Opportunities From: Volunteers of America Minnesota and Wisconsin

The people who walk through the front door of Amicus have often just navigated something hard. They may be recently released, looking for help, or just trying to figure out their next step. The first person they encounter matters.
As a Front Desk Volunteer, you are that person. You greet people with warmth, answer the phone with care, and help keep things running smoothly so that Amicus staff can focus on direct service. This role is flexible, low-pressure, and genuinely important.

What You Will Do

Greet and welcome everyone who walks through the door, whether they are participants, volunteers, or visitors.Answer incoming phone calls and direct them appropriately.Assist with light data entry and filing as needed.Help maintain a welcoming and organized front office environment.Communicate any immediate needs or concerns to Amicus staff.

What We Ask Of You

A reliable and consistent schedule, even if it is just a few hours a week.A warm and non-judgmental presence with everyone you encounter.Basic comfort with phones and simple computer tasks.Respect for the confidentiality of everyone who comes through the door.

What You Do Not Need

A background in social services or criminal justice.Prior receptionist or office experience.Any specialized training before you start.

We will show you what you need to know.

Who This Is For
Anyone who is organized, dependable, or genuinely glad to see people when they walk in the door. People with lived experience of the justice system are welcomed and valued.

Why Volunteer?

Think about one person in your life who showed up for you when it mattered. Who called, who came, who stayed. That kind of presence changes people. It changed you. That is exactly what a One to One community friend offers. A real, consistent friendship for someone who is incarcerated and will eventually be returning home from prison. Not therapy. Not case management. Just a friend in the community who keeps showing up.

What You Will Do

Visit at least once a month and try to stay connected through emails, letters and messages during times when visits are not possible.Build a genuine relationship over time.Continue the connection and relationship after your match is released and back in the community if you both agree.Attend Amicus training/workshop opportunities throughout the year if you would like additional support.

What We Ask of You

Attend one information/training session to get you ready.Complete an interview and questionnaire for matching purposes.A commitment of one year once matched – that could be extended if you both agree.Visit at least once a month and try to stay connected through emails, letters and messages during times when visits are not possible.

What We Provide

A single information session to get you ready.A thorough matching process based on compatibility, and you can decline if it does not feel right.Ongoing support and additional training/workshops throughout the year.Amicus staff are available to answer questions and walk alongside you in the relationship.

Who This Is For

Anyone 18 or older who believes people deserve a second chance and is willing to show up consistently for someone who needs a friend. People with lived experience of the criminal legal system are especially welcomed and valued. Must have transportation. There are no experience or educational requirements for volunteering. We will prepare you. You bring yourself.