FOR VOLUNTEERS

“Companis is my gateway to having an opportunity to serve and care for the community, which is a trait instilled in me by my grandparents.”
— Sumeet Pamma, Companis Worker

Testimonials

FAQ for Volunteers
What region does Companis serve?

Companis primarily serves nonprofits across King & Snohomish Counties. However, volunteers can come from outside these areas and may be able to assist a nonprofit remotely. 

What happens now that I’ve submitted my application?

After you apply, we’ll schedule a conversation to get to know you—your skills, interests, and what you’re hoping to get out of volunteering.

From there, we match volunteers to existing nonprofit opportunities within our focus areas. When we see a role that feels like a strong fit, we’ll reach out to share more and explore whether you’d like to move forward with an introduction.

Timing can vary. Some volunteers are matched quickly, while others may take longer depending on current nonprofit needs and how closely your interests align with available opportunities.

Being open to a range of opportunities within our focus areas can often lead to a quicker match.

How many hours per week/month are your typical placements?

Most Companis volunteers serve between 2–10 hours per week, with a maximum of 20 hours. We work with you to determine a volunteer schedule that feels sustainable & meaningful. 

How long do Companis volunteers commit to volunteering?

Because we aim to support meaningful, relationship-based placements, many roles are designed for a 12-month commitment, with a 6-month check-in to assess fit and any changes in your availability.

That said, we know life changes. Some placements can be adjusted to a 6–9 month timeframe, and we occasionally offer short-term, project-based opportunities as well.

Do I get to choose the agency where I’m recommended for placement? How does Companis make the match?

Yes—your voice is central to the process.

We take time to understand your interests, skills, and what matters most to you. When we identify a potential match, we’ll share the opportunity and talk it through together before making any introductions.

You’ll never be placed randomly. Our goal is to find a match that feels like a strong fit for you and the nonprofit.

Can Companis help me find a very specific or custom volunteer role?

We match volunteers to existing nonprofit opportunities within our focus areas, rather than creating fully custom roles.

If you’re open to using your skills in one of these areas, we’ll work to find a strong match for you. Volunteers who are flexible in the types of roles they’re open to often have the quickest and most successful placements.

Could I serve as a Companis Worker from my home/remotely?

It depends on the role. Some opportunities can be done remotely, while others require an in-person presence. We’ll discuss expectations for each role before moving forward so you can find a placement that fits your schedule and preferences.

How is Companis different from a temp agency, job placement firm, or websites like VolunteerMatch?

Companis is a relationship-based matchmaking program—not a job placement service or open listing platform.

We take the time to get to know both volunteers and nonprofits, and we match people to specific, pre-defined roles where their skills can make a meaningful impact.

Rather than browsing listings, you’ll be guided through a thoughtful matching process designed to create strong, well-supported placements that benefit both you and the nonprofit.

I work full-time. Is it possible for me to have a meaningful service commitment?

Absolutely.

Many of our volunteers work full-time and still find meaningful ways to contribute. Because we take the time to understand both volunteer availability and nonprofit needs, we’re able to find placements that fit alongside your schedule.

 

What does ‘Companis’ mean, and why is that your name?

The name Companis comes from Latin: com (with) + pan (bread)—to break bread together.

We believe meaningful connection is at the heart of service. Our Volunteer Support Program creates space for reflection, learning, and community, often centered around sharing meals together.

At its core, Companis is about bringing people together—volunteers and nonprofits—in the spirit of mutuality and shared purpose.

Make a Difference

You’re someone who wants to use your skills to strengthen your community.

You value reflection, connection, and personal growth.

You see challenges—and you’re ready to be part of the solution.

You’re in the right place.

At Companis, our volunteers are young professionals, retirees, working professionals, and people in career transition. They are teachers, journalists, bookkeepers, social workers, and more. They come from all walks of life, but share a common thread: they’re seeking purpose, connection, and opportunities to learn new things while giving back.

Companis volunteers bring expertise and talent to the nonprofits that are holding our safety net together, from food banks, domestic violence shelters, immigration support agencies, community healthcare clinics, and more. 

We partner with local nonprofits to place volunteers in high-impact roles where they can make an immediate and lasting difference, meeting critical needs where it matters most.

How You Can Get Involved

We match volunteers into four primary types of roles:

By focusing on these areas, we’re able to match volunteers more quickly and create strong, well-supported experiences for everyone involved. 

What to Expect

We take the time to get to know you—your skills, interests, and goals—and match you with an opportunity where you can make a real difference.

Our placements are:

  • Clearly defined
  • Thoughtfully matched
  • Rooted in real nonprofit needs

We act as matchmakers, but you’re always in the driver’s seat. We take the time to understand your interests and share opportunities that align, then partner with you to explore each one. Our goal is to help you find a placement that feels like the right fit.

We also offer opportunities for connection and reflection through our Volunteer Support Program, so you’ll be supported every step of the way.

A Thoughtful Matching Process

We match volunteers to existing nonprofit opportunities that help our volunteers make an immediate impact in their communities, right where it’s needed most. This helps us:

  • Place volunteers more efficiently
  • Ensure nonprofits are ready to support you
  • Create meaningful experiences that make the most of your skills and strengths

If you’re open to using your skills in one of our focus areas, we’d love to work with you.

Companis Placements in Action

Food Security in Insecure Times – our latest podcast

Food Security in Insecure Times – our latest podcast

The latest People Powering Change podcast features the work of Snohomish County's two largest food banks. Host Gary Davis visits the Lynnwood Food Bank and the Edmonds Food Bank, speaks with their directors, and a dedicated food bank volunteer. The interviews...

read more