Getting Started/FAQs
Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions to help you decide if volunteering at JFSLA is the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start by completing our online Volunteer Application. Once your application is approved, staff will be in touch regarding volunteer opportunities. Livescan is required and some opportunities may require meeting with staff.
Yes! We have a limited number of group opportunities, mostly at our SOVA Warehouse. Group sizes are typically 20-25 people. Please email volunteer@jfsla.org for more information.
Most of our roles require a 6-month commitment, but we do offer a few one-time opportunities at:
- SOVA food pantry
- Community meal sites
- Special events
For more information, please email us at volunteer@jfsla.org.
We offer meaningful ways for youth to give back. Depending on your child’s interests, they can:
- Organize a food or supply drive
- Support families in our shelters
Contact our volunteer office to explore available project ideas.
We welcome volunteers who would like to share their skills in wellness, exercise, creativity, and more with older adults in our community. Classes can be offered in person or virtually. This opportunity is part of JFSLA’s Arts, Wellness, and Engagement Program, which provides a variety of enriching activities for seniors across our Los Angeles centers.
For more information, please email us at volunteer@jfsla.org.
Contact Robyn Altmann, LCSW, Coordinator of Fieldwork Education, at raltmann@jfsla.org for more information about internship opportunities.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and may only volunteer at:
- SOVA Food Pantries
- Senior Dining Centers
We cannot accommodate volunteers under 16, even if accompanied by a parent. Please note that our senior dining centers are only open on weekdays.
In certain cases, individuals completing community service hours mandated by a court may be able to volunteer with JFSLA. Such opportunities are considered on a case-by-case basis and require staff approval.
No. To protect our clients’ privacy, photography is not allowed during volunteer activities.
Yes! Volunteers are needed during events such as:
- Purim
- Passover
- Thanksgiving
- Hanukkah
For details, contact our Director of Volunteers at volunteer@jfsla.org.
Absolutely! We gladly accept donations. Please note: All items for shelters must be new.
For shelter donations:
Kitty Glass, Community Outreach Coordinator
Phone: 818-789-1293 Ext. 304
For SOVA toiletry donations:
Kathi Dawidowicz, SOVA Supply & Logistics Manager
Phone: 818-988-7682 Ext. 120
