Millions of Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts will be collected across the U.S. during National Collection Week, Nov. 16–23, 2026, and will be brought to our eight processing centers, including the Ministry Center in Windsor Mill. Before these shoeboxes can make their way to children across the globe, they first must be carefully inspected and prepared for international shipment. Tens of thousands of volunteers serve annually at our processing centers. You can participate in this dynamic ministry by registering to process shoeboxes in November and December following National Collection Week. Registration starts September 29 and remains open through mid-December when processing concludes. You can volunteer as an individual or with a group of any size and have a direct part in blessing boys and girls overseas with the truth that it's all about Jesus!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stay?
Discounted rates will be offered to our volunteers by several area hotels. Information will be available during registration.
What should I do before I arrive at the processing center?
RSVP
Manage your reservation online at occvolunteersignup.com.
Groups that complete online waivers for all members before arriving at the processing center earn a FAST PASS to expedite the check-in process when they arrive.
FAST PASS criteria: All group members must sign up online and complete the online waiver. The volunteer coordinator must ensure there are no unused slots in the group reservation. (Increase or decrease the group size on your reservation to indicate the number of volunteers who will attend.)
Dress in layers. Please wear closed-toe shoes you will be comfortable standing in for long periods, and warm, layered, casual clothes as the temperature inside the warehouse can vary.
All volunteers must be at least 13 years of age, regardless of a student's grade level. Due to the warehouse environment there can be no exceptions. For every four youth, at least one chaperone is required.
Pray! Prayer is the foundation for everything we do through Operation Christmas Child, and our desire is for every detail of the project to be covered in prayer. We encourage you and your group to spend time in prayer as you prepare for your experience at the processing center. There will also be opportunities to pray during your scheduled time at the processing center.
Leave headphones and valuables at home. Headphones are not permitted in the processing center, and we are not responsible for the damage or loss of personal items left in common areas. Bags and coolers are subject to being searched.
Keep packing shoeboxes! You can drop off shoeboxes beyond National Collection Week. A drop-off location is set up in the warehouse.
What do I do if my group size changes?
If the size of your group changes, be sure to let us know at occvolunteersignup.com or call 800-442-9120. If it increases, we will need to check availability. If it decreases, we can inform others on our waiting list who want to volunteer.
Where do I park?
Although parking is available at the processing center, due to the high volume of volunteers anticipated, we recommend carpooling or coming in vans or buses.
What happens when I arrive?
As you enter the processing center, someone will greet you to check in your group. Then, your group will proceed to Volunteer Placement, where someone will host your group. Next, orientation and training will take place with your team coach.
How do I make the most of my time in the processing center?
Be flexible. Due to the fast-paced environment of the warehouse, you may be asked to do different tasks. Some examples include removing financial contributions from the shoeboxes and inspecting gifts as well as putting shoeboxes in designated cartons. Some sit-down jobs may be available.
Training. Your team coach will train you at your table and answer any questions that you may have as you process.
Feel free to take breaks as needed and bring food. You can store your meals or snacks on-site. Ice is not provided; however, you may bring your own coolers. All food and drinks must remain inside the break area. Tobacco products are prohibited on the property.
Will there be food available at the processing center?
There may be vending machines, and some locations may have food vendors on-site. You are also welcome to bring your own food to eat in the breakroom area.
Will there be a gear store at the processing center?
Yes! Please note that the gear store accepts credit and debit cards but not cash or checks.
