What are the requirements and time commitment for volunteers?
- Volunteers must be at least 18 years old
- Attend one mandatory training session (2 hours) at the Housing Resource Center, 104 N. Witchduck Road: Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m.; or Thursday, Jan. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. More instructions will be provided after you register and at the training session.
- Volunteer time on the morning of the PIT Count is approximately 4.5 hours (3:30 - 7 a.m.)
What will volunteers be doing during the PIT Count?
Volunteers are needed to serve as PIT surveyors who will be assigned to a group of four or more individuals who are responsible for canvassing a specified area. Surveyors will help find people who are living unsheltered, administer a standard survey and hand out information on available community resources, hygiene kits and other incentives for individuals who complete the survey.
PIT teams and roles that volunteers can be assigned to are:
Team Lead:- PIT Surveyors who have previous experience as case managers or outreach workers and are familiar with the PIT Count
- Assists and directs volunteers in surveying individuals and manages any concerns that may arise during the count
- Commits additional time leading up to the count in order to be familiar with their team's survey route
Parking Lot Team:
- Group of PIT Surveyors who canvass parking lots in designated areas of the city where persons are reported to be living in cars
- Teams consist of up to four people and are accompanied by VBPD officers
Outreach Team:- PIT Surveyors and a driver who travel throughout the city, accompanied by VBPD officers, and visit known encampments
- May involve walking through wooded areas with rough terrain
Driver:
- Volunteers who offer to use their own vehicles to drive Parking Lot Teams and Outreach Teams to designated areas in the city where individuals experiencing homelessness may be staying
- Vehicles must accommodate up to four persons and the driver
What should I wear and bring on the day of the PIT Count?
- Since the PIT Count will take place outdoors during the winter, it is important to wear warm layers, gloves, hat, scarves and comfortable shoes.
- While supplies for the PIT Count and refreshments at the precinct are provided, volunteers are encouraged to bring their own water bottle and snacks for the road. Flashlights are also provided, but if you have a powerful light you prefer to use, you may do so.
How can I volunteer for the PIT Count?
- Volunteer registration closed on Dec. 30, 2022.
- If you have any questions about volunteering for the PIT Count or other opportunities, contact Diane Hotaling, volunteer and community engagement coordinator, at (757) 385-1278 or dhotalin@vbgov.com.
- For more information about the PIT Count, click here.