Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

Volunteers are needed to help families get food and clothing at the Bidwell Pantry. 

Volunteers will help:    

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.​

Tax Preparers prepare basic tax returns. Please review the full volunteer position description here: https://www.uweci.org/vita.

These shifts are for the preparation of intake returns. No clients will be present.

Mondays: Site Coordinator Bill Holtz

Tuesday: Site Coordinator Patti Jacoubek

Kids' Club is a free class that explores the visual arts and treasures of the MacNider Art Museum. Kid's club can have up to 30 children. Volunteers for this class will help our teacher pass out supplies, reexplaining instructions, and assisting with art projects.

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.​

DBQFest is Iowa’s oldest continuously running arts fair. Our free summer festival brings fine artists, musicians, food trucks, child-friendly activities, and more to Washington Park each year. On January 24th, we’re raising funds through our annual art auction—and we’d love your help making it a success! We'll need assistance with event setup, greeting guests, packaging art, post-event cleanup, and more. Please click on this link to browse and sign up for shifts.

MFC has teen nights on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3pm - 7pm. We are looking for volunteers to help cook dinner and engage with our teens! 

Volunteers will need to complete a background check before volunteering. 

We need a volunteer who can work as the donations come in and sort and put in needed area.

Encampment to Housed is an innovative initiative designed to provide rapid, person-centered intervention for individuals living in encampments in Waterloo. FOF staff will work to house individuals to ensure our vision of everyone has a home. Volunteers will support this project after individuals are housed. They will help to ensure individuals have gotten their belongings out of the encampment and begin to clean up the encampment.

Tasks include: 

This project is in partnership with the City of Waterloo. Volunteers will lead the encampment clean up efforts to promote safety, public health and fostering trust within our communities. 

Join United Way of the Midlands in an unique volunteer opportunity – let your voice be heard! We are looking for volunteers to participate in our Grant Review Team process. Reviewers are an integral part of UWM’s community investments. As a review volunteer, you will read, review, and score local program applications submitted for funding. After thoughtful dialogue and analysis, new volunteers work alongside experienced returning volunteers and UWM staff to distribute grant funds amongst the programs.

Volunteer Time Commitment:

UWM strives to amplify community voice in all we do. Come and be a part of this critical process, helping to strengthen your community through impactful services.

Do you love to golf? So do we, but we can’t do it without volunteers like you. We are holding practices at Outlook on our golf simulator from now until the end of May. Our participants are blind and low vision with varying levels of golf experience. 

Practice schedule: Fridays 1:30 – 3 p.m. (weekly through May, if possible)Saturdays 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (weekly through May, if possible)  

Learn more at: https://www.outlooken.org/event/sighted-volunteer-golfers-needed

Open to participants without a disability, Courage on the Court offers a firsthand experience of the daily challenges faced by our Courage program participants. Beyond the physical experience, Courage on the Court is a powerful fundraiser, with all proceeds helping Can Play continue its mission of breaking down barriers to play in our community. By supporting this event, you're not just participating in a game; you're contributing to the growth and evolution of adaptive and no-cost sports programs that positively impact Every BODY.

Sign up is available through our sign-up link: https://signup.com/go/RfiaDmW

Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board Member Opportunity

Are you passionate about making a difference in the West Des Moines community? If so, consider joining the Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation as a board member!

As a board member, you'll collaborate with dedicated individuals to support and enhance our parks and recreation programs, expand community outreach, and drive membership growth. We are looking for motivated individuals with leadership goals, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Monthly Meetings: Board members meet once a month for approximately 60 minutes on the 3rd Tuesday from 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Committee Engagement: Expect approximately 3–4 hours per month per committee you join. Committee meetings provide working collaborative opportunities to achieve board goals between the monthly meetings.

Event Volunteering: There are additional (fully optional) opportunities to volunteer at Friends or Friends-adjacent events throughout the year, typically falling on weekends.

What are the Attendance Expectations?

Regular attendance at the monthly board meetings is essential and expected for all Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board members. Maintaining consistent attendance supports collaboration and ensures progress on key projects. Your commitment to attendance directly contributes to our success and impact in the community. 

Each board member is expected to volunteer for at least one committee. The committees include Finance/Executive; Membership Management; Fundraising; Marketing & Outreach; Partnerships & Programs; and other ad-hoc or event-based committees.

Do Board Members Make Personal Financial Commitments?

The Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board is dedicated to securing financial support for our community programs and funded projects such as Legacy Woods. Board members play a vital role in ensuring the financial stability and growth of our parks and programs. Each board member’s commitment is crucial.

Each board member is expected to make a personal financial contribution within their means, most often by way of a ‘Founding Friends’ annual membership. While the amount of the contribution has an impact, the act of giving itself is significant, as it demonstrates to others in the community that board members are personally invested in the success of our parks. 

