Volunteer Chore Services

We are called in a special way to serve the poor and vulnerable;
to build bridges of solidarity among peoples of differing races and nations,
language and ability, gender and culture.
-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops,
Communities of Salt and Light

Volunteer Chore Services (VCS) is a program run by Catholic Community Services (CCS) with the help of volunteers from many congregations, civic groups, schools, and community businesses.  VCS is committed to helping elders and adults with disabilities remain independent in their own homes. Services are provided at no charge and act as a safety net for those individuals who cannot afford to pay for assistance.
 
Volunteers from St. James go through an orientation before being matched with a person in need of help with light housekeeping, laundry, shopping assistance, transportation, cooking, minor home repair, respite, or yard work. Volunteers generally provide 2-18 hours per month assisting their neighbors depending on their availability and the needs of their client.  Volunteers are all ages and choose which tasks they wish to do, the days and times that they are available, and the location in which they can work. Training, mileage reimbursement, and insurance are provided to assist volunteers in their commitment. There are also on-call opportunities for groups or individuals whose schedules don’t permit a regular commitment. At the end of the month, volunteers report their hours to the St. James VCS Coordinator. Since a volunteer helps the same person each week, lasting friendships are often formed.

To volunteer, contact Patrick Barredo (pbarredo@stjames-cathedral.org, 206-382-4515).

In need of chore services? Call the Volunteer Chore Services intake line at 1-888-649-6850.