Don't Walk By 2026

Don't Walk By is an annual outreach to people experiencing homelessness in New York City. Volunteer teams canvass the streets and subway stations of Manhattan meeting our neighbors in need and inviting them to receive dinner at our host site. At the host site they are also offered items and services such as clothing, basic medical care, overnight hospitality at a partner facility, and the option to enter longer term programs.

Now in its 19th year, Don’t Walk By 2026 will take place on Saturday, February 28 hosted at The Salvation Army Headquarters (120 W 14th St), and will mobilize over 400 volunteers.

REGISTERING TO VOLUNTEER

Please read the below to figure out the best way to register.

Street teams are created and assigned by Don't Walk By staff with the goal of a safe and satisfying experience for our volunteers and guests.

Important things to know about volunteering with us before you register:

• Volunteers can sign up one guest registrant during registration. By doing this, you are letting us know that you would like to serve alongside your guest. Group registration is not available.
• You can only register for one role.
• Street outreach volunteers participate from 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Street teams are welcome (but not required) to join us for dinner back at the Salvation Army at 4:00 p.m. Volunteers should pack a lunch or plan to take a lunch break with their team.
• Onsite volunteers staying at the host site will participate from 11 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Onsite volunteers are welcome to eat dinner at the community meal during their volunteer time.
• Pre-DWB street teams participate Friday (2/27) to invite guests to the Saturday outreach. They will participate from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Volunteers will be asked to watch training videos to prepare for Don't Walk By, and will also be trained in-person on Saturday before their service begins.
• Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to volunteer.
• Optional in-person and virtual debrief opportunities will be available after your volunteer time.

COMMITMENT & CANCELLATIONS

Don’t Walk By is guest-centric and volunteer-driven. It only happens with your participation. We depend on you and all other registered volunteers to show up on the day. Please treat this commitment as seriously as you do your paid work. If you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as you know that you can no longer volunteer.

Important: If you are unable to attend, please cancel your registration or send us an email at hello@rescuealliance.nyc with your name and the position you signed up for.

DONATIONS

We will not accept any material donations (such as hygiene kits or clothing) on the day of the outreach.