What Might I be Doing as a Board Member?

Planning and Executing Fundraising and Community Enrichment Events - Board members plan for several events throughout each year, including Friends fundraisers, community engagement, and environmental and conservation efforts.

Finding Opportunities to Support the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department - The city-managed department has ample volunteer opportunities throughout its seasonal event programming. Board members will often support the Parks and Recreation department via arranging sponsorships or simply volunteering their time.

Growing Awareness and Membership for the Friends - The Friends of WDM Parks and Rec organization has a big dream to make the West Des Moines Parks system the best it can be. Growing awareness of the Friends and its mission, and finding ways to add new ‘Friends’ as members is a frequent goal and task.

Identifying Funding Sources and Seeking Contributions - Each board member also helps identify potential funding sources for Friends of WDM Parks & Rec. Your knowledge of the community and connections will support the development of a robust financial support program. Board members should be willing to ask for contributions, as part of a coordinated effort led by the board to ensure we meet our funding goals.

Are There Any Special Skill Sets Needed?

If you have experience in grant writing, marketing, finance, accounting, law, event planning, volunteer board strategic planning, and/or are passionate about enhancing community spaces for West Des Moines residents, we invite you to consider joining our board. Terms begin in March and extend for three years.

If you’re enthusiastic about West Des Moines parks and recreation, ready to bring new ideas to the table, and committed to creating a more vibrant community, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to our Board President at info@friendsofwdmparks.org and fill out a volunteer application to help us get to know you.

Join us in making a difference for West Des Moines Parks and Recreation!

Seeking volunteers willing to come in on days our other volunteers are not able to make it.

The position consists of walking our clients through our client choice pantry. Operation of hours for our pantry- Monday through Wednesday 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Any and all hours are helpful!

As a CASA volunteer, you will be empowered by the courts to help make a child’s dream of a forever home a reality. You will be the one consistent adult in these children’s lives, fighting for and protecting their right to be treated with the dignity and respect that every child deserves. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but also their children and generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.

CASA volunteers come from all walks of life.  No special experience is required. At CASA we offer comprehensive pre-service training, coaching and monthly opportunities to meet with other CASAs. We promise you will have the support you need to feel confident in this role.

The following video captures the role and duties of the CASA in less than 4 minutes.

What is a CASA?

https://youtu.be/F5xth-p-9LE

Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity needs teams of 4-8 volunteers to assist with construction.

Sign up directly on our website: https://www.webuildhabitat.org/volunteer/

Tasks: (will vary depending on our stage of construction)

Qualifications: 

 
Requirements: 

Monday-Friday

Saturday

How to register your volunteer team:

Sign up directly on our website: https://www.webuildhabitat.org/volunteer/

Join us for a fulfilling day building homes alongside Habitat homebuyers in our community! No prior experience necessary. All equipment is provided, and a site supervisor will show you what to do. 

A few things to know:
1. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted on the construction site.
2. Children under the age of 18 cannot engage in hazardous activities such as roofing, being on ladders or using power tools.

Questions? Email Susan Cornforth at volunteer@webuildhabitat.org

January 28, 2026 5:00 - 6:30 pm

Free Meal - Breakfast for Supper

Pancakes, sausage, milk, orange juice and cookies

Volunteers will be serving and cleaning up after the meal

To sign up to volunteer, visit our website: Volunteer : Get Involved : Together

Together operates a Choice Food Pantry, offering a dignified and empowering shopping experience for our community members. Our pantry provides a wide selection of nutritious food options, allowing individuals to choose the items that best meet their dietary preferences and needs. This volunteer opportunity occurs in our choice pantry and may include:

Through the Nourish Program, we believe that access to healthy food is a fundamental human right. By volunteering in our pantry, you can help us feed the community.

Questions? Contact Jeri Janz at jjanz@togetheromaha.org or (402) 345-8047 ext. 219

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

Just like any home, ours needs frequent cleaning! We will provide the supplies if you can provide your helping hands!

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where 140 residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

When a resident moves in, we are excited to greet and show them to their apartment where they will find a laundry basket filled with all of the essentials they need to feel supported on their first day home. However, we are running low on many of the items needed listed below! Would you consider donating these items for our new friends? Please contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org for details.

The following items are used in a Welcome Home Care Basket: 

For availability, contact Nick at Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org. If volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

We’re inviting community members to host a monthly Birthday Bash so every resident can feel celebrated. Many of our residents face financial barriers or don’t have family to celebrate with, and this is a meaningful way to show them they are valued! To host a Birthday Bash, you can either provide 80 pieces of cake or cupcakes or make a $60 contribution for us to purchase the cake. You’re also welcome to bring party decorations to help make it feel festive. Upon arrival, you and a group of up to five can help decorate, serve cake, and connect with residents. Party games like Bingo are encouraged, we’ll provide the bingo set if you can provide 8–10 prizes ($5–$10 each). Birthday Bashes can be held Mondays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where 140 residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

Sandwiches can be dropped off at 2 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. They are distributed directly to residents the following day.

