Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

Volleyball attracts all types of players, from competitive to recreational, young and old. To play, athletes should acquire some basic skills and learn a few rules. Develop skills such as hand-eye coordination, teamwork and physical fitness to grow and Improve In the sport.

Drivers Needed!!!

To assist with transporting middle school students to Job's financial literacy lessons during the school year.

Volunteers are needed to do one or all of these:

Pick up students at their middle school (in Waterloo) and transport them to the lesson site (in Waterloo),

And/or drive student's home after the lesson.

Must be available on Wednesday afternoons 2:30pm or 4:30pm, able to pass a comprehensive background test, have a car, car insurance, a valid driver's license and a good driving record.

Contact Seth Stearns at 319-823-1095 or seth@thejobfoundation.org

Middle School Lesson

Volunteers are needed to provide encouragement to students and help students complete financial lessons. Lessons occur weekly every Wednesday after school (3:00pm-4:30pm) at the First Congregational Church in Waterloo.  Walk alongside Middle School students, pointing them towards financial and life success through encouragement, role modeling, financial stewardship training, and academic support!

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide encouragement and positive role modeling to students 

Sit at a table with students and help them complete assignments

Interested volunteers may contact Seth Stearns: seth@thejobfoundation.org, or call/text 319-823-1095

Mentors

Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to help youth in the Cedar Valley?  The Job Foundation is a Financial Stewardship Mentoring Program that equips K – 12 students and their families for economic advancement.  We have 80 kids in our program waiting to be matched with a mentor....is it you?!

We are looking for volunteers who are passionate about building relationships that nurture education so that children can learn tools and skills for financial freedom and success. Our vision is "All people achieving financial success".  The minimum requirement is only 4 hours per month.  

The main goal in mentoring is to build a positive, healthy, connection that encourages and develops higher self-esteem in children which can help them achieve success in many ways.  Mentors develop a unique bond and encourage young lives.

For the benefit of students (and volunteers), all The Job Foundation mentors undergo an initial screening, orientation and training, and then receive ongoing volunteer training.  We ask for an 12-month commitment for Mentors as we recognize the need for consistency and trust for children and families. There will also be a required DMV check and a background check. The ability to provide transportation is a requirement. There are also local activities and discounts provided to the matches for fun activities in the area! 

Please contact Seth Stearns if you are interested in learning more!

seth@thejobfoundation.org or call 319-823-1095.

Join us for a high-impact volunteer experience! Help package bulk meals that go directly to feeding centers, getting food to children as quickly as possible.

This volume meal packaging project uses the same ingredients and process as our traditional meal packaging, just on a larger scale. Instead of packaging 216 meals into 36 small bags, volunteers package 216 meals into one bulk bag, allowing us to move more meals faster and farther.

Volunteers work together in a team-oriented, assembly-line setting, ensuring every ingredient is accurately measured and packed. We’ll need a few extra hands for lifting, typically 1–2 people per line lifting 10–25 lbs each, so please note that moderate lifting is required.

It’s a hands-on, energizing way to make an immediate impact and help families and communities in need.

We’re looking for 15–24 volunteers per shift to engage in this high impact challenge! 

To register or see shifts, please use follow our sign-up LINK. 

Volunteer Waiver Notice:
By volunteering with Meals from the Heartland, you acknowledge and accept our waiver of liability. Participation is voluntary, and Meals from the Heartland is not liable for any injuries or incidents that may occur during your service. Your registration confirms this understanding

SVP meal delivery volunteers are the heart and soul of home-delivered meals programs and touch the lives of homebound seniors and adults with disabilities with food and friendship. Your smile may be the only one they see all day! You may volunteer once a week, once a month, or whenever your schedule permits.

Full description:  RSVP meal delivery volunteers deliver meals and smiles to home-bound individuals. You will be assisting participants to meet 1/3 of their daily nutritional needs, provide a safety check on their wellbeing, and helping them remain living independently in their home. You may sign up for as many or as few days and times as you like. Opportunities are available in Montgomery Counties, and training is provided.

Duties: 

·       The RSVP meal delivery driver delivers meals on a designated route between 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., (Monday through Friday), except for scheduled holidays.

·       Check in with the Senior Center Coordinator and review daily route sheet and note changes before and after each shift.

·       Load meal containers into your vehicle and deliver meals to listed clients.

·       Note and report any significant observations regarding clientele.

·       Return “Insulated Bags” to the Red Oak Senior Center at the end of each shift.

·       Report on the number of hours worked and number of meals delivered each shift on monthly forms provided by the Red Oak Senior Center Coordinator.

·       Volunteers interact with clients receiving meals and report unmet needs to the Senior Center Coordinator.

Requirements:

·       Must be at least 55 years of age.

·       Willingness to use your appropriately insured personal vehicle.

·       Positive attitude and willingness to share smiles with clients.

·       Must sign and honor confidentiality agreement.

·       Volunteer intake process with RSVP Volunteer Coordinator which includes a background check.

·       Valid Iowa Driver’s License.

·       Ability to follow read road maps or use GPS, knowledge of the area is a plus!

·       Ability to lift 25 pounds (Wt. of “Insulated Bag” when full).

·       Ability to work cooperatively with Connections staff and other volunteers.

 Shift Requirements:  10:30 am – 12:00 p.m., weekdays only at the Red Oak Senior Center.  The shift is 1 day, and volunteers are encouraged to sign up for a minimum of 1 weekly shift.       

Benefits:  Opportunity to provide a critical, direct service to homebound residents in the community.  Build a dynamic relationship with clients, nourishing and enriching the lives of the disabled and homebound, not only with food, but with a warm smile and positive  attitude.  Additional supplemental insurance during your time volunteering.  Mileage reimbursement at .50/mile for miles while delivering.

The RSVP Youth Reading volunteer will provide reading help and companionship to elementary students.

Program description

Reading is a critical skill for life. To help students achieve their full potential with reading skills, the RSVP Youth Reading Program is asking for volunteers to aid in small reading groups. Volunteers will be asked to follow teachers’ detailed instructions with a small group of students and engage in reading activities.

Duties:

●       Interact with elementary students and be a welcoming adult face

●       Provide help with reading as needed

●       Protect the privacy and confidentiality of students and their families

Skills required:

●       Must be 55 years of age or older.

●       Relate well to staff, volunteers and infants and work with a team approach.

●       Willingness to support students in their academic work

Amount of Time:          2 hours, varies – we will work with your schedule

Time of Day: as available during school hours, Monday through Thursday

Supervor:  Supervision is provided by the Classroom Teacher.

Benefits:

●          Opportunity to be a part of the Hamburg Community School District mission

●          Become a trusted adult in the lives of our next generation

●          Develop lasting relationships with other Hamburg School District volunteers and staff

●          Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure)

Holiday open house is the MacNider Art Museum's annual winter event. We have crafts, treats, and Santa. We need volunteers to help at the following areas:

The RSVP Indoor Walking Volunteer will get their move on!  If you love some exercise and are an early bird – this job is for you!  SWITCH will open their building to the public from 5:30 – 7:30 am, Monday through Friday, for indoor walking. You can greet and monitor walkers and get your own steps at the same time!  Bring your smile and your coffee!

