Volunteer Opportunity: Back-to-School Shopping Guides  

Help local students start the school year with confidence by joining us as a Shopping Guide during our annual back-to-school event! 

EVENT DETAILS: 

• Date: Saturday, July 26th, 2025 

• Time: Check in between 6:15AM – 6:30 AM 

• Orientation: Begins promptly at 6:45AM (mandatory) 

•  Event Ends: By 10:00 AM (may end earlier depending on flow) 

• Address: Old Navy, San Jose 

• Provided: Salvation Army T-Shirt & a light breakfast.  

ABOUT THE EVENT: 

We’re looking for 125 volunteers to assist as shopping guides, helping 175 students in need (grades K-12) pick out essential school clothing. Each student will be paired with a volunteer and receive $125 to spend on new clothing, based on personalized Student Profile (with sizes, colors etc.) 

Shopping Guides will lead students through their shopping experience while following a detailed instruction sheet and orientation guidance.   

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITES: 

• Help children select age-appropriate, school-school appropriate clothing and shoes within the given budget 

• Provide encouragement and ensure the shopping experience in warm, respectful, and fun 

• Stay within clothing limits and store guidelines 

• Coordinate with store staff or Salvation Army team members as needed 

• Support children through checkout and help organize their purchases 

• Ensure safety, comfort and dignity of all participants  

• Help carry or organize items as needed, and guide families through checkout or voucher redemption. 

•  Report any concerns to program staff 

• Maintain confidentiality throughout the event 

VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS: 

• Friendly, patient, and respectful 

• Comfortable working with children and families from diverse backgrounds 

• Able to follow instructions and work as part of a team 

• Must attend the 6:45AM orientation  

• Able to stand/walk for up to 3 hours 

• Ages14-17 welcome with parent/guardian present for the entire shift. Both must register separately.  

• No walk-ins allowed – advance registration required 

• Everyone should register using one email address per name (no piggy backs).  

PLEASE NOTE: This Volunteer opportunity is not open to individuals seeking to complete court ordered hours.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, July 18, 2025 [Spots fill up fast, so don’t wait!]

Questions?  

Contact: Estefani 

Volunteer Coordinator, The Salvation Army Silicon Valley 

(408) 282-1165 ext. 3218 

[email protected]