Welcome, Stitch Buffalo Volunteer!
Please note: This information is for approved, ongoing volunteers.
If you would like to recommend a NEW volunteer, please have them complete our Volunteer Survey.
Our work at Stitch Buffalo wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of our team of volunteers. We’re so happy to have you on the team and want to make sure we use your generous gift of time as effectively as possible.
Newsletter. The Stitch Buffalo newsletter is published monthly and will keep you informed about everything happening in the organization. To sign up, please enter your e-mail address below—and be sure to confirm your signup by opening the confirmation e-mail that will be sent to you.
1) How to Schedule a Shift
It is important for all volunteers to sign up for their shifts, preferably at least a few days in advance. (Please note: Volunteer shifts lock 24 hours in advance, as indicated by a red padlock icon on the calendar.) Registering in advance ensures the staff can have useful projects waiting for you.
Signing up is easy—you don’t need an account or password, and you can book multiple shifts on the same visit. Start by clicking the link below to open a new window on Signup.com.
Need help? Trouble signing up for multiple shifts? Need to cancel?
Click here for step-by-step instructions
2—Arrival and Sign-In
When you arrive at Stitch Buffalo, please introduce yourself to a staff member at the retail counter. She who will show you where to store your belongings securely.
Then, use your cellphone to sign in at our volunteer station. If you do not have a cell phone, you can check in using the computer at our retail counter. Just ask the staff member working there for assistance. If you forget to sign in, you can log your shift here.
Tracking volunteer hours is a helpful metric for our fundraising—but you'll also want to make sure your hours are logged so you can participate in our rewards program (see below).
3—Can’t Make Your Shift?
If you need to cancel a shift in advance (at least 24 hours), return to the signup calendar (link above), click the blue “My Spots” button on the day you need to cancel, and hit “Remove.”
If you need to cancel at the last minute, please text Dawne Hoeg, Executive Director, at (716) 495-9642 or call the office at (716) 370-0079.
Anything Else? For other questions and concerns, please e-mail our Volunteer Coordinator using the button below.
4—Job Descriptions
Refugee Women’s Workshop Volunteers
Report to Dawne Hoeg (Executive Director) or Devin Feeley (Studio Manager)
Volunteers for the Refugee Women's Workshop will primarily assist in the preparation of supplies for the Refugee women artists and the finishing of projects for sale in our store. These tasks may include organizing supplies, cutting felt and other fabrics (scissors, rotary cutter, die cutter), ironing, hand sewing, and/or machine sewing. You may also be asked to help with routine tasks like tidying up or organizing the shared workspace. It is helpful for volunteers to have basic fiber arts skills, but instruction and supervision will be provided.
Retail Volunteers
Report to Rachel Lombardo (Retail Manager) or Dexi Rivera (Retail Associate)
Greet and assist customers, wrap packages, and make sure the store stays tidy and well organized. You may also assist with tagging inventory, stickering bags, or doing other tasks to support retail operations. You will not be responsible for processing transactions.
Second Stitch Sorting Volunteers
Report to Whitney Crispell (Second Stitch Manager)
Volunteers will assist in organizing and preparing donated supplies for distribution or resale. This job involves standing and light lifting (although accommodations can be made). While no experience is necessary, it is very helpful to have a general knowledge of the tools and materials used in fiber arts (sewing, knitting, embroidery, etc.). You may also be asked to help with routine tasks like tidying up or organizing the shared workspace.
Second Stitch Fabric Measuring
Report to Whitney Crispell (Second Stitch Manager)
Measure, price, and bundle donated fabrics. This is a fun project for people who love sewing and textiles—but it can be done by anyone who can use a ruler. Training is provided.
Office Volunteers
Report to Linda Crist (Business and Finance Director)
Assist with light filing, data entry, and other basic office operations. Experience with general office tasks (such as using spreadsheets and word processing software) is helpful for this position.
Special Events Volunteers
From time to time, Stitch Buffalo hosts events than require additional help for planning, setup, staffing, and more. Volunteers will be notified about these needs as they arise.
5—Volunteer Rewards
10% Off Everyday
To thank you for your time, Stitch Buffalo volunteers receive a 10% discount on all items from the Refugee Women's Workshop.
Bonus Reward for Regular Volunteers
Stitch Buffalo has a new rewards program for our most active volunteers. When you log 50 hours of volunteer shifts, you'll receive 40% off an item of your choice from the Refugee Women's Workshop —or— credit for free enrollment in a Stitch Buffalo community class (up to $50). Note: Class registration is limited to one volunteer seat per session. To check your available credits and register, contact michellep@stitchbuffalo.org.
Feedback Form
We welcome your feedback on anything regarding your experience as a volunteer at Stitch Buffalo. If you have concerns, new ideas, or anything else to share, please feel free to reach out via the form below. If you choose, your submission can be anonymous. Thank you!