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where 140 residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0 .

This opportunity takes place each Tuesday between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. - contact Nick, at Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org, to see availability.

Sponsoring and participating in a Tuesday Night Dinner offers a meaningful way to connect directly with our residents and our mission. Through our #MoreThanAMeal program, volunteers help provide a hearty, home-cooked meal for all 140 residents while creating a sense of community that truly makes our campus feel like home.

A $300 sponsorship helps cover the cost of the meal. You and your group (6-8 people) will prepare and serve dinner, then sit down to share the meal and connect with residents. Volunteers consistently share that this is one of the most impactful experiences on our campus.

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Bingo and Trivia is a great way to directly connect with our residents and our cause! Often times, an individual or small group will host the bingo night and bring in between 8 – 10 small prizes (ranging in the 5-10 dollar range) and one prize for the blackout round (around the 20 dollar price point). We will provide the bingo set and even bake up some delicious cookies for your bingo night! Popular prizes are things like towel sets, household cleaning items, pots and pans or décor items that residents can use to personalize their apartments!

Game nights are always eagerly looked forward too!  Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions!

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a group volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

Provide support by aiding with donation sorting, stocking our pantry, organizing and more! Each of these activities help to ensure that our residents have access to basic need items so that they can focus on working towards housing stability and personal success in a dignified manner. The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

We have a variety of tasks throughout the week that need helping hands to complete. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to participate in a variety of activities to support and uplift those who call the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus their home. Some examples being....donation sorting, assisting with meal opportunities, organizing and cleaning projects, stocking our pantry and more!

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Create joyful bags full of fun/delicious goodies! Treats, soaps, lotions, chap stick, pens, socks etc. Get creative and decorate the bags or even include a handwritten note on or in the bag to let our folks know that you are wishing them well! If you would like to ensure that all residents receive a kindness bag - please plan on making 140 bags. 

Donations can be dropped off anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday though Friday.! Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.

Many of our residents are in need of a hand up as they work towards housing and financial stability.

Check out the following ways you can offer a Hand Up to our folks by providing the essential need items listed below:

Create Change with Clean Clothing:

Clean clothing is a basic human need. While we have on-site laundry, many residents can’t afford the quarters needed for a wash and dry. One load costs 12 quarters. Our goal is for every resident to have access to a laundry kit (12 quarters, a pod, and a dryer sheet) when needed. Consider hosting a spare change drive at work, with friends, or through a school or sports team.

Fill Our Pantry:

Gather friends, neighbors, or coworkers to host a food, clothing, or hygiene drive for our 140 residents. For current needs, visit our Amazon wish list.

Set a New Resident Up for Success:

When residents move in, they receive a welcome basket with essential household items. We’re currently running low and would appreciate donations of basic kitchen, bathroom, and cleaning supplies to help make their first day feel like home.

Drop-off Hours:

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

Thank you for your support!

The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Overview

Civics English Tutors support adult newcomers  preparing for the U.S. citizenship exam or wanting to strengthen their civic knowledge and English skills. Volunteers provide structured tutoring in reading, writing, speaking, and U.S. history/government content. This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy teaching, explaining concepts clearly, and helping learners reach long‑term goals.

Responsibilities

Time Commitment

Qualifications

What Makes This Role Meaningful

Overview

Conversation/ESL Partners support adult newcomers who want to improve their everyday English skills. Volunteers meet one‑on‑one with learners to practice speaking, build confidence, and help participants navigate daily life in Iowa. This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy connecting with people, learning about different cultures, and supporting newcomers in a friendly, low‑pressure environment.

Responsibilities

Time Commitment

Qualifications

What Makes This Role Meaningful

This class will explore ways to make art using materials from bubble wrap to soap bubbles. Volunteers will be asked to help our young crafters with their art projects, help get students on task, passing out supplies, cleanup and other simple tasks.

Children’s Learning Center Assistant
Join CMC’s team as a CMC Kids Intern and promote an inclusive learning environment for children of refugees and immigrants! The Children’s Learning Center provides a safe learning environment for children while their parents access services at the Center.
Responsibilities:
· Plan and lead educational activities, which promote learning among children ages 2-12
· Coordinate and guide volunteers
· Maintain a safe environment
· Perform other duties as requested/ assigned
Skills:
· Experience working with children
· Strong communication and organizational skills
· Comfort using a computer and ability to learn new programs
· Self-directed problem-solving ability
· Must be at least 17 years of age
Schedule:
· Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 430-7pm
· Wednesday 430-6pm
· Saturday 930-1130am

What You Will Do:

DMARC is recruiting volunteers to assist with sorting, quality-checking, counting, and packaging thousands of pounds of donated food items to distribute through our Food Pantry Network. Friends, families, and colleague groups are encouraged to volunteer together; children and youth are welcome! 