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, we specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. We also want to serve our community by providing additional opportunities for education and healthy lifestyles.  Volunteers are being recruited to unlock the building from 5:30-7:30 am and monitor walkers during that timeframe.   With your help, we can make a positive difference in the health of area residents.

Duties:

●      Open the SWITCH building for 5:30-7:30 am public access.

●      Turn on lights in the original building and gymnasium.

●      Greet and monitor walkers throughout that timeframe.

●      Get your own steps in if you like!

●      Work cooperatively with the SWITCH Director.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff and the public.

●      Reliability is essential.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   2-hour weekly shifts.  A minimum of 1 shift weekly is appreciated, but feel free to take more!    

Time of Day:  5:30-7:30 am, Monday through Friday.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH to provide needed community services.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff and members of the public.

●        Increase your exercise.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

The RSVP Youth Reading Volunteer will provide reading help and companionship to elementary students at the AEA Rising Hope Academy, grades 1-5. Your job requires you to bring your listening ears and lots of smiles as you listen to students sharing their stories!   

Program description: AEA Rising Hope Academy provides a therapeutic classroom environment for students with significant social-emotional behavioral health needs. Through a variety of interventions, students can gain the coping skills and resilience they need to assist with their social, educational, and emotional outcomes. Reading is a critical skill for life. To help students achieve their full potential with reading skills, the RSVP Youth Reading Program is asking for volunteers to aid in small reading groups. Volunteers will be asked to follow teachers’ detailed instructions with a small group of students and engage in reading activities.

Duties:

●      Interact with elementary students and be a welcoming adult face

●      Provide help with reading as needed

●      Protect the privacy and confidentiality of students and their families

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Must successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff, volunteers and students and work with a team approach.

●      Willingness to support students in their academic work.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the AEA Rising Hope Academy classroom teacher.

Amount of Time:   1 or 2-hour weekly shifts, varies – we will work with your schedule.  A minimum of 1 shift weekly is appreciated, but feel free to take more!

Time of Day:  Volunteers can set hours that meet their schedules during school hours, Monday through Friday during the school year.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the AEA Rising Hope program.

●        Become a trusted adult in the lives of our next generation

●        Develop lasting relationships with other Rising Hope volunteers and staff

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure)

The RSVP Volunteer Greeter will provide a warm welcome to the public and students attending presentations at the SWITCH building.  Are you a positive person who enjoys talking with others, sharing your smile and helping? Are you most comfortable volunteering less frequently?  We can put you to work!  Greeters will help at SWITCH presentations occurring 4 times each year for approximately 4 hours of time for each event.

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, we specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement.  SWITCH presentations help to expand learning opportunities.  Greeters assist by providing a welcoming experience for both the public and students.  This results in companionship and improved learning environments.

Duties:

●      Interact with the public or students and be a welcoming SWITCH representative.

●      Provide directions to presentation areas.

●      Help with presentation set up and clean up.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Must successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well with people and work with a team approach.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   4 hours at events held 4 times each year.  Shifts can be one 4-hour shift or split into two 2-hour shifts.

Time of Day:  Presentations are scheduled Monday through Friday, during the workday or evening.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers and SWITCH staff.

●        Meeting new people.

●        Attending presentations at no cost.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

The RSVP Grant Writing Assistant will bring your writing skills to help the SWITCH Director, and the Grant Consultant prepare grant applications.  If you appreciate a challenge, like details, love to put words together, and are willing to learn about different Grant applications – this might be the one for you! Grants help SWITCH provide increased services to the community and your help can make a positive difference!

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, they specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. Grants are critical to support  their work, and volunteers are being recruited to assist the SWITCH Director and the Grant Consultant complete professional applications.

Duties:

●      Collaborate with Grant Consultant and SWITCH Director.

●      Researching grant opportunities.

●      Proofreading grant narratives

●      Other activities as needed in preparation of grant applications.

●      Protect the privacy and confidentiality of grant applications.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Must successfully pass a background check.

●      Grant Writing experience is helpful but not required.

●      Good writing skills.

●      Relate well to staff and work with a team approach.

●      Willingness to help SWITCH in supporting and expanding services through grant funding.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   2 to 4 hours weekly and will vary with grant applications.    

Time of Day:  As available during working hours Monday through Friday, could also work from home at alternate times.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH provide needed community services.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff and volunteers.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

Volunteers are needed to make finish preparing some simple appetizers for our event. Past recipes have included dips, fruit trays, vegetable trays and other simple dishes.

The RSVP Community Garden Volunteer:  Are you ready to show off your GREEN THUMB?  Volunteers aged 55 or better are needed to help maintain the SWITCH community garden.  We need your advice on our garden bed and your help to make it grow!.

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, we specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. We also want to serve our community by providing comfortable learning environments and additional opportunities for healthy lifestyles.  Volunteers are being recruited to support our Community Garden and outdoor flowers.  This volunteer will help to maintain the garden, weed, water and harvest. Produce is shared with West Central Community Action for community food boxes.  With your help, we can make a positive difference in the health of area residents.

Duties:

●      Maintain the garden and flowers by weeding, deadheading and watering.

●      Harvest produce.

●      Assist in planning and planting.

●      Work cooperatively with the SWITCH Director.

●      Work with Nishna Production clients & staff in the garden.

●      Weed eating and seasonal leaf removal. 

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff.

●      Love of gardening/Green Thumb.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   5 hours weekly or as needed during Spring through Fall.  Hours can be broken down into multiple days and altering shift length.    

Time of Day:  Between 8-4:30, Monday – Friday during Spring through Fall.  Volunteers may set their own schedule.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH to provide needed community services.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff and volunteers.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

Volunteers are needed to make some simple appetizers for our event. Past recipes have included dips, fruit trays, vegetable trays and other simple dishes. 

RSVP Volunteer Office Assistant:  Do you like to communicate with others, share your smile and your helping hands?  Volunteers aged 55 or better are needed to help SWITCH staff streamline their office and provide tours for the public.  If you enjoy people, your skills are needed!

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, we specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. There are limited numbers of paid staff and volunteers are being recruited to support them in the office and by giving occasional tours to members of the public. Your help will improve the services provided by SWITCH staff by adding some additional time to their day.    With your help, we can make a positive difference in the Southwest Iowa community.

Duties:

●      Greet the public at the door and by occasional phone call.

●      Copying and filing.

●      Assist SWITCH staff with other office tasks as needed.

●      Provide occasional facility tours.

●      Work cooperatively with the SWITCH Director.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff and the public.

●      Positive attitude.

●      Willingness to help others.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   10 hours weekly that can be broken into 2-hour daily shifts or as needed.  This can be flexible to meet volunteers’ schedules.    

