2027 Unsheltered Point-In-Time Count: Volunteer

The Unsheltered Point-in-Time (PIT) Count is an annual survey of the unhoused homeless population in Memphis/Shelby County that happens every year at the end of January. Teams of volunteers load up with care bags and head out early in the morning with outreach staff to identify as many people experiencing unsheltered homelessness as possible. The Unsheltered PIT Count is important because it provides a snapshot of homelessness in Memphis and Shelby County at a given point in time, and it is one of several critical elements used for measuring progress in our efforts to end homelessness.

Volunteers are needed to help Memphis/Shelby County conduct a successful Unsheltered PIT Count!

On the morning of the count, volunteers will work on teams guided by an experienced Team Lead to canvas the assigned area. Each team will identify and engage people experiencing unsheltered homelessness, conduct surveys, and distribute care bags. Interested volunteers are asked to complete a required training before the event and sign up for shifts as described below. 

Time Commitment:

• Approximately 1 hour of mandatory training. You may also be invited to scout your assigned area with your Team Lead in the weeks prior to the count. 

• Approximately 4 - 5 hours on the morning of the count which includes meeting up with your Team Lead and canvassing your area

Responsibilities:

• Respond to communications from your Team Lead.

• Complete the mandatory PIT Count General Volunteer training prior to the count.

• Interact with and survey people experiencing homelessness in a safe, respectful, and impactful way that upholds the belief that all persons should be treated with dignity. 

• Volunteers will need to be able to walk long distances during the count. 

Please note: Much of the count occurs on foot, so volunteers will need to be able to walk long distances during their shift. If you are interested in supporting the PIT Count, but are unable to walk long distances, please consider helping us collect donations to pass out during the count.