Serve
Volunteer throughout Austin by partnering with local nonprofits, churches, shelters, nursing homes, and community organizations.
Students Helping in Faith Today
Be the Shift.
A teen-led Christian service organization in Austin, Texas.
Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
what is SHIFT?
Faith isn't something you sit with. It's something you do.
SHIFT is a teen-led Christian service organization in Austin, Texas that gives students meaningful opportunities to serve their communities, grow in their faith, and develop Christ-centered leadership. Through volunteer projects, monthly meetings, and genuine community, SHIFT exists to help students put their faith into action.
our mission
To glorify Christ by equipping students to serve others with compassion, humility, and purpose, while building meaningful friendships and growing together in faith.
what we do
Three things, every month.
Impact
Use your gifts to make a lasting difference in your community while representing Christ through action.
Grow
Develop leadership skills, strengthen your faith, and build friendships through monthly meetings, prayer, and serving together.
this month
September
National Childhood Cancer & Environmental Awareness Month. Every month we pick a theme and shape our projects, prayers, and goals around it.
who can join?
Young women ages 14–18, from anywhere in Austin.
Public, private, and homeschool students are all welcome. We welcome students from every Christian background, and anyone interested in serving respectfully alongside our community.
No experience required. No fee. Just show up.
New members are welcome at any point in the year.
join SHIFT
We're so glad you're here.
Whether you're looking to serve others, grow in your faith, meet new people, or develop leadership skills, we would LOVE to have you join us!
who can join
SHIFT is open to:
- Young women ages 14–18
- Public, private, and homeschool students
- Students from any Christian denomination
- Students exploring Christianity who are willing to respectfully participate in our Christian mission
no experience required!
what to expect
As a member, you'll have opportunities to:
- Volunteer throughout Austin
- Grow in your faith
- Build Christ-centered friendships
- Develop leadership skills
- Serve alongside other students
- Participate in unique service projects throughout the year
how membership works
Joining SHIFT is simple.
01
Read the guide
Read through our “Interested in SHIFT?” Guide to learn more about our mission, meetings, and expectations.
02
Complete the Membership Registration Form
You'll provide:
- Student information
- Parent/guardian information
- Emergency contact information
- Parent volunteer interest
- Membership agreements
03
Leadership reviews your registration
Once approved, you'll receive:
- A welcome email
- The SHIFT Member Guide
- A GroupMe invite
- A WhatsApp invite
- The Google Calendar
- Information about the next meeting
membership expectations
SHIFT is built on respect, service, and community.
We don't expect members to attend every volunteer opportunity, but we do ask that every member contributes to the positive culture we're building.
- Treat others with kindness, respect, and encouragement.
- Represent Christ and SHIFT well through your words and actions.
- Communicate with leadership if you can no longer attend a registered event.
- Honor your commitments after signing up for volunteer opportunities.
- Participate with humility and a willingness to serve.
- Follow the instructions of SHIFT leaders, Project Leaders, and partner organizations.
- Help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels included.
By registering as a member, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to uphold these expectations while participating in SHIFT.
upcoming events
Where we're serving next.
Volunteer events are for SHIFT members. Volunteer opportunities are announced monthly at each SHIFT meeting.
Upcoming events
CreateForKids
Card Making Party · Pflugerville, TX Members only No sign-up neededSAIVA Gardens
Downtown Austin (location TBD) Members only Sign-up opens soonNot a member yet? Volunteer events are open to SHIFT members only, so start with the membership registration. It's free and takes about ten minutes. Guests are welcome at one meeting to check us out first.
Want to help without joining? Every project runs on donated supplies, and anyone can contribute. We post a new list each month at Support SHIFT.
CreateForKids Card Making Party
Making handmade cards for kids in treatment. A small thing that lands on a very hard day.
This event is open to SHIFT members. If you haven't joined yet, register for membership first. It's free.
SAIVA Gardens
A morning in the garden: planting, weeding, and hauling for a community that feeds people who need it.
Registration isn't open yet. The sign-up will be posted on this page when it opens, and members will hear about it through GroupMe, WhatsApp, and email. This event is open to SHIFT members. If you haven't joined yet, register for membership first.
calendar
The SHIFT club schedule.
Meetings are held on the fourth Saturday of every month, 4:15 – 5:45 PM, at High Pointe Baptist Church.
