Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank! We appreciate your support of our mission of supporting everyone experiencing food insecurity throughout northeast Iowa. Help make a direct impact in the community by assisting in the Cedar Valley Food Pantry and helping feed the community. Pantry volunteers will assist pantry staff in stocking shelves, sorting produce, sorting food donations, and assisting community members with their shopping if needed.

To sign up immediately through our website, please visit NEIFB Volunteer Website and locate "CVFP Morning, All Day, Mid-Morning, or Afternoon Shifts" on the calendar. Sign up through VolunteerHub and start receiving notifications for your volunteer time! For questions or assistance with signing up, please contact Raechel Miller at rmiller@neifb.org.

Location: 1605 Lafayette Street, Waterloo, Iowa 50703

2-6 Hours | 8:45am-11:00am, 9:00am-3:00pm, 11:00am-1:00pm, 1:00pm-3:30pm

You must wear closed toe shoes. 

Helping veterans in need with resources.

Answer phones, greet guest, simple data input in the computer.

Qualifications:

Someone who likes to interact with people, positive attitude.

The purpose of our mentoring program is to increase student belonging. Meeting with community mentors helps students feel connected and empowered.

We match mentors to elementary students in kindergarten through sixth grade. As a mentor, you would meet with one assigned student once each week at school during the day for 30-45 minutes. Most often, this occurs during lunch/recess time (between 11:00-1:00). Mentors chat with students while they eat lunch and then go to a different area of the school to play board games. Mentors are expected to connect with the students personably and get to know the kids. This is not a time for academic tutoring, but rather a time for students to connect with caring, responsible adults. Games and materials will be provided. We expect mentors to dress appropriately for a school setting, to be punctual, and to communicate with us if they will be gone.

We welcome community volunteers of all ages and life stages. There are no specific knowledge or skill requirements. The school district requires all mentors to complete a district volunteer form before beginning. This includes a background check.

The Communications Volunteer will assist the Development team in the creation of agency publications and social media. They will lend support to FOF's social media goals and work to engage target markets.

What You Will Do:

Volunteer and help make our Friday Night Live events fun and unforgettable for residents and guests. 

In this roll, you will help our staff put on a great night of music, food and fun. Tasks include Bartending or Serving throughout our live music events on Friday Nights here at NewAldaya Lifescapes. Have fun socializing with guests, help us provide a great experience and listen to some great music along the way. 

Must be 18 years old.

Please Email: klunn@newaldaya.org for more details 

Volunteer Job Title: Public Relations & Social Media Volunteer

Purpose: The position of Public Relations & Social Media Volunteer is the lead in managing our social media as well as our media contacts. This volunteer acts as the “face” of the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow.

Location: Remote

Key Responsibilities:

·       Take the lead in managing our Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.

·       Create a content calendar for all of our social media channels.

·       Build new relationships and maintain our current relationships with media contacts.

·       Meet in-person, over the phone, and/or virtually with our media contacts.

·       Craft news stories to pitch to media outlets.

·       Create and distribute press releases.

·       Act as the “face” of the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow, ensuring that the Pow Wow is protected from harm and/or misinformation.

·       Attend monthly White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow Committee meetings either virtually or in-person.

Reports to: Director of the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow Committee

Length of Assignment: A commitment of at least one year on the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow Committee

Qualifications & Skills:

·       Passion for the values of our Pow Wow: multiculturalism, intercultural dialogue, friendship, education, and celebration

·       Previous professional or volunteer experience in public relations and/or social media preferred

·       Excellent verbal and written communication skills

·       Organizational and time management skills

·       Able to work well in a team as well as independently

·       Must be willing to undergo a background check

Training & Support:

·       General volunteer onboarding

·       Ongoing guidance and communication with the Director as well as the whole of the White Eagle Multicultural Pow Wow Committee

Age Requirement: At least 18 years of age.

Camp Wapsie has several areas that could use some painting updates. We are seeking volunteers who can help us painting some walls benches signs and other areas around camp. Some inside and some outdoor projects. Volunteers fill out a Voluntary Disclosure form if they are here when we have guests in camp.

Camp Wapsie uses a lot of firewood for campfires. We are seeking volunteers who can bring their own chainsaw and help cut down dying trees or cut up down trees for firewood. We will fell most trees that are near buildings or in more dangerous spots. We also have a splitter volunteers can use to split wood. Volunteers must be fairly active as this is a somewhat physical activity. Volunteers fill out a Voluntary Disclosure form if they are here when we have guests in camp.

Ready to change a life from the comfort of home? 

Join ENGin as a conversation partner! This is a flexible and unique opportunity to make a direct  impact on someone’s life while discovering a new culture and meeting a new friend.

We’ll pair you up with a learner in Ukraine for weekly one hour videochats at times that are convenient for you. During your conversations, you’ll practice English with your partner, learn about each other’s cultures, and offer an empathetic, authentic space for connection.

No prior tutoring experience or knowledge of Ukrainian language is needed to volunteer with ENGin. We offer ample training resources, session materials, and total flexibility to customize your sessions to fit your/your partner’s goals and preferences. Our friendly team is available to support you throughout your time with us. 

Ready to change a life from the comfort of home? 

Join ENGin as a conversation partner! This is a flexible and unique opportunity to make a direct  impact on someone’s life while discovering a new culture and meeting a new friend.

We’ll pair you up with a learner in Ukraine for weekly one hour videochats at times that are convenient for you. During your conversations, you’ll practice English with your partner, learn about each other’s cultures, and offer an empathetic, authentic space for connection.

