Make a difference in someone's life.  Apply today to become a Faith In Action Volunteer!

 

Application
FIA Policies

Become A Volunteer

Characteristics of Faith in Action of Edgar Countyvolunteers:

  • Sincerely interested in helping neighbors who deal
    with chronic illness or physical limitations, aged adolescent thru elderly.
  • Patient and reliable.
  • Respects and helps people from diverse backgrounds.
  • A good listener.
  • Compassionate.
  • Sensitive to persons and families coping with chronic illness and disabilities.
  • Friendly, open, flexible, able to meet others on their own terms, and a good listener.
  • Non-judgmental.
  • Able to recognize fears and limitations.
  • Feels that Faith in Action's mission is worthwhile and consistent with their own personal beliefs.
  • Able to say "no."

Please note: There is no hourly requirement for volunteers - you may volunteer as much or as little as best suits your situation and interests. 
Volunteers may be of any faith tradition, or of no faith tradition.

Questions about becoming a Faith in Action volunteer may be directed to Darla Freeze at, 1-217-466-6388

Volunteer Training

All new Faith in Action of Edgar County volunteers are required to attend a basic volunteer training session. These training sessions last approximately one hour, and are free of charge. 
Training sessions cover informative topics such as:

  • Faith in Action of Edgar County Mission & History
  • Volunteering Policies and Guidelines
  • How we help neighbors
  • Communicating with Compassion
  • Roles & Boundaries
  • Health & Safety
  • Urgencies & Emergencies
  • Community Resources
  • Reporting & Recordkeeping
  • It is possible to arrange a volunteer training session at the FIA Office.

Training sessions are available to individuals and/or groups.  To receive information about the training schedule or to make a request contact Darla Freeze at (217) 466-6388

Faith in Action of Edgar County would not exist without caring people such as yourself who selflessly volunteer your time and energy. Your questions and comments are very much welcome.

Please, direct them to Linda Cearlock at faithinactionparis@gmail.com

EMERGENCY INFORMATION- What to do when... 


A neighbor does not answer the door (and you expect them to do so): 
Check out - the premises, look through the window, ring the doorbell or try the phone again.
Contact next-door neighbor, or building manager, or anyone who may have keys.
Contact the FIA Office
If an emergency situation is suspected call 911 immediately, then contact the FIA Office.
An elder or child abuse is suspected: 
Contact the FIA Office

Remember - if you are providing transportation:

  • Only transport neighbors who are able to get into your vehicle with minimal assistance (like holding your arm/hand for balance.)
  • Introduce yourself and clarify the destination and appointment time.
  • You may want to have a good street map on hand, and good directions ahead of time.
  • Provide needed emotional support when transporting and escorting neighbors to their destination.
  • Make sure that seat belts are used by all passengers. If a passenger refuses to use safety belts you may refuse to transport them. If they are unable to use seatbelt- they must ride in the back seat.
  • Mileage reimbursement is available for transportation volunteers with an approved mileage reimbursement form.