Outreach volunteers needed for annual Point in Time Count on January 29, 2015

MOUNT VERNON: Community Action of Skagit County and the Coalition to End Homelessness are in need of Point in Time Count Outreach Volunteers for Thursday, January 29, 2015. Help conduct short surveys that will provide census information regarding housing situations for potentially homeless individuals in Skagit County. The count will be held on January 29, 2015 but some opportunities may extend through Wednesday, February 4, 2015. Outreach locations may include places such as Food Banks, hot meal programs, social service agencies and other places where individuals and families experiencing homelessness may be found.

This is a great opportunity for individual volunteers as well as service groups. Spanish, Russian and Mixtec language speakers are needed. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Volunteers should be comfortable approaching and speaking in a respectful manner with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. A brief training will occur on January 29, prior to being dispatched to a location, to learn about the background of the Point in Time Count, become familiar with the survey and discuss safety procedures.

This volunteer position will provide an opportunity to learn more about the plight of low income individuals and families in our community as well as breaking down preconceived notions of those with no place to call home.

The Point in Time Count is a one day count of the homeless mandated by the federal government to each county. Community Action and the Coalition to End Homelessness facilitate the count each year for the Skagit community. The count provides a baseline number that helps our community and local coalitions when creating plans to fight homelessness and increase affordable housing opportunities.

To volunteer or find out more information, visit the Skagit Volunteer Center at 2221 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon, WA or call (360) 588-5731 or email SusanR@communityactionskagit.org.