Volunteer

Become an Anchor.

Help build the compassion infrastructure of New York City.

When neighbors stand together, people find safety, health, work—and a way home. Join our volunteer network and turn compassion into measurable impact.

Apply to Volunteer
Why Volunteer with Us?
  • Direct, human impact across shelter, healthcare, jobs, finance, and reintegration
  • Flexible roles & schedules—evenings, weekends, remote options
  • Training & support (no prior experience required)
  • Verified impact via Anchor Connect (hours, outcomes, reflections)
  • Community & growth—learn skills, meet mission-driven people
Where You Can Help (Five Pillars)
Community Shelter Network

Greeters, check-in support, meal service, supplies and linens, overnight host team (paired roles).

Medical Support

Clinic flow volunteers, wellness kit packing, care-nav guides; licensed clinicians (on-call) for partner clinics.

Employment Readiness

Resume help, mock interviews, digital skills tutoring, workplace mentoring (individual or corporate teams).

Microfinance Inclusion

Financial literacy coach, market set-up for street vendors/artisans, data assistant for loan follow-ups.

Community Reintegration

“Anchor Buddy” mentors for 6–12 months, move-in support, neighborhood resource mapping, community events.

How It Works
  • Apply Online (5–7 minutes)
  • Attend Orientation (virtual, 60 minutes)
  • Safeguarding & Background Check (for in-person roles)
  • Get Matched to a role/site based on your availability
  • First Shift with a trained site lead—never alone on day one
  • Keep Growing—log hours, get badges, move into mentor/lead roles

Time Options:

  • Micro-volunteering (2–3 hrs/month)
  • Regular shift (2–4 hrs/week)
  • Project-based (4–8 weeks)
  • Corporate group days (half/full day)
What You’ll Receive
  • Orientation + role-specific training
  • On-site supervision and 24/7 safety hotline
  • Volunteer handbook & safeguarding policy
  • Anchor Connect login to track hours and impact
  • References/letters after 40+ hours (on request)
Our Commitments
  • Safety & Dignity: trauma-informed, inclusive spaces
  • Data Privacy: GDPR-aligned; minimal data collection
  • Accessibility: we’ll accommodate mobility, language, and scheduling needs
  • Non-discrimination: open to all, regardless of background or belief

FAQ

Do I need experience?

No—training provided. Clinical roles require credentials.

Minimum age?

18+ (16–17 with guardian consent for select roles).

Background checks?

Yes for in-person roles serving vulnerable adults.

Remote options?

Yes—resume coaching, tutoring, translation, data.

Start Your Application

Questions? volunteers@anchornewyork.org