How to Become a Prevention Point Volunteer: A Comprehensive Guide

Prevention Point is a non-profit organization that aims to provide harm reduction services to people in Philadelphia. The organization has been around for over 25 years and has played a significant role in reducing the spread of diseases and overdose-related deaths. One of the ways Prevention Point does this is by engaging volunteers who help in various activities, including dispensing syringes, running health promotion campaigns, and providing support to individuals in need. Becoming a Prevention Point volunteer is an excellent opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives while gaining valuable experience in public health. In this guide, we take you through the steps you need to take to become a Prevention Point volunteer.

Step 1: Learn about Prevention Point

Before becoming a volunteer, it is essential to understand the mission, values, and practices of Prevention Point. You can visit their website to learn more about the organization’s history, current projects, and volunteer opportunities. It is also good to research the common misconceptions surrounding harm reduction services to ensure that you have accurate information.

Step 2: Determine Your Skills

Prevention Point volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and have different skills to contribute. It is important to identify your strengths and which areas you feel comfortable working in. Prevention Point provides a range of volunteer opportunities, including outreach, administrative duties, and clinical services. Volunteer positions require different skill sets, so it is essential to consider where your expertise lies.

Step 3: Complete an Application

After identifying the area you want to volunteer in, you will need to complete an application form. The form asks for your personal information, skills, experience, and availability. Make sure to fill out the application form thoroughly and honestly.

Step 4: Attend an Orientation

Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will be invited to attend an orientation session. The orientation session is designed to give you an overview of Prevention Point’s policies, procedures, and practices. You will also learn about the various volunteer opportunities available and receive training relevant to your volunteer role.

Step 5: Complete the Training

Before starting the volunteer role, you will need to complete specific training sessions depending on your position. The training may include topics such as harm reduction, opioid overdose prevention, STI/HIV transmission, and cultural competence. The training sessions are provided by Prevention Point’s staff and other community partners.

Step 6: Start Volunteering

Once you complete the orientation and training, you are ready to start volunteering. You will be assigned a supervisor who will guide you through the process and provide ongoing support. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Prevention Point’s policies and procedures and adhere to them.

Conclusion

Volunteering with Prevention Point is an excellent opportunity to make a difference while gaining valuable experience in public health. To become a volunteer, you need to understand the mission, identify your skills, complete an application, attend an orientation, complete training, and start volunteering. Prevention Point has a range of volunteer opportunities to cater to different needs and skill sets. By becoming a volunteer, you not only contribute towards a meaningful cause but also join a community of like-minded individuals working towards a common goal.