Please join us as a DMARC Food Pantry Volunteer!

Volunteering at the DMARC-Ket Food Pantry is just like helping a friend shop for groceries! As a food pantry volunteer, you will assist visitors in selecting their food items after they have gone through the intake process. We also need folks to break down our food rescue items and keep our shelves stocked throughout the day!

Requirements:

Training:

Volunteers will be provided with instructions and ongoing guidance from a DMARC staff person for the duration of their shift. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your shift for direction. 

 Qualifications:

Possess a passion and enthusiasm for assisting individuals and families in crisis. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while under pressure. Ability to bend, squat and frequently lift items up to 35 pounds. We can make reasonable accommodations whenever possible!

Sign up on our volunteer portal!

 We look forward to working with you!

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:

January

February

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.​

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 8:30am-2:00pm.

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories.

Project Based Learning (PBL) Judges - JAG student teams will share about PBL project they completed at school or in their community this year. Everyone on the team gets to share, and together, they will show how PBL made learning awesome and provided real community impact in 7 minutes or less!  Scoring rubrics will be provided for judges. 

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. 

Feb. 24  4:00pm

Feb. 25  8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Form

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm.

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories.

Project Based Learning (PBL) Judges - JAG student teams will share about PBL project they completed at school or in their community this year. Everyone on the team gets to share, and together, they will show how PBL made learning awesome and provided real community impact in 7 minutes or less!  Scoring rubrics will be provided for judges. 

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. 

Feb. 24  4:00pm

Feb. 25  8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Form

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm.

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories. 

Prepared Speaking Judges - As a judge, you will listen to students prepared speech, sharing how JAG has supported them in preparing for their future.  Scoring rubrics will be provided.

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. 

Feb. 24  4:00pm

Feb. 25  8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Form

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.

Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get your parking validated.

Prepared Speaking Judges - As a judge, you will listen to students prepared speech, sharing how JAG has supported them in preparing for their future.  Scoring rubrics will be provided.

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Form

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.

Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get your parking validated

Employability Judges - As a judge, you will facilitate professional job interviews for students competing in this event. Scoring rubrics and interview questions will be provided.

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google F

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.

Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get your parking validated.

Employability Judges - As a judge, you will facilitate professional job interviews for students competing in this event. Scoring rubrics and interview questions will be provided

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Fo

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.

Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get your parking validated.

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories. 

Outstanding Chapter Judges - As a judge you will review scrapbooks featuring each JAG programs activities throughout the school year.  Scoring rubrics will be provided. 

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google For

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.
Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get your parking validated. 

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories. 

Outstanding Chapter Judges - As a judge you will review scrapbooks featuring each JAG programs activities throughout the school year.  Scoring rubrics will be provided. 

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Form

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

12:20pm: Showcase events conclude

12:30pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Forms

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

11:50 pm: Showcase events conclude

12:00pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

JAG Nebraska’s Career Development Conference will be held on Thursday, February 26 at the Downtown Hilton (1001 Cass St.) from 7:30am-2:00pm. Please arrive and head to the 2nd floor to check in.

Parking: Park in the parking garage. Please bring your parking ticket with you when you check in to get it validated. 

JAG Nebraska students from across the state will take their skills learned in the JAG program and compete individually in various categories. 

Career Preparation Judges - Students will create a presentation lasting between 7 and 10 minutes on a career that interests them.  The judges will have three-minutes to evaluate the presentation focusing on the effectiveness of public speaking, presentation content, and how well the participant responded to questions that the judges asked during the presentation. 

Scoring rubrics will be provided. 

The presentations will take place from 7:30am – 12:20pm.

Volunteers should arrive no later than 7:30am.

Please join us for a networking lunch with JAG students after the competition.

There will be a Virtual Judges training offered on two different dates and times - a JAG representative will be reaching out to all judges for training. Judges will need to only pick one of the times below. 

Feb. 24 at 4:00pm

Feb. 25 at 8:00am

Please pick one here: CDC Judge's Preparatory Meeting Registration - Google Forms

Day of Schedule:

7:10am Judges arrive

7:30am Competitions begin

9:30am-11:20am: College/Career Fair

11:50 pm: Showcase events conclude

12:00pm Lunch/Program

1:15pm: Awards/Closing Ceremony/Pictures,

2:00pm: Dismissal

Together's mission is to prevent and end hunger and homelessness. Together's core values of hope, dignity, compassion, excellence, and diversity is the guiding force in how the organization leads and serves those who need Together most. Together envisions a community of prosperity where everyone experiences safe, affordable housing, food security, health and wellness.

