---
title: Volunteer Guide
description: Getting started as a volunteer — shifts, canvassing, social connections, and achievements.
icon: material/walk
tags:
  - guide
  - volunteer
---

# Volunteer Guide

Welcome! This guide walks you through everything you need as a campaign volunteer.

![Volunteer dashboard](../../assets/images/screenshots/volunteer/dashboard.png){ loading=lazy }

---

## Getting Started

### 1. Sign Up for a Shift

Visit the **Shifts** page (your organizer will share the link, or find it at `/shifts`). Browse available time slots, pick one that works, and fill in your name and email. You'll receive a confirmation email with login credentials.

### 2. Log In

Sign in with the email and password from your confirmation at the login page.

### 3. Explore the Volunteer Portal

After logging in, you'll land on the volunteer portal. Use the bottom navigation to access:

- **Map** — your canvassing area with GPS tracking
- **Shifts** — your upcoming and past shifts
- **Friends** — social connections with other volunteers
- **Achievements** — badges and leaderboards

The portal is mobile-first — the same layout works on a phone in the field:

![Volunteer dashboard on mobile](../../assets/images/screenshots/volunteer/dashboard-mobile.png){ loading=lazy width=320 }

---

## In This Section

- **[Canvassing](canvassing.md)** — the GPS-guided canvass map, recording visits, and walking routes
- **[Shifts](shifts.md)** — viewing your assigned shifts, activity log, and route history
- **[Social](social.md)** — friend connections, activity feed, groups, profiles, and privacy settings
- **[Achievements](achievements.md)** — unlockable badges, progress tracking, and competitive leaderboards

---

## Browsing Public Pages

Tap your name/avatar in the header and select **Browse Site** to visit the public pages — campaigns, the public map, and shift signups.

---

## FAQ

**Q: I can't find my assigned area on the map.**
A: Make sure your shift has an area assigned. Check with your organizer.

**Q: My GPS isn't working.**
A: Allow location access in your browser. Try moving near a window for better signal.

**Q: I recorded the wrong outcome.**
A: Visit the same address again and record the correct outcome. The most recent visit counts.

**Q: How do I sign up for more shifts?**
A: Visit the public shifts page at `/shifts`.
