Volunteer at Open Arms Studio

727 Airport Blvd,Austin TX 78702

16 June, 2021

Description

Volunteer alongside seamstresses at the Open Arms Studio! NOTE: EVERY VOLUNTEER MUST BE REGISTERED AND OVER THE AGE OF 16 BEFORE ARRIVING AT THE STUDIO. Minors that are 16-17 must be registered by a parent/guardian. Open Arms Studio is a textile manufacturer offering advanced sewing training and fair-wage employment for refugees, asylees, and immigrants in Austin, Texas. Seamstresses are highly-skilled, often having decades of experience sewing for their families before being professionally trained on industrial machines. We use sustainable practices and support several partners with zero-waste initiatives, including upcycling and natural dye. You will play an essential role at the studio that helps the whole team move forward. We are looking for someone who can cut a straight line, has attention to detail, and can stand/bend over a table for up to 3 hours. We will train you at the beginning of your shift but you will have to work by yourself. Open Arms employees are committed to your safety and will take every reasonable precaution to keep you safe. Each day's tasks may be different but will often include cutting fabric, sorting and/or breaking down boxes. You are welcome to bring headphones to listen to music while working. You will also have to follow all COVID policies including pre-screening before coming into the studio, taking your temperature upon arrival, ensure masks are worn, and social distancing is practiced. The studio is located on Airport Blvd, near the 183 and Levander Loop intersection, down the street from the Austin Animal Center. If you get lost before your shift: Call Melinda at 512-635-0524While volunteering at the studio, wear comfortable shoes and clothes you can move around in. MRC is an innovative nonprofit organization blending skills-based education with social entrepreneurship to connect refugees to dignified, fair-wage work in Austin, Texas. We operate three social enterprises to train and employ refugees: The Open Arms Studio provides sewing training and fair wage work for refugees creating high-quality soft goods for private-label designers. New Leaf Agriculture connects refugees to sustainable farming opportunities by operating a community garden and a commercial farm.