Time of Day:  Between 8-4:30, Monday through Friday.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH to provide needed community services.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff and volunteers.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

The RSVP Building Maintenance Volunteer will help keep the shine on for the SWITCH building.  If you like to keep things tidy and enjoy working alone, you might be the perfect fit!  This volunteer will help with brooming the hallway and classroom floors and other light maintenance.  SWITCH has regular cleaning services so you will just be shining things up in between their visits. Your attention to detail will be the key to success.

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, we specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. SWITCH can serve the community best in a clean, welcoming learning environment.  A volunteer is being recruited to shine things up between professional cleaning, helping to provide that welcoming environment.

Duties:

●      Broom hallways and classroom floors.

●      Other light maintenance.

●      Get your exercise steps in!

●      Work cooperatively with the SWITCH Director.

●      Remove trash, help students take out trash after lunch.

●      Use rolling trash card to take trash to outside trash bin.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff.

●      Attention to detail.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   5 hours weekly.  This can break down into several days or shifts and can be flexible to best meet the volunteer’s needs.    

Time of Day:  Shifts would occur Monday through Friday between 8-4:30. 

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH maintain a clean learning environment.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff.

●        Get some exercise steps.

Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering.

Kids' club is a free class for ages 5-12. This class can have up to 30 kids. 

Volunteers will help our young crafters with their projects. This may include assisting with cutting, hot gluing and other simple art tasks.

The RSVP Marketing Assistant will bring your writing skills to help the SWITCH Director and other SWITCH partners expand their marketing plan.  If you appreciate a challenge, are skilled with social media, know how to get things in front of the consumer - this might be the one for you! Marketing helps SWITCH share programming with the community in the most effective way possible and your help can make a positive difference!

Program description: At SWITCH - Lakin Foundation Training Hub, they specialize in providing space to established educational partners who offer vocational training programs designed to equip individuals in Iowa with the skills necessary for career advancement. Marketing is critical to support  their work, and volunteers are being recruited to assist the SWITCH Director and other partners maximize their public communication.

Duties:

●      Collaborate with SWITCH Director and other partners.

●      Researching marketing options.

●      Assist with social media plans.

●      Other activities as needed to promote the marketing plan.

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Must successfully pass a background check.

●      Marketing experience is helpful but not required.

●      Good writing and social media skills.

●      Relate well to staff and work with a team approach.

●      Willingness to help SWITCH in supporting and expanding services through marketing.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the SWITCH Director.

Amount of Time:   2 to 4 hours weekly and will vary with program needs.    

Time of Day:  As available during working hours Monday through Friday, could also work from home at alternate times.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the SWITCH program.

●        Help SWITCH provide needed community services.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other SWITCH staff and volunteers.

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).

Enjoy your time off school with colorful and creative crafts. Dress for a mess! Snack provided

Volunteers will help our young crafters with their projects. This may include assisting with cutting, hot gluing and other simple art tasks.

'Tis the season of gift giving...and gift making! Be a busy elf preparing for the holidays by creating hand-made and personalized art projects to place under the tree that will put everyone in the holiday spirit. 

Volunteers will help our young crafters with their gifts. This may include assisting with cutting, hot gluing and other simple art tasks. 

Dive into the world of dragons through a variety of cool crafts. 

Volunteers will help our young crafters withe their art projects. This will include helping with cutting, hot gluing, and other simple art tasks. 

The RSVP Youth Classroom Helper:   Your job requires you to bring your listening ears, your patience, your love for children and lots of smiles as you help students and teachers in their learning journey. This volunteer will provide classroom help and companionship to elementary students and teachers at AEA Rising Hope Academy.

Program description: Education provides critical skills for life. To help students achieve their full potential, the AEA Rising Hope Academy is seeking volunteers to aid in classroom activities, assisting students in grades 1-5 and their teachers with reading, classroom activity, and other subject matters. Volunteers will be asked to follow teachers’ detailed instructions while working with students and assist the teacher with preparation and other classroom activities. Rising Hope Academy provides a therapeutic classroom environment for students with significant social-emotional behavioral health needs. Volunteers will provide needed support to student success.

Duties:

●      Interact with elementary students and be a welcoming adult face

●      Provide help to students and teachers as needed

●      Protect the privacy and confidentiality of students and their families

Skills required:

●      Must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Must successfully pass a background check.

●      Relate well to staff, volunteers and students and work with a team approach.

●      Willingness to support students in their academic work.

Supervisor:  Volunteers will be supervised by the AEA Rising Hope Academy classroom teacher.

Amount of Time:   1 or 2-hour weekly shifts, varies – we will work with your schedule.  A minimum of 1 shift weekly is appreciated, but feel free to take more!

Time of Day:  As available during school hours, Monday through Friday.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to be a part of the AEA Rising Hope Academy.

●        Become a trusted adult in the lives of our next generation.

●        Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers and staff

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure)

Summary:  If you love getting things in perfect order – our library needs you!  The books need “weeded” to take out the old, unused or damaged items, “dusted” and “straightened” so our patrons can find just the right book! Volunteers aged 55 or better are needed to help with the Malvern Public Library’s organization and cleaning.  We need your smiling face, your helping hands and your attention to detail to help our customers access their books easily and enjoy the library environment! 

Duties:  Volunteers would help library staff with organizing reading materials and cleaning through the following responsibilities:

·      Weed out old, unused or damaged items from the shelves.

·      Organize materials to ensure they are easily located by library patrons. 

·      Improve the library environment by dusting shelves and vacuuming carpeted areas.

·      Attend occasional information and planning meetings with library staff.

Audience & Benefits:  Your work will benefit all library patrons by improving the organization of library materials and cleanliness of the environment.  This helps to meet the library’s mission to stimulate and nurture a desire to read in people of all ages in a welcoming atmosphere.

Required Skills:  Bring your love of books, good organizational skills and attention to detail.  Volunteers must be aged 55 or better.  

Report to:  Volunteer Manager will provide scheduling assistance with supervision provided by librarians.

Volunteer Schedule – Volunteer coverage is needed 3-5 days per week for 1-2 hours.  You are asked to sign up at a minimum of 1 day each week for 1-2 hours, but feel free to sign up for more!  The library is open 6 days per week so days/times can be set to meet your schedule.

Summary:  If you love interacting with children, this is your time to SHINE!  Volunteers are needed to help with the Malvern Public Library’s youth activities.  We need your smiling face, your helping hands and your energy to work with children during our scheduled activities and  after school hours.  Our kids have lots of energy and they need your support to expand all that brain power! 

Duties:  Volunteers would help library staff with the following responsibilities:

·      Plan and implement activities for scheduled children’s activities.

·      Share your passion and knowledge in your favorite areas – reading, STEM/STEAM activities, games, music, art, drama, computers and more. 

·      Assist children after school with homework guidance, play a game or just spend time sharing your smile.

·      Attend occasional information and planning meetings with library staff.

Audience & Benefits:  Youth Activities serve children ages 2-13.  Supporting young people as they develop new skills, meeting other children in a safe space increases their confidence and ability to be successful.  You will be directly contributing to the library’s mission to fully enhance learning experiences for all patrons.

Required Skills:  Volunteers should be 55+ and bring your love for children, your own personal passions and your energy to share with others. 