Fri · Sep 4
SHIFT Kickoff Meeting
6:15 – 7:45 PM
High Pointe Baptist Church · 12030 Dessau Rd, Austin, TX 78754
Sat · Sep 12
CreateForKids Card Making Party
3:00 – 5:00 PM
18901 Hilltop Canyon Cove, Pflugerville, TX 78660
Sat · Sep 19
SAIVA Gardens
8:00 – 11:00 AM
Downtown Austin (location TBD)
Sat · Sep 26
Monthly Member Meeting
4:15 – 5:45 PM
High Pointe Baptist Church · 12030 Dessau Rd, Austin, TX 78754
Want it on your phone?
Members receive the SHIFT Google Calendar in their welcome email after registration is approved. It syncs straight to your phone so you never miss a meeting or a sign-up deadline.
member guide
Everything you were going to ask anyway.
Search for your answer throughout these four folders. If your question isn't here, feel free to reach out to any member on the leadership team.
Meetings
When and where are meetings held?
Meetings are held at High Pointe Baptist Church, 12030 Dessau Rd, Austin, TX 78754, on the fourth Saturday of every month, 4:15 – 5:45 PM.
What should I bring?
Yourself, and possibly some cash if you think you'd like to buy from the snack table.
Do I have to attend every meeting?
No, attending every meeting isn't required, but it's encouraged if you're a member. Meetings are when we hand out important information, and they're a valuable time for meeting other members.
What happens at a typical meeting?
- A time for fellowship
- A recap of the past month's events
- Announcements for the month ahead: themes, events, goals
- Prayer partners
Can I bring a friend?
Yes! You can bring any young woman aged 14–18. Guests are welcome for one meeting. After that they'll need to become a member to attend.
Are parents allowed to stay?
Yes! Parents are welcome to stay and watch if they'd like.
Are snacks provided?
Yes! There's a snack table at every meeting, with everything priced between $0.50 and $2.00. All proceeds go toward SHIFT and supporting future event costs. Members are welcome and encouraged to bring individually packaged baked goods, snacks, and drinks to contribute to the Snack Sale.
My question isn't answered here. What should I do?
If you can't find what you're looking for, don't hesitate to email us at shiftclubatx@gmail.com or reach out to any member of the SHIFT leadership team. We're always happy to help.
Registration
How do I join SHIFT?
Read through the “Interested in SHIFT?” Guide, then complete the Membership Registration Form. Once your registration has been reviewed, you'll receive a welcome email with everything you need to get started.
Who can become a member?
SHIFT is open to young women between the ages of 14 and 18 who are interested in serving others, growing in their faith, and participating in volunteer opportunities.
Is there a membership fee?
No. Membership in SHIFT is completely free.
Do I have to be a member to attend meetings?
SHIFT has a guest policy allowing anyone interested to attend one official member meeting. Beyond that, you'll need to register as a member to attend any other meetings or volunteer events.
Do my parents need to complete anything?
Yes. A parent or guardian must give permission through the Membership Registration Form before you can participate as a member. Additional waivers from partner organizations may also need signing.
Can I join in the middle of the year?
Absolutely! New members are welcome at any time during the year.
Do I have to register for every volunteer opportunity?
Almost always. Most volunteer events require their own registration so leadership can plan transportation, group assignments, supplies, and communication. A few don't. The event page always says which, so check there first.
Can I attend if I forgot to register?
Usually not. Registration deadlines help us properly organize each event. If you've missed a deadline, contact leadership as soon as possible to see if accommodations can be made.
What if I signed up but can't attend?
Please let leadership know as soon as possible so adjustments can be made to volunteer teams and project planning.
Why do I need waivers?
Some volunteer organizations require additional permission forms or waivers before students can participate. Leadership will let you know if additional paperwork is needed.
Volunteering
What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing appropriate for the volunteer activity. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for most projects unless otherwise stated.
What should I bring?
Any items listed on the event page, as well as water and sunscreen.
What time should I arrive?
Please arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled start time unless instructed otherwise.
Will I be working in a group?
Usually, yes. Most volunteer opportunities are divided into smaller teams led by a Project Leader.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Leadership will communicate any schedule changes, cancellations, or alternate plans through the website and our communication platforms.
How are my volunteer hours tracked?
Leadership records attendance after each volunteer opportunity and updates each member's volunteer hour record.
Communication
How does SHIFT communicate with members?
SHIFT primarily communicates through the website, WhatsApp, GroupMe, and email.
Which platform should I check first?
The SHIFT website is the official source for schedules, registrations, event details, and announcements. GroupMe, WhatsApp, and email are used to notify members when new information has been posted.
How do I join the group chats?
Invitation links are included in your welcome email after your membership registration has been approved.
Will my parents receive updates too?
