Is your faith calling you to reach out and serve others in ministry?

Benefits of Volunteering at La Casa Hogar

• Experience the opportunity to build a genuine spirit of hospitality across cultural lines
• Gain satisfaction by participating in a progressive vision for Yakima’s children
• Experience regular good fun and try new foods with new friends
• Receive a unique opportunity to express the values of compassion and love
• Develop relationships with people who have courage and commitment in transforming their lives
• Gain a feeling of usefulness, knowing you have helped lighten the burdens and given hope to another person
• Gain a better understanding of the reality and challenges of overcoming poverty in our community
• Experience the joy of others discovering skills that many of us take for granted

Current Volunteer Openings

• Teach Spanish Classes
• Teach English Classes
• Teach GED Classes
• Teach Computer Skills
• Teach Life Skills
• Early Childhood Learning
• Assist with Marketing
• Assist with Fundraising
• Assist with Event Planning
• Technology and Website
• Grant Writing Skills
• Share Other Talents
• Yard Care & Landscaping
• Building Maintenance
• Serve on the Board of Directors

Emergency Services Outreach Volunteer

Responsibilities: To extend a caring hand and warm heart of hospitality to those who come seeking assistance with an urgent need. Interview those seeking services, assist with problem identification and resolution, provide information and referral to community resources, communicate clearly policies and decisions regarding service.

Skills and abilities needed: Listening and accepting heart, care and respect for the dignity of all people.

Commitment: One day per week 1:30-3:30, willingness to grow in knowledge of community resources, complete necessary forms, work as a team member with the staff, participate in periodic training opportunities.

Children's Program Assistant

Responsibilities: Provide loving care and support, assure safety and a fun learning environment for preschool aged children who are participating in the school readiness program. Assist staff coordinator with implementation of day's plans.

Skills and abilities needed: Interest and love of children, knowledge of age appropriate behaviors and activities for children, interest in actively interacting with children.

Commitment: Two hours, one morning per week, any day except Tuesday, for a minimum 12-week period.

If you are interested in learning more about our volunteer opportunities please contact Carole at 509-457-5058 or carole@lacasahogar.org.

Projects

Community groups are actively involved in the work of La Casa Hogar/Yakima Interfaith Coalition by organizing and carrying out special projects which benefit program recipients and participants:

Day of Caring

Every year as a United Way Agency we are actively involved in receiving generous gifts of service. Through their volunteer efforts the employees of such companies as US Cellular, Tree Top, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, Casey Family Services, and Lutheran Counseling Services of Yakima have contributed products and significant facility improvements through landscaping, interior painting, and developed a playground area for preschool children. One company managed a fabulous employee product drive and supplied our organization with a six-month supply of disposable paper goods, including diapers that we distribute to families on an emergency basis.

English Immersion University of Washington

"By chance one day, my son and I dropped by La Casa Hogar/Yakima Interfaith Coalition. That day, there in the living room, I witnessed each person giving and receiving tokens of gratitude. Tears wiped away by many, laughter and smiles … we will meet again. It was the final day of a week of being together. Students who are members of the Newman Center from the University of Washington and our community of learners shared their lives with each other."

2004 marked the 8th year students from the University of Washington Newman Center spent their spring vacation at La Casa Hogar to share their gifts and talents with the women and children involved in the programs. For a week they organized a variety of activities such as crafts, computer classes, exercise and role plays which provided opportunities for the women to build new vocabulary and enhance their English speaking abilities.

Youth Mission Work

Through Young Neighbors in Action, Catholic high school youth groups arrive in the Yakima Valley during June and July. They travel from all over the United States, paying their own costs to serve. What a delight it is to work with these enthusiastic young people who are eager to get involved, serve the community, and make a difference in the lives of others. At La Casa Hogar they help with yardwork, facility maintenance, and teach vacation Bible school.

Wesley United Methodists of Yakima returns to La Casa Hogar/Yakima Interfaith Coalition this year with Youth in Mission for three weeks. They bring a passion for sharing their faith through crafts, games, Bible stories, and lots of fun to the children in the neighborhood.

If your community organization or group of friends would be interested in supporting the work of La Casa Hogar/Yakima Interfaith Coalition through a special project, please contact us.