Reports To:  Volunteer Manager will provide schedule and all direct supervision completed by Librarians.

Volunteer Schedule – Volunteer coverage is needed 3-5 days per week for 1-2 hours.  You are asked to sign up at a minimum of 1 day each week for 1-2 hours, but feel free to sign up for more!  The library is open 6 days per week so days/times can be set to meet your schedule.

Summary:  Do you excel at problem solving and completing a challenging puzzle?  The library needs YOU!!!  A volunteer aged 55 or better is needed to coordinate the Malvern Public Library’s Volunteer Program.  We need your smiling face, your organizational abilities and scheduling skills to be sure our volunteers are available to enhance library services for patrons.  We have volunteers ready to fill several positions, and we need a “Coordination King or Queen” to keep it all rolling! 

Duties:  Volunteers would help library staff with the following responsibilities:

Coordinate and schedule our Youth Activities Volunteers to cover activities and after-school hours. Coordinate and schedule our Community Volunteers to meet gardening and educational needs. Coordinate and schedule Book Weeder and Organizational Volunteers to meet the librarians’ needs.  Coordinate and schedule Delivery Volunteers to assure weekly coverage.  Coordinate and schedule other volunteers as programs are added.  Attend an occasional planning meeting with library staff and volunteers.

Audience & Benefits:  You will benefit all library patrons through the work provided by those you coordinate and schedule.  You will be supporting young people as they develop new skills and meet other children in a safe space, increasing their confidence and ability to be successful.  You will be directly contributing to the library’s mission to fully enhance learning experiences for all patrons.

Required Skills:  Bring your love of a good puzzle,  great communication skills, and your positive energy to share with others.  Volunteers must be aged 55 or better.

Reports To:  The Library Director will be the direct report for this position.

Volunteer Schedule – Volunteer coverage is needed weekly for 2 hours.  Your work could be done in the library as well as remotely if that works best for you.  The library is open 6 days per week so days/times can be set to meet your schedule.

Summary:  Do you want to deliver some joy today?  Library Delivery volunteers, 55+ years of age, are important for helping our library patrons who are unable to attend the library utilize services and provide a connection to their community. Delivery will be from the Malvern Public Library to homebound individuals and individuals with disabilities, the East Mills Community School and the Lakin Foundation Child Development Center.  

Duties:  Volunteer drivers will use their own vehicles to transport library materials to recipients. Volunteers may also be requested to pick up library materials when they are due. Routes of deliveries will be provided to the volunteer prior to picking up materials. We encourage volunteers to spend a few minutes talking with delivery recipients to provide socialization, but it is not required.

The service is offered throughout the Malvern community including some of our rural patrons. Delivery times will vary depending on demand. RSVP volunteers (55+ years of age) are eligible for reimbursement at a rate of .50/mile. Supplemental insurance is also available for RSVP volunteers.

Audience & Benefits:  RSVP’s Volunteers provide library materials for frail, homebound, and low-income seniors, people living with a disability (18-59), and veterans, who are no longer able to drive themselves to the library.  Routine deliveries to East Mills Schools and the Child Development Center will serve the youth receiving services there.  This helps to meet the library’s mission to stimulate and nurture a desire to read in people of all ages.

Skills:  Must be 55 years of age or better with a valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation.  Compassion, kindness and the ability to engage in friendly conversation. 

Reports to:  Volunteer Manger will provide scheduling with supervision by librarians.

Volunteer station-specific requirements:  Frequency – weekly, 1-2 hours during library, school, daycare operating hours.

Summary:  Are you ready to show off your GREEN THUMB?  Volunteers aged 55 or better are needed to help maintain the library’s community garden.  We need your advice on our garden bed and your help to educate our patrons through garden-themed programs.

Duties:  Volunteers would help library staff with the following responsibilities:

·      Prepare, plant, water, weed, and harvest the garden bed from May to September

·      Share passion and knowledge of gardening with Library staff and the community.

·      Assist with garden-themed programs for children and other patrons, January to December.

·      Learn about gardening and develop related skills.

·      Attend occasional information and planning meetings with library staff.

Audience & Benefits:  The community garden serves library patrons of all ages.  Helping patrons develop their knowledge and love of gardening increases their food security and improves their health.  It also helps to meet the library’s mission to fully enhance learning experiences for all patrons.

Required Skills:  Bring your love of gardening and your energy to share that with others.  Volunteers must be age 55+.

Reports To:  Scheduling will be provided by the Volunteer Manager with direct supervision by librarians.

Volunteer Schedule – Volunteer coverage is needed 2-3 days per week for 1-2 hours.  You are asked to sign up at a minimum of 1 day each week for 1-2 hours, but feel free to sign up for more!  The library is open 6 days per week so days can be set to meet your schedule.

The Bloom Senior Center in Glenwood, Iowa provides a friendly place for community members to socialize, share a meal and connect with friends.  Bloom Senior Center volunteers are like family and are important to the day-to-day function of the Bloom Senior Center.

Volunteer Position Descriptions: 

Nutrition Support:

·      Open Bloom Senior Center M-F, make coffee/beverages, check with delivery person for home delivered meals to ensure everything is ready, check delivery sheet, contact Connections Area Agency on Aging if something is missing for the day’s meals both homebound and congregate, take temps of food, turn on dishwasher, sanitizer, take temperature strips/record, 10:45 am get homebound meals ready; 11:00 am/set up tables according to count for congregate meals, serve clients lunch and clean-up.

·      Check on client if signed up for congregate meal and didn’t attend.

·      Distribute menu calendars.

·      Take reservations for meals for next day by 9:30 a.m.; notify Connections Area Agency on Aging of meal count.

·      Socialization during mealtimes.

Food Pantry:

·      Sunday evening volunteer picks up unsold, donated Panera Bread (Council Bluffs) bread, bagels, and baked goods through Day-End Dough-Nation program.

·      Monday morning sort donated Panera Bread into packages for community members to pick up from Bloom Senior Center.

·      Once a month volunteer picks up donated food from Intercultural Senior Center, 5545 Center Street, Omaha, Nebraska. Food is bagged by Bloom Senior Center volunteers.  Clients who signed up for a bag come to pick up and volunteers assist in taking bags of food to client’s car.  Reminder calls are made to clients who didn’t pick up bag.

·      Collection box for food donations for Mills County Ministerial Association.

·      Sign up “special/big” meals for holidays.

·      Provide appropriate contacts for family checks when possible signs of elder abuse.

·      Assist with referrals to/from Mills County Public Health.

Reception/Special Events:

·      Answer phones.

·      Inform clients of important topics and events.

·      Set up, work and clean up for special events such as 3rd Saturday morning Breakfasts (free will offering), Root Beer Floats during Farmer’s Market and Garage Sales.  Proceeds benefit all of the activities of Bloom Senior Center.

·      Provide appropriate contacts for family checks when possible signs of elder abuse.

·      Assist with referrals to/from Mills County Public Health.

·      Assist Mills County Public Health once month for blood pressure checks.

·      Attendance at monthly Inservice meetings.

