Welcome to Making a Difference

After your application is reviewed, you will receive information on our welcome orientation, tailored to the areas you are interested in supporting. 

Yes! You can turn down any offer of upcoming event. 

We understand that life happens. Please provide as much notice as possible if you need to miss a shift. If you hold a leadership role, you will receive instructions on who to notify for coverage. We appreciate your help and aim to be respectful of the facilities we support.

Absolutely, this is ALWAYS encouraged!!! 

Conflicts and concerns are handled with discretion and sensitivity. Please report any issues to the Leadership or Operating Members of L.A.A.F., promptl! Each situation will be addressed with personalized care, mediation, and thorough review to ensure the comfort & protection of all involved.

Tasks will vary per each project,  below is a list of some of the main focuses we are in need of volunteers for-

NOTE:  

**means this may require background check / references

***means this may require confirmation and proof of credentials + possibly a local background check 

• **Administration
• Crafting / Art
• ***Cosmetologists, Nail Techs, Massage Thereapists (Beauty Industy Professionals)
• ***Teachers
• ***Child Care Professionals
• **Socializing / Games
• Reading 
• **Cooking
• Cleaning / Organizing
• Physical Labor 
• Supervision
• Animal Specialists
• Animal Lovers
• Marketing
• Think Tank
• Driving / Travel / Delivery (up to date drivers license, vehicle insurance and registration is required for this)
• **Fundraising
• Event Planning
• **Community Outreach
• ***Education/Tutoring 
• Environmental Projects
• ***Healthcare Services
• And more...

L.A.A.F. is eager to extend our support to a wide range of establishments, including but not limited to:

Note: * indicates services provided by licensed professionals only.

Our Support Includes:

Resident Engagement Activities: Socializing, reading, playing games, hosting group activities, and art events.

Personal Care Services*: Pampering/grooming and gentle hand massages.

Special Events: Themed festivities for residents.

Staff Support: Limited assistance with residents (e.g., drink refills, tidying rooms, communication for immobile residents), event coordination/planning, soft marketing, program development, recruiting volunteers,  Acquiring and distribution of Donated Items, and fundraising efforts.

Establishments we support:

• Assisted Living Facilities
• Senior Living Communities
• Special Needs Facilities
• Nursing Homes
• Rehabilitation Centers
• Adult Day Care Centers
• Hospice Care Facilities
• Community Centers / facilities / parks
• Veterans Homes
• Memory Care Units
• Animal Facilities / Shelters
• Local Farms
• Local Start up Small Businesses
• and more

Our food-related support includes:

Serving, cleanup, cooking, drop-offs, pickups, food preparation,  Acquiring and distribution of Donated Items, and more.

Food-related establishments we support:

• Food Pantries
• Food Drives
• Donation Drives
• and more

Our support for families and individuals includes:

Job seeking assistance, resume planning and preparation, emotional/social support, finding childcare, researching legal support,  Acquiring and distribution of Donated Items, and planning life events.

Personal Care Services*: Pampering/grooming.

Staff and Administrator Support: Event coordination/planning, marketing, program development, recruiting volunteers, and fundraising efforts.

Establishments we support:

• Family Centers
• Family Planning Facilities
• Women's Shelters
• Men's Shelters
• Foster Care Programs
• Children's Services/Shelters
• Crisis Centers
• Homeless Shelters
• Rehabilitation Centers
• Correctional Facilities
• and more

We are open to exploring new opportunities to serve. If you are aware of any facilities or organizations that could benefit from our support, please contact us. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of many. 

Yes, there are specific requirements and limitations for volunteer work to be officially recognized. Here are some key points to consider:

• Definition of Volunteer Work: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a volunteer is an individual who performs hours of service for civic, charitable, or humanitarian reasons, without promise,      expectation, or receipt of compensation.
• Nature of Work: The work performed should be typically associated with volunteer activities and should not displace regular employees. It should be less than full-time and truly voluntary, without any pressure or coercion.
• Compensation: Volunteers should not receive any compensation. While small tokens of appreciation (like gift cards or nominal stipends) are sometimes allowed, they should not be substantial enough to be considered wages.
• Record-Keeping: Nonprofits should keep accurate records of volunteer hours and activities to ensure compliance with regulations and to properly acknowledge volunteer contributions.
• Legal Considerations: Nonprofits must ensure that their volunteer programs comply with federal, state, and local laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Misclassification of volunteers as employees can lead to legal issues and penalties.

