Volunteer FAQs
Volunteer FAQS
All volunteers must register ahead of time; we do not currently accept any walk-ins. Volunteer shifts operate on a first come, first serve basis. If your desired volunteer shift is full, you can add yourself to the waitlist and a member of our team will contact you if a spot opens up.
HOW DO I SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER?
There are many opportunities to get involved! We offer volunteer opportunities throughout the week, in-person and virtual, and all across Los Angeles County.
To sign up to volunteer as an individual, register here.
To sign up as a group, please visit our Volunteer Group page.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY VOLUNTEER PROJECT?
All volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes; no heels, open-toe shoes, or sandals are allowed inside the warehouse. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing – such as jeans, t-shirt, and tennis shoes.
We are no longer requiring volunteers to wear a mask; however, it is strongly recommended. Masks are available on-site for volunteers who would like to wear one.
Do I need to fill out any waiver forms prior to volunteering?
Yes. Upon registering for a volunteer shift online, all volunteers will be prompted to fill out our waiver forms.
Can I complete court assigned community service hours at your facility?
Unfortunately, the Food Bank nor its partner agencies are receiving court-ordered volunteers at this time.
CAN I ARRIVE LATE FOR A VOLUNTEER SHIFT?
We depend heavily on the reliability of our volunteers. Late arrivals are disruptive to the operations of events. If you are running more than 45 minutes late please schedule another shift you will be able to fully attend.
Can I bring food for my group?
You may bring food for your team, but please keep in mind that food and drinks are not allowed inside the warehouse – only in the designated break area. The break area is a shared space and cannot be reserved for private parties.
Can I bring donations with me on the day of my volunteer project?
Yes, please see our Best Foods to Donate guideline for a list of desirable items.
How far in advance should I sign up?
Individual volunteer shifts operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. If your desired volunteer shift is full, you can add yourself to the waitlist and a member of our team will contact you if a spot opens up.
For group volunteering, please contact us 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
Are there volunteer opportunities on Sundays?
We are closed on Sundays; however, we have plenty of volunteer opportunities throughout the week from Tuesday to Saturday. To learn more, please visit our Volunteer page.
Do you offer any virtual volunteer opportunities?
At the moment, we are not providing virtual volunteer opportunities.
Can I bring my service animal to my volunteer shift?
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are allowed at the Food Bank. Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability. Service animals must be under the control of their handler at all times.
I have additional questions that are not answered here. Who can I contact?
To learn more about becoming a Food Bank volunteer and/or to have questions answered that are not addressed on this FAQ page, please contact our Volunteer Department.
- Ana Martinez (Sr. Director of Volunteer Services & Partnerships) – amartinez@lafoodbank.org