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Double Up Food Bucks Outreach
Program and Purpose of Volunteer Position:
AARP Foundation is teaming up with Fair Food Network to increase the use of their successful Double Up Food Bucks program. The focus will be on older adults through volunteer outreach and nutrition education in grocery stores and farmers markets. Double Up "matches" SNAP (Bridge Card) dollars spent, at farmers markets across the state and in some grocery stores in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Battle Creek with dollars to spend on fresh, locally grown Michigan produce. The Double Up Outreach Volunteer will educate shoppers about how the program works and is carried out in the produce aisle and at the register.
Primary Responsibilities:
· Explain Double Up to interested grocery store shoppers
· Assist shoppers in locating Double Up eligible produce at the store or farmers market
· Walk and talk with customers to show them ways to spend SNAP dollars and Double Up effectively
· Serve as a source of information and referral to other local area social services and community partners
· Act as a familiar face to shoppers throughout the Double Up season (June – November), answering questions about the program
Qualifications and Length of Service:
This role is from June 1st to November 30th. The Double Up Volunteer should
· Demonstrate exemplary customer service and people skills
· Be an outgoing self-starter
· Be comfortable working with diverse clients in a grocery store setting
· Preferably have some understanding of nutrition incentives and the Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP or Bridge).
Time, Training, and Travel:
Time commitment will vary, depending on the phase of the program and volunteer preference.
Times to choose from:
· Thursday 4 to 7pm (3 hours)
· Friday 4 to 7pm (3 hours)
· Saturday 10am to 6pm (8 hours)
· Sunday 10am to 12, 3 to 6pm (5 hours)
Volunteers are encouraged to select a regular schedule of at least 2-3 hours during the time slots listed so there is consistency for the customers.
Training on AARP Foundation volunteer and expense reimbursement policies, and any other policies relevant to the position will occur. The volunteer will also receive training on the Double Up Food Bucks model being supported in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Battle Creek. Local travel to the various grocery and market sites and to visit with local partners will be expected. Local eligible travel costs associated with the volunteer assignment (i.e. mileage, parking, tolls) will be reimbursed by AARP Foundation.
Advantages to Outreach Volunteer:
The Double Up Volunteer will gain the following from this role:
· Instrumental involvement in a growing nonprofit program in the food systems field
· Instrumental involvement in increasing access to healthy foods in Michigan
· Valuable customer service and community engagement skills
· Knowledge about healthy and affordable eating and shopping
· Establishment as a resourceful presence in your community
Appointment, Supervision and Scope of Authority:
The Double Up Food Bucks Volunteer will be appointed by and report directly to the Nutrition Incentive Local Coordinator. The Local Coordinator will provide support to the SNAP Outreach Volunteer in their efforts to connect with SNAP recipients and Double Up eligible shoppers.
Available Resources:
The Double Up Outreach Volunteer will be afforded the necessary guidance, training and materials needed to connect with shoppers about the program, with support from AARP Foundation and Fair Food Network. A short informational video on a mobile device provided for use at the market will help you explain the program to new shoppers. AARP Foundation reimburses volunteers for covered pre-approved program related expenses, which will be explained and provided upon acceptance of the position.
Volunteer Policy:
Volunteers will receive equal opportunity and treatment throughout recruitment, appointment, training, and service. There will be no discrimination based on age, disabilities, gender, race, national or ethnic origin, religion, economic status, or sexual orientation.
To Apply:
To apply, email Erin Allen at [log in to unmask], or call her at 313-318-2719.