INFO PAGE
Volunteer Opportunity: Shelter System Arbitrator (Attorneys Only)
The San Francisco Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) is seeking volunteer attorneys to serve as arbitrators in the City’s temporary shelter system for adults, families, and transition-age youth (TAY).
Shelter System Arbitrator Program Overview
San Francisco offers shelter guest the opportunity to grieve a Denial of Service issued by a shelter site, when a shelter believes the guest has violated the shelter’s program rules. The guest can request a Program Hearing and if they are not satisfied with the outcome, guests can request an Arbitration. This process is controlled by the Shelter Grievance Ordinance (San Francisco Administrative Code, Section 20, Article XVIII).
Role of Volunteer Arbitrators
Volunteer arbitrators help uphold fairness in the shelter grievance process by:
- Facilitating virtual arbitration sessions
- Reviewing documentation related to the Denial of Service
- Hearing statements from shelter representatives, guests, and Shelter Client Advocates (SCAs)
- Making a final decision on the Denial of Service
Who Can Volunteer
You must:
- Be an active member of the California State Bar, or
- Be an attorney employed by the federal government and an active member of the bar of any U.S. state
- Be available to facilitate one 3-hour arbitration session per quarter
- Attend one training session per fiscal year
Interested Volunteers - Complete this Form
If you are eligible and interested in volunteering, please complete the short interest form that takes less than 3 minutes to complete. An HSH team member will follow up with you.
Shelter Arbitrator Interest Form – Submit Online
For questions, email: HSHShelterArbitrations@sfgov.org
Help Us Spread the Word
We encourage community partners and legal organizations to share this opportunity with eligible attorneys who may be interested in contributing their time and expertise.
Share this page and the HSH Volunteer Arbitrator Recruitment Flyer