- How can I become more involved? By completing the Volunteer Application that can be found on our Volunteer webpage. It involves creating a Virtus account where you will complete three video trainings and a background check, then creating a Give Pulse account. Please reach out to a member of the volunteer team for further assistance.
Do I have to register for a volunteer opportunity before attending? Yes, we require all volunteers to register for every volunteer shift. This helps us track how many volunteers to expect and prepare accordingly.
Do I have to be Catholic to volunteer? No, Catholic Charities accepts every volunteer no matter their demographic, background, or religious beliefs. We want to provide a safe space for everyone that wishes to make a difference and serve the community.
What programs can I help out at? Catholic Charities has several programs that offer a multitude of volunteer opportunities. Programs such as St. Stephen’s CARE Center, Refugee Resettlement, After School Program, San Antonio Birth Doulas, Adopt-A-Senior, and more. Please see the event calendar for the latest updates on volunteer opportunities.
How long does the background check take? Background checks are at no cost to you and take 3-5 business days to complete. We monitor background checks daily, and will approve on our around and soon as the background check is cleared.
I finished the volunteer application, now what do I do? After finishing all steps on the volunteer application, the volunteer team will review your application and approve your membership request once the background check has been cleared and all trainings have been completed. Once your membership is approved, you are good to start registering and volunteering.
When do my hours get verified? Hours get verified within one to two business days following the volunteer opportunity. The volunteer team will do their absolute best to get your hours in as quickly as possible. If you are in need of ocumentation, please reach out to the volunteer team.
Am I allowed to bring my children with me? Certain volunteer opportunities do allow minors to volunteer, but they must have a parent or guardian with them at all times. There are a few opportunities that do not allow minors. This information can be found on the GivePulse page for each volunteer opportunity. If you are still not sure, you can reach out to one of the members of the Volunteer team for assistance.
What if I can’t attend my volunteer shift that I registered for? We completely understand if something comes up and you cannot attend your volunteer shift. Please go into your registration and cancel your sign-up.
What if I will be late or need to leave early for a volunteer shift that I registered for? We understand if a volunteer is running late or needs to leave early. Simply let the volunteer team know about it and we will understand. You are giving us your time, and we will respect it.
Can my family, group, corporate team volunteer? Absolutely. Families and groups are welcomed to attend volunteer opportunities such as Give Back Saturday and food distributions. Corporate groups of volunteers are also welcomed to volunteer at any of our program sites. Reach out to the volunteer team so we can schedule your and your group at one of our programs.
How do I stay informed about future opportunities? We regularly send out email blasts of upcoming volunteer opportunities through the email you provide on your GivePulse account. Ensure you have an up to date email on your GivePulse account so you are notified of all our volunteer opportunities. The calendar will also update to display events.
Do you allow court mandated volunteers? Yes, Catholic Charities will work with court mandated volunteers and schedule volunteer opportunities to ensure your required amount of hours are meant.
I need hours in a short time period, is there an alternative way to get hours? We can accept physical and monetary donations as volunteer hours. Please reach out to the volunteer department to learn what donatiosn the agency is most in need of at the time. Donations can be made in person at our corporate office located on 202 W. French Place, San Antonio, Tx. 78212.