that can change their path. About the Project Be the Reason a Youth Smiles Today! Imagine a young person walking in from the streets, weary and hungry. The first thing they experience is a warm meal and a friendly face – both made possible by you. At New Avenues for Youth, our Drop‑In Center is a safe haven for at‑risk and homeless youth. We’re looking for supportive, reliable volunteers who enjoy working in a kitchen to help prepare and serve meals that nourish both body and spirit. The Role: Kitchen Support Volunteer You’ll work alongside our Kitchen Specialist to bring the day’s meal plan to life – from prep and cooking to serving youth with dignity and cleaning up at the end. Shifts: At least one shift per month. Monday‑Friday: 8 am‑10 am / 12 pm‑2 pm / 4 pm‑6 pm. Saturday: 11:30 am‑2 pm / 3:30 pm‑6 pm. Location: Drop‑In Day Services Center, 314 SW 9th Ave, Portland, OR. Key Responsibilities Prepare and serve meals according to the daily meal plan. Wash dishes and clean the kitchen. Store leftovers and check in with staff for updates. What We’re Looking For Dependability – you show up consistently. Basic cooking skills – comfortable in a kitchen. Patience & resilience – stays calm in a fast‑paced environment. Non‑judgmental approach – aligns with our mission of acceptance. Why It Matters For youth facing homelessness, a meal is often the first step toward safety and trust. By showing up with consistency and care, you help create the foundation for young people to access the support and services they need. What Volunteers Gain Hands‑on kitchen experience in a professional yet community‑focused setting, working alongside experienced staff. A deeper understanding of youth homelessness and the supportive services that help young people rebuild their lives. The satisfaction of direct impact – seeing the immediate difference a warm meal and a welcoming presence makes in a young person’s day. Connection to a mission‑driven community of staff and volunteers dedicated to ending youth homelessness. Valuable skills in patience, adaptability, and trauma‑informed communication. Project Requirements Age: Volunteers must be 23+. Training: Orientation, role‑specific training, and ongoing support provided. Next steps: Food handler’s card, background check, and Boundaries Training. Ready to help? Contact Arielle at View email address on click.appcast.io to schedule a brief one‑on‑one and get started. Notices Referral Opportunity: This opportunity is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. After you express interest, the partner will contact you with next steps and confirmation details. Hands On Greater Portland Hours: Your hours may not appear in your Hands On account because this is a partner‑managed opportunity. Population Served: Families, Homeless. Stay connected! Sign up for our e‑newsletter #J-18808-Ljbffr Hands On Portland