Volunteer
Join Us in Creating a Future Without Homelessness
Volunteers are the heart of Columbus House. Every year, more than 1,500 dedicated individuals lend their time, skills, and compassion to help us fulfill our mission. Whether you’re serving meals, organizing a drive or fundraiser, or providing support for our office staff, your efforts create tangible, lasting change.
Ways to Volunteer
We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, schools, and organizations. Discover how you can get involved and make a positive difference in our community. To learn more about our volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved, please fill out the Volunteer Interest Form and contact our Community Engagement Manager at (203) 401-4400 ext. 138 or sdimario@columbushouse.org.
Serve a Meal
Help prepare or serve breakfast or dinner to shelter guests at our New Haven location. Most evenings, groups from throughout the community purchase, prepare, cook and serve an evening meal for the clients at our New Haven Shelter. These are often church groups, businesses, high schools, civic clubs, and families who come on their chosen evening(s). Many come every month and have been serving meals since our doors opened in 1982. Working in coordination with our kitchen staff, most groups plan their own menu, purchase the food, and prepare and serve the meal while others use what's in the Columbus House pantry. It's up to you!
Organize a Drive or Fundraiser
It's easy and it's fun! Rally support from your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or those with whom you worship. Help Columbus House continue its mission of saving lives by conducting a drive or fundraiser. Supporters of all ages have held drives or bake sales, collected aluminum cans, and solicited pledges at overnight sleep-outs.
Internships
Work with our professional staff in social work, business, fund development, marketing, communications, and public relations. You can gain valuable, real-world experience while learning about the root causes of homelessness and what organizations like Columbus House are doing to help people who are homeless identify and overcome those causes. We will also work with your instructor to try to help you satisfy specific course requirements when applicable.
Other Opportunities
Throughout the year we have a variety of volunteer opportunities including those working with clients as well as general office support, and everything in between. Seasonal donation drives and regular fundraising events also provide many ways to help out by donating time and talent.
“I discovered that Columbus House is really a pillar for solutions to homelessness in Connecticut.”
Homelessness can feel overwhelming—but your time and presence provide hope. As a volunteer, you not only help meet immediate needs but also foster a sense of community and dignity for the people we serve. One of our amazing volunteers, Pauline, shared how she first became involved with Columbus House and how she turned a passion for up-cycling into a rewarding experience.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Every day, thousands of people in the US are forced into homelessness. Together, we can change that in our community. With your help we work to build strong communities by providing solutions and advocacy that truly make an impact. Make your gift today!
Other Ways to Get Involved
Make A Contribution
From financial contributions to donating items and services, find out how your generosity can support Columbus House.
Work with Columbus House
Explore our current openings and join a team dedicated to ensuring everyone has a place to call home.