Volunteer & Lead

Volunteers are the heart of Cornerstone. We were founded 40 years ago by volunteers, and volunteers remain critical to supporting our mission. Our work would not be possible without your compassion and generosity.

Volunteers strengthen, support, and give us the capacity to provide our comprehensive services. We offer a variety of one-time and long-term volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups to fit your schedule, interests, and our needs.

I love being a part of Cornerstone’s team of volunteers. I am inspired by the staff and clients and have so much fun working with them. I always leave Cornerstone feeling fulfilled and with a smile on my face!
—Cornerstone volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities for Individuals and Groups

Cornerstone offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for both individuals and groups. Ranging from outdoor maintenance and yardwork to administrative projects and event support, there are many ways to help our organization as a volunteer. At different times of the year, these opportunities may include hosting donation drives, Adopt-a-Family activities, and providing meals during other special occasions.

Cornerstone often hosts entire groups for these volunteer efforts, including different business teams, religious organizations, rotary and other civic clubs, giving clubs and other groups looking to donate their time and talents. Not only do these volunteer groups contribute to Cornerstone’s mission in an incredible way, but they are amazing team building activities as well.

Volunteer Requirements and Application

All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older and complete a volunteer application.  Once you have completed the application, a Cornerstone staff person will contact you to discuss available volunteer opportunities that fit best with your schedule and area of interest.  

Some volunteer roles may require a background check.  This background check is done based off of publicly accessible databases, including the US Department of Health and Human Services website, the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public website, and the State of Minnesota Public Criminal History website.  

Prospective volunteers interested in providing direct advocacy with Cornerstone participants are required to undertake supplementary training. The training is a fundamental trauma-informed program, designed to equip volunteers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for providing more effective assistance to crime victims.

If you have questions or would like further information about the background check process or training requirements, please contact Courtney Poja at courtneyp@cornerstonemn.org.

Questions?

There is no shortage of ways for you to get involved in supporting victims/survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking and crime. We are grateful for your consideration to contribute to Cornerstone. If you have questions about getting started or how you can help, reach out to by emailing courtneyp@cornerstonemn.org.