Volunteering with Charlotte Area Fund helps enable the success of our agency and clients. We take volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences to help support programming and events throughout the year. From administrative tasks to event support, your generous gift of time helps the agency as we work to fuel self-sufficiency for residents of Mecklenburg County.
If you are interested in volunteering, fill out the form below and one of our team members will reach out to schedule an interview.
Apply to Volunteer
Charlotte Area Fund Volunteer FAQs
Find answers to commonly asked questions about completing volunteering with Charlotte Area Fund.
Do I need previous experience to volunteer?
Not at all! Prior experience can be helpful but isn’t required. All volunteer opportunities include any necessary training or guidance on-site, so you’ll be supported throughout your shift.
Do minors (individuals under the age of 18) need to volunteer with an adult?
All minors (individuals under the age of 18) must volunteer with a parent or guardian 21+.
A parent or guardian must sign an additional minor release waiver for any volunteer under 18.
How do I get started?
Complete the Charlotte Area Fund Community Service Application.
A CAF team member will review your application and contact you with next steps.
⚠️ Applications must be approved before attending orientation or beginning any service hours.
All volunteers must attend an orientation before their first shift. Shifts must be scheduled with the volunteer coordinator.
Walk-ins are not accepted without prior approval.
Are justice-involved individuals able to complete community service at Charlotte Area Fund?
Charlotte Area Fund accepts court-ordered community service volunteers referred by approved Mecklenburg County courts, probation officers, case managers, or other authorized agencies.
All applicants must be approved before beginning service. All justice-involved individuals must complete this application and waiver. Please fill out and email them to Terry: terryh@charlotteareafund.org. Do not hesitate to call Terry with any questions: 704-372-3010 ext. 214.
What should justice-involved individuals bring on the first day?
- Court paperwork or referral documentation
- Photo ID (license, state ID, school ID, or passport)
- Any paperwork required by your probation officer or case manager
- Assignment paperwork if completing hours for school or employment
Do I need to do anything before I arrive?
Yes. You must:
- Complete your application
- Complete the waiver.
- Receive approval from Charlotte Area Fund
- Attend orientation
- Schedule your first shift
Failure to complete these steps will delay your hours.
I’ve registered to volunteer. Where can I access the necessary waiver?
The volunteer waiver for individuals who are not justice-involved is located here. Please fill it out and bring it with you.
What should I wear?
You represent Charlotte Area Fund while volunteering. Please wear professional, clean clothes.
Required:
- Professional shoes
- Shirts with sleeves
- Professional pants, tops, skirts, and/or dresses
If your clothing is inappropriate, you may be sent home, and your hours will not count.
What should I NOT wear?
- Offensive or explicit clothing
- Overly baggy clothing
- Revealing clothing
- Items displaying drug, alcohol, or gang references
What types of tasks will I be doing?
Tasks may include:
- Office support
- Event setup and breakdown
- Sorting materials
- Handing out marketing collateral
- Assisting staff with approved tasks
Assignments vary based on program needs.
What should I do when I arrive for a shift?
- Check in with staff immediately
- Sign in and sign out every shift
- Follow assigned tasks
- Inform staff of any physical limitations
- Avoid cell phone use while working
⚠️ Hours will not count if you do not sign out.
What is considered inappropriate behavior?
The following may result in dismissal and loss of hours:
- Refusing assigned tasks
- Arguing with staff
- Leaving without signing out
- Ignoring dress code
- Excessive phone use
- Avoiding work
- Foul or inappropriate language
- Disrespectful behavior
- Drug or alcohol use before or during a shift
- Bringing weapons on site
- Misrepresentation of your court assignment
Charlotte Area Fund reserves the right to dismiss volunteers at any time.
Is it possible to choose my schedule?
Shifts must be scheduled with the volunteer coordinator. Availability depends on program needs.
Missed shifts without notice may affect your ability to continue service.
When will my hours be reported?
Hours are verified only after completion and proper sign-in/out. Charlotte Area Fund will report hours according to court or agency requirements.
Who do I contact with questions?
Charlotte Area Fund Volunteer Coordinator
📧 terryh@charlotteareafund.org
📞 704-372-3010 ext. 214