How to Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen

Helping the less fortunate is a noble endeavor. Do what you can to lend a hand and volunteer at a soup kitchen.

Step 1: Find a soup kitchen Look through your phone book or search online to find a soup kitchen in your area.
Step 2: Contact the soup kitchen Contact the soup kitchen and talk to their volunteer coordinator to find out what they need.
Step 3: Find out about training Ask if you will need a training session. Some volunteer positions involve more than serving food, and you may need to be trained.
TIP: There are many possible jobs, including serving food, preparing food, setting up tables, and cleaning up.
Step 4: Show up early Arrive early for your shift so you can get instructions, prepare, and meet the other volunteers with whom you'll work.
Step 5: Prepare yourself Find out about the issues that the homeless and hungry in your area are interested in to prepare yourself for working with them.
Step 6: Smile Smile and help out in any way you can. Remember -- that's why you're there.
FACT: There were an estimated 107,000 homeless veterans in the United States in 2009.