No prior tutoring experience or knowledge of Ukrainian language is needed to volunteer with ENGin. We offer ample training resources, session materials, and total flexibility to customize your sessions to fit your/your partner’s goals and preferences. Our friendly team is available to support you throughout your time with us. 

Our only requirements for volunteers are English fluency, a strong internet connection, and the ability to commit to one hour a week for a minimum of 10-12 weeks.

Ready to change a life from the comfort of home? 

Join ENGin as a conversation partner! This is a flexible and unique opportunity to make a direct  impact on someone’s life while discovering a new culture and meeting a new friend.

We’ll pair you up with a learner in Ukraine for weekly one hour videochats at times that are convenient for you. During your conversations, you’ll practice English with your partner, learn about each other’s cultures, and offer an empathetic, authentic space for connection.

No prior tutoring experience or knowledge of Ukrainian language is needed to volunteer with ENGin. We offer ample training resources, session materials, and total flexibility to customize your sessions to fit your/your partner’s goals and preferences. Our friendly team is available to support you throughout your time with us. 

Our only requirements for volunteers are English fluency, a strong internet connection, and the ability to commit to one hour a week for a minimum of 10-12 weeks.

Since our launch in 2020, ENGin has matched over 26,000 volunteers with Ukrainians for authentic English-language connection across borders, and we continue to grow every day. 99% of our learners report feeling they were able to break the language barrier as a participant in our program, and 79% of our participants form lasting friendships. 

Here's what three ENGin volunteers say about their experience.

"I made a friend in Ukraine and we are teaching each other about our culture, our language, and our humor. We're even trading dad jokes! Both of us look forward to our chats and have a hard time wrapping it up."

“Fantastic organization doing great work. So happy to be a small part of it.  My partner and I have worked together for two years and have become good friends! Her English has become better, and I have become more knowledgeable about Ukraine!”

"This program has been, I think, life-changing for both of us. I really consider her more like my daughter right now. That's how close we have become!"

To learn more about ENGin and become a volunteer, please visit www.enginprogram.org/volunteer. 

If you’d like to learn more about ENGin before joining, please watch a recording of our info-session .

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our team at info@enginprogram.org.

The Front Desk Reception Volunteer is the welcoming face of our food pantry and office locations. This role is essential to creating a warm, respectful, and organized environment for guests, volunteers, and community members. Volunteers at the front desk provide direct support to staff, answer questions, and help ensure smooth daily operations.

This is to get more information on becoming a volunteer with an Iowa HHS program.

Table to Table is in need of volunteers to help with maintaining our mission of connecting abundance with need in Johnson County.  We are in need of volunteers to help with our food rescue routes on Saturday mornings.  Saturday routes begin at 9am and are typically 1.5 - 2 hours long (routes might occassionaly be longer than 2 hours).  We could use regular weekly volunteers or subs that can help out once a month or so.

If your interest is piqued, check out our website (table2table.org), contact us at volunteer@table2table.org or at 319-337-3400.  

Kids Can mentors are dedicated volunteers who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Mentoring matches meet once a week at the Kids Can brand new building. All mentors receive training and ongoing support from Kids Can staff. The year-long friends provide a caring, stable influence in a kid’s life.

Where and when does mentoring take place?
The mentoring takes place on-site at Kids Can Community Center on 48th & Q Streets anytime from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

What kinds of activities do mentors and mentees do together?
Mentor pairs decide what they want to do together. Activities range from playing chess to baking a pizza to performing science experiments! Kids Can provides the activities and supplies necessary for your mentoring partnership needs.

Join us for a tour! Email Julie;  jmadsen@kidscan.org with the subject line - mentoring tour chat

BOLD United Way’s BOLD (Board Orientation & Leadership Development) program is designed to prepare community leaders for nonprofit board service. Participants gain valuable insight into governance, responsibilities, and how to make a meaningful impact through board membership. Whether you’re new to board service or ready to sharpen your skills, BOLD connects you with local nonprofits, experienced leaders, and peers who share your passion for giving back. Visit www.uweci.org/bold for more information.  

Applications open 10/1 – 10/31

Selected candidates will be notified mid-December

Tuition: $250, financial assistance available

To provide additional exposure to opportunities to aid in disaster relief, please find the application to volunteer with the Salvation Army following:  

Salvation Army Volunteer Application

Updated: 09/04/2025 at 7 a.m.

To provide additional exposure to opportunities to aid in disaster relief, please find the application to volunteer with Omaha Rapid Response following:  

Rapid Response Volunteer Application

Omaha Rapid Response (Facebook Page)

Updated: 09/04/2025 at 7 a.m.

To provide additional exposure to opportunities to aid in disaster relief, please find the application to volunteer with the American Red Cross following:  

American Red Cross Volunteer Application

The application process can take a few days and requires your authorization for a Background Check. Once your Red Cross application is complete, you will be contacted about your volunteer interest and referred to the appropriate department for necessary training.

Updated: 09/04/2025 at 7 a.m.

Building Home Stability is a tenant education program that helps potential renters. Assist FOF’s staff to provide Building Home Stability curriculum to clients and community members.

What You Will Do:

Do you love making a difference in your community and are comfortable leading a group? Everybody Wins! Iowa is searching for charismatic volunteers to guide the program and other volunteers at our school sites. 

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! 

Duties/Roles:

Salesforce administration and customization (specifically Sales and Nonprofits) 

Server maintenance

Technology updates

Database management

Qualifications: Knowledge of and experienced in maintaining and supporting information technology infrastructure, systems administration, and security protocols. Advanced computer/technology skills. Experience with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite and databases. Experience with Salesforce administration and customization (Sales & Nonprofit) is strongly preferred.

