The shelter is only “activated” (open) when the temperature falls below freezing or when it snows or rains one inch or more. If the forecast predicts these conditions at any point during the shelter season (November 1 – March 31), you will receive an email listing the expected activation dates. You let us know via email which dates and shifts work for you and our scheduler will get back to you ASAP.

• 5:30 pm – 10 pm:  The check-in crew sets up the shelter amenities, registers guests, and settles them in for the night.
• 10 pm – 2 am:  The night crew monitors the building and ensures that everyone is safe and quiet.
• 2 am – 6:30 am: The check-out crew wakes the guests and helps them depart the shelter by 6:30 am.
• 6 am – 8 am: The cleanup crew breaks down the shelter amenities and does the required cleaning.

• You must be registered with the Kitsap County Dept. of Emergency Management. The process involves filling out several forms and being subject to a background check.
• You must be reliable. We need to count on you to staff the shifts you sign up for and let us know a.s.a.p. if you can’t make it so we can fill your spot.
• You should have reliable transportation and feel confident in your ability to reach the shelter — even in hazardous conditions.
• Ideally, you should be flexible. Our most treasured volunteers are those who are able to staff any shift, especially when we find ourselves shorthanded.

• Building security. On activation nights, all the exterior Village Green doors are locked except one. Our volunteer station sits adjacent to that door, which guests may only enter until 9 pm. After that, check-in closes, and the building stays locked until morning.
• Support systems. We train volunteers on site at the Village Green so they know what to expect and how things work. We assign two volunteers to each crew, teaming new people with experienced staff so there’s always someone in-the-know on hand. And our shelter manager is available by phone at all times whenever the shelter is open.
• Outside assistance. The Kingston shelter is known for being a quiet, calm, and safe haven for overnight guests. Since opening in 2013, there have only been two situations in which our volunteers felt the need for outside assistance. In both cases, local law enforcement responded swiftly and effectively.