Volunteer FAQs

Who volunteers at the Mothers’ Milk Bank at Austin?
Nearly everyone! From retirees to nursing students, Junior League of Austin to faith-based organizations, corporate groups to Brownie troops,  all have time and skills to contribute.  Whatever your schedule and your skill set, chances are there’s a place for you in our volunteer heroes league!
What can I do as a volunteer?
We have opportunities for volunteers to help pour milk for pasteurization; for milk loggers to log frozen donated milk into our data tracking system; and for office support assisting with mailings, data entry, answering phones, etc. We also have occasional opportunities to work on special projects and planning for special events.
When can I volunteer?
For volunteers working the lab to pour and pasteurize milk, ideal times are:  Monday and Wednesday between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; and Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers working on logging, office support, or special projects can schedule shifts any time during our normal business hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You may volunteer as often as suits your schedule – weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or just occasionally.
Can I volunteer on the weekend?
We do occasionally have opportunities for volunteers to do weekend work – either to help with pasteurizing milk in the lab or to assist with special projects. These shifts are arranged on an individual, as-needed basis. If you have extra availability on the weekend, let us know when completing your volunteer application. However, most of our opportunities are during regular business hours, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Will I be trained?
Yes! Our smart and passionate staff provide an orientation and training. No special skills are required.
Where is the biggest need for volunteers?
 At this time, we most need volunteers in the pasteurizing lab, assisting our staff with pooling, mixing, and pouring defrosted donor milk into containers.
What special projects can I work on?
In addition to working in our lab and helping with office support, volunteers can help us by reaching out to support moms who donate milk; sharing our story by distributing outreach materials or staffing a booth at community events; coordinating special events; and picking up coolers of milk from collection sites in Austin or beyond.
Can my group volunteer together?
We do occasionally have opportunities for groups of three or more to work together on a special project. These shifts are arranged on an as-needed basis. Due to limited space in our labs, we do have constraints on the number of individuals who can pour milk together at the same time. We’re happy to talk more with you about your group and how we might be able to work together.
How do I get started?
Learn more about volunteering by visiting our Volunteer page, where you can download the volunteer application (PDF). Email the completed form, fax #512.494.0880, or snail mail it to 2911 Medical Arts St., Suite 12, Austin, TX 78705. We’ll be in touch after reviewing your application.