They say it pays to volunteer.
In this case, a coveted COVID-19 vaccine awaits.
The state’s MyTurnVolunteer program, launched on Friday, allows those who assist California’s mass vaccination effort to help at clinics near their zip code and get their own COVID-19 vaccine after just four hours of service.
With at least four hours of volunteer time under your belt, state officials will classify you as a community health worker, bumping you to the front of the line once you receive approval from your clinic administrator.
"People can do a variety of volunteer jobs," said Josh Fryday, Chief Service Officer for the State Of California. "Everything from medical needs, putting shots in arms, to helping out and making sure that the vaccine sites are running, whether it's checking people in or doing traffic control or observing."
They are, however, mostly searching for volunteers who can work eight-hour shifts.
"We are counting on volunteers to help us do outreach and education in those (vulnerable) communities," Fryday said, pointing to the state's renewed effort to get COVID-19 vaccines to communities of color.
While it appeared volunteering opportunities are limited as of Monday, more will be added.
"Thank you for telling us about your interest in My Turn - Volunteer," a volunteer welcome email said Monday. "We appreciate volunteers like you. When opportunities in your area are available, we will make sure you know about them."
The site also provides a search tool to find volunteer opportunities.
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