Volunteer at Palomar
Imagine yourself rushing into a strange building, children in tow. You are scared, hurt, and have no place to rest or find safety. Then, instead of walking into a gray, gloomy building, you open the door of Palomar to find a calm, reassuring voice and a safe space to sit and rest. Someone offers you coffee, and a volunteer offers to show your children the playroom. All of a sudden, getting help seems a little less frightening, and there is a glimpse of something you did not believe you would ever find again: HOPE.
Palomar has positions for individuals seeking all different time-commitments and interactions with our mission to support survivors. Intern and volunteer onboarding occurs 3 times per year in January, May, and August. This page outlines all existing positions.
Program Goals
The goals of our volunteer program are to match each volunteer with a fulfilling area of service and to provide volunteers with the training and support they need to assist those affected by domestic violence. Some of our volunteer goals include:
- Provide current and frequent training to volunteers on domestic violence, sexual violence, and stalking issues, including best practices in working with clients and the community.
- Provide a variety of tasks and opportunities for volunteers to become involved in assisting Palomar clients.
- Have volunteers available to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere for clients.
- Maintain a friendly hospitality area for guests.
AVAILABLE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Front Desk & Phone Hospitality
- Answer Palomar’s main phone line
- Check-in incoming clients
- Direct clients to the appropriate reception areas
- Provide administrative assistance to the direct services team
- Manage common areas to ensure a warm and welcoming environment for survivors
Children's Sanctuary
- Offer direct supervision of children of all ages who have experienced trauma
- Observe and learn Trust Based Relational Intervention practices
- Provide age-appropriate play and learning
Emergency Services Shop
- Support clients with locating items in the shop
- Check clients out utilizing the square application
- Stock the racks and shelves
- Process and intake incoming donations
Special Projects & Community Events
- Staff community events and trainings
- Support various research projects
- Offer specialized services to the agency
- Provide administrative support to the engagement team
Spiritual Care Program
- Provide connections to faith-based community resources when requested
- Host healing circles, bible studies, and other interfaith opportunities for survivors
Animal Advocacy
- Sort & organize donations for the pet pantry
- Connect clients to the pet pantry & other resources
- Spread awareness about the animal advocacy program at community events
- Provide administrative support to the the director of the animal advocacy program
Camp HOPE Mentoring
- Attend Palomar’s annual Camp HOPE as a mentor (ages 18-24)
- Participate in year-round camper reunions
- Provide emotional support to campers
- Gain knowledge about evidence-based practices that support trauma-exposed youth
Palomar Legal Network
- Review legal network applications alongside an attorney
- Provides administrative support at VPO clinics, Legal Q&A Days, & other community initiatives
- Gain exposure to court proceedings