Schedule: Flexible with weekday shifts available! Administrative Technology Volunteers will be tasked with roles fitting their availability, skills, and level of comfort. This will be an on-site volunteer opportunity. 

Join us on the second Friday each month.

Support donor stewardship by assisting with mailing support!

Task: Volunteers will label and stuff envelopes.

Additional details:

Arrival Instructions:

Please note that the streets surrounding Millwork Commons are under construction and closures vary.

United Way of the Midlands is located in the Ashton Building, 1229 Millwork Ave., Ste. 402 (4th Floor). The main entrance is located on Millwork Avenue across from Hello Apartments. Upon entering the building, elevators are on the right hand side in the center of the main level. There will be an A-frame sign welcoming visitors to the United Way of the Midlands near the elevators.

Parking: Please see the parking map below for available free and metered parking.

Mary's Inn Maternity Home is in need of compassionate, faith-filled women and high school/college aged young women to babysit for a couple of hours (or less) in the evenings once or twice a month.  Do you love children? Are you searching for purpose in your life?  Is God calling you to help those less fortunate?  If so, then this is the ministry for you!  Help us help young mothers who chose life.

Help answer phones, prepare and lead fun activities. Assist in planning fundraising events and gatherings. Call BINGO games. 

Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP): Objectively counsel Medicare beneficiaries, their Caregivers or a representative who has questions regarding Medicare, Medicare Supplement, Medicare Managed Care, Medicare Advantages and/or Prescription Drug Coverage.  Requires Certification through Illinois Department on Aging. 

Visit residents residing in a state licensed facility on a regular basis. Listen to residents' concerns and problems while having a friendly visit. Report observations, support residents' rights, privacy and confidentiality. Refer urgent concerns to the Ombudsman.  Requires additional Illinois Department on AGing training.  NEEDED IN ALL OFFICES!

Open and organize mail, balance checkbooks, pay bills for participants in the program. Assist in keeping the participant on track with their budgets. (Please note volunteer placement is based on the needs of the participants). Needed in all offices. Requires additional Illinois Department on Aging training.

Seeking Volunteers for any office. Specifically, we are looking for someone who would enjoy calling older adults after a home visit with a Care Coordinator to discuss further needs they may have. An example: Ensure that the participants home delivered meals started or how their respite services are going. Complete follow up surveys after a participant received services while in the hospital. Assist with Medicaid recertifications, assist in completing the annual applications, sort Medicaid mail and make follow up calls to participants regarding the Medicaid mail.

Assist local agencies in identifying and reviewing suspicious deaths of adult victims of alleged, suspected, or substantiated abuse or neglect in domestic living situations. 

The FRT meets once a quarter/4times a year. Qualifying volunteers include and are not limited to the following professions: Coroners, Health Care, States Attorneys, Police/Sherrif Departments, Health Departments and other Human Service Providers.

Needed in all offices.

Multidisciplinary Teams (M-Teams) Volunteer: M-Teams are comprised of selected professionals from a variety of disciplines who meet minimally eight times per year (virtual options are available) to discuss and provide consultation on specific cases of adult abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. The purpose is to use the varied backgrounds, training and philosophies of the different professions to explore the best service plan for the cases involved. The specific goals are to improve each Provider Agency’s response to its adult abuse and neglect clients by: Providing consultation on complex cases. Acting as a sounding board for case workers. Providing different perspectives on problems. Improving networking among peers within each professional group.  Additional Illinois Department on Aging training is required.

Basic Function: Under the supervision of Alternatives Program staff and Directors, assist agency programs and participants in promoting the independence and quality of life of older adults and their families.

Basic Responsibilities: Have knowledge of resources and talk with isolated seniors through our Ring for Care Program, assist agency programs by making program packets/materials, make copies, update resources, file, fold brochures, prep mass mailings, work with the Caregiver Counselors to call and assist Caregivers and/or assist with Caregiver Support groups, help prep and attend agency outreach events, become SHIP certified to assist with Medicare and Medicaid applications for Open Enrollment. 

Qualifications: Enjoy working with older adults and the general population. Must have the ability to pass a background check. Have good listening skills and maintain confidentiality. Complete initial orientation/training and attend annual meeting for volunteers. Complete an agency volunteer timesheet with a description of tasks performed. Must be able to commit a minimum of two hours a month. 

Are you looking for a great team-building volunteer opportunity for your work group/department, school team or group, church group, social club, or friend group? If so, we invite you to learn, work and have some fun together in the Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm! We currently have several dates available in October, with the greatest need on Mondays and Fridays.

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

Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. We can accommodate groups up to 15 people per 2-hour shift, and we offer three shifts daily, Monday through Friday (10 a.m. - Noon; Noon to 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most!

The tasks on our farm include:

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

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

Thank you for your consideration to become part of the Meals on Wheels Friendly Caller Program! Social connectedness is a critical component of overall well-being – the calls you make help form a network of support around our most vulnerable clients.

As a Friendly Caller, you will become part of a team, who, on any given weekday, delivers nearly 2,000 healthy, delicious meals to older adults, veterans, and adults with special needs in Polk and Dallas Counties. Along with a hot meal, the team delivers a friendly face and a daily well-being check to each of our participants.

A Friendly Caller like you allows Meals on Wheels to provide an added support system to participants who are isolated and often lonely. Your call may support the client’s emotional wellbeing and give peace of mind to family members who worry about their loved ones but can’t always be with them.

Calls can take place 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can establish a regular call schedule with your matched clients on a 1x/week, 2x/month, or 1x/month basis. Calls last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

This is a great time to become a Friendly Caller volunteer! We are matching Meals on Wheels participants with volunteers.  

