Volunteer Opportunity: Grocery Assistant

Position Summary:

Grocery Assistants are matched with newly arrived individuals or families to help them navigate the grocery shopping process and teach essential skills for shopping on a budget. The Grocery Assistant will provide guidance on making smart purchasing decisions, understanding brand names, and comparing prices. In this role, volunteers will develop meaningful connections with clients, helping them feel confident in their ability to shop independently.

 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist with Grocery Shopping: Help clients shop within their budget by teaching them how to compare prices, identify affordable brands, and shop efficiently.

2. Provide Guidance in Stores: Accompany clients to various grocery stores (Walmart, Aldi, Halal Market) and guide them through the shopping process, explaining how different stores operate and the benefits of bulk buying, bottom-shelf pricing, and store layout strategies.

3. Teach Grocery List Creation: Show clients how to create a grocery list and stay organized during their shopping trips.

4. Brand Recognition: Educate clients on different brand names and product logos using pictures and checklists. Assist them in identifying commonly used household items across various stores.

5. Compare Prices and Products: Help clients understand how to compare prices and product sizes to get the best value for their money. Use real-life examples and visual aids to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of bulk buying.

6. Cultural Sensitivity: Ensure the client feels comfortable shopping at both mainstream stores and culturally appropriate markets. Explain the availability of familiar foods and how they can find what they need in these stores.

7. Log volunteer hours in the WR Portal.

 

Qualifications:

1. 18+ years old

2. Complete the World Relief volunteer onboarding (application, online workshop, local orientation, background check, motor vehicle check)

3. Strong communication skills and the ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently

4. Ability to use visual aids and checklists to simplify the shopping process
Knowledge of local grocery stores (Walmart, Aldi, Halal Market) and a basic understanding of budgeting and comparison price shopping

5. Respect for cultural diversity and a non-judgmental attitude

6. Patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen actively

7. Cultural sensitivity and awareness of cross-cultural communication dynamics

8. Reliability and commitment to fulfilling volunteer duties

9. Access to reliable transportation, flexibility in scheduling grocery trips, and comfortable with driving clients to the grocery store

 

Time Commitment:

1. Volunteers should be available for 1 grocery shopping session per week, each lasting 2-3 hours.

2. A minimum commitment of 1 month is preferred to build rapport with the clients.

 

Benefits to Volunteer:

1. Make a direct, tangible impact on newcomers’ lives by empowering them with essential life skills.

2. Gain experience working with diverse populations and develop your teaching and mentoring abilities.

3. Flexible volunteer schedule with the opportunity to explore various grocery stores and cultural markets.

 

Onboarding and Training:

1. General short term/long term volunteer onboarding process, including an application, online workshop, local orientation, background check

2. (Recommended) Complete the Navigating Friendships course bundle on The World Relief Workshop (coupon code wrmemphis)

3. The client’s caseworker will provide ongoing support and supervision to address any questions or concerns.