As the cold weather approaches, Together is reaching out to our generous community for support. We are in need of items to help those in need stay safe and comfortable this season. Your donations can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families facing hardship. Please consider donating new or gently used items to help us spread warmth and compassion. Together, we can create a brighter winter for everyone in our community. Thank you for your kindness and support!

Needed Items:

DMARC is the local recipient of the Stamp Out Hunger® food drive in Greater Des Moines. In 2025, over 19,000 pounds of food were contributed through Stamp Out Hunger®. DMARC is recruiting volunteers to assist with sorting, quality-checking, counting, and packaging thousands of pounds of donated food items to distribute through our Food Pantry Network. Friends, families, and colleague groups are encouraged to volunteer together; children and youth are welcome!

Make a difference this MLK Day with DMARC!

DMARC is recruiting volunteers to assist with sorting, quality-checking, counting, and packaging thousands of pounds of donated food items to distribute through our Food Pantry Network. Friends, families, and colleague groups are encouraged to volunteer together; children and youth are welcome!

Age Requirement: Volunteers must be at least 16 years old unless accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone.

The Corporate Leadership Cabinet is a network of community-minded business leaders who support DMARC through strategic partnerships, resource sharing, and community engagement. Members act as ambassadors within their sectors to raise awareness of DMARC’s mission, contribute financially or in-kind, and help open doors to new opportunities.

Activities include:

Ideal for: Professionals and executives who want to lend their influence to reduce food insecurity in Greater Des Moines.

This committee will help plan the 8th annual Spring Greens event, DMARC’s signature fundraising event. This year’s event will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the DMARC Food Pantry Network. Areas of focus include sponsorship, ticket sales, communications, logistics, raffle, logistics, communications.

Date: April 30th, 2026 at DMARC’s headquarters, 100 Army Post Rd., Des Moines.

Subcommittees include: 

Sponsorship – Secure financial sponsors and help meet revenue goals. 

Raffle – Source a high-value raffle item and coordinate raffle sales and promotion. 

Logistics – Coordinate event setup, managing timelines and  volunteers. 

Communications & Promotions – Assist with marketing materials, social media, and press outreach. 

Decor & Design – Plan and implement the event’s decor and design.  

Pallet Project – Recruitment of organizations, clubs and faith communities to design and create a pallet project for the Spring Greens event. 

Commitment: 
Monthly meetings from October to April, with subcommittee work between meetings and hands-on help the week of the event. 

Ideal for: Organized, creative individuals who enjoy event planning, fundraising, or outreach! 

Hospice of the Midwest, in Sioux City, IA services a wide area in the Siouxland area and we rely on volunteers for patient companionship (visits, reading, crafts, therapies, music, etc.  etc.), Veteran support, and non-patient tasks such as office work, data entry, mailings, event support and preparing admission packets.

If you have a group, we would love to have you! Please just notate that when you sign up. If there aren't enough slots for your group, please email us and we will take care of getting you on the schedule.

Test

Please do not apply. This is a test opportunity.

Join us as we pack up Rooted Boxes — fun, hands-on kits that bring kids closer to healthy food through creativity and connection! Each box includes fresh local ingredients, a recipe, take home utensils, and an activity that helps kids explore the magic of nourishing their bodies and minds. Come lend a hand, meet great people, and help us spread some foodie joy to families in our community!

As a community sponsor team, you’ll work alongside CIRA staff to help a refugee family thrive in their new home. This opportunity is more than just providing support- it's about building relationships and offering a true sense of community. Your team will make a profound impact by helping a family feel welcomed, supported, and empowered. 

Potential areas of support include:

-Minimum 6-month commitment 

-Must be 19 years or older 

-Background check required

Learning for ALL (LFA) has two tutoring programs to best meet the needs of all students. Tutors are needed for both programs.

Conversation Partners is best for:

Literacy Tutoring is best for:

We ask that tutors meet with their students at least once a week for an hour. Tutors agree to work with their students for three months and are welcome to continue beyond if interested. Tutors and students are paired based on their availability and preferences. Tutors are provided with an orientation and a curriculum prior to meeting with their student. Students and tutors meet at a public location such as a library study room or at the UNO CEC building. This is a great opportunity to help adults achieve their life goals and build a stronger community!

Learning for ALL (LFA) has two tutoring programs to best meet the needs of all students. Tutors are needed for both programs.

