Volunteer | Porchlight Community

It Starts With You

There are countless ways to contribute your time, energy, and talents as a volunteer at Porchlight Community Services. Whether you’re an individual or part of a group, your efforts are vital in advancing sustainability, food security, and community building. We’re always looking for volunteers with diverse skill sets—from administrative and project management expertise to hands-on tasks like picking up food donations, restocking shelves, assisting in the office, or coordinating events. Every contribution helps us expand our programs and better serve the needs of our community.

Volunteer Opportunities

Our team is on-site Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. When scheduling your volunteer time, we kindly ask that you plan to stay for the full shift.

Daily Operations

Support our operations during non-client hours with tasks that keep our pantry running smoothly:

Office Tasks: Manage donation intake and respond to online inquiries.
Organizing and Stocking: Sort and restock items to ensure shelves are ready.
Sanitation: Help maintain a clean and safe workspace by sanitizing surfaces.

Event Set Up

Help organize and manage the setup of our community market to ensure a smooth, efficient experience for all.

Setup and Organization: Plan and arrange items for easy access and display.
Leadership Role: Guide and oversee other volunteers during the setup process. Training provided.

Event Hosting

Provide personalized assistance to community members as they shop, ensuring a positive and welcoming experience.

Personalized Guidance: Support individuals while they select items.
Maintain Stock and Cleanliness: Help restock shelves and keep the space tidy.
Create a Welcoming Environment: Foster an inclusive atmosphere for all.

Food Rescue

Help recover and redistribute food by collecting donations from local restaurants and grocery stores.

Flexible Schedule: Morning, afternoon, and occasional evening pickups available.

Have other talents you'd like to contribute?

If you have other talents to share that you think would be beneficial to our mission, please get in touch with us via email

*We have limited staff volunteers, please allow 24 hrs for a response.

Returning Volunteer? Click below to schedule yourself.

Need to Capture your Food Rescue data?

Capture Food Rescue log

Why Financial Support Matters for Volunteering

At Porchlight Community Services, volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission. On a good day, we might have just two staffers supporting the efforts of our incredible community members. Your financial support helps ensure these opportunities are impactful and well-coordinated.

Why Financial Contributions Matter

While your time is invaluable, financial contributions make it possible to:

Create Meaningful Experiences: Cover the costs of coordinating events and volunteer activities.
Sustain Volunteer Programs: Provide the resources needed to organize and expand opportunities.
Maximize Impact: Ensure every volunteer effort drives positive change in the community.

Be a Part of the Change

Volunteering with Porchlight is a rewarding way to make a difference, and your financial support ensures these opportunities can continue growing. Here's how to get involved:

Volunteer Your Time: Explore opportunities to support our programs directly.
Make a Contribution: Donate today to sustain volunteer-led initiatives.
Share the Mission: Encourage others to join the Porchlight community.

We can create a stronger, more equitable community through volunteerism and support.

Volunteer Sign-Up Workflow

Step 1: Choose Your Volunteer Type

Regular Individual Volunteers:
- No form or fee required. Book your volunteer shift directly through our booking page or below!
Court-Ordered or School-Required Volunteers:
- Requires hour tracking or paperwork processing.
- Select Verified Community Service Membership
- Complete the volunteer form and book your next shift!
Group Volunteers:
- $100 one-time fee for groups of 1-10 volunteers.
- $200 one-time fee for groups of 11 or more volunteers.
- Complete the Group Volunteer Form: Provide your group’s details, pay the fee, and we’ll contact you to schedule your group’s volunteer day.

Step 2: Book Your Shift

Regular Volunteers: Directly book a shift on our booking calendar below!
Court-Ordered or School-Required Volunteers: Booking link provided after membership selection and form submission. Can also book on our booking calendar below!
Group Volunteers: We will reach out with scheduling options after your form and payment are received.

Membership Types

Verified Community Service
5$
A one-time donation supports administrative costs and volunteer coordination, with a verification letter provided upon completing your hours.
Valid sa loob ng 6 buwan
Group Volunteers (1-10 People)
100$
For groups of 1-10 volunteers, a one-time $100 donation supports volunteer coordination and covers administrative tasks.
Large Group Volunteers (11+ People)
200$
For groups of 11 or more volunteers, a one-time $200 donation supports volunteer coordination and covers administrative tasks.

Iskedyul ng Klase

How does this work?

Our distribution is organized like a grocery store, with items arranged for an easy shopping experience during your dedicated time. Available groceries depend on what has been rescued and typically include several bags of essentials. To ensure safety and efficiency in our limited space, we kindly ask that only one adult per household shops at a time and that children remain outside the shopping area. Thank you for your understanding!
I don’t live in your area or am not considered low income. Can I still participate?

Absolutely! Our program is open to everyone, regardless of income or location. While our mission focuses on supporting low-income families and reducing food insecurity, we welcome anyone who wants to participate and support our efforts. Your contribution helps fund the FREE food access we provide to low-income neighbors and supports our mutual aid partnerships. By joining us, you’re not only helping your own family but also making a meaningful difference in the community. Thank you for being part of our mission!
Is there a fee to participate?

Yes, there is a contribution to participate. Porchlight Community Services was founded by a solo parent who recognized the need for accessible food resources. Without these contributions, we would not be able to operate. Your contributions are what fund the FREE food access provided to low-income neighbors through our Food Basket Program and mutual aid partnerships. They also cover the costs of food recovery efforts, ensuring that surplus food is redirected to families in need. By contributing, you’re directly supporting your family while empowering others in the community to access critical resources at no cost. Thank you for making it possible to provide these essential services and create a meaningful impact!
Do you carry allergy-friendly food or food for medically restricted diets?

As part of our mission, we strive to provide food for community members with dietary restrictions, including autoimmune conditions, allergies, or intolerances. Through our FoodSHARE Program, we aim to make items like gluten-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, and plant-based foods accessible. However, as a food rescue organization, we cannot guarantee availability or carry the full variety found in grocery stores. We appreciate your understanding and encourage participants to check regularly for new items.
What can I bring to the event?

We encourage low-waste living and kindly ask you to bring your own bags, containers, or Ziplocs for bulk items such as dry goods, loose grains, or liquid oils. Insulated bags or totes are recommended for perishable items that require refrigeration. On average, you'll need about six shopping bags, including two insulated totes, and containers for bakery items or treats.
I am unable to attend; can I get a refund or credit?

We understand that plans can change and kindly ask that you notify us as soon as possible. Since all proceeds are used to secure the event, food, and overhead expenses, we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or carry-forwards. Our distribution is carefully planned based on the number of participants, and we cannot take items back once allocated. If you’re unable to attend, you are welcome to have someone else participate on your behalf. Thank you for your understanding and support of our mission!