United Way Seeks Volunteers to End and Prevent Homelessness
Valley of the Sun United Way is seeking volunteers to help end and prevent homelessness during a July 18 Project Connect event to be held at Grace Community Church in Tempe.
“Volunteers play a key role in ending homelessness as guest guides at Project Connect events,” said Amy Schwabenlender, Vice President of Community Impact for Valley of the Sun United Way. “Volunteers also gain a rewarding experience, working one-on-one to transform individual lives.”
On any given day, there are thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County, many with children or who are veterans. Some are experiencing homelessness for the first time due to a job loss, foreclosure or unexpected medical bill. United Way works with community partners to bring monthly Project Connect events to locations throughout the Valley. The one-day events bring more than 30 health and human service providers to respond to the critical needs of individuals facing homelessness: from basic needs including food, clothing, showers and wellness checks, to connections to employment and shelter for long-term life transformation.
Volunteers can work morning, afternoon or a day-long shift. They are provided breakfast and lunch, and have the opportunity to work one-to-one with the individuals whose lives they are touching.
When: Thursday, July 18
Volunteer Shifts: 7 a.m. – noon; noon – 4 p.m.; 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Grace Community Church, 1200 E. Southern Ave., Tempe
Why: Homelessness impacts our entire community. Project Connect is a big part of a regional solution to end homelessness. It is a national model which changes individual lives and will transform the entire community.
How: Sign up at vsuw.org/volunteer or contact us at volunteer@vsuw.org.
About Valley of the Sun United Way
Valley of the Sun United Way works to ensure children and youth succeed, end hunger and homelessness and increase the financial stability of individuals and families in Maricopa County. Through programs such as Project Connect and the development of Permanent Supportive Housing partnerships, United Way is committed to end chronic homelessness in our community. For more information, visit www.vsuw.org.