Conversation Partners is best for:

Literacy Tutoring is best for:

We ask that tutors meet with their students at least once a week for an hour. Tutors agree to work with their students for three months and are welcome to continue beyond if interested. Tutors and students are paired based on their availability and preferences. Tutors are provided with an orientation and a curriculum prior to meeting with their student. This is a great opportunity to help adults achieve their life goals and build a stronger community!

Suncrest Hospice is looking for 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. We provide Hospice education on our Google Classroom and we are only needing 4 hours in a month which you can pick and choose the dates and times you go!

As a conversation partner, you play a crucial role in facilitating language practice for refugees through regular meetings in the comfort of their homes or within the community, fostering a supportive environment for effective language development. Volunteers will be paired with a client and together they will coordinate a weekly time and location for one-on-one meetings to practice English.

-Minimum six-month commitment

-Must be 19 years and older to participate 

-Background check required 

Tri for a Cause is looking for volunteers to help time the swim, bike and run portions of the indoor triathlon event benefiting Girls on the Run of Central Iowa.

To register to volunteer, click here:

https://www.pinwheel.us/register/index/TRIVOLUNTEER2026

More information on the event can be found here:

https://www.gotrcentraliowa.org/tri-for-a-cause

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! 

Please follow the 2-step process below to register:

STEP 1: Complete Waiver

STEP 2: Select Shift to Volunteer

You must complete both steps of the registration process to be signed up. If you do not receive an email with the date and time of your volunteer shift, please reach out to lrichter@gdmhabitat.org * For questions regarding what to wear, weather policy and more, please visit our FAQ page.Thank you for supporting Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity to build homes, communities, and hope. Please let me know if you have any questions. 

Invest 1-2 hours a week to meet one-to-one with an adult who needs improved literacy skills. Meet at DMACC Urban Campus (or another DMACC Campus) or at a nearby library. 

Adults enroll in the DMACC Adult Literacy Center to become more independent in the world of words, to get a better job, earn a high school diploma, and speak and understand English better. Volunteers meet with their assigned student at the DMACC Urban Campus or at an area library. 

No prior teaching experience is necessary. Come with a desire to learn and make a direct and personal investment in an adult learner's life (and in their family's life). You will receive information and materials to assist with tutoring your adult learner.

Attend an upcoming Literacy Coach orientation.

Visit https://www.dmacc.edu/urban/alc for an Volunteer Application. Or call 515-248-7523 or email vlmerrifield@dmacc.edu for more information.

Join United Way of the Midlands as we inventory supplies for our upcoming Good on the Go projects. Volunteers will assist staff in inventorying supplies for upcoming kit builds in the community. These kit builds will benefit local nonprofit partners. 

Tasks include:

How to dress:

Help us grow healthy produce for food-insecure neighbors in our area!

Metro Catholic Outreach (MCO) and Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center partner in our garden space at Prairiewoods in Hiawatha where produce is grown for the MCO and Hiawatha Library food pantries.

Gardening experience is helpful, but not necessary!

Many needed tasks include planting, weeding, mulching, mowing, harvesting, watering, etc.

We have many things available to do for upper elementary through adult/retired volunteers.

Time commitments available range from a single session, a few sessions, weekly during the season or part of our season, or twice/week. Any amount of help is very appreciated!

Group shifts 9 am - noon on Tuesday & Friday during the season (April - October).

Other times for independent service including evenings & weekends are available after a brief orientation.

Corporate, Church, Friend & Family groups are also welcome to schedule service sessions.

 Students can earn service hours by helping us!

*Home gardeners are welcome to bring their produce donations directly to a pantry.

We need your help to make a difference in our communities!

On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from about 5:00 PM to about midnight, we will conduct the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Census to identify and support individuals living unsheltered across a 20-county region.

Volunteers alongside our trained staff and community partners will:

Attend a brief training on safety and PIT procedures

Work in small teams to survey assigned areas by traveling to parks, businesses, and other locations to identify individuals living unsheltered

Engage with individuals to collect demographic data and provide resources such as shelter information, housing program paperwork, and essential items (water, clothing, food, blankets).

The Point-in-Time (PIT) Census is more than a count. It’s a chance to reach out to those living unsheltered, offer hope, and helps us better understand homelessness in our region and connect individuals to critical services and housing programs.

Looking for a meaningful way to make a difference after school? Become a Girl Scouts Outreach Troop Leader and help girls build confidence, friendships, and leadership skills in a fun, supportive environment. Outreach troops meet after school and serve girls who may not otherwise have access to Girl Scouts. No prior experience required; training and resources are provided. If you’re passionate about empowering girls and giving back to your community, we’d love to have you join us!

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.

JA Finance Park begins in the classroom with hands-on activities led by 7th or 8th grade teachers. After completing the classroom lessons, students visit JA Finance Park to participate in an interactive simulation that brings those lessons to life.

