'Some of the best conversations of my life have been with street kids.' That's what many of our Advocates have shared. Advocates are the heart of Teen Feed, a dinner program for homeless youth. Advocates are present to get to know our guests, share dinner with them, offer a supportive, listening presence and information about resources and referrals. Make a difference as a mentor. If you'd like the privilege of getting to know our guests beyond stereotypes and misconceptions, and enjoy a free dinner at least one evening a week, please consider joining us!

Potential Advocates must be at least 21 years old, and willing to undergo a Washington State Patrol felony check. Having patience, self-confidence, and a non-judgmental listening nature are great strengths for Advocates. We ask that Advocates commit to a minimum of six months with us, attending dinner at least one evening a week (about 2 hours per evening). Advocates are required to attend "Homelessness 101" a free training provided by the University District Service Providers Alliance, and have the opportunity to attend monthly trainings on such topics as Self-Care, Suicide Assessment/Intervention, and Youth/Police Rights.

This opportunity is sponsored by: Teen Feed

We need volunteers who are free at these times

Evenings Weekly

This volunteer opportunity is available to the following types of volunteers

Unpaid Intern Individual Adults (26-54) Young Adults (18-25)

Contact Person:
Eric Wirkman, Teen Feed Coordinator, (phone), (email)

View all agency contacts

Address:

4740-B University Way NE Seattle, WA 98105 This location is handicap accessible (See a map)

Directions:

Our office is located at 4740-B University Way NE, just north of 47th and University Way. We are located above the Disadvantaged Workers of America office and across the street from Smokin' Dick's BBQ. Teen Feed is hosted out of four University District churches, moving location from night to night. For information about specific locations, please contact the Coordinator for scheduling.   Nearest Bus Stop: 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 48, 2 minute walk

This opportunity can also be performed in these locations:

Zip codes:

98105

Web Site: http://www.teenfeed.org

Miscellaneous Information

Are Youth Volunteers Welcome?
	No
Are court-appointed community service volunteers okay?
	No
Can families with young children volunteer for this opportunity?
	Yes

Overall Experience   
The most interesting dinner I've ever had.

I worked for City Year and through them I was directed to Teen Feed. Being raised in the West, but growing up in the Midwest, I never had day to day contact with the homeless population. When I signed up to volunteer with Teen Feed, I wasn't sure of what I was getting myself into. But Tele made it easy and more comfortable by letting me know that I was doing ok and by telling me that above all, I was there to listen to those who needed to talk. I learned a lot about people in general and how it doesn't really matter who you are or where you came from, because at the very bottom of it all, we are human. And if that's the only thing we have in common, then let that be the thing that will bind us all together. I'm glad I participated in the program and I hope that anyone else who might volunteer takes the time to listen to what's actually going on around them when they have dinner with one of the great young people. posted by modestmouse on July 14, 2004

Overall Experience   
The kids that have talked to me have lived harder lifes then i can ever imgine, it seems as though they had to grow up so fast, and talking with them, listening to parts of they're life... when they open up it's amazing what life has thrown at them and all the different reasons they attend teen feed.

They taught me a lot about my life, I'll ever forget anyone that attends and talks with me the nights I'm there. It's nothing you would could ever learn from your parents or from a book, but they bring real raw stories of their life which makes you appreciate what you have. posted by teabag on November 6, 2002