Whether you are an ordained chaplain, or you’re just someone who loves people and has a kind, listening ear, becoming a Ship Visitor/Host Transporter is a unique volunteer opportunity. Ship Visitors are tour guides, transporters, listeners, and problem solvers.
Seafarers on cargo ships are key to our local economy. While they bring us our goods, they are isolated at sea for many months, away from family, and they are very grateful to be greeted at our ports with a welcoming smile and a listening ear. When possible, they love the opportunity to go ashore for shopping, touring, or just a change of scenery.
Ship Visitor volunteers love the outdoors in all weather conditions, and must be willing to climb gangways and be comfortable with heights. A driver’s license is necessary, along with the ability to use a smart phone and to drive a passenger van in and around the Philadelphia area. We offer safety equipment, training, and assistance with obtaining the necessary TWIC (port entrance authorization) card.
We are looking for volunteers who can commit to at least one weekday morning to early afternoon per month, scheduled a month in advance, but we also welcome as many weekday shifts as you desire. We serve 30 terminals on both the Pennsylvania and South Jersey side of the Delaware River.
If you are interested in learning more about ship visiting or other volunteer opportunities, please contact us. Applications are continually accepted.