Volunteer FAQs  

Where is Wheeler Mission located? 

Wheeler Mission serves Indianapolis and Bloomington with 9 unique locations, each offering different volunteer opportunities. View all locations on our Locations page. 

Do I need to sign up ahead of time? 

Yes. All volunteers must sign up in advance through our volunteer platform, Get Connected. 
This ensures: 

  • That space is available, 

  • That we’re ready for you 

  • That you receive important details before you arrive. 

How do I get started? 

Create a Get Connected account, then browse and sign up for a shift. 
Helpful videos and articles are available to guide you through the process. 

What’s the best first volunteer opportunity? 

We recommend Meal Service for first-time volunteers. 
Each opportunity listing includes: 

  • Age requirements, 

  • Time commitment, 

  • Group eligibility, 

  • A contact person you can reach out to if you have questions. 

Can I volunteer if my schedule is inconsistent? 

Absolutely! Many opportunities welcome one-time or occasional volunteers, including: 

  • Meal Service 

  • Meal Prep 

  • Special Events 

Are there opportunities for groups or families? 

Yes! Many opportunities welcome groups and families, including: 

  • Meal Service 

  • Housekeeping 

  • Store & Donation Center 

  • Work Projects 

  • Recreation Night 

Each opportunity clearly notes if it’s an option for groups. 

Are evenings and weekends available? 

Yes. Volunteer opportunities are available in the evenings and on weekends, depending on the location and season. Browse opportunities by date in Get Connected for current availability. 

How old do volunteers need to be? 

Age requirements vary by opportunity and are listed in each role description. 

General guidelines: 

  • All volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 

  • 1 adult chaperone per 5 children 

  • Meal service and donation sorting volunteers must be 10 years old. Meal service volunteers at the Center for Women and Children must be 8. 

Is volunteer orientation required? 

Not for all volunteers. Volunteers wishing to lead Bible Studies will be asked to apply and be onboarded.  

What should I wear? 

Dress for safety, modesty, and appropriately for the job you will be doing. 

General guidance: 

  • T-shirts, jeans/khakis, athletic shoes 

  • Closed-toe shoes required 

  • No flip-flops or revealing clothing 

Will I be trained? 

Yes. Every shift begins with instructions from staff or a volunteer leader. 
Some roles may require shadowing before serving independently. 

Can I take photos or post on social media? 

Yes, with important boundaries. 

  • Do not photograph or identify guests or residents 

  • You may take photos of yourselves and the building. 

  • No personal or identifying guest information may be shared 

When in doubt, ask a staff member. 

We love it when you tag @WheelerMission or share photos with volunteer@wheelermission.org. 

Where do I park? 

Parking information for all of our locations can be found here.  

Can I bring donations with me? 

Yes, if you are volunteering at the Donation Center, Thrift store in Fishers, or one of our men’s shelters. Most donations are welcome. See the list of acceptable donations here.  

If you are volunteering at the Center for Women and Children, please only bring donations of toiletries, diapers & wipes, or towels and washcloths. All other items can be dropped off at one of our