Volunteering at DCCK

Volunteers are an integral part of DC Central Kitchen. Each year, more than 6,000 volunteers work side-by-side with the men and women of our Culinary Job Training program, preparing over 4,000 meals a day, 365 days a year.

Volunteers assist with food preparation, chopping vegetables, sorting produce, mixing salads, portioning meals, de-boning meat and sorting cans.

Large groups (up to 25) can often be accommodated, but it is necessary to schedule well in advance.

The Kitchen also welcomes service partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, community groups and fraternal organizations.

Advance reservation is required for all volunteers. If you need assistance with corporate days of service or other volunteer projects, contact Carolyn Parham at 202.234.0707 ext. 108 or cparham@dccentralkitchen.org.

Volunteering Requirements

Volunteers must be 12 years of age or older.

To work in the kitchen volunteers must wear:

• long pants
• closed-toed shoes
• shirts with sleeves (short sleeves are okay, tank tops are not)
• a hat or other head covering (hairnets are provided)
• midriff shirts are not allowed

A pre-shift orientation is given for volunteers. Please arrive 15 minutes early. so that we may begin on time.

Morning volunteers are welcome to join us for lunch at 12:00 pm on weekdays. Lunch is not provided on weekends.

Locker space is limited; please try to travel light. DC Central Kitchen is not responsible for the loss of personal property.

Parking is not available at DC Central Kitchen. Please make alternate arrangements. Directions from public transportation