Volunteer FAQ's
Volunteer Coordinator: Jess Feury
2510 Charleston
Oakland, CA 94602
(510) 531-7551 Ext. 195
jess@ebac.org
Do I need a background in counseling or psychology to be part of this program?
No. Our volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds. We are looking for people who care deeply about children and their welfare and have an interest in learning more about them. We also welcome volunteers who do have a background in counseling or psychology.
If I didn't experience a major loss in my childhood can I still be a volunteer?
Yes. Compassion, listening skills and the wish to understand the child’s experience are the most important elements of this work.
How will I know what to say?
Your main role as a volunteer is to be an accepting and non-judgmental listener. During the training we will discuss how be with and talk to children in support groups.
How much time do I need to commit to volunteering?
We ask for a 14-month commitment to Circle of Care so that our families can experience consistency and continuity during a difficult time in their lives. Support Group volunteers meet from 5:30 to 9:30 every other week.
Why do I need to be fingerprinted?
Circle of Care is required by California State law to fingerprint (via live scan) all volunteers working with children. Even if you have been fingerprinted recently, you will need to do it again. Fingerprinting needs to be completed before you begin training.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Yes, you need to be 21 years old to volunteer.
Does it cost anything to become a volunteer?
No. Attending our training is free as long as you complete the training and your 14 month volunteer commitment with Circle of Care. If after completing the two-day training you are unable to follow through with your 14 month commitment then you will need to reimburse Circle of Care in the amount of $200.00 for the cost of the training and the training manual. It is imperative that when you are accepted as a support group facilitator that we can count on you to follow through with your commitment and fill the spots of those volunteers transitioning out of the program after 14 months. This ensures that we have enough volunteers to fully staff our support groups and continue to provide critically needed services to Circle of Care children and families.
What is the most important thing a volunteer can do to prepare for this work?
It is important to think carefully about whether this is a time in your life when you can make this commitment. You will become a very important person to the families you work with and if you are unable to fulfill your commitment, this will feel like another loss to them. It is also important for you to be in a good place around losses you may have experienced in your life. If you have recently experienced a significant illness or loss, it may be too soon for you to volunteer
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