Volunteer at HIPS
Applications for our direct service volunteer positions (e.g., the outreach van shifts, hotline, etc.) are currently closed. The next application cycle will open up in the summer with training beginning in August 2023 (exact date TBA).
In the interim, we invite folks interested in volunteering to apply to our new low-barrier volunteer program. Low-barrier volunteer activities will include packing supplies, picking up donations, and event support, amongst other activities. All applicants must complete a mandatory six-hour orientation on May 7, 2023 from 11am - 5pm. Please submit a brief application below if you are interested and available to attend the orientation!
In the interim, we invite folks interested in volunteering to apply to our new low-barrier volunteer program. Low-barrier volunteer activities will include packing supplies, picking up donations, and event support, amongst other activities. All applicants must complete a mandatory six-hour orientation on May 7, 2023 from 11am - 5pm. Please submit a brief application below if you are interested and available to attend the orientation!
Volunteer Positions
Mobile Service Van: Overnight & Daytime Outreach - PROOF OF COVID VACCINATION REQUIRED
Hotline -
Community Engagement (Non-Direct Service) -
The Chosen Few Volunteer -
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Position Description: The HIPS Mobile Services Van serves as a “mini HIPS office on wheels”. The van does street-based outreach, needle exchange, condom distribution, and harm reduction counseling around DC. Our primary need is for volunteers on overnight weekend shifts, which go from 10 P.M. – 7 A.M. Friday and Saturday nights. Our daytime team is out daily and has some openings for volunteers on weekend shifts.
Hotline -
- Position Description: The HIPS hotline is a low-volume, 24/hr support service that provides harm reduction counseling, safety planning, crisis management, health information, and referrals, as well as support to DC’s LGBTQ community through the HIPS Hotline. It also helps link clients to our continuum of services such as: testing (HIV, HCV, & STD), harm reduction based needle exchange services, drop in service referrals for showers and laundry, mental health support and counseling, support and life skills groups, as well as HIPS crisis response team.
Community Engagement (Non-Direct Service) -
- Position Description: HIPS has fundraising, advocacy, tabling and events opportunities.
- Required Training: None.
- Skills & experience: None required, but previous fundraising and advocacy experience is helpful.
- Commitment level: Availability for 1-2 days per month is preferred.
The Chosen Few Volunteer -
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Assist with fundraising, tabling at events, and advocacy outreach opportunities
- Create and pass out flyers for events
- Assist with canvassing and obtaining signatures for campaigns and interested persons
- Assist with phone calls and emails
- Assist with community clean-ups and outreach
- Assist with advocacy opportunities in the community around the War On Drugs, the need for Decriminalization of Drugs and those who use them, and community safety issues
- Must be able to multitask (at times in a fast paced environment)
- Must be willing to engage with community members
- Must be able to remain positive and have a sense of humor
- Must be passionate about The Chosen Few’s mission and vision
- Must be willing to attend an onboarding session before volunteering begins
