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Making a Difference in the Community: Volunteering at Overflow

Are you looking to get involved in the Ames community? Interested in meaningful work that will directly impact others in a positive way? We invite you to volunteer with Overflow Thrift Store!

 

Getting Started

The first step is to fill out an online application located on our website. Just click on the “Volunteer” tab on the upper right side of the home screen or use this link.

Located on the Volunteer page are three options for how you would like to volunteer: as an individual, a group, or if you are looking to earn service hours. Once you click one of these options, you will be prompted to fill out a form with your name, availability, general contact information, and preference on which store you would like to volunteer at (you are welcome to volunteer at more than one if you would like!)

 

Orientation and Training

Next, our volunteer coordinator will email you to schedule an orientation; orientations are fairly quick! They involve a tour around whichever location you choose to meet at, a quick run-through of our departments, and a discussion of what you are interested in or skilled at related to the tasks we offer. 

Next is a training session in which you will learn how to volunteer in the department you’re interested or most comfortable in. This training can take place right after your orientation or can be scheduled at a later date.

Once you’ve been trained, you will be shown our volunteer portal so you can begin signing up for shifts! We do not require a consistent schedule for volunteering- it's all dependent on you and your schedule. We're happy to have you at your convenience!

 

Benefits of Volunteering at Overflow

1. Your volunteer schedule is very flexible; it's all according to what works for you and how often you'd like to come in!

2. You are a vital part of our philanthropic work. When you volunteer, your work directly translates into Overflow's sales, which is then funneled into the organizations we support- you can trust that your time and energy are helping to support those in need! Last year, some projects Overflow funded included:

  • New security systems at Martha's House of Hope and Wings of Refuge
  • Meals and rent for residents at Butterfly Freedom House and Matthew 25 House
  • A water well and solar panels at a ministry site in Zimbabwe
  • Gift cards for families in need at Ames and Gilbert schools

...and so much more! If you want to read more about projects Overflow has supported click here.

3. There's a place for you here! Whether you’re a student, work a 9-5, or are enjoying retirement, you are needed and appreciated. Some volunteer opportunities we have include:

  • Stocking product
  • Hanging clothing
  • Register shifts
  • Donation/greeting shifts
  • Organizing departments
  • Processing linens
  • Testing electronics

4. You get to form community here. As a small business, we care about the people our organization supports as well as the people who are a part of our mission. When you start volunteering at Overflow, you will find that we are a close-knit team who strives to love others as Christ loves us.

We hope you join us; you are always welcome here.

 

Mari Russo, Marketing Coordinator at Overflow Thrift Store