Seeking Volunteers for Day and Night Shifts (with Expense Reimbursement)

“Neuer Weg” is a housing project for people with criminal records, designed to support them on their journey back to an independent life. The facility’s goal is to provide temporary housing for people struggling with addiction within a therapeutic setting. To ensure the highest quality of support, we are looking for reliable and empathetic volunteers to work day and night shifts. Since this is a particularly responsible volunteer role, you will receive an expense allowance of 7.50 euros per hour. 

Responsibilities: You provide opportunities for residents to connect and engage in conversation, thereby creating a space for them to share their concerns, fears, and joys. You will be available to residents to assist them with, among other things, job-search support (such as writing resumes, researching job openings, etc.), using computers and the internet, and learning and improving their German language skills. In addition, you monitor residents’ departure times and ensure that facility rules are followed. Participation in team meetings, which take place every two months, is encouraged. 

Requirements: You must be able to communicate well in German. The minimum age for this volunteer position is 18. Because this is a volunteer position with significant responsibility, a basic criminal background check is required. There is no cost to you for this.
 You are empathetic and open-minded toward people in special life situations. It is important that you can maintain a healthy distance and protect the residents’ privacy. Reliability and the ability to collaborate are essential for this role; furthermore, the ability to handle conflicts and set boundaries is important.

Here’s how you’ll enjoy this volunteer role: Language skills in English, Polish, Russian, Arabic, and Turkish are a plus but not a requirement. Many skills—such as computer skills, knowledge of household management and cooking, and other abilities—can be put to use in your interactions with the residents.

Time commitment: At least 2 days/nights per month. We’d like you to commit to volunteering on a regular basis for at least six months.

When:

Monday through Friday: Night shifts from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. (the following day)
Saturday and Sunday: Day shifts from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., night shifts from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. (the following day)

Volunteering at this facility is only possible after an interview and orientation, which take place on separate dates. All volunteers receive comprehensive training on their role at the facility during 2 to 3 sessions at the beginning of their volunteer period.

Expected Attitude: You are convinced that every human being is endowed with an inalienable dignity and are willing to act in accordance with the Code of Conduct of the Berlin City Mission. You treat the Christian faith, as well as other religions and worldviews, with respect.