Yes. Important information may be sent to parents by email when appropriate.
Where can I find upcoming volunteer opportunities?
All current volunteer opportunities are posted on the Upcoming Events page.
Where do I register for events?
Each volunteer opportunity has its own page on the SHIFT website. If it needs a sign-up, the registration button is there; if it doesn't, the page says so.
What if information changes?
The website is always kept up to date with the latest information. Communication platforms will notify members when important changes occur.
Who should I contact if I have a question?
Feel free to reach out to any member of the leadership team through GroupMe, WhatsApp, or email us at shiftclubatx@gmail.com.
What if I change my phone number or email?
Notify the Secretary so your contact information can be updated.
How will I know if an event is canceled?
Leadership will post updates on the website and notify members through WhatsApp, GroupMe, and email if an event is canceled or significantly changed. Registrants will additionally be emailed individually.
leadership
The students running SHIFT.
SHIFT is teen-led. The people planning the projects, leading the meetings, and answering your questions are students too.
Our leadership team
Elizabeth Cochran
Founder & President
Hi! I'm Elizabeth Cochran, both the founder and President of SHIFT! I'm currently a sophomore in high school, and SHIFT has been something I have been envisioning since middle school. Seeing it come alive has been such a surreal and intimidating experience. In my free time I love to listen to music, read, play guitar, hike, and travel!
Anna Grace Alley
Vice President
Howdy!! I'm Anna Grace, the Vice President of SHIFT. I am 16 years old and a junior in high school. I'm a homeschool student who loves photography, teaching, ASL, working with kids, hiking, music, serving others, and anything creative! When I'm not working on SHIFT or school work ;) you can usually find me behind my camera, hanging out with friends, baking, or creating something. :)
Patience Pennington
Secretary
Hi! I'm PJ Pennington, the Secretary for SHIFT! I'm currently a junior in high school. I love to sing and play guitar and volleyball. I also enjoy traveling and spending time in community with friends and family!
Lydia Harbin
Volunteer Coordinator
Hi, my name is Lydia! I am a student-athlete heading into my junior year of high school. I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether I'm hiking, swimming, or biking. I love playing softball, reading, and rewatching my favorite movies! I'm excited to be involved with SHIFT and look forward to learning, growing, and serving our community.
Rachel Cochran
Social Media Lead
Howdy, my name is Rachel Cochran, born and raised in Austin, Texas! I'm 17 years old, a senior in high school, and plan to attend Texas A&M University. I love the Lord, my family, my three dogs, and playing my guitar and any sports.
want to help lead?
There's room for you on this team.
SHIFT is run by students, which means leadership roles open up as members step into them. Here are two we're looking to fill right now.
Communications Lead
OpenThe Communications Lead keeps members, parents, and leadership informed by managing SHIFT's communication platforms and sharing timely, accurate information. They help make sure members know about upcoming meetings, volunteer opportunities, registration deadlines, and important announcements. The Communications Lead works closely with the Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator to communicate clearly while helping build an encouraging, connected community.
The Communications Lead may:
- Manage SHIFT's communication platforms (GroupMe, WhatsApp, email, and other approved platforms)
- Send reminders for meetings, volunteer opportunities, and important deadlines
- Share registration announcements and direct members to the website for event information
- Coordinate with the Secretary to keep communication lists current
- Promote upcoming events and encourage member participation
- Help answer general member questions, or direct them to the right leader
- Maintain the website's news, announcements, and Our Journey pages by posting event recaps and updates
She is expected to:
- Communicate clearly, professionally, and respectfully
- Share accurate information in a timely manner
- Maintain a positive and encouraging online presence
- Protect members' privacy and confidential information
- Work closely with the leadership team so communication stays consistent
- Represent SHIFT well in all public communications
Project Leader
OpenProject Leaders are members who help lead individual volunteer opportunities and support the leadership team during service projects. Rather than one leader overseeing every volunteer, Project Leaders guide smaller groups, answer questions, and help each event run smoothly.
You don't have to be on the leadership team to be a Project Leader. It's one of the ways SHIFT members grow into leadership themselves. As you participate and get more involved, you may have the chance to lead a group. Project Leaders are selected by the leadership team based on responsibility, willingness to serve, and ability to work well with others.
