Frequently Asked Questions

SOAR Center

Who can use the SOAR Center?

The SOAR Center is open to all Willamette students. This includes the College of Arts & Sciences, the Atkinson Graduate School of Business, the School of Law, Claremont School of Theology, Pacific Northwest College of Art, and Willamette Academy. This resource is free; no questions asked.

How is the SOAR Center funded?

The SOAR Center received initial funding from the Willamette University Community Action Fund for Equity and Sustainability (CAFES) and relies on donations from Salem and Willamette community members. The Bearcat Pantry also receives funding from the Associated Students of Willamette University (ASWU).

Is the number of visitors recorded?

The Bearcat Pantry, the Clothing Share, and the First-Generation Book Drive each maintain individual records for their respective unit and are available upon request. Each unit's record-keeping approach is committed to maintaining the privacy of visitors, while simultaneously allowing coordinators to track how many repeat and unique visitors seek resources from the SOAR Center.

Is my identity protected?

Yes! We ask for the last 5 digits of each visitor's student ID number so that we have a unique identifier to track pantry usage while also maintaining privacy. It is very difficult to link the last 5 digits of a student ID number to a particular individual, so visitor identity remains protected. Our volunteers also sign privacy agreements at the beginning of the semester to ensure they comply with our privacy expectations.

How can I volunteer?

We recruit students at the end of every semester to volunteer for the next upcoming semester. Follow our social media to stay informed about our most recent updates! 

How can I donate?

Please view our Support the SOAR Center page for more details.

COVID-19 Protocols

Who can access the SOAR Center now?

The SOAR Center is now open for direct student access. If you do not feel comfortable accessing our space in-person, please email soar-center@willamette.edu and we can make accommodations.

What is your sanitation protocol?

Volunteers will be required to wear PPE, disinfect the area after every pickup using EPA approved cleaner, and sanitize their hands frequently. We are also requiring them to check for any symptoms and to log their body temperature before entering the SOAR Center.

How is the food being handled safely?

Volunteers packaging the food orders will be wearing appropriate PPE. We have made sure that the airflow and air supply of the SOAR Center is accepted by health standards.

How is the clothing being handled safely?

Similar to department store safety protocols, we are taking any clothing items that students come in contact with out of circulation for a minimum of 24 hours in a designated room.