Volunteer Now

Volunteer Registration Form

Here is the Initial Volunteer Registration Form which can be downloaded, filled out and returned to MEND.
Microsoft Word Document or PDF File

For more information, contact the Volunteer Services Director,
Lupe Acosta at 818-686-7327 or email Lupe@mendpoverty.org

Volunteer Statistics

The volunteers at MEND are the "life blood" of the agency. In 2008, over 1,007 volunteers gave more than 119,260 hours, equivalent to over 61 full-time workers.

MEND is committed to remaining a volunteer-driven organization, so that the donations and income go directly to the needy recipients. During the 2007-08 fiscal year, administrative and fundraising costs were 6% of MEND's total revenue. This is possible only by the utilization of dedicated volunteers who give of themselves at MEND.

Volunteer Opportunities at MEND

Home Visiting Volunteers - Volunteer 3-4 hours a month home visiting MEND recipient families who live in the Northeast San Fernando Valley to determine their needs and make referrals. A great way to get involved. No experience necessary, training is provided. Spanish speaking ability is helpful, but not required. Contact the MEND Home Visiting Coordinator, Maritza Recinos at mrecinos9@yahoo.com or MEND’s Client Intake Manager Maria Salmeron at maria@mendpoverty.org, 818-686-7325.

Volunteer Drivers - Do you have a good driving record? Do you want to help in a way that is meaningful and satisfying? Become a driver for MEND!! Several departments need your help now! Food drivers pick up donated food from grocery stores and other donors. Clothing drivers pick up clothing and household items from individuals and businesses. Call MEND today to volunteer or email lupe@mendpoverty.org

Optometrists & Dispensing Opticians - Our patients benefit greatly from MEND's vision clinic, but we are in need of volunteers to do the exams and dispense the finished eyeglasses. Volunteer two to three hours monthly. Call Victor Estrada, MEND Medical Clinic Manager, at 818-686-7333 or email victor@mendpoverty.org

Dentists & Dental Assistants - Dental care for indigent people is a vital health care need. MEND's dental clinic fills that need, but we need more volunteeers to meet the demand for care. Volunteer two to three hours monthly and experience the pleasure of giving healthy smiles to children and adults in poverty. Call Denise Benitez 818-686-7337 or email Denise@mendpoverty.org

Teach English as a Second Language (ESL) - Our needy recipients desire to learn English to improve their employment opportunities and help their children with their schoolwork. You can help!! No experience necessary, volunteer two hours weekly, morning or evening. Call Lilia Soller at 818-686-7331 or email Lilia@mendpoverty.org

Registered Nurses - Help make a difference in the lives of diabetic and hypertensive patients. Visit them at home to improve compliance with medication, exercise and nutrition. Volunteer 5 -10 hours a month home visiting MEND patients. Call Victor Estrada, MEND Medical Clinic Manager, at 818-686-7333 or email Victor@mendpoverty.org

After School Program Volunteers - You can help children with their homework and help them improve their reading and math skills. (Volunteer one or more times per week). Training provided. Contact: Mary Watanabe (818) 686-7332 or email Mary@mendpoverty.org

Additional Opportunities

Here are just some of the other volunteer positions available at MEND:

Food/Clothing Distribution Assistants

After School Tutors for Children

Carpenters/Electricians/Plumbers/Painters

Clerical Support/Data Entry/Bulk Mail Assistance

Fundraisers/Proposal Writers

Public Relations Specialists/Writers/Graphic Artists

IT/Computer Specialists

Volunteer Recruitment and Recognition

Vehicle and Building Maintenance

Bilingual Food Intake Interviewers
(positions available at the MEND Center and two of our satellite sites - North Hills)

Of course, we always need assistance sorting, packing, and distributing food, clothing and shoes to our families. For more information, contact the Volunteer Services Director, Lupe Acosta at 818-686-7327 or email Lupe@mendpoverty.org