For someone needing or required to donate hours of volunteer work, it's important to choose a nonprofit that aligns with their interests and ensures that their volunteer efforts are properly documented and recognized.

We let our volunteers know what upcming projects are available, and simpy schedule each volunteer based on their specified availability. Here’s how our volunteering arrangement can be beneficial:

• Flexibility for Volunteers: By allowing our volunteers the flexibility to choose their hours and contribute when they, we hope to increases the likelihood of participation. We value and appreciate all volunteers time, this is why we work hard to always accommodate their schedules and commitments, making it easier for them to balance volunteering with other responsibilities.
• Project-Based Volunteering: Volunteers can be assigned specific projects or tasks that can be worked on independently. This way, they can contribute meaningfully without the need for constant supervision.
• Skills Utilization: Volunteers can use their specific skills and expertise to help with planning and organizing. This not only benefits the nonprofit but also allows volunteers to engage in meaningful work that they are passionate about.
• Remote Volunteering: There are many organizational and planning tasks that can be done remotely. This widens the pool of potential volunteers who may not be able to physically attend but can still contribute.
• Clear Communication: By setting clear expectations and regular check-ins, helps ensure that everyone is on the same page. Tools like project management software is made available for tracking progress and collaboration.
• Recognition: We aim to always acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of volunteers. This can be through certificates, letters of appreciation, or public recognition in the      nonprofit’s communications.

If the nonprofit sets up a system where volunteers can see available tasks and pick what fits their schedules, it can create a highly effective and engaged volunteer community.

Volunteering can offer a multitude of benefits beyond the intrinsic joy of helping others. Here are some key advantages:

• Skill Development: Volunteering often involves tasks that can help you develop new skills or enhance existing ones. For example, you might improve your leadership, project management, or      communication skills.
• Career Advancement: Volunteering can provide valuable experience that can enhance your resume and make you stand out to potential employers. It also allows you to explore different career paths and industries.
• Networking Opportunities: Volunteering connects you with like-minded individuals, professionals, and organizations. Building these      relationships can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable      contacts in your field.
• Personal Growth: Volunteering exposes you to new experiences and challenges, fostering personal growth. It can increase your self-confidence, sense of purpose, and overall well-being.
• Health Benefits: Studies have shown that volunteering can lead to improved physical and mental health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, and provide a sense of fulfillment.
• Community Involvement: Volunteering helps you feel more connected to your community. It allows you to contribute to local      causes, understand community needs, and make a positive impact.
• Cultural Awareness: Volunteering in diverse settings exposes you to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. This can broaden your worldview and increase your cultural sensitivity.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working with others towards a      common goal can enhance your teamwork and collaboration skills. It teaches you the importance of cooperation and mutual support.
• Recognition and Gratitude: Volunteering efforts are often      recognized and appreciated by the organizations and communities you serve. This acknowledgment can be incredibly rewarding and motivating.

Yes, there are several government benefits related to volunteer work, particularly in terms of taxes and loans:

• Tax Deductions: While the value of your time and services isn't tax-deductible, you can deduct certain out-of-pocket expenses related to volunteering. These include travel expenses (like mileage, parking, and tolls), supplies, uniforms (if they're not suitable for everyday use), and other related costs1. You'll need to keep detailed records and receipts to claim these deductions.
• Education Awards: Programs like AmeriCorps offer education awards to volunteers, which can help cover the cost of tuition and other educational expenses. However, these awards are considered      taxable income, so you'll need to report them on your tax return.
• Loan Forbearance: Some volunteer programs, such as AmeriCorps, offer loan forbearance options, allowing volunteers to postpone loan payments while they serve. This can provide significant financial relief for those with student loans.
• Tax-Exempt Status: Contributions made to qualified nonprofit organizations (§501(c)(3) organizations) are tax-deductible for donors, which can encourage more people to support these organizations through volunteering and donations.
• Supportive Services: Programs like the National Senior Service Corps provide supportive services and reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses, which are not included in taxable income.

By volunteering, individuals can enrich their lives while making a positive difference in the lives of others. It’s a win-win situation that fosters a strong sense of community and personal fulfillment. These benefits can make volunteering more financially manageable and rewarding.