By volunteering as an interviewer on October 26, you can shine a light on homelessness in Minnesota. Volunteering for the Minnesota Homeless Study is a unique volunteer opportunity centering the experiences of the people being interviewed. The participation of adults and youth experiencing homelessness gives voice and substance to the reality of homelessness in our state and helps planners, funders, and advocates in their efforts to find solutions.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct in-person interviews using a structured survey instrument. Each interview takes approximately 30 minutes using the interview form.
- Complete a 90-minute training to ensure you understand: 1) how to go through the questions, 2) how to engage with the people you are interviewing, 3) who to contact with questions.
- Go to the site leader at your location with any questions.
Qualifications:
- Interviewers must be age 21 or older.
- Volunteers must complete a 90-minute training prior to the October 26 study date (virtual or in-person options).
- Individuals or groups up to 10 welcome.
- Volunteers who speak Spanish are especially needed.
Time Commitment:
- Volunteer for one 4-hour shift on Thursday, October 26.
- You're also expected to review training materials prior, which will be sent out in early October. You can either attend an in-person 90-minute training or watch the video series online.
- Timing: You'll be scheduled based upon the availability you indicate on your application. A shift could begin in the afternoon or evening; some assignments earlier in the day may also be available if you indicate interest. Note that schedules are made based on the needs of homeless service providers participating in the study. The greater your flexibility, the more likely we'll be able to identify an assignment for you!
Location:
- Interviews take place at shelter locations throughout Minnesota, including emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, and domestic violence shelters.
- Most interviewers volunteer at sites in the Twin Cities metro.
- Openings are also available in Bemidji, Duluth, Rochester, Saint Cloud, and Leech Lake, Red Lake and White Earth Reservations.
- You will be sent your location and shift time in early October based on the preferences you indicate on your registration form.
Sign Up: