Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

You can make a difference in the life of a homebound senior in your community! Delivering “more than just a meal,” your visit will provide healthy nutrition, a safety check, a friendly smile, and the support for these individuals to remain in their homes.

Our volunteer Meals on Wheels drivers deliver over 100 meals each weekday all across the Iowa City area. Delivery drivers pick up meals between 10:30 and 11:00 am and then each delivery route takes approximately one hour.

Our routes are both family-friendly and business-friendly. Deliver one day a week, once a month – you can choose your own schedule! We can also adjust routes to meet your work schedule.

Drivers must have a current driver’s license, be able to drive their own vehicle, and must provide proof of auto insurance. Volunteers must also complete a background check prior to delivering meals. Youth are welcome to accompany an adult driver on deliveries!

Please contact jocovolunteers@horizonsfamily.org or call 319-375-3161 if you are interested!

Babysitters will sit with infants and family members in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).  Activities include cuddling, reading, singing, and other duties as directed by staff.

Responsibilities:

Experience:

How can I teach an adult to read? Come to the Literacy Tutor Orientation and learn how you can help. This 1 1/2 hour orientation will introduce you to who we are as the DMACC Adult Literacy Center and to the adults we serve. Discover how online computer assisted learning is accelerating adults' literacy skill acquisition and how your personal interactions with an adult learner contributes to their learning.

The Adult Literacy Center has an ongoing and crucial need for volunteers to tutor adults who live in and around Des Moines. The act of helping another person learn to read, write, speak and spell is very rewarding!  Come learn how you can make a difference in someone's life and in their family's life.

Help us put on our Family Fall Festival at our Burt Club!This will be a fun, carnival style event with games, crafts, and fun for the whole family! We need help with setup, tear down, and most importantly, running the game and craft stations. We hope to have your help, it’s set to be a great time! 

City Girl Farming is growing — literally!

We’re moving to a new location at Steeple Square, and we need a few helping hands to get us there. This volunteer opportunity is perfect for anyone who enjoys teamwork, good energy, and a little physical activity. We’ll have two shifts available:

1️⃣ Load the Truck – Help us pack up and load items at our current location (2900 Central Ave.)

2️⃣ Unload the Truck – Help us unload and get settled into our new space at Steeple Square

It’ll be a day full of movement, teamwork, and a few good laughs along the way. Come ready to lift, carry, and make a big difference for a local business that’s passionate about sustainable food and community connection. Whether you sign up for one shift or both, your help means the world to us — and we promise you’ll leave tired but proud (and probably a little dusty).

Join us and be part of City Girl Farming’s next chapter!

Help give new life to gently used treasures! Behind-the-scenes volunteers sort, price, and prepare donations for the sales floor. Tasks vary by department — from hanging clothing and pricing housewares to testing electronics and organizing toys or linens. Every item you process helps support MCC’s mission of relief, development, and peace around the world.

Sample roles include: Clothing Sorter, Kitchenware Pricer, Book or Toy Sorter, Electronics Tester.

Join the friendly front-of-shop team at Crowded Closet! Retail volunteers create a welcoming shopping experience by greeting customers, assisting at checkout, organizing displays, and helping keep the sales floor tidy and inviting. Whether you enjoy connecting with people or keeping things running smoothly behind the counter, your time supports local and global relief, development, and peace projects through Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). 

Sample roles include: Cashier, Cashier Assistant, Retail Assistant, or Greeter.

The Winter Iowa Games are held each year in Dubuque & volunteer needs range from checking in athletes to swimming timers.

The dates for 2026 are January 31 – February 1, 2026. If you are interested in helping, please email us at cole.bollweg@iowagames.org or complete the sign up through the links below. 

To view all volunteer opportunities, please CLICK HERE.

Volunteers will sell Blue Collar Boxing merchandise and process transactions.

Note: Two volunteers from Finance, and five volunteers from other UWM departments.

Please wear casual, comfortable shoes and a Blue Collar Boxing T-shirt.

Volunteers are needed to help families "shop" for gifts provided through our Wish List. (Everything is free for the families.) Then, help the families wrap their presents. Volunteers are needed between December 9th through December 18th. Shifts vary. 

This is a great project for individuals or a small group.

Questions: For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Thank you for your interest in preparing dinner(s) for the families staying at New Directions Shelter. 

Dinners are primarily needed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Dates Dinners Are Currently Needed:

November

December

January

This opportunity involves preparing (or buying) and donating a well-balanced, child-friendly dinner. The meal needs to feed up to 20 people (mostly children). Food needs to be dropped off by 4:00 - 4:30 pm on the designated day. Meals are just dropped off; there is no serving involved. We do have the ability to heat/re-heat as needed. Drinks and/or desserts are not required but are appreciated.​More information will be provided to you after sign up, or contact Melanie Wright if you have any questions.

Office Phone 515-244-9748 | Email: melanie@familiesforward.org

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Volunteers will assemble soccer goals at the Musco Sports Center. The City of Muscatine will have some tools on hand, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools if they have them. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring water. 

Volunteers will assemble team benches at the Musco Sports Center. The City of Muscatine will have some tools on hand, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools if they have them. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring water.

Volunteers will hang signs at the Musco Sports Center. The City of Muscatine will have some tools on hand, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools if they have them. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring water.

Volunteers will assemble and place bases, pitching mounds, dugouts, & backstops at the Musco Sports Center. The City of Muscatine will have some tools on hand, but volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools if they have them. Please wear close-toed shoes and bring water.

Project Renewal relies heavily on community volunteers to successfully carry out our mission. Individuals who have a sincere desire in helping improve the lives of children in our community can do so through our youth program and agency activities. We need your support!

Afterschool program hours: Monday - Friday, 2:45 – 5:30 p.m.

Summer program hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., additional field trip hours scheduled on a weekly basis.

Times can vary for volunteers to fit their schedule: once a week or however often is desired by volunteer, how long can be decided by volunteer also - whether it is for an hour or more within the time frame of our program hours or for a specific event. Feel free to call to discuss, 563-324-0800

Basic Function and Responsibility

To assist in supervising educational, recreational, and social activities designed to teach school-age children needed life skills such as self-esteem, time management, non-violent conflict resolution, interpersonal skills, and appropriate social behavior.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Volunteer examples: helping youth with homework, tutoring math, reading, writing, assist with craft projects, baking, computers, social interaction with youth, playing games, etc. Or other organization items, such as fundraising, marketing, garden and yard work, maintenance or cleaning.

Special Events: Project Renewal Fit-Fest, neighborhood parties –Halloween, Christmas Caroling, Easter Egg Hunt.

You can make a difference and impact food insecurity right here in our community. Be a welcoming face to a family in need. Help us get food home with those that are struggling for the Thanksgiving holiday.     

How volunteers will help -- Food Pantry Grocery Guides:  Volunteers will "guide" families through the building, showing them all of the food options available. Then, volunteers push the grocery cart out to the families car in the parking lot and bring the grocery cart back inside.   

Questions: For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. 

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Volunteers are needed to help families shop for toys and stocking stuffers for each of their children.

Click here to sign up.

Help us make sure that every child's Christmas is special by volunteering in Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry! Helping over 1,000 children last year, we are so excited to get brand new toys out to children in need. Parents will "shop" through the free toy pantry to get a new toy, stocking-stuffer, book, and a stuffed animal for each child. Volunteers are needed to welcome families and help them shop!

Questions: For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help. 

About Families Forward:  Families Forward has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Volunteers are needed to organize our donation area and do light cleaning in our shared living spaces (living room, dining room, and kitchen). ​Volunteers would be organizing clothing, personals/toiletries, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cleaning products, school supplies, food items, and much more. We provide basic necessities every month for up to the 77 families staying in New Directions Shelter, The Home Connection, and our other housing programs.​

​This is a great project for a single person to work on, or you can sign up to bring a group (up to 10 people at a time). Volunteers should be 10 and older. Youth 14 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. 

Questions? Sign up to receive more information or contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. 

Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. 

Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service, but our food pantry does. 

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Volunteers are needed to help fill the shelter with holiday spirit. Sign up individually or come as a group.  

Volunteers will help in the following ways: 

Questions: Contact Missy Reams by email at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help.

Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. 

Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service.

About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.

Won't you help make a child's holiday season special? Volunteers are needed to help children ages 1 to 17 with crafts, games, and activities that our staff will plan. Our shelter provides emergency housing for up to 8 families with children at a time. Most children's activities have between 5 to 15 children in attendance.     

Volunteer Responsibilities and Activity Information:

Volunteers:

Questions? Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive.

Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. 

Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service.

Large Group Volunteering for Children's Events: If you have a larger group that would like to help with a children's event, please email Missy Reams at Missy@familiesforward.org.

About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.

Volunteers will have multiple roles including:

- Packing the professional attires,
- Steaming the professional attires,
- Transporting to the event's venue, and
- Setting the attire up for distribution at the event's venue.

Every year, at our Holiday Toy Pantry, we provide hats and gloves for the 1,000 children receiving gifts at our event. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet. We need your help to make sure that these children have the warm essentials that they need for the cold winter days ahead. The hats and gloves are also used for the children at our child development center and our family shelter. Items are needed by Friday, December 12th. 

Drop Off Location:

Families Forward Child Development Center

1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315

Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue:

Pull up by the back door of the yellow Child Development Center. Open the gate behind the Child Development Center and go to the very last door. The door is up 5 steps, and the glass window says “Administrative Office”. Ring the doorbell and someone will accept your donations.

Questions: For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Volunteers are needed to help families get food, clothing and other basic necessities at the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Training is provided when a volunteer first arrives.       

Volunteers help in the following way each day:   

Volunteers needed Monday through Friday (day time and evening shifts) and some Saturdays.  

Volunteers should be 5 years of age or older to volunteer. Youth 12 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. 

Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404 or by text at 515-346-8895.

About Families Forward Bidwell Pantry: At the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving 6,000 - 9,000 individuals per month, our pantry provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing.

About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience.

Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. 

About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season!         

To sign up to help, click here!

We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness:

You may choose to support both programs.

We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones.

Please contact Melanie Wright with any questions.
Office: 515-244-9748 | Email: melanie@familiesforward.org

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Thank you for your interest in supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season!

To sign up to help, click here!

We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness:

You may choose to support both programs.

We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones.

Please contact Melanie Wright with any questions.
Office: 515-244-9748 | Email: melanie@familiesforward.org

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

You can make the difference in a child's life by coordinating an event to make tie (no-sew) blankets for our Holiday Toy Pantry. We'd love for each child to receive a warm blankie with their new toy. Last year, we served over 1,000 children at our event.  Blankets are needed by Friday December 12th, but we can accept them later than this. 

This a great opportunity for groups, organizations, and employees that can't leave the office to volunteer or would like to do a service project. A team of two volunteers should be able to complete one blanket in an hour.

For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

Please note: Companies/Volunteers will need to purchase the materials to make the blankets.  

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Urgent need of the following items:

You may drop off these items to our office located at 7815 Harney St in Omaha.

Access our Amazon Wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3U9N8SBJMKCXS?ref_=wl_share

Questions? Please contact Nyesha Devers P: 402-991-4673 /E: hello@caroleshouseofhope.org                           

OH MY GOSH Hello! This is a great opportunity to be a Gallery Guardian and a Museum Muse! We have different shifts available with different roles and times of day. 

For the Role of Gallery Attending: Your job would be to keep an eye on the galleries while being a warm welcoming face for visitors to talk to. You get to learn deeply about our exhibitions and stories behind each exhibit.

For the Role of Front Desk: This is more of a reception based job. Answer phones, check visitors in, sell gift shop items, and greet new visitors (and maybe strike up a fun conversation). 

Finally there is the Float Role: This is a traveling role that will bounce between attending and desk work. If you feel comfortable you may also help with the education station. 

These roles are really great if you enjoy engaging others while also keeping yourself busy during the slow hours (great for students)

Shifts are about 3-5 hours but if you communicate different availability we'd be happy to work with you. 

Wednesday:

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Float 11:00-3:00

Afternoon Desk or Attending 1:00-4:00

Thursday: We stay open late

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00- 2:00

Float 1:00-5:00

Night Desk or Attending 2:00 -7:00

Friday - Saturday - Sunday

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Float 11:00-3:00

Afternoon Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Volunteer on the DBQ Shovel Crew this winter! To help, complete this survey https://arcg.is/0KmSP!

As a DBQ Shovel Crew volunteer you will be paired with a resident in need of assistance who is not physically able to remove snow and ice from their city sidewalk and do not have other resources to remove the snow and ice such as neighbors, friends, or a hired service. We are seeking volunteers who can help throughout the winter season.  The commitment is caring for assigned addresses all winter.

We are all pedestrians at some point in the day, whether walking to a car, the bus, to work, or just in your neighborhood. Your help in keeping sidewalks clear after snow and ice events is a meaningful way to help neighbors in need and the community!

Want to volunteer, but in need of snow and ice removal equipment? We may be able to help! Sign up and we’ll follow up with you on getting access to shovels and deicer salt.

Please complete this survey https://arcg.is/0KmSP to sign up as a volunteer! Once you are paired with a resident/address, we will be in touch with you to sign our volunteer waiver. Thank you!

Justyna Miranda, owner of City Girl Farming + Prepared Meals, has nourished our community with her delicious meals, warm friendship, and her unwavering spirit – and now she needs our help.

Very recently, she was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive adrenal cancer that she is actively fighting. The City Girl Farming Team is stepping up to keep normal operations while their trusty leader is in recovery, and with this transition, we are still looking for some additional help – which is where YOU come in! 

On Mondays and Tuesdays, we are looking for a couple of volunteers to assist our kitchen crew with meal prep tasks and dish washing. It is a fun and uplifting environment at 2900 Central Ave in Dubuque. Music is always playing, interesting conversations, and laughs are being shared almost all the time and as we prepare, cook, and package that week's delicious meals.

If you're looking for a fun way to spend some volunteer hours, if you're interested in kitchen work but have never tried it, or if you're just looking to try something different for a couple hours: Sign Up Today! No previous experience required.

The team and our community would greatly appreciate your help in these specifically trying times. Thanks so much!

In preparation for our HOPE for the Holiday event in early December, United Way of Central Iowa is collecting cleaning products and gift cards for HOPE for Stable Families. This United Way of Central Iowa program works with families to set goals, remove barriers, and use available community resources to create long-term financial stability for them and their children. 

Click here to sign-up to donate household cleaning supplies.

Click here to purchase household items from Amazon that can be shipped directly to United Way.

You can drop donations off at United Way of Central Iowa, 1111 9th St, Ste 100, Des Moines, IA 50314 on the following dates between 8am and 5pm: 

If these dates do not work for you, please contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager, to arrange a time to drop off your donations to United Way of Central Iowa. Contact Sarah Underwood at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org or 515-246-2504.

Read United is a one-on-one reading program that pairs Quad Cities adult volunteers with elementary kids to read together on a weekly basis for 30 minutes. The majority of students paired with Read United volunteers are struggling readers facing many barriers. Read United is an opportunity for elementary school students to practice reading and develop literacy skills with a caring adult while building a love of reading.

Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Thanksgiving! On Thursday, November 27, Hope Ministries will be delivering Thanksgiving Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration opens on October 6 and meal order reservations open on November 3.  

Volunteer Need

To make Thanksgiving meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children.

Volunteer opportunities will open on Monday, October 6. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/

Meal Reservation

Thanksgiving meal reservations will open on Monday, November 4. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, November 19 at 4:00PM.

Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, November 27, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed.

Make this Christmas special for the men, women, and children at Hope Ministries!

Help us bless the individuals staying in our shelter and recovery centers with practical and personal gifts. When you register to be a part of Mission: Christmas, we can ensure that the guests in our care receive a gift on Christmas day.  

Registration to fill Mission: Christmas gift bags will open on Monday, October 7. To fill one or more bags, register online before Wednesday, November 27, at hopeiowa.org/events/mission-christmas/

This Thanksgiving we will be serving and delivering over 3,000 meals. To make this possible, we will be hosting a Food Donation Day on Wednesday, November 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Food Donations will be accepted at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines). Donations can be dropped off inside the facility and individuals are invited to tour Bethel Mission.

Needed food donation items include:

Case of bottled water

Ground beef, pork loin, bacon, ham

Milk, cheese, eggs, butter

#10 cans of green beans or mixed veggies

Condiments and salad dressing, ketchup, mustard

Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Christmas! On Thursday, December 25, Hope Ministries will be delivering Christmas Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on Monday, November 3 and meal order reservations will be available on Monday, December 1.

Volunteer Needs

To make Christmas meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children.

Volunteer registration opens on Monday, November 3. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/

Meal Reservation

Christmas meal reservations will be open on Monday, December 2. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, December 17, at 4:00 p.m.

Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, December 25, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed.

Dorothy's House is looking for a venue (and/or sponsor) for our 20 person staff to celebrate during the holiday season. Last year we had a pizza party with games and white elephant gift exchange. Do you have a venue and/or group that would like to celebrate the season with us?

We are looking for donations of Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers in groups of 4, 8 or 12. These gifts are for participants in our programs - survivors of trafficking at Recovery House, Pathways and Front Porch. 

For more information, please email our volunteer coordinator, Kathy Bernreuter at kathy@dorothyshouse.org. Thank you so much for making the holidays happy for our participants! 

Following are a list of suggested items compiled by our staff:

Stocking (3 groups of 4)

Fuzzy socks (stocking) x 4

Face mask (stocking) x 4

Gloves (stocking) x 4

Scarf (stocking) x 4

Set of pens/markers (stocking) x 4

Eye shadow palette (stocking) x 4

Mascara (stocking) x 4

Motivational books/posters/desk top calendars (stocking) x 4

Sunglasses (stocking) x 4

Gifts (3 groups of 4)

Positive/affirming books (gift) x 4

K Cups (gift) x 4

Journal - no spiral (gift) x 4

Essential oil kit (gift) x 4

Diamond dots (gift) x 4

Activity Kit i.e. jewelry making (gift) x 4

Blanket (gift) x 4

Robe (gift) x 4

Organizing/Storage baskets (gift) x 4

Makeup brush sets (gift) x 4

Kindly greeting individuals at the front desk as they arrive to their art class, sorting art supplies, answering the phone, etc. As well as assisting the instructor in setting up the workshop 15 minutes before and assisting with light cleanup 30 minutes after.

We ask that you attend a brief orientation prior to the start of your time slot(s); We will reach out via email to schedule a date/time that works best for you!

Assist art instructors with classes/workshops that host students under the age of 18.

Must complete a background check.

Experience working with children is preferred.

We ask that you attend a brief orientation prior to the start of your time slot(s); We will reach out via email to schedule a date/time that works best for you!

Looking for an opportunity to change lives? At HETRA, we change lives, one stride at a time and we go through LOTS of supplies every week, throughout the year. In order to keep our services affordable for our program participants, HETRA is seeking donations of supplies such as: paper towels, toilet paper, facial tissue, lysol/chorox wipes, hand sanitizer and soap, 55 gallon contractor grade garbage bags, among other things. For more items, please see our amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/PHVL3VLMQEIR/ref=cm_wl_search_1 We're grateful for your support!

Bluff Street Neighborhood Association is celebrating Christmas on the Square and is looking for volunteers to help make this a special event! Volunteers are needed for set up, throughout the event, and tear down. 

Volunteers can be age 12 and older with a parent or age 16 or older independently.

The Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm is a 3,000 square foot indoor farm capable of producing 20,000 pounds of leafy greens a year. Our farm provides some of our most at risk populations in the metro a source of fresh, healthy greens year-round. We also provide greens to other WesleyLife and local communities.

Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming, and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most.

The tasks on our farm include:

Once you express interest in volunteering at the farm from this listing, you will receive separate communication from Claire Smith, Assistant Grower. You can also reach out to her directly at csmith6@wesleylife.org.

Volunteering at the Meals on Wheels hydroponic farm only takes place Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  

Gift joy to families in need through our Johnston Gives program. The Johnston Partnership, in cooperation with the Johnston Community School District, provides a gift card for households with school-aged kids who see more hardship than joy at the holiday season. Last year, we helped over 500 students, and we anticipate this year will be the much more. $50 helps sponsor 1 child, but any dollar amount is helpful. 

Do you love art, enjoy working with children, and want to make a lasting impact in your community? 

We're seeking enthusiastic volunteer tour guides for our Arts Trek program at the Dubuque Museum of Art. This exciting program brings every 5th grader in the Dubuque School District to our museum for a guided exploration of our permanent collection and current exhibition, followed by a hands-on art activity led by their teachers. 

Sign up for one morning, a few, or a regular weekly shift—no need to attend them all.

Volunteer Details:

What You'll be doing:

Requirements:

This is a wonderful opportunity to share your love of art, help foster creativity in young minds, and be a part of a beloved community tradition.

Support kids and their families in the Waterloo and Cedar Falls Schools this holiday season.

Adopting a family for Christmas is an incredible way to reach a lot of people all at once. Not only will an entire family in need be touched from receiving generous gifts, your own family members will see firsthand the joy of giving and what it looks like to be involved in your community. Respond to this need to be connected with a family service worker or school counselor to help a family in need this year!

The Fadss program is a self sufficiency program that serves families with children ranging from pre-natal-18 years to work toward goals that will enhance their lives.

We are looking for individuals, businesses, or groups that would like to adopt a family or children (ages range from prenatal to 18 years old) for the Christmas Holiday. (Volunteers choose the size and ages they prefer). Once the volunteers information is received the agency will reach out to the volunteer to verify preferences. Once this is done, the agency will provide a list with sizes, wants, and needs to shop for. Gifts can be wrapped or unwrapped and delivered to the agency or to the family if the family gives permission. There is no limit on the amount of gifts or money amount spent, it is up to the volunteer.

Make a difference by joining the Hammers and Harvest Build Challenge, a hands-on volunteer experience. This is more than a challenge—it’s your chance to build stability, opportunity, and hope.

Constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes. Volunteering on the construction site is one of the most impactful ways to support Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity. Possible construction projects tasks include: • Capping the foundation • Framing and setting walls • Setting roof trusses, sheathing, and shingling • Installing doors and windows • Hanging exterior siding and installing fascia and soffit • Insulation • Painting • Flooring • Installing interior doors and trim • Other finishing work and miscellaneous punch list items • Cleaning • Landscaping Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity will confirm which tasks and location of build site by Friday, a week prior to your volunteer days, with updated instructions for the team.

No previous construction experience required. Volunteers 16 and older may volunteer with restrictions: Youth are not permitted on roofs, ladders, or scaffolding higher than 6 feet. Youth may not use power tools. There must be one adult/chaperone for every five youth volunteers. Volunteers 18 and older have no restrictions. Volunteers should plan for their own lunch or coordinate something as a team. Volunteers should bring plenty to drink for the workday. Closed-toe shoes are required and sandals are not permitted. Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing for the weather and the task. Iowa Heartland Habitat will provide all the tools and materials you need for the workday.

PERFECT SCHEDULE for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Serve Monday - Saturday during store hours for as long or as little fits into your schedule.

At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration

100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.

Our goal at Many Hands is to be good stewards of the items we are given.  We try to repurpose, reuse, or recycle as much as possible.  This volunteer opportunity would be at our Merle Hay store sorting metal into categories to be recycled.   

This opportunity could be 5-10 hours a week, at your convenience to help us process metal items from our thrift stores.   

We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift stores.

We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. Hours of service can qualify for store discount or towards mission trips!

At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. 

NO SHIFT SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation then serve at your convenience during store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration

100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. 

We are looking for volunteers to serve in our linen department. This is a great little department that handles all of the fabric, sheets, curtains, etc. You would work with other volunteers and staff to sort, measure, price and hang linens. No scheduling, flexible time commitments and a great community. 

 Online Registration

All for a GREAT cause! All proceeds go to local and global missions. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations.

We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store.

We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups.

At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement.

NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Sign up for an orientation then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration

100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions.

Perfect for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Monday - Saturday whenever the store is open for as long or as little fits into your schedule.

At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration

100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.

Come test and help price electronics. We've got TVs, Radios, Video Games, You name it! 

We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store.

We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups.

At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. 

NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation in the location you want to serve then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration

100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. 

Our Vigil volunteers are dedicated individuals who provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families in their final days of life.  They sit bedside, offering comfort through conversation, prayer, music or simply just being present. 

Toys, toys, toys! Every year, the Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves up to 1,000 children in the Des Moines Metro. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet, and the toys they receive at the Toy Pantry may be the only gifts that they receive. Won't you help make a child's Christmas bright? Toys are needed by Friday, December 12, 2025.

Click here to see our entire shopping list. 

The Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves all children ages 0 to 18.

Most Needed Items:

Drop Off Location & Hours:
Families Forward Child Development Center
1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315
Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm

Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue:
Pull up by the back door of the yellow Child Development Center. Open the gate
behind the Child Development Center and go to the very last door. The door is up 5
steps, and the glass window says “Administrative Office”. Ring the doorbell and
someone will accept your donations. Please have gift card(s) in an envelope and hand
directly to our staff.

Questions or To Schedule a Drop Off: For questions or to schedule evening and weekend drop offs, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404.

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

Become a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Tax Preparer with Iowa Center for Economic Success.

We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. You can become an IRS trained and certified volunteer tax preparer prior to the beginning of the tax season and then assist taxpayers by accurately preparing their taxes for free. In-person and online training available.

If you enjoy working with numbers and people, this would be a great opportunity for you!

Locations in Des Moines (Evelyn K. Davis Center, United Way, Polk County River Place, LSI and The Iowa Center), West Des Moines and Ankeny.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

Become a Greeter for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program with Iowa Center for Economic Success.

We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. If you are a friendly person, this could be the role for you!

You would be the first person to interact with taxpayers coming to have their tax returns prepared free of charge. Your responsibility would be to greet the clients, make sure they have some basic tax documents, and add them to the list for tax preparation.

We have opportunities at our Iowa Center, United Way, Polk County River Place, Evelyn K. Davis Center, Ankeny and West Des Moines locations.

The office assistant will support office personal through administrative and clerical functions.  An office assistant may help by answering phones, filing, making copies, data entry, making admission packets and helping with mailings.

Our Vigil volunteers are dedicated individuals who provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families in their final days of life.  They sit bedside, offering comfort through conversation, prayer, music or simply just being present.

Our compassion visits can be anything from holding a patient's hand, reading to the patient, talking with the patient to watching TV, listening to music and playing games.

Our compassion visits are all about meeting the patient where they are at.  Visits can be anything from holding a patient's hand, reading to the patient, talking with the patient to watching TV, listening to music and playing games. 

Friends of the Family is looking for volunteers to help put together our holiday appeal. Tasks will include folding, stuffing and labeling the mailer. 

Bell Ringers volunteer to spend time manning Red Kettles at area businesses seeking donations. Funds raised during the Red Kettle Campaign account for 86% of our annual budget, which allow The Salvation Army to serve the community through meals, food and other basic needs assistance, shelter and more.

Volunteers are needed to assist with transporting Bell Ringers safely to their sites and retuning them to the Salvation Army.

Helping to drive a route during the kettles could save us time, money and resources!! It takes a great team to make this happen and we appreciate any time you can give us! Driving one route for us could save us $25-$30 in payroll (not to mention the appreciation from the team who work very hard during this season!!)

What to do:

- Complete a Salvation Army MVR (Captains or Ellie)

- Sign up for a time to drive – could be, say, every Tuesday during the pm shift or just here and there are you ae able. (talk with Ellie or Captains)

- Go to the DMV and get a Class D sticker on your license – so you can drive our 12 passengers (we can reimburse you).

- If you feel like you’d like to practice driving the 12 passengers, no problem! We can arrange that.

