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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Helpline Center?
The Helpline Center serves as the volunteer center for the Sioux Empire, Black Hills and Brookings County, connecting people with opportunities to serve at local non-profit, social service and government agencies. We also provide support to organizations that use volunteers, such as trainings and seminars. Read about additional Helpline Center services

What is this site?
This site is a robust software package called HandsOn Connect. The Helpline Center purchases the right to use this site. Its partner agencies can list their volunteer openings on the system and volunteers can search for open volunteer positions. This site also offers information about Helpline Center special events, employee volunteer programs and more. 

Why would I register as a volunteer with this site?
When you register with this site, you create a volunteer account. This account allows you to connect with local non-profit organizations about volunteer opportunities. You can also track your volunteer hours. 

Do I join the Helpline Center to volunteer and/or use this site?
When you register with this site, you are NOT becoming a member of the Helpline Center, nor are you registering to volunteer at/with/through the Helpline Center. We are a referral-only service, connecting you with other organizations in our community. You will need to work directly with those organizations to become their volunteer and get started serving. 

Does it cost me anything to use this site?
No. This site is supported by the Sioux Empire United Way, Brookings Area United Way and John T. Vucurevich Foundation it does not cost volunteers or partner agencies anything to use it.

I am already registered as a volunteer on this site but can't get logged in. Help!
We offer an extensive help page to assist volunteers with registering and managing their volunteer accounts. Click here to access the help page.

How old do I have to be to use this site?
To register with this site, users must be 13 years of age or older. 

Is my information kept private and secure?
This site is powered by HandsOn Connect using the popular Salesforce Technology with advanced online security. Please see the privacy policies of HandsOn Connect and the Helpline Center.

I had an account in the old Helpline Center volunteer database. Is that gone?
No! Your information has been transferred into this database and a new account has been set up for you based on that information. See the volunteer Need Help page with more details. 

Do I need an email to use this site?
Yes. To use this site either as a volunteer or as an agency recruiting volunteers, an email address is required. 

What if I don't have an email account or access to a computer?
Dial 2-1-1 and ask to talk with a Volunteer Connections staff person about options.

Why would I register my non-profit agency with this site?
There are so many reasons, we have an entire page dedicated to this topic. Discover all the benefits of becoming a partner agency!

What are the terms & conditions for agencies to use this site?
Please read all Terms & Conditions of the Helpline Center. Also read the Terms of Use for HandsOn Connect. By registering with this site, you are agreeing to all terms and conditions of both organizations. 

I am already registered as an agency but can't get logged in. Help!

Access our partner agency Need Help page

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