·      Maintenance duties of Bloom Senior Center which include changing filters, taking out trash, pull weeds, spray.

These assignments provide socialization for seniors.  Whether engaging seniors in group activities, learning a new skill, or nutrition, each assignment contributes directly to seniors.

Skills required:

Amount of Time:          as available                       Time of Day:                   as available

Benefits:

·      Opportunities to provide a caring service to Bloom Senior Center clients.

·      Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers and clients.

●       Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure)

Every event has its quiet heroes, and at A Merry Millwork Market, that’s you. As a Tear Down & Clean Up volunteer, you’ll help put the street back to bed after a day full of lights, laughter, and holiday cheer.

You’ll help break down booths, pack up decorations, and return the space to its usual calm, leaving no trace behind. It’s satisfying work that appeals to people who love order, sustainability, and the feeling of finishing what’s started. You’ll also get a unique chance to connect with the people who make the market possible—sharing stories, swapping tips, and being part of the wrap-up camaraderie that few others experience.

You’ll be one of the last to leave, witnessing the full impact of the day, and walking away with a sense of pride that comes from knowing you played a key role in making the event a success—from start to finish. If you like tangible results, teamwork, and a quiet sense of accomplishment, this is a role made for you.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Imagine walking down an empty street and, with your team, transforming it into a magical holiday wonderland. As a Setup Crew volunteer for A Merry Millwork Market, that’s exactly the role you’ll play.

You’ll help bring lights, decorations, booths, and festive touches to life, turning the Millwork District into a place where the community can gather, laugh, and make memories. Every tent set up, every strand of lights hung, every detail arranged contributes to the joy and warmth visitors feel as they stroll through the market.

You’ll be part of the first wave of energy on market day—the team that makes the magic possible. You’ll get to meet other volunteers, get a behind-the-scenes look at how a community event comes together, and feel that quiet satisfaction that comes from helping create something truly special.

If you love seeing immediate results for your efforts, enjoy being part of a team, and want to help set the stage for community connection, this is the perfect way to start the day on a high note.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Step into the heart of the holiday magic at A Merry Millwork Market! As a Santa Line & Toy Distribution Volunteer, you’ll help create smiles and cherished memories for families and children.

You’ll be part of the team that welcomes kids to meet Santa, distributes toys, and makes sure every little visitor leaves with a happy heart. Whether you’re handing out toys, helping with photos, or guiding families through the line, your presence ensures the experience feels smooth, cheerful, and full of wonder.

You’ll also help keep the donation box in sight, giving guests the chance to support local nonprofits in a meaningful way—simply through friendly conversation and sharing the spirit of the market.

From setup to cleanup, you’ll be part of the energy, excitement, and joy that makes this market special. By the end of the evening, you’ll walk away knowing you helped bring a little holiday magic to your community—and created memories that families will treasure long after the lights go down.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Here’s your chance to be part of one of the most magical moments of the season! As a Santa Escort, you’ll help make the Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Millwork Merry Market feel smooth, festive, and unforgettable.

You’ll greet Santa, escort him as he prepares for the big moment, and make sure he’s in place and ready to wow the crowd. From guiding him to his seat to keeping the flow of the Courtyard moving safely, you’ll help create a seamless experience for everyone there.

It’s a front-row role in the holiday magic—you’ll see the twinkling lights, hear the crowd’s excitement, and be part of the countdown that brings the tree to life. Your attention and care help ensure that families, kids, and visitors have a memorable, joyful experience, and that Santa’s visit goes off without a hitch.

If you love being part of a big moment that brings smiles to hundreds of faces, this is your spot. You’ll walk away knowing you helped create a little holiday wonder for your community.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Some of the best memories of the holidays are the little snapshots that make us smile for years to come. At the Millwork Merry Market Photo Booth, you’ll be helping create those moments.

You’ll greet guests, help them get ready for festive photos, and make sure props are in place for a little extra fun. One volunteer will keep an eye on the donation box, making it easy for visitors to support local nonprofits, while the other makes sure the booth is cheerful and welcoming.

It’s the kind of role where you get to be part of people’s joy without any pressure—just friendly conversation, shared smiles, and the chance to see families, friends, and strangers alike light up in front of the backdrop. Every photo, every small interaction, helps spread cheer and support meaningful causes in our community.

By the end of the evening, you’ll leave knowing you helped make the market a little brighter, a little warmer, and a lot more memorable for everyone who stops by.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Some of the best memories of the holidays are the little snapshots that make us smile for years to come. At the Millwork Merry Market Photo Booth, you’ll be helping create those moments.

You’ll greet guests, help them get ready for festive photos, and make sure props are in place for a little extra fun. One volunteer will keep an eye on the donation box, making it easy for visitors to support local nonprofits, while the other makes sure the booth is cheerful and welcoming.

It’s the kind of role where you get to be part of people’s joy without any pressure—just friendly conversation, shared smiles, and the chance to see families, friends, and strangers alike light up in front of the backdrop. Every photo, every small interaction, helps spread cheer and support meaningful causes in our community.

By the end of the evening, you’ll leave knowing you helped make the market a little brighter, a little warmer, and a lot more memorable for everyone who stops by.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Step into a role that brings a little extra magic to A Merry Millwork Market! As a Horse & Carriage Booth Volunteer, you’ll help guests enjoy one of the most festive parts of the market—rides through the Millwork District.

You’ll assist with ticketing, guide visitors on and off the carriage, and help the team keep everything running smoothly. Whether you’re stationed at the tent, managing cash and donation boxes, or supporting the carriage volunteers, you’ll be part of creating seamless, joyful experiences for families and friends.

Beyond the logistics, you’ll get to chat with visitors, share in the excitement of the rides, and see the delight on children’s faces as they step into a little holiday adventure. Each interaction you have—every smile you help create—adds to the festive spirit and supports local nonprofits that benefit from the market.

By the end of your shift, you’ll have helped make the market feel welcoming, fun, and full of holiday cheer, leaving guests with memories they’ll treasure and a sense of pride in the role you played.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Step into a role that brings a little extra magic to A Merry Millwork Market! As a Horse & Carriage Booth Volunteer, you’ll help guests enjoy one of the most festive parts of the market—rides through the Millwork District.

You’ll assist with ticketing, guide visitors on and off the carriage, and help the team keep everything running smoothly. Whether you’re stationed at the tent, managing cash and donation boxes, or supporting the carriage volunteers, you’ll be part of creating seamless, joyful experiences for families and friends.

Beyond the logistics, you’ll get to chat with visitors, share in the excitement of the rides, and see the delight on children’s faces as they step into a little holiday adventure. Each interaction you have—every smile you help create—adds to the festive spirit and supports local nonprofits that benefit from the market.

By the end of your shift, you’ll have helped make the market feel welcoming, fun, and full of holiday cheer, leaving guests with memories they’ll treasure and a sense of pride in the role you played.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

As a Floater, you’ll be the go-to helper who keeps the Merry Millwork Market running smoothly! Your main role is to step in wherever you’re needed — covering for volunteers who may not make their shift or lending a hand where extra help is needed. If everyone’s present and accounted for, you’ll join the Wicker River Team at the Welcome Tent to greet guests, answer questions, and share in the holiday spirit.