During the simulation, each student receives a randomly assigned life scenario and explores different aspects of adult financial decision-making — from childcare and housing to investments and insurance. By the end of the experience, students put their money management skills to the test as they create and balance their own budgets.

The Volunteer Commitment

REGISTER HERE TO VOLUNTEER: https://engage.ja.org/volunteer/findaclass?site=jaci

JA Finance Park begins in the classroom with hands-on activities led by 7th or 8th grade teachers. After completing the classroom lessons, students visit JA Finance Park to participate in an interactive simulation that brings those lessons to life.

During the simulation, each student receives a randomly assigned life scenario and explores different aspects of adult financial decision-making — from childcare and housing to investments and insurance. By the end of the experience, students put their money management skills to the test as they create and balance their own budgets.

The Volunteer Commitment

REGISTER HERE TO VOLUNTEER: https://engage.ja.org/volunteer/findaclass?site=jaci

Volunteers are needed to help stock the pantry on Tuesday nights, Thursday nights, and some Saturdays. Volunteers will help in the following ways:

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. 

Note: Tuesday nights will be weekly again starting 10/14/25.

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

About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, the Bidwell 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.

Everybody Wins! Iowa (EWI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring children’s success in school and life through weekly one-to-one read-aloud experiences with caring adults.

EWI is seeking Board Members who will serve a minimum three (3) year term and assist EWI to achieve its mission to increase children’s success in school and in life through reading and mentoring experiences with caring volunteers. Terms are eligible for renewal to a maximum of three (3) consecutive terms. The Board meets every other month (July, September, November, January, March, and May) on Mondays from 5:30-6:30 PM. All Board Members are expected to participate in Committee activities and attend Committee meetings. Current committees include Marketing, Recruitment, and Special Events. Committee meetings are held every month, the first Monday, from 5:30-6:30 PM.

In 2002, when Everybody Wins! Iowa was initially launched, our Power Read program served just 15 students in 3 Des Moines schools. The program is now serving nearly 300 students each year in 3 counties (Dallas, Polk, Warren) in 6 school districts in the cities of Ankeny, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Norwalk, Perry, and Waukee. 

Visit this link for more information: Everybody Wins! Iowa Volunteer Board Opportunities

Please reach out to Karen Ligas, Executive Director, at statedirector@everybodywinsiowa.org or (515) 277-7590 for additional information and the board member nomination form.

Are you looking for a fun way to make a difference in your community? Do you like to read with kids? Make new friends who share your desire to inspire? Everybody Wins! Iowa is searching for charismatic Power Read Lead Volunteers!

PRL volunteers will support one school to start, but more can be added depending on your availability. Most schools will need approximately 90 minutes of support each week. School schedules vary, but hours are primarily between 9 AM - 1 PM Monday - Friday. Schools and schedule can be found on the website: www.everybodywinsiowa.org.  Please reach out to Stacy Pearce, Operations Manager, volunteer@everybodywinsiowa.org, for more information or to apply! 

Everybody Wins! Iowa is a reading and mentoring organization dedicated to getting kids excited about reading! Power Read is a weekly meeting between a student and an adult mentor who reads, models reading, and shares excitement about books. We also help build home libraries by giving each student books to take home.

You can get involved by sponsoring a student! Go to Everybody Wins! Iowa Ways to Give for more information.

You must complete both steps of the registration process to be signed up. If you do not receive an email with the date and time of your volunteer shift, please reach out to kwood@gdmhabitat.org * For questions regarding what to wear, weather policy and more, please visit our FAQ page.Thank you for supporting Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity to build homes, communities, and hope. Please let me know if you have any questions. 

* If you are planning to donate to this collection drive, please "Sign-up" to this listing so that Carole's House of Hope knows they can count on your support! *

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                           

To sign up to volunteer, visit our website: Volunteer : Get Involved : Together

Together operates a Choice Food Pantry, offering a dignified and empowering shopping experience for our community members. Our pantry provides a wide selection of nutritious food options, allowing individuals to choose the items that best meet their dietary preferences and needs. This volunteer opportunity occurs in our choice pantry and may include:

Through the Nourish Program, we believe that access to healthy food is a fundamental human right. By volunteering in our pantry, you can help us feed the community!

Questions? Contact Jeri Janz at jjanz@togetheromaha.org or (402) 345-8047 ext. 219

Intake Specialists meet with clients to review tax information. Please review the full volunteer position description here: https://www.uweci.org/vita.

Note the change in address: These are the shifts that are typically at Horizons.

Greeters welcome and prepare clients for appointments. Please review the full volunteer position description here: https://www.uweci.org/vita.

Note the change in address: These are the shifts that are typically at Horizons.