Project Leaders may:
- Lead a small group of volunteers during service projects
- Help members know where to go and what to do
- Answer questions during volunteer events
- Encourage and include every member of their group
- Communicate with the Volunteer Coordinator before and during the event
They are expected to:
- Arrive prepared and on time
- Set a Christ-like example through their words and actions
- Serve others with humility
- Be dependable, and communicate if plans change
- Help make every volunteer feel welcomed and included
- Support the leadership team and represent SHIFT well
why this role matters
Project Leaders let SHIFT serve more effectively by dividing larger volunteer opportunities into smaller, organized teams. They also help develop future leaders by giving members the chance to grow in responsibility, confidence, and servant leadership.
support SHIFT
What we need most is supplies.
SHIFT is free to join and always will be. The simplest way to help is to shop from our supply list and bring what you buy to a meeting. We post a new list every month based on what our upcoming projects need.
Where your support goes
Project supplies
Cardstock and markers for CreateForKids. Gloves and tools for garden days. The materials that make a service project actually happen.
Event costs
Partner organization fees, printing, name tags, and the small things that come up when you bring a group of students somewhere.
Room to grow
More members means more supplies, more transportation, and more projects we can say yes to instead of turning down.
supply list
What we need this month.
We post a new list each month based on the projects coming up, so nothing sits in a closet unused. You don't have to be a member to donate supplies. Anyone can.
Operation Christmas Child
Collecting nowWe're packing shoeboxes for children through Samaritan's Purse. We need both the boxes and the things that go inside them.
- Supplies due
- Friday, October 31
- Packing party
- Early November, date coming soon
- Boxes delivered
- National Collection Week, November 16 to 23
we're collecting
- Shoeboxes, plastic or cardboard
- School supplies: pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, sharpeners
- Hygiene items: toothbrushes, bar soap, washcloths, combs
- Small toys: jump ropes, yo-yos, small dolls, stuffed animals, balls
- Accessories: socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips
Operation Christmas Child has an official list of what can and can't go in a box, and a few common items aren't allowed. Please check their packing list before you shop.
Samaritan's Purse suggests $10 per box to cover shipping and processing. It's optional, and every box we pack ships either way, but if you'd like to sponsor one, there's a card for that just below.
Card making
OngoingWe make handmade cards for the nonprofits we partner with, including CreateForKids. These get used at almost every card making event.
we're collecting
- Cardstock and blank cards
- Markers, colored pencils, and gel pens
- Stickers, washi tape, and scrapbook paper
- Envelopes
- Glue sticks and safety scissors
How to get supplies to us: bring them to a meeting on the fourth Saturday of the month at High Pointe Baptist Church, or email us to arrange another time. We don't accept mailed donations. If you'd rather give cash toward this month's list, see the giving options below.
ways to give
Two ways, and both happen in person.
We keep this simple on purpose. SHIFT doesn't accept checks, online payments, or mailed donations.
Donate supplies
The most useful thing you can do. We post a supply list every month with exactly what our upcoming projects need, so nothing goes to waste. Shop from it and bring what you buy to a meeting.
Cash at a meeting
Come to a meeting on the fourth Saturday of the month at High Pointe Baptist Church and hand it to any member of the leadership team. We'll put it toward the supplies on that month's list.
$10
Sponsor a shoebox
Ten dollars covers shipping and processing for one Operation Christmas Child box, all the way to a child overseas. Tell any leader at a meeting how many you'd like to cover.
Every box we pack ships whether or not its shipping is sponsored. This is a bonus, never a requirement.
Buy from the snack table
Every meeting has a snack sale, priced $0.50 to $2.00. All of it goes straight back into future events. Members are welcome to bring individually packaged snacks to contribute.
SHIFT is not a registered 501(c)(3) organization. We're grateful for anything you give, but gifts to SHIFT are not tax-deductible and we can't issue tax receipts. That's also why we keep to supplies and in-person cash rather than checks or online payments. If tax deductibility matters for your giving, let us know and we'll point you to a partner organization that can offer it.
other ways to help
Money isn't the only thing we need.
- Donate supplies for upcoming service projects. Our current list is further up this page.
- Contribute individually packaged snacks or materials for member meetings.
- Sponsor the materials needed for a volunteer opportunity.
- Connect SHIFT with local nonprofits and community organizations.
- Share SHIFT with young women ages 14–18 who may be interested in serving.
contact
Ask us anything.
Members can reach leadership through GroupMe, WhatsApp, or email. If you're not a member yet, email is the best way in.
How to reach us
Where we meet
High Pointe Baptist Church
12030 Dessau Rd
Austin, TX 78754
Fourth Saturday of the month, 4:15 – 5:45 PM.
Already a member?
GroupMe and WhatsApp invites arrive in your welcome email once your registration is approved. Reach any leader there.