This is a great role for friendly, adaptable volunteers who enjoy variety and being part of the action. You’ll get to experience different parts of the event while helping ensure visitors have a warm, welcoming, and merry experience from start to finish!

There’s something special about the first sip of a warm drink on a crisp morning—and at A Merry Millwork Market, you’ll be the one helping make that moment happen.

You’ll be at the heart of the market, serving coffee and hot chocolate to visitors and keeping the booth running smoothly. Whether you’re taking orders, pouring drinks, or making sure the coffee and cocoa keep flowing, your efforts help create a cozy, welcoming spot for everyone to enjoy.

You’ll see the market come alive around you—the chatter of friends, the laughter of families, and the twinkle of holiday lights—and you’ll know that each cup you serve is part of that festive energy. Every drink you hand out, every smile you share, supports the community and contributes to the mission of local nonprofits benefiting from the market.

By the end of your shift, you’ll have helped create hundreds of little moments of warmth and cheer—and maybe even carried a bit of that magic with you for the rest of the day.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

There’s something special about the first sip of a warm drink on a crisp morning—and at A Merry Millwork Market, you’ll be the one helping make that moment happen.

You’ll be at the heart of the market, serving coffee and hot chocolate to visitors and keeping the booth running smoothly. Whether you’re taking orders, pouring drinks, or making sure the coffee and cocoa keep flowing, your efforts help create a cozy, welcoming spot for everyone to enjoy.

You’ll see the market come alive around you—the chatter of friends, the laughter of families, and the twinkle of holiday lights—and you’ll know that each cup you serve is part of that festive energy. Every drink you hand out, every smile you share, supports the community and contributes to the mission of local nonprofits benefiting from the market.

By the end of your shift, you’ll have helped create hundreds of little moments of warmth and cheer—and maybe even carried a bit of that magic with you for the rest of the day.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is the giving—the small gestures that make someone’s day a little warmer and brighter. As a Coffee & Cocoa Booth volunteer, you’ll have the chance to do just that, one steaming cup at a time.

You’ll pour hot chocolate, serve locally brewed coffee, and share the kind of smiles that help everyone forget the winter chill. You’ll help keep the booth stocked and running smoothly while adding your own spark to the festive energy that fills A Merry Millwork Market.

From twinkling lights to laughter echoing through the district, you’ll be surrounded by everything that makes this season feel magical. And every cup you serve helps support local nonprofits doing important work all year long—so the warmth you share reaches far beyond the market itself.

If you believe the holidays are best spent giving, connecting, and celebrating community, this is the perfect way to do it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is the giving—the small gestures that make someone’s day a little warmer and brighter. As a Coffee & Cocoa Booth volunteer, you’ll have the chance to do just that, one steaming cup at a time.

You’ll pour hot chocolate, serve locally brewed coffee, and share the kind of smiles that help everyone forget the winter chill. You’ll help keep the booth stocked and running smoothly while adding your own spark to the festive energy that fills A Merry Millwork Market.

From twinkling lights to laughter echoing through the district, you’ll be surrounded by everything that makes this season feel magical. And every cup you serve helps support local nonprofits doing important work all year long—so the warmth you share reaches far beyond the market itself.

If you believe the holidays are best spent giving, connecting, and celebrating community, this is the perfect way to do it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is giving—and what better way to give than by keeping your community warm and happy? As a Hot Chocolate Maker, you’ll be behind the scenes at A Merry Millwork Market, crafting the rich, comforting cocoa that keeps visitors smiling and spirits bright.

You’ll mix and prepare big batches of hot chocolate, help keep the concession stand stocked, and make sure there’s always a warm cup ready for someone to enjoy. Two of you will be stirring up the next batch downstairs, while one volunteer acts as the “runner,” delivering the fresh cocoa upstairs to the booth and lending a hand where needed.

It’s a perfect fit for anyone who loves a good rhythm—stirring, pouring, tasting, and sharing in the satisfaction of teamwork that makes everything run seamlessly. You’ll get to see how small, simple actions—like handing off a freshly filled dispenser—add up to something that warms hundreds of hearts throughout the evening.

If you love the behind-the-scenes magic of the holidays, this is your chance to play a sweet (and chocolatey) part in it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is giving—and what better way to give than by keeping your community warm and happy? As a Hot Chocolate Maker, you’ll be behind the scenes at A Merry Millwork Market, crafting the rich, comforting cocoa that keeps visitors smiling and spirits bright.

You’ll mix and prepare big batches of hot chocolate, help keep the concession stand stocked, and make sure there’s always a warm cup ready for someone to enjoy. Two of you will be stirring up the next batch downstairs, while one volunteer acts as the “runner,” delivering the fresh cocoa upstairs to the booth and lending a hand where needed.

It’s a perfect fit for anyone who loves a good rhythm—stirring, pouring, tasting, and sharing in the satisfaction of teamwork that makes everything run seamlessly. You’ll get to see how small, simple actions—like handing off a freshly filled dispenser—add up to something that warms hundreds of hearts throughout the evening.

If you love the behind-the-scenes magic of the holidays, this is your chance to play a sweet (and chocolatey) part in it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is giving—and what better way to give than by keeping your community warm and happy? As a Hot Chocolate Maker, you’ll be behind the scenes at A Merry Millwork Market, crafting the rich, comforting cocoa that keeps visitors smiling and spirits bright.

You’ll mix and prepare big batches of hot chocolate, help keep the concession stand stocked, and make sure there’s always a warm cup ready for someone to enjoy. Two of you will be stirring up the next batch downstairs, while one volunteer acts as the “runner,” delivering the fresh cocoa upstairs to the booth and lending a hand where needed.

It’s a perfect fit for anyone who loves a good rhythm—stirring, pouring, tasting, and sharing in the satisfaction of teamwork that makes everything run seamlessly. You’ll get to see how small, simple actions—like handing off a freshly filled dispenser—add up to something that warms hundreds of hearts throughout the evening.

If you love the behind-the-scenes magic of the holidays, this is your chance to play a sweet (and chocolatey) part in it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

The best part of the holiday season is giving—and what better way to give than by keeping your community warm and happy? As a Hot Chocolate Maker, you’ll be behind the scenes at A Merry Millwork Market, crafting the rich, comforting cocoa that keeps visitors smiling and spirits bright.

You’ll mix and prepare big batches of hot chocolate, help keep the concession stand stocked, and make sure there’s always a warm cup ready for someone to enjoy. Two of you will be stirring up the next batch downstairs, while one volunteer acts as the “runner,” delivering the fresh cocoa upstairs to the booth and lending a hand where needed. It’s a perfect fit for anyone who loves a good rhythm—stirring, pouring, tasting, and sharing in the satisfaction of teamwork that makes everything run seamlessly. You’ll get to see how small, simple actions—like handing off a freshly filled dispenser—add up to something that warms hundreds of hearts throughout the evening.

If you love the behind-the-scenes magic of the holidays, this is your chance to play a sweet (and chocolatey) part in it.