Volunteer bell ringers are more than an icon of the Christmas season; they're the difference between an empty kettle and one that raises the funds that sustain the help The Salvation Army provides all year long. When you volunteer to stand at a kettle, you're not just ringing a bell…you're changing lives.

Join The Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls this holiday season. More information and sign-up here!

We are looking for volunteers to help with math and spelling homework at our afterschool program from 4:00-5:00 M-F. A great opportunity for a small group to volunteer together each Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. To get started email niki@flickingerlearning.org or call 563-288-9000. Follow us on Facebook at Flickinger Learning! www.flickingerlearningcenter.org

Thanks to Student and Intern Days of Caring we are half way there! We are logging our books for our Accelerated Reader Library. Arrange the hours that work for you. Contact niki@flickingerlearning.org or call 563-288-9000. Follow us at Flickinger Learning on Facebook to see what we are up to!

As the Season of Giving approaches, we invite you to join us in making a meaningful difference in our community. The Northeast Iowa Food Bank is on a mission to ensure every family has access to a warm, nutritious meal this holiday season — and we need your help to make it happen!

By volunteering with us, you can share the joy of the season and bring comfort to those who need it most. Whether you come as an individual or with a group, your support will have a lasting impact.

Let’s come together to make this holiday season brighter for all!

Interested in gaining silver cord hours? Come read books, help with STEM activities, and play Sumdog math games with our kids ages K-6th. We would love to have you! Our program runs M-F 3:15-5:15 email niki@flickingerlearning.org or call 563-288-9000 to get started. Other ways to pick up Silver Cord hours at FLC: cleaning, shelving books, entering books in Excel, help with fundraisers like Bingo or Trivia. Follow us on Facebook at Flickinger Learning to see what we do!

Join Us for Our Annual Fall Harvest Festival!

Celebrate the season with festive treats, face painting, and fun games for our annual Fall Harvest Festival for the kids!

We are looking for volunteers to help with:

Groups of up to 10 people are welcome to sign up together, bring your friends, family, or coworkers and enjoy the festivities as a team!

Don't hesitate to sign up as we celebrate the Autumn season with sweet treats and joyful activities!

Christmas Store - Calling and Scheduling Neighbors in Need We are seeking individuals and small groups of faith to call back Christmas Store applicants to verify number of children, contact information, and schedule which location and time fits their schedule. We will serve approximately 700 families in need with Christmas gifts for their children. We offer prayer at the close of the phone call. A script is provided and all information will be reviewed and scheduled on a computer. Phone calls take approximately 5-10 minutes each. Staff members will be present to assist. Individuals can volunteer between the hours of 9-3pm, groups can volunteer between the hours of 4-7pm. Volunteers can sign up with this link, via VCCV, or contact us at info@loveinccv.org.

This is a great opportunity for individuals who want to get involved but may not be able to commit on a weekly or monthly basis. The Young Women's Resource Center offers three essential resource closets to support participants: the Baby Hub, the Food Pantry, and the Care Closet.

Tasks include:

If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information.

As a Childcare Volunteer, you’ll provide our Young Mom’s children with a safe space to play while their mom is learning parenting skills, financial literacy, what to expect in pregnancy and more. We currently have openings for childcare volunteers on two evenings: every Monday from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. and some Tuesdays. Scheduling is flexible, a long-term commitment is preferred. An interview, background check, and childcare-focused orientation are required for this volunteer role.

If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information.

Meals play a critical role in supporting our participants who are facing food insecurity. You can either prepare a homemade meal or arrange for a meal to be delivered or catered. This is a great opportunity for individuals or groups! Please note that we do not have on-site kitchen facilities for meal preparation. If you choose to prepare meals at home, we do require a brief Food Safety training, which can be completed online from the comfort of your home.

Family style meals for 20-25 people should include a main dish, two sides, and a gallon of milk. Dessert is optional. Meals can be dropped off in re-heatable containers such as a foil tray or crockpot.

If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information.

Details of activity/task: Volunteers will write thank you cards to individuals and/or businesses that have donated, sponsored, or volunteered for Outlook Enrichment's annual gala. If volunteers do these virtually, cards can be picked up from Outlook.

Items we will provide: Cards, a list of individuals,  context for the cards, and stamped envelopes.

Number of individuals needed: 10

The time interval allows for volunteers to come and go throughout the duration of the volunteer opportunity.

Siena Francis House welcomes and empowers individuals experiencing homelessness in the Omaha metro area. We provide essential items and services that help our guests maintain dignity and comfort through our Emergency Shelter, supportive housing, chemical addiction recovery program, and street outreach efforts. Last year alone, we served more than 3,000 individuals! As the weather gets colder, many come to Siena Francis House seeking a warm meal, safe shelter, and support to help them find stable housing in our community.

Items urgently needed: 

We also accept new and used men's and women's clothing, food, as well as basic household necessities!

You can drop off these items to our donation dock. The dock is located at 1117 N. 17th Street in Omaha, although only accessible from 16th Street. The dock entrance is located on the west side of 16th Street, a half block north of 16th and Nicholas Street.

If you prefer, you can send us urgently needed items to us using our Amazon Wishlist: https://a.co/4GMUSqe

Questions? Call or email Lily Black (402-341-1821 ext. 1113 or lblack@sienafrancis.org). 

Join us as we celebrate 10 years of keeping families together through our Integrated Family Care program! Castle Monday is a special evening at the historic Joslyn Castle on December 1, where guests will hear stories from families and mentors, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and learn how to support this important work.

We’re looking for friendly volunteers to help make the night run smoothly — greeting and checking in guests, answering questions, assisting with event activities (like the silent auction and wine pull), and sharing in the joy of this community celebration. Come be part of an inspiring evening that helps families find hope, stability, and home.

