Volunteer Opportunities
Our work depends on people who are willing to step forward and make a difference. From event support at the HAW2.0 Awareness Walk to hands‑on service at Safe Harbor, volunteers help create safety, dignity, and connection for those experiencing homelessness in Manistee County.
Volunteer Opportunities - HAW2.0
The HAW2.0 Homelessness Awareness Walk depends on volunteers who bring energy, compassion, and community spirit. Whether you enjoy welcoming people, helping with logistics, or supporting walkers along the route, there’s a meaningful place for you to serve.
Ways to Help
- Greeters & Registration — Welcome walkers and assist with check‑in.
- Route Guides — Stand along the path to direct walkers and ensure safety.
- Water Station Support — Keep participants hydrated and encouraged.
- Set‑Up & Clean‑Up Crew — Help prepare the event space and restore it afterward.
- Awareness Team — Hold signs, share information, and help amplify the message.
Volunteer Opportunities - Safe Harbor Homeless Shelter of Manistee County
Safe Harbor relies on compassionate volunteers who help create a safe, welcoming, and dignified environment for every guest. Each role plays a vital part in offering warmth, stability, and hope during the winter shelter season. The Safe Harbor Homeless Shelter of Manistee County runs from November 1st to April 30th.
Greeter
Welcome guests as they arrive, offer a friendly first connection, and help set a warm, respectful tone for the evening. Greeters assist with check‑in, answer basic questions, and ensure guests feel seen and valued.
Gatekeeper
Monitor the entrance to maintain a calm, safe environment. Gatekeepers help manage flow, support shelter guidelines, and provide a steady, reassuring presence for both guests and volunteers.
Kitchen / Meal Prep
Prepare simple, nutritious meals that bring comfort and community to our guests. Volunteers help with cooking, organizing the kitchen, and ensuring meals are ready on time.
Server
Serve dinner with kindness and hospitality. Servers help plate meals, assist guests with needs during dinner, and contribute to a welcoming, family‑style atmosphere.
Overnighter
Provide essential overnight support by staying on‑site to ensure safety, stability, and peace throughout the night. Overnighters help with evening routines, monitor the shelter, and offer a calm presence until morning.
Refer-a-friend Program
Safe Harbor’s Refer‑A‑Friend Program is a simple, personal way to grow our team of calm, compassionate Overnight Volunteers. When current volunteers invite someone they know and trust, new volunteers feel more confident stepping into the role — and our shelter stays fully staffed, peaceful, and safe for every guest who walks through our doors. One invitation truly strengthens the whole community.
Download our flyer and Refer‑A‑Friend card below to help spread the word.