Welcome, Stitch Buffalo Volunteer!
Please note: This information is for approved, ongoing volunteers.
If you would like to recommend a NEW volunteer, please have them complete our Volunteer Survey.
Our work at Stitch Buffalo wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of our team of volunteers. We’re so happy to have you on the team and want to make sure we use your generous gift of time as effectively as possible.
Newsletter. We keep in touch with volunteers by e-mail newsletter a few times each year. To sign up, please enter your e-mail address below—and be sure to confirm your signup by opening the confirmation e-mail that will be sent to you.
This page includes: 1) How to Schedule a Shift, 2) What to Do When You Arrive, 3) Who to Contact With Questions, 4) Job Descriptions, 5) Volunteer Rewards, and 6) Our Basic Code of Conduct.
1) How to Schedule a Shift
It is important for all volunteers to sign up for their shifts, preferably at least a few days in advance. This ensures the staff can have useful projects waiting for you.
Signing up is easy—you don’t need an account or password, and you can book multiple shifts on the same visit. Start by clicking the link below to open a new window on Signup.com.
Need help? Trouble signing up for multiple shifts? Need to cancel?
2) What to Do When You Arrive
When you arrive at Stitch Buffalo, please introduce yourself to a staff member who will show you where to store your belongings securely. Then, sign in at our volunteer station. At the end of your shift, please make sure to sign out so we have an accurate log of your hours. Tracking volunteer hours is a helpful metric for our fundraising—but you'll also want to make sure your hours are logged so you can participate in our rewards program (see below).
3) Who to Contact With Questions
Can’t Make Your Shift? If you need to cancel a shift, return to the signup calendar (link above), click the blue “My Spots” button on the day you need to cancel, and hit “Remove.” If you need to cancel at the last minute, please text Dawne at (716) 495-9642.
Can’t Work the Exact Hours Listed? Other Limitations? If you know you’ll need to make minor adjustments in your arrival/departure time, you can note that in the comments (see Step 4 above). You can also note if you have any special limitations, such as avoiding heavy lifting or needing to work at a seated station.
Anything Else? For other questions and concerns, please e-mail our Volunteer Coordinator.
4) Job Descriptions
Refugee Women’s Workshop Volunteers. Volunteers for the Refugee Women's Workshop will primarily assist in the preparation of supplies for the Refugee women artists and the finishing of projects for sale in our store. These tasks may include organizing supplies, cutting felt and other fabrics (scissors, rotary cutter, die cutter), ironing, hand sewing, and/or machine sewing. You may also be asked to help with routine tasks like tidying up or organizing the shared workspace. It is helpful for volunteers to have basic fiber arts skills, but instruction and supervision will be provided.
Second Stitch Volunteers. Volunteers will assist in organizing and preparing donated supplies for distribution or resale. This job involves standing and light lifting (although accommodations can be made). While no experience is necessary, it is very helpful to have a general knowledge of the tools and materials used in fiber arts (sewing, knitting, embroidery, etc.). You may also be asked to help with routine tasks like tidying up or organizing the shared workspace.
Special Events Volunteers. From time to time, Stitch Buffalo hosts events than require additional help for planning, setup, staffing, and more. Volunteers will be notified about these needs as they arise.
5) Volunteer Rewards
10% Off Everyday
To thank you for your time, Stitch Buffalo volunteers receive a 10% discount on all items from the Refugee Women's Workshop.
Bonus Reward for Regular Volunteers
Stitch Buffalo has a new rewards program for our most active volunteers. When you log 50 hours of volunteer shifts, you'll receive 40% off an item of your choice from the Refugee Women's Workshop —or— credit for free enrollment in a Stitch Buffalo community class (up to $50). Note: Class registration is limited to one volunteer seat per session. To check your available credits and register, contact michellep@stitchbuffalo.org.
Be sure you sign in and out every time you volunteer!
We take our hours count from the physical login sheet in the studio.
6) Code of Conduct
Stitch Buffalo strives to provide a warm and welcoming space for everyone. Please arrive with the mindset of being respectful, friendly, and patient—toward our artists, other volunteers, students working in the space, members of the community, and anyone else you may interact with during your time at Stitch Buffalo.