Volunteer at PATH

Thank you for considering PATH Inc. for your career! At PATH, we celebrate diversity, supporting and thriving on it to benefit our employees and communities. We're proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Employment decisions, including hiring and promotion, are based on merit, performance, and business needs, regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, age, nationality, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, veteran, or HIV status. 

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Are you interested in being a volunteer? Click here to complete the application.

Training Overview:

Training is fully remote and lasts 4 weeks (12 hours per week, or 48 hours total).

• 5 hours of lessons and study, completed on your own schedule
• 6 hours of Call Center practice, completed in two shifts of 3 hours each, which you must sign up for in advance
• 1 hour check-in with role plays, completed with trainers on Friday

A new class begins on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.

What if I get a call I can't handle?

While our training program teaches you how to handle human service crises, knowing there is 24/7 professional backup is comforting. Competent, trained professionals are available to help.

Are there any requirements?

You must be 18 or older. Due to the significant training investment, PATH requires a commitment of at least 120 volunteer hours after training, which typically takes about six months, longer for students on break or during summer.

What is the volunteer commitment? 

We ask for one 3-hour shift per week and one overnight (11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) per month, with flexible scheduling. If you're a single parent, over 60, or have a disability, discuss any overnight concerns with the staff.

I am a college student. Can I get credit for volunteering?

If you are looking for an internship, please check with your internship coordinator to be sure that PATH meets the program requirements.

Where do we meet for training?

Training is fully remote with online check-ins via Teams or Zoom.

What does PATH look like for a prospective volunteer?

Good listening skills, open-minded attitudes, a desire to help others, time for the training process, and commitment to the cause help volunteers excel in the call center.

When is the next class?

Classes begin on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month. We can confirm the next available class when we process your application, if different.

For immediate access to our services, click on 988 for mental health support, 211 for community resources and support, or visit our Homelessness Services page for assistance.