BEDFORD — The Bedford Men’s Warming Shelter is issuing a call for volunteers to help manage its inventory of donations and administrative needs.
The shelter, which operates as a low-barrier facility to ensure no man in Lawrence County freezes on the streets, relies heavily on community support to maintain its daily operations at 1414 H Street. Specifically, organizers are looking for individuals with a knack for organization or clerical experience to step into two critical roles.
Volunteers Needed:
1. Clothing Room Specialists
The clothing room is a vital resource for guests, providing warm layers, coats, and clean socks. The shelter is looking for volunteers who have worked in retail or simply enjoy “extreme organizing.”
- Primary Duties: Sorting incoming donations, hanging and folding garments, and organizing the room by size and category.
- Inventory Management: Volunteers will also help identify “current needs” (e.g., if the shelter is low on size Large coats or waterproof gloves) so that the public can be accurately informed.
2. Office Support & Data Entry
Behind the scenes, the shelter manages a significant amount of paperwork and guest tracking to ensure everyone receives the help they need.
- Primary Duties: Assisting staff with filing paperwork and basic data entry.
- Impact: Efficient office work allows case managers to spend more time working directly with guests on housing and employment goals.
Founded more than a decade ago following a tragic freezing death on a local street, the Men’s Warming Shelter has evolved into a comprehensive resource center. In addition to a warm bed and hot meals, the facility offers access to laundry, showers, and support services through its partner organization, Stone City Alliance for Recovery and Hope (SARAH).
Shelter Snapshot:
- Season: November 1 – April 30
- Check-In: 5:00 p.m. Daily
- Core Goal: To move guests toward independent living through job training and housing placement.
How to Get Involved
If you have a few hours a week to spare and want to make a tangible difference in the lives of your neighbors, the shelter wants to hear from you.
- Apply Online: Interested volunteers should visit the Bedford Men’s Warming Shelter Contact Page and fill out the volunteer interest form.
- Contact Directly: You may also email volunteer@bedfordmenswarmingshelter.org or call 812-329-1118 for more information.
