Introduction

Thanks for your interest in volunteering with our group here at Rosie’s Place, a sanctuary for poor and homeless women! At Rosie's Place, volunteers are not "extra helpers" but instead are vital to our ability to serve the women who rely on us for both basic survival and assistance in reaching their dreams.

Important Announcements

UPCOMING EVENT: November 14 and December 12 from 3:30-7:30 groups from Sackler will head to Rosie’s Place (a shelter for homeless women and children) to help prepare and serve the evening meal.  If you are interested in being a part of one of those groups please e-mail Jacqueline.lane@tufts.edu

CRAFT SALE: On Dec 12, 13, and 14 from 11:30-1:30 crafts and holiday cards will be on sale in the Jaharis and M&V Lobbies.  The crafts are made by the women at Rosie’s place as part of the Rosie’s Craft Cooperative.  All proceeds benefit Rosie’s Place.

When

Shift: Dinner (4pm to 7:30pm)
Group Size: 6 People
Available Dates: Nov 14
                        Dec 12

Contact Jackie Lane if you are interested in one of these shifts.

Where

Rosie’s Place is located at 889 Harrison Ave in Boston’s South End.

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE? All members of your group should plan on arriving promptly at the start of the shift and plan on staying the entire time. Upon arriving, head straight into the dining room -- the women at the front desk can give you direction. Wear clothes that you are comfortable moving around in and with possibly getting dirty/wet. Please no open toes shoes and long hair should be pulled back. There is a small locker where volunteers can store valuables, but since space is limited and there may be many people using it, please refrain from bringing too much with you when you come.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING? When you arrive, a staff member or experienced volunteer will give you an overview and answer any questions. You may assist with the preparation of the meal, serving soup or working the counter where the women will ask for various items like soap and shampoo. You will serve the meals and, provided that there is food left over, you may sit and have a meal with the women. After the meal, you will collect the dishes for the dishwasher, clean the tables, drain the coffee maker, etc. Enclosed please find a detailed description of all dining room activities.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT? Many of the women who come to Rosie’ Place, referred to as guests, are lonely and look forward to having somebody to talk to. Others may not want and just want to be left alone. Don’t take this personally. Remember, many guests are dealing with difficult issues such mental health, substance abuse and hunger.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME? Volunteers are encouraged to be friendly and positive with guests, but to also maintain a respectful and professional relationship with them and to follow all Rosie’s Place policies and rules. Some rules may seem insignificant or strict, but understand they are in place to ensure that the women can relax and trust that they will always be treated consistently and fairly while they are here. To maintain a professional relationship with the Rosie’s Place guests, please follow these important rules:

1) Do not give guests money, gifts, cigarettes or rides or accept any of these things from guests.
2)Do not invite guests to your home or give out your address and/or phone number. 3) Do not promote religious causes or philosophies.

IS THE NEIGHBORHOOD SAFE? As in any city neighborhood, caution should be exercised after dark. We have a van that takes our guests to nearby T stops and shelters and volunteers are encouraged to get a ride to the T after dark or walk as a group to Mass Ave.

WHAT IF I WANT TO VOLUNTEER AGAIN? That’s great! We’d love to have you. Some groups come on a regular basis- say the 3rd Thursday of the month for dinner. If you are interested in coming in without your group, we ask that you attend an orientation and commit to a regular schedule. Orientations are held regularly and upcoming dates are listed at www.rosiesplace.org. Tell your friends and family how much fun you had and bring them to orientation as well! Both men and women ages 12 and older are welcome volunteers at Rosie’s Place. (SGSC plans on sponsoring future visits to Rosie's Place)

HOW ELSE CAN I HELP OUT? Some groups do toiletry, food or book drives on behalf of Rosie’s Place. Other groups help by catering, or donating, a meal. Still others help by sponsoring special events, giving through their corporate giving program, or buying Rosie’s Place crafts and holiday cards. To explore any of these opportunities or discuss other ways you may get more involved, contact the Volunteer Services Office by email or at (617) 318-0226.

Rosie’s Place 617-442-9322