The 86 is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is primarily run by volunteers!
VOLUNTEER WITH US!
VOLUNTEER WITH US!
We want to serve YOU and provide you with opportunities to serve others. Our volunteers are able to positively impact the local community and the world through their service.
Our primary areas of focus include Coffee, Concerts, Creativity, and Community. 86 Ministries, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was birthed in March 2010 by Chris and Monica Human and a group of individuals seeking to use their talents to serve others. 86 Ministries is not affiliated with, or funded by, any particular church, denomination or group. It is funded by individual donors, coffee drinkers, concert go-ers, volunteers, and people like you.
Interested in volunteering? Fill out our interest form.
FAQ
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What do the volunteers get for their time?
Many volunteers participate in our program to get service hours for their scholarships! Others do it for job experience or to meet new people. We also now offer Presidential Service Awards for those that serve over 100 hours within a designated 12-month period, which looks really great on a resume!
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What is the commitment like?
Volunteer shifts are once a week for 1.5-3 hours, depending on the role. Because of the training and resources we pour into our volunteers and the desire to build relationships, volunteers commit to serving at least 1 semester with us. Some roles may require a longer commitment.
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What kinds of things are volunteers responsible for?
We have volunteer positions to suit many different individuals! Volunteers may serve in Cafe Assistant, Cleaning Crew or Cafe Support roles.
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Is there any type of training for the position?
Yes! Individuals that complete an interview and are on-boarded will be trained for their specific role.
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Do you have to be a student to volunteer?
Nope! Many people volunteer with us just to meet new people, get work experience, have a social outlet and more.
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How old do you have to be to volunteer?
Volunteers must be 18 years or older.
What volunteers are saying…
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![Brennan O’Connor, Volunteered for 5 years]()
Brennan O’Connor (left), Volunteered for 5 years
“As a freshman, I joined The 86 team because of my interest in coffee, but I stayed because of the wonderful and fulfilling connections with the other volunteers and staff.
Over my five years at UC, The 86 has continuously proven to be my ‘home away from home’. For a few hours a week, I could turn off my overactive brain and be present with staff who quickly became friends.
Chris and Monica, directors of the establishment, always created a space for staff and volunteers to be heard. They take on the role of the ‘parents’ of The 86 family. It has been a blessing throughout my college career to know that if I were ever in need, they would be there in a moment's notice. Although the physical space of The 86 served as a second home, they served as a second family.
When I think of my time at the University of Cincinnati, The 86 played a significant role in my experience. If I could continue volunteering with them, I would. I would recommend it to anyone.”
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Ethan Lawson (second), Volunteered for 3 years
“I have been a volunteer of the 86 Coffee Bar Cleaning Crew since the fall of 2021, making it almost 3 years I have been a part their organization. More specifically, I have volunteered for a total of 6 college semesters.
Throughout each of my periods of volunteering, I met an immense amount of people all of which made my experience volunteering there that much better. Specifically, I would like to highlight Chris and Monica Human, the people who run the 86 Coffee Bar. They have immense generosity for their volunteers as shown through them organizing many activities such as volunteer events every semester or something small as giving a simple greeting to you while you volunteer. The Humans truly care for their volunteers and treat them like family.
If you are looking for a place to volunteer, whether it be for volunteer hours, to meet new people, or just to try something new, I highly suggest volunteering for the 86 Coffee Bar, Rohs Street Café, or any of their locations. You will not regret it.”
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Millie Steen (left), Volunteered for 4 years
“Volunteering for the 86 and Rohs Street Cafe has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career! From meeting so many people in the Cincinnati community to fellow UC students, being able to serve as part of a community that creates a welcoming environment for people to be themselves has been so amazing. Not only was I able to find a safe space for me and my friends to study and hang out, being able to help provide that for others as a volunteer while also fulfilling scholarship requirements has been absolutely amazing. The friendships gained from being a part of this community will last me a lifetime!”
