Volunteering FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Volunteering with Oasis Center

Q: What sort of commitment is expected of me?

A: Oasis Center really values continuity of care with our youth and see it as key in their journey to healthy adulthood. With that in mind, we ask all volunteers to commit to one year (or two semesters if in college) as well as weekly or biweekly involvement if working with young people. Other less time-intensive options to volunteer are available as well, but may not involve direct interaction with young people. If you’ve recently been through any major life changes in the past year, we ask that you please wait one year before applying.

Q: Can I do community service for a class I have?

A: At this time, Oasis Center does not offer minimal academic community service hours for High School or College, involving direct work or service with minors. State Law requires background checks for each volunteer and intern, and due to the time and cost in a background check, a longer commitment is needed. If a person in this situation is interested in administrative duties, we can accommodate.

Q: My group is interested in doing a service project for Oasis Center. What options do you have?

A: Great Question! See below…

1. Physical Projects: Periodically, physical projects do arise, and we love when volunteers can assist. Projects might include exterior window washing, deep cleaning and organization, handi-man services, minor construction, or other projects as they arise. These projects are available on a first-come first-served basis.

2. Project Hope: Groups are encouraged to obtain our list of Backpack Supply Needs and host a drive. Once the supplies are collected, the group visits Oasis Center and follows

the same procedures a homeless youth might when the enroll in an Oasis Programming. You will tour our beautiful facility, prepare backpacks with the supplies for distribution to homeless youth, see hands on the programs we offer, and speak with staff leading the direct services. This is a 2 hour on-site program, scheduled ahead of time, and we can accommodate groups of up to 20.

3. Multiple Family Group Wednesday Dinners: Volunteers would arrange for and prepare a meal for upwards of 30 people at the Youth Opportunity Center. On these nights, current residents and their families as well as former residents and their families gather for a meal, and a time to share and reflect about their journey, while alumni families can bring hope to families currently in treatment. Volunteers are welcome to participate in the evenings as well. This is a great option for groups who can organize and accommodate a meal for up to 30 people.

Q: Do you have any one time individual service projects?

A: Yes! Those options include:

• Cleaning and Organizing our Clothing Closet
• Administrative Needs
• Major Event Set-Up and Clean-Up

Q: Do you have any weekend opportunities?

A: No. Only occasionally does Oasis Center have weekend opportunities since many of our youth leave campus on the weekends. See our website for opportunities as they arise.

Q: Does Oasis Center offer court appointed community service hours?

A: No.

Q: What if I have a criminal history?

A: Oasis Center is required by the TN Child Abuse Law (TCA 14-40-129) to inquire if you have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor (to include suspended sentence). Any physical or sexual offense whether classified as a felony or misdemeanor does disqualify an applicant from going further.

Please contact ASuitter@oasiscenter.org with any additional questions or inquiries.