Siena Francis House serves approximately 375 individuals per meal, providing three meals a day, every day of the year.

We need your help unloading pallets of canned goods and restocking our pantry so we can continue serving our guests warm, healthy meals. Volunteers should come prepared to organize and put away pantry items and help keep our pantry space clean!

Winter Farmer's Market is seeking smiling, cheerful morning people to help run our Market Info. Booth each week! It's a great way to meet our local farmers, learn more about where your food comes from, and get out of the house during those long winter months. Tasks include:

Each year, Convivium hosts a Holiday Cookie Box fundraiser where 100% of the profits go to our mission to improve life through food. Help us prep cookies during this shift.

Each year, Convivium hosts a Holiday Cookie Box fundraiser where 100% of the profits go to our mission to improve life through food. Help us prep cookies during this shift.

Each year, Convivium hosts a Thanksgiving pie fundraiser where 100% of the profits go to our mission to improve life through food. Help us prep pie crusts during this shift.

Each year, Convivium hosts a Thanksgiving pie fundraiser where 100% of the profits go to our mission to improve life through food. Help us prep pie crusts during this shift.

Volunteer staff will work in a private office monitoring the activities of the shelter. Checking guests in and out, answering the phone, and maintaining awareness are your responsibilities. Our work environment is peaceful. We have a kitchen and a smart tv for your use. 

We have four and eight hour volunteer shifts primarily on evenings and weekends and may be opportunities on 11pm-7 AM shift. 

A background check must be completed prior to volunteering. 

To learn more, visit our website and submit an inquiry form: https://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/emt

Our EMT is currently made up of 70 volunteers who work closely with Festival staff leading up to the Festival and then manages specific areas on-site including load in, load out, general volunteers, troubleshooting, etc. Essentially, the EMT is the eyes and ears of the Festival ensuring everything runs smoothly and our guests and participants are having their best experience. Volunteer areas of focus include:

Artist Relations
Food Vendor Relations
Interrobang Film Festival
Tech/POS Support
Merchandise Sales
On-Site Office Management
Festival Production
DMAF Programs
Sponsor Relations
Stage Management 
Sustainability
VIP Club
Volunteer Relations

High School Students - if you're looking for silver cord hours, we recommend signing up for General Volunteer shifts! Shifts will be live April 7, 2026.

Fundraising Committee Volunteer
Commitment: 1-year term
Meetings: Second Tuesday of every month, 1–2 PM

Fundraising is about so much more than asking for money — it’s about building relationships, sharing stories, and creating meaningful opportunities for others to support our mission. We’re looking for a diverse team of volunteers to help organize, strategize, and energize our fundraising efforts.

Whether you’re great at planning and prepping materials, researching potential donors, writing heartfelt thank-you notes, or inviting others into our work — there’s a place for you here.

We’re especially seeking volunteers who bring strengths in the following areas:

Connector / Networker – You know people and love connecting them. You attend events, enjoy expanding your network, and are comfortable talking about what we do in a way that inspires others to get involved.

Brainstormer – You’re full of ideas and not afraid to share them. You can help reimagine our capital campaign, provide honest and constructive feedback on materials, and help refine our messaging and approach.

Researcher – You’re curious and strategic. You enjoy digging into data, identifying potential donors and funding sources, and helping us prioritize opportunities that will have the greatest impact.

Event Planner – You’re organized, creative, and connected. You bring experience (or enthusiasm!) for planning meaningful experiences and can help elevate our Living Library event concept through partnerships, logistics, and innovation.

If you’re passionate about helping others see the power and purpose behind our mission, we’d love to have you join us. Together, we can create lasting impact — one relationship at a time.

Gather your fellow elves and join us at Momentum Art Studio for a merry day of making magic behind the scenes. With holiday tunes playing, you’ll help tidy the studio, organize supplies, and prep canvases with gesso, ensuring they're as white as the freshly fallen snow. Perfect for groups of 3–5 who love teamwork, laughter, and spreading cheer while making a real impact in the arts community.

Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/

Are you an artist who loves to share your gifts? This season, sprinkle a little holiday magic at Momentum Art Studio by leading a festive, hands-on workshop or art demonstration. Whether it’s painting winter wonderlands, crafting ornaments, or exploring cozy creative themes, your time and talent can bring joy and inspiration to artists living with disabilities and mental health conditions. Workshops can be one-time or recurring, typically lasting 2–3 hours—just enough time to spread some creative cheer and make spirits bright!

Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/

TIME COMMITMENT: Minimum one day per week (M, T, W, TH, F) from 7:30am – 9am.

LOCATION(S): We currently have a greater need for Front Desk Volunteer Assistants at our Broadway Center (2105 Broadway St.), but there may also be opportunities to volunteer at our Pheasant Ridge Center (2651 Roberts Rd.).

Each location is easily accessible by the Iowa City bus system.

PURPOSE The Front Desk Volunteer Assistant is a crucial member of our team, creating a welcoming and helpful environment in our lobby areas during the open hours of the Neighborhood Centers. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

REQUIRED TRAINING(S):

BENEFITS TO VOLUNTEERS:

By volunteering with us, you become an integral part of our mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment for those we serve. Your dedication directly contributes to building a better future for all. We are grateful for your commitment to our cause.

*** If unable to be present for a scheduled shift, contact the Site director at your volunteer site prior to the start of the session.

TIME COMMITMENT: Minimum one day per week (M, T, W, TH, F) from 7:30am – 9am.

LOCATION(S): We currently have a greater need for Front Desk Volunteer Assistants at our Broadway Center (2105 Broadway St.), but there may also be opportunities to volunteer at our Pheasant Ridge Center (2651 Roberts Rd.).