We all play an important role in protecting the health, safety, and privacy of our participants, team members, and volunteers. You will receive instructions on how to make sure you're doing your part, and ongoing training can be provided upon request.

Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org  (515-699-3249).

Every weekday, Wesley Life Meals on Wheels prepares and delivers nearly 2,000 hot, nutritious lunches to homebound older adults, veterans, and people living with disabilities. Our volunteers support this mission by delivering meals directly to those in need, while taking a moment to check in with our participants to make sure they are safe and well.    

In 2024, WesleyLife Meals on Wheels delivered 428,116 hot meals to older adults, veterans, and people living with physical and mental disabilities. We know that 91% of our clients report eating healthier, and 94% of our clients are able to stay independent in their own homes thanks in part to Meals on Wheels.

As a WesleyLife Meals on Wheels volunteer, you will:

As a Volunteer Delivery Driver, you will help deliver meals Monday through Friday to client homes throughout Polk County between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. We have 17 different routes to choose from, all ranging in estimated delivery time and number of clients served. Check out our interactive map of Meals on Wheels Volunteer Routes to find a route that works for you!

Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org (515) 229-7467.

Click here to apply today!

A Neighborhood Coordinator creates a strong support network where neighbors help neighbors, fostering unity and connection. Instead of individual donations, it’s many at one time - amplifying impact! Your vision inspires others to step up to fill a need, while strengthening community bonds with every food drive and delivery.

You will be the main contact for your community, recruiting food donors, supporting volunteers, and organizing monthly food drives. Neighborhood coordinators spread the word about the designated day for the food drives, pick up donations from neighborhood porches, and move food from porch to pantry. You will create and support a strong partnership with your local pantry ensuring they have the food they need, when they need it, to feed neighbors in need.

High school students should ask about joining the Student Ambassador program

Blood Donor Ambassador: Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.  The need for blood is constant and so is the need for volunteers at our Blood Drives to help save lives. Volunteer Blood Donor Ambassadors ensure that blood donors have a pleasant and fulfilling experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. During a blood drive, whether you’re greeting donors, answering questions or thanking them for their donation, your courtesy and professionalism will create a favorable impression that encourages ongoing donor support. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

United Way Muscatine's Educate United Affinity group is looking for Reading Mentors for McKinley Elementary School. Reading Mentors will go to the school one time per week during a 30-Min reading block and work kids on small group basis. The children will rotate so volunteers will see all or a good portion of the kids in their assigned class each time. The Reading Mentors will read to the children and have the children read to them. Reading Mentors can bring an age-appropriate book or use one the school has. Volunteers are needed during the following times.

Monday-Friday options are available:

Kindergarten 1:55-2:25

First Grade 1:25-1:50

Second Grade 8:45-9:10

Third Grade 8:45-9:10

United Way Muscatine's Educate United Affinity group is looking for Reading Mentors for Grant Elementary School. Reading Mentors will go to the school one time per week during a 30-Min reading block and work kids on small group basis. The children will rotate so volunteers will see all or a good portion of the kids in their assigned class each time. The Reading Mentors will read to the children and have the children read to them. Reading Mentors can bring an age-appropriate book or use one the school has. Volunteers are needed during the following times.

Monday-Friday options are available:

Kindergarten 12:50-1:20

First Grade 1:35-2:05

Second Grade 2:00-2:25

Third Grade 10:45-11:10

United Way Muscatine's Educate United Affinity group is looking for Reading Mentors for Jefferson Elementary School. Reading Mentors will go to the school one time per week during a 30-Min reading block and work kids on small group basis. The children will rotate so volunteers will see all or a good portion of the kids in their assigned class each time. The Reading Mentors will read to the children and have the children read to them. Reading Mentors can bring an age-appropriate book or use one the school has. Volunteers are needed during the following times.

Monday-Friday options are available:

Kindergarten 12:10-12:40

First Grade 9:15-9:45

Second Grade 9:45-10:10

Third Grade 8:45-9:15

United Way Muscatine's Educate United Affinity group is looking for Reading Mentors for Madison Elementary School. Reading Mentors will go to the school one time per week during a 30-Min reading block and work kids on small group basis. The children will rotate so volunteers will see all or a good portion of the kids in their assigned class each time. The Reading Mentors will read to the children and have the children read to them. Reading Mentors can bring an age-appropriate book or use one the school has. Volunteers are needed during the following times.

Monday-Friday options are available:

Kindergarten 10:30-11:00

First Grade 9:30-10:00

Second Grade 12:20-12:45

Outlook Enrichment is looking for a volunteer photographer to help us capture the moments that matter most, whether it’s at a community event, client training, or fundraising opportunity. Your photos will help tell the story of our mission of empowering people living with vision loss with the skills and tools to achieve their goals.

Your work will help us raise awareness, celebrate achievements, and visually highlight the impact of our programs through social media, newsletters, and marketing materials.

We’re Looking For Someone Who:

Help us feed Johnson County by collecting and delivering surplus food! We are looking for Food Rescue Volunteers who pick up wholesome food and and deliver it to organizations that feed the hungry, homeless and at-risk populations. As a Table to Table volunteer, you get to be the face of food rescue, the face of food security, and the hands and heart that collect wholesome food for our neighbors in Johnson County! Food Rescue Volunteer Routes usually last 2-3 hours. 

Volunteer Duties

We have multiple food rescue routes available. Contact us to learn more! Email volunteer@table2table.org or give us a call at 319-337-3400. 

The Botanical Artisan Guild is looking for a volunteer to help develop and coordinate a project to make block printing art to support the Guild.  

