Volunteer

Our site volunteers provide the heart of the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network. Staffing the site requires over 1,800 volunteer hours a year. These hours are covered by caring members of our community, who offer an ear of support to those in crisis and strive to identify effective ways to help.



Site Volunteers

Site volunteers commit to a two-hour shift two days a month. Volunteers sit with clients and listen to their needs. They determine what services we are able to offer the client and provide them with information on other area resources that might help. They complete a computer file for each client and document the visit.


If you would like to learn more about becoming a site volunteer you may arrange a time to observe. Once you determine if this work is for you, you will be formally trained. Volunteers must learn the assistance guidelines, learn to thoroughly document client visits, gain some familiarity with local resources, and above all else learn to deal with each client with compassion and respect. The work is both challenging and rewarding and we are always in search of individuals up for the challenge!New Paragraph

Other ways to help

In addition to dedicated site volunteers, there are other ways to get involved with the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network:


  • Plan a small fundraising party!
    "Text-to-give" makes it easy (text         EWAN to 53-555).
  • Host an informational coffee to raise awareness of EWAN. Contact us for materials or a speaker to help!
  • Organize a fundraising team for 'Cue for a Cause
  • Volunteer for the ‘Cue for a Cause (the most delicious fundraiser in town always needs helping hands!)
  • Help assemble periodic bulk mailings
  • Make care bags for our clients--toiletries, stamps, small gift certificates, etc. (this is a great activity for youth groups or senior groups)
  • Collect and donate gift cards for gas, groceries, or local sandwich shops


In-kind donations to EWAN may be dropped off at our location during our regular office hours.

On-site volunteers welcome every client.

A sign that says providing vital assistance to neighbors in need

Thank you for all you do for EWAN!