Each location is easily accessible by the Iowa City bus system.

PURPOSE The Front Desk Volunteer Assistant is a crucial member of our team, creating a welcoming and helpful environment in our lobby areas during the open hours of the Neighborhood Centers. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

RESPONSIBILITIES:

REQUIRED TRAINING(S):

BENEFITS TO VOLUNTEERS:

By volunteering with us, you become an integral part of our mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment for those we serve. Your dedication directly contributes to building a better future for all. We are grateful for your commitment to our cause.

*** If unable to be present for a scheduled shift, contact the Site director at your volunteer site prior to the start of the session.

The Greater Des Moines Soap Box Derby will be hosting its 3rd Annual Turkey Run Race on November 1st and 2nd. We are in need of volunteers to help lift the race cars onto the trailer for the kids to they can be sent back up to the top of the race track. The cars can be a bit heavy, especially for our younger racers so we do recommend having a strong/healthy back. The more volunteers we have the more the workload can be spread out. Our kids enjoy racing down the track to see who will be the champion. Volunteers will be provided lunch ,if applicable, and may race down the track in one of our adult cars as well, time permitting. 

Future City Iowa is looking for volunteers to help with the Regional Competition in Ames, Iowa on January 17, 2026! The theme this year is, Farm to Table, and there are lots of ways to get involved, including virtual support!

For all of our Future City volunteer roles, we are looking for adults who are willing to support middle school students in exploring STEM careers. Training and rubrics will be provided for volunteers where necessary, and this is also a great opportunity for team building as volunteers can be grouped together.

Please complete the Future City Volunteer Sign-up Google Form here: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdL5RqbctnhlYZl2DLNi3gsdHnk2VjYTIu7QWnW6ifbt1WCfA/viewform?usp=dialog

Once you have completed the form and selected your areas of interest, the Future City Regional Coordinator will reach out with you to confirm details! 

Hello,

with Thanksgiving just around the corner, we're reaching out to our community to help deliver meals to families and individuals in need. If you’re looking for a way to give back this season, we would love to have your support!

Here’s how you can help: Volunteer to deliver a Thanksgiving meal to our senior community population who may not be able to get one themselves.

When: Tuesday November 25th, 2025

Time: 10A.M.-1P.M.

Where: Meals will be available for pickup at the Intercultural Senior Center 5545 Center St. Omaha, NE 68106.

How to Sign Up: Please sign up with our Pantry Supervisor Preh Mo via email at Pmo@interculturalseniorcenter.org

Delivering these meals is a small act of kindness that can make a big difference in someone's day. We are so grateful for your time and support as we spread joy and gratitude this Thanksgiving.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Crystal Herrera via phone 402-444-6529, or email Cherrera@interculturalseniorcenter.org

Thank you in advance for your generosity and time!

Warmly,

Crystal Herrera -She/Her/Hers- Receptionist/Volunteer Coordinator

Intercultural Senior Center 5545 Center St.

Omaha, NE 68106 O: 402.444.6529 | F: 402.444.6551

cherrera@interculturalseniorcenter.org

Help us provide warm coats and winter-wear for those struggling financially in our community.  We believe everyone has the right to be warm and be protected from the cold Iowa winter weather. The following new and gently-used items are needed: 

Drop Off Location:  1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315

To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 48 hours for scheduling.

About Families Forward:  Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

Join us to volunteer for our newest 21+ event - Spirits of the Wild
Volunteer Opportunities Include:

Bar Captains 

Friday, October 31: Eagle, Event Center

Saturday, November 1: Africa, Eagle, Event Center, GoGo

Bartenders 

Friday, October 31: Africa (2), Eagle (3), Event Center (3)

Saturday, November 1:Eagle (4), Event Center (2), Africa Bar (3)

Quest Guides: - Assist guests with puzzles and questions about the cryptid quest/hunt. Each quest guide will be stationed in a designated spot around the Zoo.  Every guide will have a full puzzle/answer packet to fully be able to assist guests

Saturday November 1: 4 volunteer spots

Convergence Zone: Direct guests to their next location depending on the answer they give you.

Saturday, November 1: 1 volunteer spot

Event Times: 5:30 - 10:00pm

5:30 - Early Access - Bars, Food, Samples

6:00 - General Admissions

9:30 - Last Call
9:45 - Bars Close - some may close earlier based on how busy the event is

10:00 - Event Ends

Sign Up Today: https://signup.com/go/UTqiTuh

Try Pie employs a diverse group of teen girls with life and leadership skills through meaningful work! As teens work only after school, holiday volunteers join us in the kitchen to help the team keep up with seasonal orders!

Holiday volunteers will complete work in the kitchen that may include preparing packaging and pie materials to be used during the teen's shifts.

No food prep experience required! Age requirement: 18 or older, and not currently in high school. Willing to wear close toed shoes, hairnet, and bring a positive attitude! This opportunity can be made accessible to people with disabilities - please contact us for details. Holiday Volunteering is a short term role and not required to complete a background check.

More details and sign ups available here:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C054BAFA828A7FCC43-58123240-holiday#/

Our Waterloo State Bowling Event is scheduled at Cadillac XBC on Saturday, November 22nd from 9:00am-4:30 pm. We are in need of volunteers to help in several different areas, including morning and afternoon shifts, and would love to assist you with getting involved! Our volunteers support our athletes by writing down scores, encouraging athletes, helping with ramps and handing out awards.

Come help our guests celebrate the holiday season! Join us in spreading holiday cheer to individuals experiencing homelessness at our Emergency Shelter.

Volunteers will help guests choose a Christmas gift and serve holiday treats.