This person will be responsible for organizing regularly scheduled sessions with interested volunteers for training, carving and printing.  Additionally, they will be responsible for developing ideas for relief printing products, organizing tools and supplies and communicating with volunteers.   

Successful candidates should have the following qualifications:

--Enjoy working with others to create art that can be sold in the Garden Shop

--Experience in block printing either from school or home hobby projects

--Be willing to train others in the skills of linocut carving and relief printing on paper and fabric

--Availability during daytime hours

The Botanical Artisans Guild is a group of volunteers who create arts and crafts to sell in the garden shop.  Their inspiration comes from the plants and gardens at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

If interested, applicants can drop an email to  artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com for more information.

Need a project to do at home? We need bags for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Recycle your old t-shirts into no-sew t-shirt bags.  We can use over 120 t-shirt bags per day, so we welcome large donations of these bags. (We are now serving 6,000 to 9,000 people per month.)  

Making no-sew t-shirt bags is a great project that you can do from home and allows you to re-purposes an old t-shirt.​ No-sew t-shirt bags are sturdier than plastic bags, can hold more food items, and be re-used.  This project is also kid-friendly and environmentally friendly.

We also need used plastic grocery bags, paper grocery bags and cloth bags. 

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

For Instructions: Click here to view the instructions to make the bags.

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.​

The Bidwell Pantry needs used plastic grocery bags to help bag up the pantry guests’ groceries. The Bidwell Pantry serves 6,000 to 9,000 individuals per month. With the rising costs of food and supplies, you can help make a difference more than ever.

We also accept used paper grocery bags and cloth bags. We are currently serving between 100 to 150 families per day and need 2-3 bags for each person's groceries.  

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

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.​

Host a Clothing Donation Drive to help provide clothing and needed items to those struggling financially in our community. The Families Forward Bidwell Pantry serves between 6,000 to 9,000 people each month, so all sizes and ages of clothing are welcome. (All items are free to those that come to our pantry.)  

Scheduling a Drop Off

Needed Items (New or Gently-Used):

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.​

The Ambassadors Committee is a welcoming space for individuals passionate about DMARC’s mission to learn, serve, and share. Members deepen their understanding of hunger and poverty in Central Iowa, participate in service learning, and become active advocates, all while making meaningful connections with one another and supporting DMARC’s mission via fundraising projects and volunteerism.

Activities include:

Commitment: Every other month for 1.5-2 hours, with optional additional engagement.

Ideal for: New or long-time supporters, young professionals, civic-minded individuals, or anyone looking to get more involved with hands-on experiences!

This committee supports DMARC’s iconic Red Barrel Program, a visible and vital way for the community to donate food at grocery stores and retail locations. The committee works to promote, improve, and expand the program.

Key activities:

Commitment: Meets 2–4 times per year with occasional tasks in between, such as organizing drives or contacting new locations.

Ideal for: Volunteers with marketing, logistics, or retail experience- or a love for hands-on food drive efforts!

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.

Dallas County is seeking a volunteer to fill a vacancy on the Dallas County Board of Health. This position oversees administration of the Dallas County Health Department. Volunteers with a passion for public health and a comfort level with governmental budgets or finance are especially welcomed.

Volunteers would be asked to attend monthly meetings on the third Thursday of the month from 6:00-7:30pm, unless there is no business for the Board to discuss. 

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! 

Volunteer Drivers with a good driving record are needed to assist in multiple Salvation Army programs. Volunteer drivers will use the Salvation Army vehicles. Background Check and MVR required.

We are seeking assistance with:

Please complete a Volunteer Application on our Website: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/waterloo/volunteer/

Feel free to reach out to the corps for more information.

Care Initiatives Hospice is looking for caring, compassionate people in the Greenfield area to become hospice volunteers. Provide care and support to patients and families to help ensure quality of life at the end of life.  Our volunteers determine their own schedule and can help by holding a hand, listening to memories and life stories, sharing special talents, give a hug, touch a heart.  There are countless ways to help and change a life!

From our Greenfield office, we coordinate care for patients in 17 counties in Southwest Iowa - from Leon to Avoca. As a volunteer, we will place you with patients in your area.

Volunteers are also needed to provide office support at our office located in Greenfield. General duties include filing, sorting, and making informational packets.

Call Jennifer Shelley, Volunteer Care Coordinator, at 641-743-2264 or jshelley@careinitiatives.org to learn more. For more information about Care Initiatives Hospice, visit our website at www.careinitiativeshospice.org

Care Initiatives Hospice is looking for caring, compassionate people in the Greenfield area to become hospice volunteers. Provide care and support to patients and families to help ensure quality of life at the end of life.  Our volunteers determine their own schedule and can help by holding a hand, listening to memories and life stories, sharing special talents, give a hug, touch a heart.  There are countless ways to help and change a life!

From our Greenfield office, we coordinate care for patients in 17 counties in Southwest Iowa - from Leon to Avoca. As a volunteer, we will place you with patients in your area.

Volunteers are also needed to provide office support at our office located in Greenfield. General duties include filing, sorting, and making informational packets.

Call Jennifer Shelley, Volunteer Care Coordinator, at 641-743-2264 or jshelley@careinitiatives.org to learn more. For more information about Care Initiatives Hospice, visit our website at www.careinitiativeshospice.org

Care Initiatives Hospice is looking for caring, compassionate people in the Greenfield area to become hospice volunteers. Provide care and support to patients and families to help ensure quality of life at the end of life.  Our volunteers determine their own schedule and can help by holding a hand, listening to memories and life stories, sharing special talents, give a hug, touch a heart.  There are countless ways to help and change a life!

