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Volunteering FAQ

We would be lost without our volunteers

Students on a tour of the chicago recovery alliance
  • I want to volunteer! How do I get started?

    Awesome! Volunteering at CRA is intentionally low-barrier – all you have to do is show up during our designated drop-in times. New volunteers will get a tour of our facilities and some basic information about CRA. Please check our current volunteer times below.

  • I’m an educator and have a class I’d like to bring to CRA. How do I go about this?
    This is totally doable and we’d love to have you! We just need to coordinate a bit. Please send an email to john@anypositivechange.org and a CRA staff member will be in touch with you as soon as possible.
  • What is the role of volunteers at CRA?
    During program drop-in hours volunteers help pack harm reduction supplies that CRA distributes at outreach sites to help people navigate risks and lead healthier lives. CRA’s work is truly not possible without the help of volunteers!
  • What are the days and times volunteers can plug in?
    There are 2 regular days/times throughout the week when volunteers can plug in which includes weekdays Monday 5:00 – 7:00 Wednesday 3:00 -6:00. You will learn more about the exact days, times and locations during our volunteer orientation.
  • Is there any kind of orientation for new volunteers?
    Yes! When you come in for the first time you will be provided with a brief orientation for new volunteers.
  • How much time is required?
    We don’t ask for a time commitment! We understand people’s schedules are hectic and vary week by week. We just ask that you drop in at any time during our volunteer hours as your schedule permits! You don’t have to notify us ahead of time. Volunteering at CRA is a community effort and many of our volunteers have been coming for years!
  • Do I need experience to be a volunteer?
    No experience required! If you’re totally new to harm reduction and to CRA we do recommend you familiarize yourself a bit by perusing our website before visiting us.
  • Will I be able to ride on the van?
    You are guaranteed an opportunity to tour the van while not in use during volunteer hours. Volunteering on the van during an actual site is not guaranteed due to the volume of requests we receive as well as our commitment to protecting the privacy of our participants.
  • Working on a research project?
    Research requests and school projects are separate from volunteering and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please email any and all research inquiries to our Director of Research, Suzanne Carlberg-Racich.
  • Is it okay to be a volunteer and a recipient of CRA services?
    Absolutely!
  • What do I get out of volunteering?
    • Knowledge about harm reduction philosophy and practice.
    • Knowledge about harm reduction supplies and services for people who use drugs in Chicago and beyond.
    • Information about upcoming events.
    • Cuddle time with CRA’s resident furry friends (only if desired of course!).
    • And most importantly, you get to meet other people who love harm reduction which includes CRA staff and other short and long term volunteers.

Thank you for considering volunteering at CRA!

Volunteering with Chicago Recovery Alliance (CRA) is an opportunity to join a passionate community dedicated to supporting people and reducing harms in Chicago through practical outreach and compassionate service. Volunteers play a vital role in packing supplies that CRA distributes at outreach sites and drop-in locations, helping people navigate risks and take steps toward any positive change they define for themselves — work the organisation simply couldn’t do without.

We have volunteer hours at:

  • 3110 w. Taylor st Chicago
    Monday 5:00 – 7:00
    Wednesday 3:00 – 6:00