Please arrive at the Courtyard Entrance Welcome Booth, midway between Jackson and Washington Streets on 10th Street, at the start of your shift. This is where you’ll check in, meet your team, and get any materials or instructions from the Volunteer Manager, Theresa, before your shift begins.

Packagers play a hands-on role in the fight against hunger by assembling nutritious meals at the Patty Cownie Packaging Center in West Des Moines. Volunteers work together at stations to fill, weigh, seal, and box non-perishable meal bags during a two-hour shift.

Each Packager helps produce approximately 540 meals per shift, feeding two children for an entire year. This impactful opportunity supports Meals from the Heartland’s mission to alleviate hunger both locally and globally.

To see all of our shifts to sign up for shifts- follow this LINK. 

Role Responsibilities:

Arrive 10 minutes early and check in with staff

Attend a brief orientation at the start of the shift

Follow all sanitization and safety protocols

Work collaboratively in assigned station roles

Stay focused and meet packaging quality standards

Treat fellow volunteers and staff with respect

Stay through the full shift and assist with cleanup

Attire Requirements:

Wear closed-toed shoes

Remove all jewelry before packaging

Tie back long hair and fully tuck into a hairnet

Corporate groups are encouraged to wear branded apparel

Volunteer Waiver Notice:
By volunteering with Meals from the Heartland, you acknowledge and accept our waiver of liability. Participation is voluntary, and Meals from the Heartland is not liable for any injuries or incidents that may occur during your service. Your registration confirms this understanding

Center for Immigrant & Refugee Advancement (CIRA) helps immigrants & refugees from around the world integrate into Nebraska's vibrant community. As the temperature drops, your support becomes a vital source of warmth for the families we serve.

Your donation will not only offer physical warmth, but also symbolize a compassionate embrace from the Omaha and Lincoln community. Join us in ensuring that every newcomer feels the warmth and support they need during this chilly season. Your generosity will help create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

WHAT TO DONATE

We are accepting new or gently used:

WHERE TO DONATE

Items can be dropped off at the following locations:

CIRA-Omaha Office

4223 Center St.

Omaha, NE 68105

CIRA- Lincoln Office

121 S. 13th Street Suite 301

Lincoln, NE 68508

Please contact Ali Ostrowski, Volunteer & Donor Relations Coordinator , at aostrowski@ciraconnect.org

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). 

Suncrest Hospice is looking for Holiday volunteers to join the Suncrest Team as we provide excellent care and support to our Hospice patients and their families in their home or facility.  The philosophy of hospice care is to provide comfort and the highest quality of life that one can achieve at the end of life. Through an interdisciplinary team: nurse, home health aide, social worker, Chaplin, music therapist, massage therapists and volunteers, we help the patient and family walk through their journey. Whether you are needing community service hours or wanting to gain some experience in the medical field or share your musical talent, we have an amazing Volunteer program to educate about Hospice volunteering. We need compassionate volunteers to assist us in our facilities while family members are out of town celebrating the holidays. No one wants to alone on the holidays and you can help with your time! 

We would love for you to be a part of our team! Volunteers play a critical role in hospice and I would love the opportunity to chat with you over the phone about our volunteer program. If you are 16 years or older, please reach out to me M-F 9-4p at 402-509-7655, You can also email me at TRodriguez@suncrestcare.com. I look forward to speaking with you! 

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                           

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 email Carolyn at cschaeffer@interculturalseniorcenter.org or call 402-444-6529.

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 check in patrons and distribute Rooted Bucks at the Dubuque Farmers Market! 

T-Shirt Tote Bags are needed to serve families with a pre-packed sack of food at our mobile pantries. We need your help to turn donated T-Shirts into Tote Bags using our provided instructions (link below). 

T-Shirts are available for pick up 

Instructions: https://www.foodbankiowa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DIY-TShirt-Tote.pdf

T-Shirt Tote Bags are needed to serve families with a pre-packed sack of food at our mobile pantries. We need your help to turn donated T-Shirts into Tote Bags using our provided instructions (link below). 

T-Shirts are available for pick up 

Instructions: https://www.foodbankiowa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DIY-TShirt-Tote.pdf

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

Description:

Volunteers will pack food supplies for families in boxes or bags to be distributed at mobile pantry sites to accommodate the need for drive-thru and pick up models. This is an emergency response for the effects of COVID19.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift.

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 10

Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes are required; no exceptions. Dress comfortably. Gloves will be provided.

Location(s): Food Bank of Iowa has two volunteer centers

For more information contact Michaela Devaney at MDevaney@foodbankiowa.org or click Respond.

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

Description:

Volunteers will pack food supplies for families in boxes or bags to be distributed at mobile pantry sites to accommodate the need for drive-thru and pick up models. This is an emergency response for the effects of COVID19.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift.

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 10

Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes are required; no exceptions. Dress comfortably. Gloves will be provided.

Location(s): Food Bank of Iowa has two volunteer centers

For more information contact Michaela Devaney at MDevaney@foodbankiowa.org or click Respond.

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

Program Description:

Working in the food pantry, greeting families and determining their needs. Making referrals to resources in the community as well as within MICA. Helping distribute food to those in need and helping to increase capacity with donations from the community.

Location: Grinnell

Duties:

·       Help package food items into grocery bags for community members accessing the pantry.

·       Sorting, weighing and documenting food as it arrives.

Skills required:

●      RSVP volunteers must be 55 years of age or older.

●      Able to keep information confidential

●      Positive attitude and willing to serve families in need

●      Relate well to others and take a team approach.

Amount of Time: Flexible schedule based on volunteers availability

Time of Day: Flexible schedule based on volunteers availability

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to help combat hunger throughout Grinnell

●        Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers

●        Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure)

●        Milage reimbursement available if delivering food to homebound

Operation information: Established in 1965 to serve children and families affected by the conditions of poverty, MICA provides early childhood, health, family development and housing services as well as community enrichment programs.Helping People. Changing Lives. Building Communities.  Some of our most well-known programs include Head Start, Family Development and Self-Sufficiency (FaDSS), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and WIC (Women, Infants and Children).

Sidewalkers are at least 14 years. They help set up and tear down equipment in the arena before, in between and/or after sessions. They also walk next to the participant during sessions and assist with balance and exercises. They must be able to comfortably walk and jog, for short distances, next to a horse while providing physical support to a participant.

Days and times that sessions are conducted:
Monday-Thursday and Saturday morning through early afternoon.
Volunteers typically work a 2-3 hour shift on their day, NOT the entire duration of sessions.

For additional information please join us at a HETRA tour! You can see upcoming tour dates and sign up to attend here: http://hetra.org/calendar-of-events/

Learn more about HETRA and Volunteering here: https://hetra.org/volunteer/

Looking to give a gift that keeps on giving? Look no further than HETRA's Amazon wishlist. With over 200 volunteers and staff, 30 horses, and 160 participants receiving services weekly, we go through a fair amount of supplies!

Visit our Wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/PHVL3VLMQEIR/ref=cm_wl_search_1

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!

