Downtown Store Customer and Volunteer Experience Team

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Description

The Homeless Garden Project (HGP), founded in 1990 and based in Santa Cruz, California, provides job training, transitional employment and support services to people experiencing homelessness. In addition, HGP operates a thriving community education and volunteer program. Our programs take place on our 3.5 acre organic farm and related social enterprises.

The Downtown Store Customer and Volunteer Experience Team are a group of volunteers whose role at the Homeless Garden Project’s downtown retail store is specifically designed to support our team during the busy holiday season. This team plays a key role in creating a warm and welcoming environment for customers, representing the values of the Homeless Garden Project, and assisting staff with daily store operations. They work together to discuss current customer service and volunteer experiences, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies for growth. The team is committed to following through on these strategies to enhance the overall experience at our store.

Responsibilities

• Planning-work with staff to ensure strong communication and mutually supportive relationships between volunteer team and retail staff

• Customer Engagement: Greet and welcome customers, answer questions, and provide information about our mission, products, and holiday promotions.

• Store Atmosphere: Help create a positive, inviting atmosphere by maintaining cleanliness, organization, and aesthetic appeal of the store.

• Sale Support: restocking merchandise, and ensuring products are presented attractively.

• Team Support: Work alongside staff to support daily store operations, including processing transactions, gift wrapping, and other tasks as needed.

• Event Assistance: Assist during special events, promotions, and holiday activities hosted at the store.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic about the mission of the Homeless Garden Project

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Previous retail, customer service, or leadership experience is a plus.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Friendly, Positive attitude and commitment to creating a welcoming environment.

• Ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines.

Time Commitment

• Ambassadors are expected to visit the store twice a week during the holiday season (September through December).