Kelowna Women's Shelter (KWS) Thrift Store - Volunteer Donations Specialists

KWS Thrift Store & Community Space is looking for new volunteers that are fantastic team players for our new Donations Role!  The KWS Thrift Store is an integral part of the Kelowna Women’s Shelter organization and this is an important role in the function of our new store.  We are looking for several volunteers that can commit to one or more weekly 4-hour shifts.  Our donation days are Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. If the details below sound like a good fit for you, please fill out the attached interest form or send your resume and expression of interest to community@kelownawomensshelter.ca

We can’t wait to hear from you!

Details for the Donations Volunteer Role

Core Capabilities
1.	Customer Service Skills
    o	Greet donors warmly and professionally.
    o	Provide information about donation policies.
    o	Handle donor inquiries and complaints with courtesy.
2.	Physical Stamina
    o	Lift, carry, and move donated items (often heavy or bulky).
    o	Stand for extended periods 
    o	Ability to navigate stairs and uneven surfaces in all weather conditions
3.	Organization & Sorting
    o	Sort donations by category (clothing, electronics, books, etc.).
    o	Identify items suitable for resale vs. recycling or disposal.
4.	Attention to Detail
    o	Inspect items for damage, cleanliness, and resale value.
    o	Ensure safety standards are met (e.g., no recalled or hazardous items).
5.	Inventory Management
    o	Track incoming donations.
    o	Assist in organizing storage areas and maintaining inventory flow.
6.	Team Collaboration
    o	Work closely with store staff and volunteers.
    o	Communicate effectively to coordinate donation intake and processing
Key Competencies
1.	Communication
    o	Clear verbal communication with donors and team members.
    o	Ability to explain policies and procedures effectively.
    o	Ability to work in pairs while receiving donations
2.	Time Management
    o	Prioritize tasks during busy donation periods.
    o	Maintain efficiency without compromising quality.
3.	Problem-Solving
    o	Handle unexpected situations (e.g., inappropriate donations).
    o	Adapt to changing donation volumes and staffing levels.
4.	Integrity & Reliability
    o	Trustworthy in handling donated goods.
    o	Dependable attendance and punctuality.
5.	Safety Awareness
    o	Follow safety protocols for lifting and handling items.
    o	Maintain a clean and hazard-free donation area.



Job Requirements:

o	Must be 18yrs or older
o	Ability to work during daytime donation hours on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays between 10am-2pm 
o	Ability to lift awkward, heavy or bulky items and climb stairs
o	Ability to work indoor and outdoor conditions
o	Ability to work a minimum 2-hour shifts
Reliability and commitment to scheduled shifts