Front Desk Volunteer Opportunity

Front Desk Volunteer Job Description:

Front Desk Volunteers are the welcoming face and first point of contact for the 48th Ward Aldermanic Office. Front Desk Volunteers greet visitors, answer phones, collect and document constituent concerns, and connect residents with appropriate ward staff, city departments, and resources.

This role requires consistent professionalism, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive situations calmly and respectfully. Volunteers represent the Office of Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and uphold the office’s values of empowerment, antiracism, community, service, and joy.

Timeline/Time Commitment:

• Minimum commitment: 6 months

• Schedule: Mondays 10am-5pm and Fridays 10am-3pm

• Year round position. 

Location & Supervision:

• Onsite at the 48th Ward Aldermanic Office, 1129 W Bryn Mawr

• Front Desk Volunteers work closely with the Neighborhood Services team and report to the Neighborhood Services Manager

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Front Desk & Visitor Support

  • Serve as the first point of contact for residents visiting the ward office

  • Greet all visitors in a professional, welcoming, and respectful manner

  • Assist residents with general questions and direct them to appropriate staff or resources

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming front desk area

• Phone Coverage & Constituent Intake

  • Answer incoming phone calls using the office-approved greeting script

  • Verify residency to ensure requests are within the 48th Ward

  • Practice active listening to collect accurate and complete information

  • Log all constituent concerns and requests using the ward’s Service Request Form or designated systems

  • Set expectations; clearly explain that requests will be reviewed and routed appropriately

  • End calls professionally and respectfully, following office guidance

• Documentation & Systems

  • Enter, track, and update constituent requests using office systems such as Airtable, Zoom phones, and City service platforms

  • Maintain accurate records and notes for staff follow-up

  • Shred paper intake forms after information has been entered digitally, in accordance with confidentiality protocols

• Handling Common Requests including but not limited to:

  • 311 service requests

  • No Parking Sign requests

  • Museum Pass requests

  • Housing and shelter resources

  • Legal aid and social service referrals

  • Parking and accessibility permit guidance

• Office Support including:

  • Sorting mail

  • Restocking flyers, intake forms, and supplies

  • Logging into required systems

  • Flagging unusual or recurring issues for staff

• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:

• Reside in the City of Chicago.

• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills

• Experience using computers, phones, and basic office software

• High level of reliability, punctuality, and responsiveness

• Interest in public service, community engagement, or local government

• Bilingual in Spanish, Chinese, or Vietnamese are a plus but not required

To apply, submit cover letter and resume by Thursday, February 26 to info@the48thward.org.