From our Greenfield office, we coordinate care for patients in 17 counties in Southwest Iowa - from Leon to Avoca. As a volunteer, we will place you with patients in your area.

Volunteers are also needed to provide office support at our office located in Greenfield. General duties include filing, sorting, and making informational packets.

Call Jennifer Shelley, Volunteer Care Coordinator, at 641-743-2264 or jshelley@careinitiatives.org to learn more. For more information about Care Initiatives Hospice, visit our website at www.careinitiativeshospice.org

Care Initiatives Hospice is looking for caring, compassionate people in the Greenfield area to become hospice volunteers. Provide care and support to patients and families to help ensure quality of life at the end of life.  Our volunteers determine their own schedule and can help by holding a hand, listening to memories and life stories, sharing special talents, give a hug, touch a heart.  There are countless ways to help and change a life!

From our Greenfield office, we coordinate care for patients in 17 counties in Southwest Iowa - from Leon to Avoca. As a volunteer, we will place you with patients in your area.

Volunteers are also needed to provide office support at our office located in Greenfield. General duties include filing, sorting, and making informational packets.

Call Jennifer Shelley, Volunteer Care Coordinator, at 641-743-2264 or jshelley@careinitiatives.org to learn more. For more information about Care Initiatives Hospice, visit our website at www.careinitiativeshospice.org

Biscuits Cupboard is a pet food pantry that is here to help those struggling to feed their pets.  We supply a months worth of food for up to 3 pets on the third Saturday of the month.  We can always use help re-bagging food and handing it out to these who need it. 

We are looking for some volunteers to boost our volunteer base and bring new faces into our Montessori community.  This is an ongoing opportunity.  Our classroom hours are 8:30a-3:30p.  We are looking for volunteers to help out in the afternoons on a regular basis or as a fill-in for a other volunteers who may be on vacation.

You would be working with children in grades 1st through 6th, helping them when they ask for help or if you have something specific you would like to share with us, we can chat about that!  We can go more in depth when you choose this opportunity!

You will be required to pass a background check and fingerprinting before starting. 

Join the RSVP Advisory Council – Jefferson County

Are you passionate about strengthening your community? The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Wapello, Jefferson, and Monroe Counties is seeking dedicated individuals to serve on the RSVP Advisory Council for Jefferson County.

This volunteer council plays a key role in guiding RSVP’s local efforts—connecting adults 55+ with meaningful volunteer opportunities that make a lasting impact.

About the Council

Composed of 7–15 community-minded individuals

Members bring experience in volunteerism, community service, social needs, public relations, or local programming

Provides insight and guidance to strengthen RSVP (this is not a governing board)

Reflects both the diversity of the county and the RSVP age demographic (55+)

Who We’re Looking For

Active residents of Jefferson County

People passionate about community improvement

Advocates for senior volunteerism who want to help shape the future of RSVP

If you’re ready to champion volunteerism and make a difference for Jefferson County’s seniors and community, we’d love to hear from you!

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is designed just for you! RSVP connects adults age 55+ with community-based projects that match your skills, interests, and passions—right here in Monroe, Wapello, and Jefferson Counties.

From community gardening

Grow Food. Grow Community.
The United Way Community Food Pantry Gardens bring neighbors together to fight hunger and build a healthier Wapello County. Our mission is simple: grow fresh, nutritious produce and share it with local food pantries so everyone has access to healthy meals.

Volunteers help plant, weed, water, and harvest—turning seeds into meals for families in need. You can join us for a single workday or become a regular in the garden. Every hand makes a difference.

No green thumb? No problem! Our friendly Master Gardener volunteers will guide you every step of the way, whether you’re brand new to gardening or looking to sharpen your skills.

Oskaloosa Schools need approximately two people to help with framing some pictures. This can be at any time. Just call 641-673-8345 to help out and for more information.

Our Mission

Repairing homes, revitalizing communities, rebuilding lives.

Our Vision

Safe homes and communities for everyone.

Experience. Expertise.

For 30 years, we have been dedicated to helping low-income homeowners with critical home repairs and modifications for accessibility. We work every day to rebuild homes, striving to make them safe and healthy for local families.

No cost, ever to the family.

On average, our homeowners live at or below the poverty level and are forced to choose between food, medicine and shelter needs. We provide these critical home repairs at no cost to qualified homeowners. Rebuilding Together is often the last resort to preserving their homeownership – their only personal asset.

Our partner sponsors provide funds and/or an optional volunteer day to provide much needed repairs to homes. Your company or group can sign up today and we will match your team with a family in need!

Thanks to the generosity of our partners, our network moves the needle on addressing the low-income families living in unsafe and unhealthy homes across our community. Our efforts to rebuild lives and communities would not be possible without their continued support.

Partner Sponsor benefits are numerous:

Care Initiatives Hospice is seeking compassionate volunteers to join our mission of bringing comfort and dignity to patients in the last stages of life. As a volunteer, you’ll provide companionship, emotional support, and a caring presence to individuals and their families—helping them feel valued and never alone during this tender time.

Opportunities are available in:
Ottumwa • Albia • Centerville • Oskaloosa • Chariton • Corydon • Surrounding communities

Volunteer roles may include:

Visiting with patients to offer conversation, reading, or a comforting presence

Providing respite time for family caregivers

Helping with light errands or special requests

Participating in legacy projects and life review activities

We treat our volunteers with the same respect and appreciation as our employees—because you are vital to our care team. Volunteers receive full orientation and training (at no cost), a Care Initiatives Hospice shirt to wear while serving, and ongoing support from our staff. Orientation is flexible and can be scheduled around your availability.

