Here are some of the most common volunteer questions.
If you don’t find the information you are looking for on this page, please email volunteer@opencupboard.org or call 651-413-2685.
How do I fill out a volunteer application?
You can fill out an application through our volunteer platform, Volunteer Hub at https://opencupboard.volunteerhub.com/vv2/
How do I sign up to volunteer?
We are now recruiting volunteers to help us fill shifts for our programs! To sign up for a shift, just log into Volunteer Hub.
You can see a step-by-step guide for how to sign up here.
When signing up for a volunteer shift, be sure to check the shift title for important information about where you are signing up. The shift title will contain the information on what you will be doing, as well as the address, so make sure to check out the location and job information in the title.
Is there a volunteer orientation?
Yes, there is an optional volunteer orientation for new volunteers. During the orientation, new volunteers will receive a tour, learn about all of Open Cupboard’s programs, and get an overview of the most common volunteer roles. We will also cover some of the basics of volunteering at the food shelf.
You will need to complete an application before you can sign up for our orientation. You can complete the application here. To sign up for the orientation, log into Volunteer Hub (our volunteer platform) and look for a shift called “Volunteer Orientation.”
All volunteers are asked to watch a short orientation video which you can find here.
What are each position’s responsibilities?
We offer a variety of positions for Today’s Harvest. Please note that these are not the full list of responsibilities of each shift, but are designed to show what is generally expected.
Today’s Harvest Market Prep: helps set up the market before clients arrive, sorts through produce, deli, dairy, meat, and bakery.
Today’s Harvest Market Restocking: helps restock the market while it is open, restocks fridges, produce tables, freezers, and bakery sections.
Today’s Harvest Market Shopping Assistant: helps clients shop through the store and aids in the check out process, explains how Today’s Harvest works.
How do I know which location I am signing up for?
When you sign up for a volunteer shift, each position will have the location listed. Please be sure to note which location you are signing up for.
You will also receive a reminder email 2 days before your volunteer shift, including the location and directions for your volunteer site.
Additionally, our 8264 4th St N, Oakdale MN site provides our Open Cupboard Drive-Up program. You will need to make sure the position you sign up for has “Today’s Harvest” in the name.
How long do volunteer shifts last?
Most shifts last about 2 hours. You will be able to take a break if you need to.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
You must be age 15 or older (with parent permission if you are under 18) to volunteer at Today’s Harvest.
What are the physical requirements?
Most volunteer shifts require you to be on your feet on a concrete floor for at least two hours. You should be able to lift 20-25 pounds.
If you have any limitations but are still interested in volunteering, contact volunteer@opencupboard.org and we can find a volunteer role that works for you.
How often do I need to volunteer?
We ask all volunteers to commit to volunteering at least twice a month or more.
Volunteering at Today’s Harvest involves some training, and sometimes it can take a day or so for volunteers to become completely comfortable with the process. Also, the process may change, so volunteering more often helps you stay up to date on how things work.
What should I wear when I volunteer?
All volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes for safety. You should dress comfortably for your shift in clothes that you can move around in. You can find our complete dress code here.
Do you have one-time or group volunteer opportunities available?
We do have opportunities for groups with 8 or less people. To learn more about group volunteering at Today’s Harvest email volunteer@opencupboard.org.
Do you accept court ordered volunteers?
We do not allow volunteers who have committed violent, sexual, or theft-related offenses in the past or for current court ordered service to volunteer. Others will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
You can fill out an application through our volunteer platform, Volunteer Hub at https://opencupboard.volunteerhub.com/vv2/. Please check the box indicating that you are completing court ordered community service in the application and complete the form with details regarding required service hours.
Failure to notify us of your court ordered service hours will result in 0 hours reported, regardless of how many hours you have volunteered.
If you have any questions, please reach out to volunteer@opencupboard.org.