Project Homeless Connect 2011

When is Project Homeless Connect?
The date has been set for Thursday, November 17, 2011.

What is Project Homeless Connect?
Project Homeless Connect is a “one day, one stop” event that connects individuals experiencing homelessness with on-site medical care and a variety of social services.

Where is Project Homeless Connect?
Project Homeless Connect will be held in Exhibit Hall C and D at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, located at 403 N. 3rd St. in downtown Richmond. The closest entrance is at the corner of N. 5th St. and Leigh St. Signs will direct you to Exhibit Hall C and D.

What volunteer positions are available?
We are most in need of Navigators, who are responsible for guiding clients to areas where they can receive services. One of the hallmarks of Project Homeless Connect events is that each client is paired with an individual, so clients receive one-on-one attention. Being a Navigator is an amazing opportunity to get to know someone in need and make a difference in someone’s life.

There are other opportunities to serve as Greeters, Food Service volunteers, Discharge workers, and Data Entry volunteers, though these opportunities are limited. See the Volunteer Position Description for detailed volunteer descriptions.

Can I make a donation to make Project Homeless Connect possible?
To increase the personal relationship between volunteers and clients, we have made it possible for volunteers to make donations towards making Project Homeless Connect possible for each client that attends. Volunteers will be able to make donations that will go directly towards event costs like a providing the clients they are matched with a warm meal, needed resources to connect to employment opportunities and training, and needed documents like birth certificates. Please make a donation by CLICKING HERE to make Project Homeless Connect possible.

What time to I need to be there? What time will I be able to leave?
Doors will open for services at 9:00 a.m. and close at 3:00 p.m. Navigators need to arrive at 8:00 a.m. for training; see below for other volunteer times. Most volunteer shifts will end as clients leave the event, and as the day goes on, fewer volunteers will be needed.

The table below describes the specific times volunteers are needed.

Can I come late?
Please arrive at your scheduled time. Each volunteer position requires a training before the day begins. It is important to attend the training, familiarize yourself with the services offered, and be ready to fulfill your volunteer role. Navigators and Greeters should attend a training in advance if they need to be late so that they can begin helping clients right away.

What if I have to leave early?
If you must leave early, that is fine. Make sure the person leading your area knows that you plan to leave early. If you are a Navigator who needs to leave early, you may need to find another volunteer to finish helping your with client.
The number of people seeking services goes down throughout the day - many volunteers will be able to leave earlier than 3:00 p.m.

Do I have to come to training?
Training is mandatory for volunteers. Because of the one-on-one nature of the event, it is important for you to have an understanding of your role and the services offered so that you can help clients as much as possible.

When and where will trainings be held?
Advance trainings will be announced close to the date of the event. Trainings will be offered in November at various locations throughout the Greater Richmond community. Two trainings will be scheduled at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The first training will be held on Wednesday, November 16th at the Greater Richmond Convention Center at 5:30 pm. A Navigator training and general information training will also occur at 8:00 am on the morning of Project Homeless Connect - November 17th, 2011.

Can I bring my child or teenager to volunteer with me?
On the day of the event, all volunteers must be 18 years or older. However, volunteers of all ages are needed to help sort donations the evening before the event from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

What should I bring to the event?
Bring ONLY what you need. Do not bring valuables. No secure storage is available for volunteers’ belongings. If it is a cold day, we will provide limited storage for heavy coats, but can accept no responsibility for items.

What should I wear on the day of the event?
Wear comfortable, casual clothing; sneakers or other comfortable shoes are recommended. Volunteer event t-shirts will be provided for all volunteers.

Where do I park?
Parking is available in the Greater Richmond Convention Center parking lot at Marshall St. and 3rd St. for $6. There is limited availability in other lots in the area for $5, and street parking may also be available. All volunteers must be responsible for their own parking costs; carpooling is strongly suggested.

Will lunch be provided? Coffee? Snacks?
Yes, there will be enough food for both clients and volunteers to eat a hot meal. Coffee will be available in the morning, and snacks and water will be available throughout the day.