Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of answers to some frequently asked questions about volunteering. If you don’t find what you are looking for, please contact your local Salvation Army for more information about volunteering.
Is there anything special I should know before I arrive to volunteer?
There are many policies and procedures you should know about before volunteering. Please read our Volunteer Policies & Procedures prior to your shift.
Do I need to apply to be a volunteer?
For specific opportunities, a short application form may need to be completed before you can be a volunteer. It provides details about things like who to notify in case of an emergency, what type of volunteer work you are most interested in doing and when you are available. You will be notified if an application form needs completed for the volunteer opportunity you select.
Can I sign up for volunteer opportunities online?
For some opportunities, an option to sign up online is included in the description. If there is not a link to sign up online, Twin Cities volunteers may use the Volunteer Interest Form to indicate your areas of interest. A volunteer coordinator will contact you to provide more information. For all other areas in Minnesota and North Dakota, please contact your local Salvation Army for a list of current opportunities.
I signed up to be a bell ringer online, so why do I have to create a separate account for other opportunities?
We currently have two different volunteer databases – one for bell ringing and another for all other volunteer opportunities. Even if you have signed up for a shift in the bell ringing database, you will still need to create an account for the other database before you can sign up for other opportunities. Thanks for your patience.
I tried to sign up online, but I don’t know if it worked?
When you are using one of our online volunteer databases, you are not fully scheduled for an opportunity until you receive a confirmation email. If you have a problem completing your sign up online, contact your local Salvation Army so we can walk you through it.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
Some positions are for adults only, but other jobs can be done by kids or families with young children. Contact your local Salvation Army for help finding the perfect opportunity.
Are there special policies and procedures for volunteers under age 18?
Yes. Youth under the age of 18 must have written permission to volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Policies & Procedures for specific details about youth volunteering.
Does The Salvation Army have opportunities for large volunteer groups?
Yes. Large groups are welcome, but the number of people is limited by the setting and work that needs to be done. For example, our shelter in downtown Minneapolis serves hundreds of meals each day, but the kitchen can only accommodate six volunteers at a time. Special opportunities like our Christmas Toy Shops have openings for larger groups. Please contact your local Salvation Army for help scheduling a group opportunity.
What is done to ensure the safety of volunteers and the clients they work with?
The Salvation Army takes safety very seriously. All staff are required to attend an extensive training program called Safe From Harm to ensure a safety. Volunteers who will be in a one-on-one situation, or will be working with children, seniors or the physically challenged are required to have a background check and special training.