Requirements:
Background check, references, and completion of orientation are required. No medical experience necessary—just a caring heart and a willingness to be present for someone in need.

Volunteer Iowa is seeking volunteers for our Service-Learning Stakeholder Committee focused on expanding service-learning efforts in Iowa. Volunteers will act in a capacity-building role and work to identify and implement strategies to increase youth-initiated and youth-led volunteering and service-learning.

Volunteer will: 

The Stakeholder Committee meets for an hour, once every 3 months to collaborate on this work. We also facilitate 1-on-1 meetings with our volunteers in the time between meetings. Additional time commitments may arise in the form of reviewing material for feedback or assisting in creating and providing training sessions.

Mentoring has long been a strong preventive measure that has strengthen the lives of young people across the country. In a survey conducted by MENTOR of 1,000 adults, more than half attribute their success to a caring responsible adult that was not their parent or guardian. Even though mentoring has grown over the past 30 years in formalization of organizations, groups, and clubs after school, one in four youth are still growing up without a mentor. According to the Iowa Department of Education Condition for Learning Survey, only 40% of Iowa youth feel emotionally safe at school and about 50% of youth feel physically safe. Iowa MENTOR supports, promotes, and coaches mentoring organizations throughout the state, giving them the best practices in mentoring and training to increase their sustainability and longevity.

Iowa MENTOR is looking for a volunteer to enhance our social media and community outreach platform through engaging the community in a broader understanding of mentorship. 

What you’ll do

·       Lead storytelling initiatives that connect the public to the impact of mentoring across our state.

·       Analyze behavior and data regarding impact and adjust strategies to enhance engagement.

·       Build relationships with community partners to broaden our reach and understanding of community needs.

·       Become familiar with Iowa MENTOR, our program partners, and the work we do.

·       Create unique content to showcase learning opportunities and volunteer opportunities within our network.

Iowa MENTOR is a statewide agency dedicated to promoting, supporting and building quality mentoring relationships by elevating the capacity of programs, systems, and policies that foster proven results for Iowa.

Do you want to learn more about the Botanical Garden? Are you already a big fan and want to share your enthusiasm? Garden Hosts provide an additional layer of hospitality beyond the admission desk to ensure that guests have a quality experience during their visit.  No green thumb is needed (you aren’t expected to know every plant here) just an interest in learning how to help someone enjoy their experience when they visit. To review the position description or apply go to https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com/support/volunteer/ .

Do you enjoy sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, felted wool, or other types of fabric crafting? The Botanical Artisan Guild (BAG) of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden seeks volunteers who enjoy any of these activities to support the Fiber Arts Committee. This is a group of volunteers who create botanically inspired items that are sold in the gift shop. Proceeds support the Botanical Garden. This is a flexible and creative volunteer role. The committee meets regularly, and volunteers work both in small groups and/or independently at home. This volunteer role is under the guidance of the Fiber Arts Committee Coordinator and the Botanical Artisan Guild Coordinator (both volunteer led roles). The BAG overall works with the Retail Program Manager at the Garden. Interested? Fill out a volunteer application: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960.  Questions? Email: artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com.

The Admission Desk and Garden Shop Assistant provides high quality guest experience and promotes Botanical Garden activities, events, membership and more.

Greatest needs are Wednesday mornings and afternoons as well Friday afternoons. Other shifts are available as well. Volunteers should be involved frequently enough to keep up on skills needed for the role and current events.  Seasonal hours may be slightly different.

Application can be made at: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960

Program description:

Tiger Packs is an initiative to combat hunger in the Grinnell-Newburg School District. Eligible K-8 students receive a weekly bag of kid-friendly, nutritious food to take home on the weekends while the high school students have access to a food pantry with a variety of healthy snacks and takeaway meals.

Location: Grinnell

Duties:

·       Help package food items into grocery bags for preK-8th grade students in G-N school district. Approx. 10 food items each packaging in an assembly line style.

·       If able to arrive early volunteers begin unpacking of food from boxes into tubs for packaging. Food arrives at 2:30.

·       Additional duties would tie and add label with a stapler to each bag.

·       Place bags in tubs and lift and move tubs.

Skills required:

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

●      Relate well to others and take a team approach.

Amount of Time: 1-2 hours/week, every other week, as the volunteer is available (no requirement to attend every packaging session, all assistance is appreciated)

Time of Day: Thursdays 3:00-4:30pm; food arrives at 2:30pm. Volunteers may arrive at 2:30pm. This occurs throughout the school year.

Benefits:

●        Opportunity to help combat hunger throughout Grinnell-Newburg School District

●        Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers

●        Milage reimbursement available if delivering Tiger Packs to the schools.

Description:

This position supports the Regional Volunteer Services Department. The Regional Volunteer Relations Team Member ensures the successful execution of the Volunteer Workforce Complaint Process in the region. The role of the Team Member is to support and document the volunteer supervisor in managing complaints against the workforce they supervise, as well as managing the process for cases that are escalated beyond the supervisor.

Key Responsibilities

Implement corporate Red Cross Human Resources and Office of Volunteer Services policies and

procedures.

Understands and articulates the importance of a fair and harassment-free workplace.

Explains appropriate Red Cross policies and procedures as related to Volunteer Relations during

Steady State including utilization of Regional Volunteer Workforce Complaint Toolkit materials to all

supervisors (employees and volunteer).

Conduct appropriate investigation, documentation, and resolution when complaint involves a

Volunteer.

Coordinates with and supports Human Resource Business Partners (HRBP) and ICE on complaints

that they manage.

Qualifications

Willingness to comply with Red Cross COVID-19 policies for in-person volunteer activities.

