Volunteer training should take about 3 hours of your time. For training, we ask our volunteers complete the following:

1. Sign up to shadow a class listed on our Class Schedule. You only need to shadow one class, not an entire series. A coordinator will email you to confirm class logistics.
2. Complete the self-led volunteer training:
   • Read the 18 Reasons Volunteer Handbook
   • Watch all of the 18 Reasons training videos and animated nutrition activities
   • Read through the facilitator section of the Cooking Matters website, specifically paying attention to the sections: Understanding Your Audience and Facilitating Food Education Skills
     • We recommend you watch the following videos as well:
       • Participants Matter
       • Learner Center
       • Creating an Inclusive Space
       • Keeping it Safe in the Kitchen
       • Team teaching
       • Food saving strategies
3. Volunteer Requirements:
   • Prior to class, please fill out the consent waiver
   • Submit proof of a valid CA Food Handler Card
     • *Premier Food Safety certificate costs $8 and takes about 1-2 hours to complete training. We are able to offer reimbursement for the Food Handler card if needed.*
4. [Optional] Expand your knowledge:
   1. Explore our Supplementary 18 Reasons Trainings, developed by 18 Reasons staff to support further learning on topics such as Nutrition, Working with Kids, Food Justice, and more!