How Volunteering Works
- 1. Apply
Applying to volunteer is simple
Complete our volunteer application form. After receiving your application, we'll email you to schedule Step 2: Welcome + Orientation.
Wondering if volunteering is right for you? Go ahead and apply! Completing an application doesn't lock you into volunteering. We'll work with you to find a level of volunteering that fits your schedule.
- 2. Welcome & Orientation
We give you the tools to succeed
After your application is accepted, 3 steps get you started:
- Have a 30-minute welcome call
- Complete two hours of online orientation at your own pace (providers who are veterans or Star Behavioral Health Providers may skip this step)
- Log in to your online volunteer provider portal and get ready to connect with RVP Clients
We'll ensure you have what you need to confidently work with post-9/11 veterans, service members, and military families!- 3. Volunteer
You choose who, when, and how often
Once you're ready, it's time to connect with RVP Clients. Here's how:
- RVP Clients find you in our online directory
- RVP Clients contact you directly for assessment and scheduling appointments
- Serve RVP Clients just as you would any other client - the only difference is free appointments!
- Update your availability for accepting clients as needed in your online portal
- Record your volunteer service hours in your online volunteer portal each month
What will I be doing when I volunteer?
You choose who, when, and how often
You’ll offer free, life-changing (and even life-saving!) health services to veterans and military families in need. Through our online portal, you’ll indicate when you’re accepting new RVP Clients. Interested RVP Clients will use our online directory to find your services and contact you directly.
If you and an RVP Client agree to work together, you’ll schedule appointments when they fit with your schedule. You’ll serve your RVP Client(s) in the same way you serve your other clients and you’ll work together as long as you both deem appropriate.
How often will I be expected to volunteer?
One of the best parts of being an RVP Volunteer Health Provider is that you’re in control of your schedule. You’ll chose when you serve, how many RVP Clients you see, and how much you volunteer.
Our volunteers choose how many RVP Clients to see and volunteer when it fits their schedule. How much you work with a RVP Client will depend on your client’s needs and the services you provide. Some volunteers support one RVP Client at a time, whether appointments occur every week or every few weeks. Some volunteers support several RVP Clients at the same time.
What are expectations for serving RVP Clients?
We expect you adhere to the same ethical and professional standards as you would for any other client served in your general practice, including your policies for no-shows, cancellations, and ending services.
Do RVP Clients need a referral from the Returning Veterans Project?
No. We do not provide referrals for RVP Clients. Our confidential service model authorizes RVP Clients to contact providers themselves through our online directory. To ensure their services are free, RVP Clients are responsible for informing the provider that they were referred by the Returning Veterans Project.
You are responsible for screening RVP Clients to determine if they are an appropriate match for your scope of training, education, and experience. Refer anyone you are unable to support, for any reason, to the Returning Veterans Project. Please instruct the client to call our office at 503-954-2259 or use our online provider directory.
What are the top 5 reasons to volunteer?
Whether at the beginning of your career or a seasoned professional, the Returning Veterans Project offers the flexible volunteer experience you need to make a difference in your community. With free CE trainings and control over your schedule, there are many reasons to become a volunteer! Here’s why you’ll love volunteering with RVP >
