COVID-19: Volunteer Protocol

COVID-19: Volunteer Protocol  

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) is a provider of essential services across the state, with more than 2,400 valued employees and nearly 10,000 volunteers. As we partner with public health officials and the rest of the community in limiting COVID-19, our priorities will be keeping our employees, volunteers and the people we serve and support safe while continuing to provide essential community services.

LSS will continue to monitor the Coronavirus in our communities and establish and modify response plans as conditions warrant and as we receive direction from the Minnesota Department of Health.

LSS will continue to be a leader in offering extraordinary responses to our neighbors. We will update this page with the ways that you can support our work. Whether through volunteerism, donations, notes of encouragement or prayers for healing, we hope that you will join us in caring for our neighbors.

As you seek to serve as a volunteer, remember that LSS is here to help you and your friends and neighbors. Please know that if you or someone you know is needing support during this time, LSS is here for you. Find services on our website.

Volunteer Guidance

  • Stay home if you are sick. Individuals who arrive on site with symptoms will be sent home.
  • Review the LSS COVID-19 FAQ for all volunteers and employees, which you can request from your volunteer contact. These guidelines take into account the individual’s vaccination status and whether or not they have experienced symptoms or tested positive for COVID-19. If you find out that you have COVID-19 after participating in an LSS shift, report your illness to your LSS shift supervisor. This will help us track possible exposure to LSS staff, clients, and other volunteers.
  • Take all necessary precautions if you are immunocompromised, or if you live with or care for someone who is immunocompromised. We support your decisions, including and up to a decision to temporarily suspend your own volunteering at this time.
  • Please thoroughly and frequently wash your hands, and follow other guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) around disease containment. Do not shake hands, but instead we recommend greeting one another verbally.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am a regular volunteer for LSS of Minnesota. What should I expect when I volunteer?
Before reporting to volunteer, please contact your usual volunteer site to inquire about volunteer needs, shift cancelations, and specific precautions that will protect you and those we serve.

I am new to LSS of Minnesota. How can I get involved?
Visit our website to see the latest updates on volunteer needs, requests for food or supplies, or get involved in advocacy efforts.

If you are sick, stay home. If you are at high risk for complications, refer to the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Minnesota Department of Health.