We're seeking volunteers to help make the holidays special and memorable for the youth and families at Omaha Home for Boys by wrapping gifts, stuffing stockings, and decorating holiday cookies.

By volunteering, you will ensure that every youth and family at OHB experiences the magic of the season, reminding them that they are cared for and loved!

Project Christmas Joy is a holiday tradition at Omaha Home for Boys, and your generosity ensures every youth receives a special gift.

By giving today, you help every young adult at OHB experience the magic of the season. Many of them, especially those with young children, are facing a holiday without gifts or even the essentials. With your help, they can receive both — something they need and a special gift to remind them they are loved and not forgotten. This Christmas, let’s come together to make sure no one is left out.

Please help provide gifts in one of the following ways:

1. Shop our Amazon Gift Registry

Purchase essentials or gifts from our Amazon Gift Registry and ship them directly to Omaha Home for Boys.

2. Purchase and Deliver Requested Gifts

Purchase needed essentials and gifts at your favorite retailer and deliver them to our campus. Here is a list of needed items. Contact RaeAnn Knoell at rknoell@ohb.org to coordinate a delivery time.

3. Host a Drive

Hold a drive at your work, church, or other organization to collect needed items and gifts from friends, coworkers, customers, members, etc. and deliver the items to our campus. Here is a list of needed items. Contact RaeAnn Knoell at rknoell@ohb.org to coordinate a delivery time.

This Holiday season, we would like to help our participants who attend the Wesley on Grand Adult Day Center to be able to have a present that is given during our yearly Christmas party. We are primarily looking for every day, personal essentials for both men and women, like socks, lotions, soaps, and lip balm, as well as hair accessories for women (like barrettes and headbands.) Contact Hannah for more specifics. Please drop off items before December 2nd. 

Link Associates supports individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families who are well below poverty level income and struggle on a daily basis to meet their basic needs.

A food basket, Holiday meal items, or gift cards will help make their Holiday Season a little brighter!   A meal can be for the Thanksgiving Holiday or Christmas Holiday. There is also the opportunity to provide gifts for the Christmas Holiday if you are interested.

Please respond to receive a list of most current meal/ food and gift items needed!

We serve more than 113 individuals in our CILA group homes 24/7 and another 9 on our Intermittent CILA program. Several have little to no family support. Seeking kind individuals willing to adopt them for Christmas and put a few presents under their tree. This is a great opportunity for a group, family or a singe caring person. What a great was to show the holiday spirit by giving to someone in need. 

The Arc of the Quad Cities Area needs your help with Hygiene supplies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As we all know costs continue to rise and available money for individuals with intellectual disabilities doesn't. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities typically have little money left from their cost of care. I am seeking some caring individuals to help alleviate the cost of Hygiene supplies and leave them more money to spend on items that make them happy. We are seeking items such as Shampoo/conditioner for all hair types (including products for black hair), both solid and spray on deodorant. toothpaste, mouth wash, Body wash (not bar soap) for both men and women (Men's 3 in one and women's 2 in one is preferred), men's and women's shaving cream, razers, body lotion, body sprays, hairbrushes, combs, Kleenexes, nail care, chap stick etc. The most needed products to date are Men's 3 in one, body wash (some for sensitive skin, shampoo and conditioner. 

No bar soap, Q-Tip's or cotton balls please. Please feel free to share with friends, coworkers, groups or anyone willing to help!

Please fill out our volunteer application:

Sign up to Volunteer at the link below:

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

Purpose: Take photos at our ongoing events and take high-level photos of our merchandise for magazine layout.

Qualification:

Commitment required: 3-4 hours / shift, we will work with your schedule!

Michelle Simoneau

Special Executive Assistant to the President/CEO

Director of Volunteer Services

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa  52404

319.362.8500 ext. 200
www.NCSML.org

Please fill out a volunteer application:  

Sign up to Volunteer at the link below:

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

• Answer phone calls as needed

• Transfer calls to the appropriate staff members

• Other administrative activities as needed

• Friendly demeanor and ability to learn

• Basic knowledge of NCSML policy and procedures

• Ability to operate phone system- simple transfer

New volunteers will be trained on the phone system by staff as well as

receiving a day of general orientation with a “mentor.”

Michelle Simoneau

Special Executive Assistant to the President/CEO

Director of Volunteer Services

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa  52404

319.362.8500 ext. 200
www.NCSML.org

The Museum Store Clerk supplies merchandise information to the customer and handles sales of store merchandise Responsibilities: ? Assist customers in the Museum Store ? Direct visitors to merchandise and assist them in line ? Keep the store clean and hazard free ? Tag and restock merchandise as directed ? Keep up with product knowledge and current merchandise | The Museum Store Clerk needs to be able to interact with the shopping public, complete a sales slip according to prescribed procedure, use a charge card machine, count back change, and package merchandise. Need to be able to use electronic point of sale device. 

Please fill out our volunteer application form:

Sign up to Volunteer at the link below:

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

Purpose: To enrich the visitor experience by connecting visitors to life long-ago.  Learn the story of the Sleger immigrant home and give tours to the public by providing an engaging and interactive experience. 

Become part of one of the best experiences we have to offer our visitors!

Qualifications:

Commitment required: 3-4 hours / shift

Michelle Simoneau

Special Executive Assistant to the President/CEO

Director of Volunteer Services

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa  52404

319.362.8500 ext. 200
www.NCSML.org

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library seeks out assistance with grant writers.  We have opportunities to help our community in different ways and want those ideas to come to life through some assistance with grants.  We are searching for individuals who:

Volunteer hours are flexible.

Volunteer Application Click Here

Please contact Msimoneau@ncsml.org if you are interested!

Please fill out our volunteer application to get started:

Sign up to Volunteer at the link below:

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

Purpose: Welcome visitors to the museum at the elevator entrance.  This first friendly impression is one of the most important part of the visitors's experience and our volunteers say it is a very rewarding role.

Grand Hall Host Role:

Qualification:

Commitment required: 3-4 hours / shift, we will work with your schedule!

Michelle Simoneau

Special Executive Assistant to the President/CEO

Director of Volunteer Services

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa  52404

319.362.8500 ext. 200
www.NCSML.org

Please fill out this online application to get started! 

Sign up to Volunteer at the link below:

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

Purpose: Welcome visitors to the museum at the elevator entrance.  This first friendly impression is one of the most important part of the visitors's experience and our volunteers say it is a very rewarding role.

Events Help:

Qualification:

Commitment required: 3-4 hours / shift, we will work with your schedule!

Michelle Simoneau

Special Executive Assistant to the President/CEO

Director of Volunteer Services

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa  52404

319.362.8500 ext. 200
www.NCSML.org

Volunteers are needed to help families at the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry sign up to receive new toys, stocking stuffers, and blankets at our Holiday Toy Pantry.

Volunteers will help parents sign up for a time on our paper schedule and then fill out a reminder for the family with the date and time to come choose gifts for their children. (No computer use required. Each family will have a print out with their name on it.)

Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday between November 3rd through November 14th.

Shifts are:

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. 

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 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 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.​

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.​

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.