Get Involved Volunteer

Learn More About Volunteering

Overview

For over 100 years, volunteers have been the backbone of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Volunteers make up more than 90 percent of our workforce, and through volunteering, directly assist Sailors, Marines and their families.

NMCRS Volunteer Statement

Volunteers are the core of our existence.

Volunteers define our history, maintain our relevance, maximize our resources, assure excellent service, and shape our future.

How you can get involved

Volunteer opportunities exist at all of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offices. If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of others, you can explore the roles below to learn more.

  • Client Services

    Provide a professional, customer-focused initial impression of the Society. Greeting clients, answering phones, and setting appointments are some of the duties of this position.

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    The Normal Day: You will greet clients, answering phones, and setting appointments are part of the position. You may also assist clients in preparing their appointments and updating their information. With further training, a volunteer will process clients requesting Quick Assist Loans (QAL).

    Are you: a person who can manage a fast pace environment and prioritize tasks. The person needs to understand confidentiality and have a nonjudgmental demeanor. Being professional while putting the client at ease is essential in this position.

    Time Commitment: a weekly 3-hour shift

    In-Person/Virtual: In-person at most locations

    Training: Ongoing training, both hands-on and computer-based, is provided.

    Requirements: May need base access depending on location

  • Budget for Baby® Instructor

    Present the B4B workshop to Navy and Marine Corps service members and their families seeking financial education while preparing for the arrival of a child.

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    The Normal Day: Prepare for the workshop by reviewing course materials and gathering the appropriate handouts for the attendees. Workshops are presented in a variety of environments: one on one, in-person groups, and virtually. They can even be given in a hanger or on a ship. Presentations are done on a regular basis; they can be weekly or monthly, and vary by location. The volunteer needs to keep information up-to-date by using the tools provided by NMCRS.

    Are you: a person who can communicate clearly and has proficient public speaking skills. Being professional and nonjudgmental are key in this very visible role. Also helpful is the ability to manage groups with a friendly and open attitude.

    No previous financial literacy is required.

    Time Commitment: 1-2 monthly workshops

    In-person or Virtual: Varies by location

    Training: Ongoing training, both hands-on and computer-based, is provided.

    Requirements: May need Base access depending upon workshop location

  • Thrift Shop

    Thrift shop volunteers keep stores running smoothly and efficiently while providing great customer service.

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    The Normal Day: As a volunteer, you have many options. Whether sorting donations, creating a display, working as a cashier, or leading a team, you know that you are helping Sailors, Marines, and their families meet their financial goals.

    Are you: adaptable and likes to work in a team environment. A sorter needs to make quick decisions on what to keep and spot a good deal.

    Time Commitment: Some volunteer once a week, while others more frequently. We are flexible and value our volunteers. Prearranged groups work on special projects.

    In-person or virtual: In-person

    Training: Ongoing training, both hands-on and computer-based, is provided.

    Requirements: May require Base Access depending on the location of the shop.

  • Communications

    Help the Society reach Sailors, Marines and their families by creating effective communications to spread the word about our programs and services.

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    The Normal Day: Use your skills to develop newsletters, flyers, articles, briefings and professional correspondence, as well as social media communications from any location. You can choose to give presentations about the Society and its services at local Navy and Marine Corps bases.

    Are you: a person with strong writing, editing and/or design skills. You are able to work independently or in a group to create content that promotes a positive, professional image of the Society.

    Time Commitment: Varies with assignment

    In-Person or Virtual: Varies by location and assignment. Most duties may be completed virtually with regular check-ins with the Director.

    Requirements: May need base access

    Training: Provided locally in conjunction with the Communication division’s standards and guidance.

  • Casework

    Work directly with clients, providing assistance for unexpected and emergency financial needs. Meet with Sailors, Marines and their families to prepare a budget, make suggestions, and provide guidance to help them towards financial stability.

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    A Normal Day: On any given day, you are setting up appointments and meeting with clients one-on-one. You coach and guide clients so they can live more comfortably and navigate difficult financial situations. Beginning by providing Quick Assist Loans, you grow within the casework frame, increasing in complexity.

    Are you: a person who has compassion and empathy. You are a good communicator, and an even better listener, and you uphold confidentiality. No previous financial literacy knowledge is required for the role, everything you need to know will be covered in training.

    Time Commitment: a weekly 3-hour shift

    In-person or virtual: In-person

    Requirements: May need Base access depending on location

    Training: 6-9 months, depending on the site. Ongoing training, both hands-on and computer-based, is provided.

  • Lead Volunteers

    Lead and support other volunteers. Grow leadership skills while making a difference.

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    A Normal Day: As a leader you will train and mentor volunteers. You will recruit people who can help the team to succeed. You will ensure volunteers have the proper training to be proficient in their positions, and assure that volunteers are properly recognized on a regular basis.

    Are you: a person who has strong leadership and administrative skills. The person will also have the ability to motivate people and to get them excited about collaborating with their teammates.

    Time commitment: Based on the assignment, weekly engagement is preferred.

    In person or virtual: In-person

    Term: Varies by position

    Requirements: May need Base access depending on location

“I wanted to volunteer at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society because there was an opportunity to give back and serve those that protect our Country. It is an honor being an NMCRS volunteer, engaging with clients as I log them in for their appointment and being affiliated with an organization that assists in such meaningful ways.”

Lloyd Gillespie, Volunteer