Do you have a love for older adults and bingo? We would love to have you join us as a bingo caller!

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.

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

3 times during the school year we teach our elementary students their financial literacy lessons at their school!  We are in all 11 Waterloo Public Elementary schools.  

We are in need of a helper to our Education Coordinator to assist in making sure the K-5th grades students are paying attention, helping with lesson activities, etc.

Would be during the school day for around 40 minutes.

Please contact our Program Director Seth Stearns at 319-823-1095 or seth@thejobfoundation.org if you can help!

Now is the time to make a difference in our community! Join your friends and neighbors to clean up and better our community and planet. A variety of events are held throughout the year—let's make an impact on our land and waterways this year!

Volunteer opportunities are posted by our community partners and the quantity varies depending on the time of year. This posting is about the overall opportunity, but more information about the specific events and registration can be found on our website.

To view and register for upcoming events, visit https://xstreamcleanup.org/upcoming-events

Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/xstreamcleanup to see posts when new opportunities are added. 

West Des Moines Human Services is in need of a driver for their food rescue program on Wednesday and/or Friday mornings from approximately 9 am to noon.  This opportunity involves driving a sprinter van to various locations in West Des Moines and picking up food.  Some lifing is required. Clear background check required to drive.  Please call 515-222-3663 or email if interested in learning more: Melinda.Hotovec@wdm.iowa.gov

The DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items, assist with food rescue, and unload donations. Lifting or moving of up to 50 lbs is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday. In general, shifts are two hours, but this is flexible. Please note, this position is open to volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis by committing to a regular weekly shift. The food pantry is located in the Valley Junction neighborhood of West Des Moines.  Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov. 

West Des Moines Human Services is seeking volunteers for its Anytime Food Program which distributes donated and rescued food items.  This opportunity is available weekdays from 7:45 am to 9:00 am at West Des Moines Human Services; currently, we need a volunteer on Mondays, Wednesdays and/or Fridays.  Volunteers help with food set-up, organization and distribution of the food items.  Distribution takes place outside, rain or shine. Volunteers are asked to commit to one shift per week.  Some lifting involved (up to 25 lbs). Please note, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours.  Prior to volunteering, you must make an appointment to visit our office for an interview/tour and to complete volunteer forms.  A background check is also required prior to volunteering.  Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information or email HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov. 

The DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to assist clients with food orders, stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items and accept donations. Volunteers will help families shop to meet their food and personal care needs. Some lifting is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday as well as Tuesdays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may either commit to one shift per week, or volunteer intermittently as a sub. Please note, we are seeking volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis either by committing to a regular weekly shift OR by subbing on an intermittent basis - we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the food pantry due to the training involved.  In addition, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours.  The food pantry is located in the Valley Junction neighborhood of West Des Moines.  Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov

The Clothing Closet at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to accept, sort and straighten donations of clothing, shoes, toys, towels, linens, blankets, home decor, and housewares. Volunteers will also assist clients as needed and keep the room neat and organized. Morning and afternoon shifts available, Monday through Friday. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may commit to a regular weekly shift, or volunteer on an intermittent basi.  Opportunities also available on Tuesday evenings from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Some lifting is required. Please note, we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the Clothing Closet and we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours.  The Clothing Closet provides free goods to qualifying low-income households.  Please call 515-222-3663 for more information or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov

MCSA food pantry is looking for volunteers to come deep clean, take inventory, and reorganize. 

* If you are planning to donate to this collection drive, please "Sign-up" to this listing so that HETRA knows they can count on your support! *

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!

* If you are planning to donate to this collection drive, please "Sign-up" to this listing so that Siena Francis House knows they can count on your support! *

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). 

* If you are planning to donate to this collection drive, please "Sign-up" to this listing so that Restoring Dignity knows they can count on your support! *

Refugee families often move to Omaha from a completely different environment.  Through Restoring Dignity's Welcome Home Education program, refugee families learn the basics of home cleaning, safety and maintenance.  We teach over 2,000 in-home education classes every year!  Donate hand soap, hand soap refills, and dish soap to give to families during these classes.  Your support keeps our programs running!  

Donate individually or host a donation drive at your school, office, or church. Contact bridget@rdomaha.org with any questions or to arrange drop-off of a large donation!

If you are planning to donate to this collection drive, please "Sign-up" to this listing so that Boys Town knows they can count on your support!

Make this holiday season special for Boys Town youth. Specific youth at the Father Wegner Day School have provided lists compiled in the links below. These kids come to school for the day and are all special education students most on the spectrum with challenging behaviors and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Some come as far as 90 minutes away every day from communities such as Harlan, IA.

Sign up to coordinate and deliver to Melissa Steffes at the Boys Town Headquarters building.

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.