Experience with conflict management or mediation

Experience with employee/staff relations or HR management

Experience delivering training material or facilitation

Ability to work in confidential situations

Active Listening skills

Able to assess, investigate, resolve, notify Volunteer HR Matters in timely manner when assigned a

situation.

Minimum Commitment of 1 year with opportunity to renew.

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Description:

The Recovery Services Client Care Program allows the Red Cross to rapidly meet disaster-caused needs by enabling clients to apply and receive financial assistance and/or community resources.

The Client Care Program Service Associate supports the recovery of disaster affected individuals, households, and communities by providing referrals, advocacy, and financial assistance through RC Care (case management system).

Responsibilities:

Conduct Intake by interviewing the client and opening a case in RC Care
Provide Financial Assistance to qualified clients.
Conduct Follow-up and Recovery Planning Services
Provide Internal Referrals
Provide Community Referrals
Assist with problem-solving and advocacy on request
Use RC Care to document services according to the Client Care Program Standards and Procedures
Services may be provided in person or virtually.

Qualifications:

Required:

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Description:

The Recognition and Appreciation Leads oversees the development and implementation of volunteer recognition efforts. serving different lines of service. This is a leadership position that will support all Red Cross to ensure recognition is considered by all lines of service.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Red Cross Digital Volunteers use their social media skill set to help maintain and amplify the Red Cross message, as well as help community members, on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Digital Volunteers may be trained to help with tasks like social care, social monitoring and content creation, and they may be asked to post from personal or regional social media accounts.

Additional opportunities during a disaster response might include:

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Description:

Did you know that over 90% of the workforce for the American Red Cross is a volunteer?

The Volunteer Engagement Lead is responsible for overseeing the "Volunteer Experience" for Volunteers serving in the assigned Department.

Help us support and recognize the of volunteers that give their time & talents in the Nebraska Iowa Region. As an Engagement Volunteer, you can help onboard, mentor, encourage and express gratitude to our volunteer workforce.
Flexible: Approximately 10 hours per month preferred, but we will work with your schedule.
Work Location: remotely and on-site.

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Disaster Action Team: While big hurricanes and wildfires get the most news coverage, smaller disasters are no less devasting to the families affected. Most of the 60,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are smaller disasters like home fires. As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can help comfort and support people in your community by meeting any immediate needs such as food, shelter, clothing or supplies and connecting them to long term recovery services. We supply all the training you need. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Help us pack orders of local produce for our online market. Volunteers will pack bags for distribution on Thursdays. This opportunity requires close toed shoes and a lot of moving. An enjoyable and easy way to get to know others in the community who are interested in learning about local food systems!

Food safety training is required before being eligible for a volunteer shift. Please get in touch with Field to Family to arrange for the training. Training takes about 30 minutes and can be held before your first shift.

Purpose:  Volunteers will provide support and be a point of contact for family and friends, at the desk in the surgery waiting lobby and other lobbies in procedural areas. 

Responsibilities:  

Skills/Experience: 

Training Required:

Summary

The volunteer Community Care Representative will represent the Dubuque Regional Humane Society in a professional and courteous manner and provide prompt and courteous service at the Main Lobby. We are looking for enthusiastic, reliable team players with excellent customer service and willingness to learn!

Shifts we need help (full or partial):

Tuesday - 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday - 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m

Thursday - 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m

Friday - 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

If you are interested in this volunteer role, please apply as a volunteer on our website (add front desk interest in application notes) and complete our new volunteer orientation: https://www.dbqhumane.org/new-volunteer 

Essential Job Functions

This position supports the Regional Volunteer Services Department. The Regional Volunteer Relations Team Member ensures the successful execution of the Volunteer Workforce Complaint Process in the region. The role of the Team Member is to support and document the volunteer supervisor in managing complaints against the workforce they supervise, as well as managing the process for cases that are escalated beyond the supervisor.

 Key Responsibilities

Implement corporate Red Cross Human Resources and Office of Volunteer Services policies and

procedures.

Understands and articulates the importance of a fair and harassment-free workplace.

Explains appropriate Red Cross policies and procedures as related to Volunteer Relations during

Steady State including utilization of Regional Volunteer Workforce Complaint Toolkit materials to all

supervisors (employees and volunteer).

Conduct appropriate investigation, documentation, and resolution when complaint involves a

Volunteer.

Coordinates with and supports Human Resource Business Partners (HRBP) and ICE on complaints

that they manage.

Qualifications

Willingness to comply with Red Cross COVID-19 policies for in-person volunteer activities.

Experience with conflict management or mediation

Experience with employee/staff relations or HR management

Experience delivering training material or facilitation

Ability to work in confidential situations.

Active Listening skills

Able to assess, investigate, resolve, notify Volunteer HR Matters in timely manner when assigned a

situation.

Minimum Commitment of 1 year with opportunity to renew.

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

Disaster Action Team: While big hurricanes and wildfires get the most news coverage, smaller disasters are no less devasting to the families affected. Most of the 60,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are smaller disasters like home fires. As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can help comfort and support people in your community by meeting any immediate needs such as food, shelter, clothing or supplies and connecting them to long term recovery services. We supply all the training you need.

For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday

Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!

The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman coordinates a volunteer ombudsman program, and we are actively seeking volunteers throughout the state of Iowa!  After completing initial certification training, a volunteer ombudsman in our program will make regular visits to an assigned long-term care facility to help serve as a voice for residents, talking with them about their rights, empowering them, and providing advocacy.

Our volunteers are asked to spend a minimum of 3 hours per month in their assigned facility, complete monthly reports, work with long-term care ombudsman staff at the local and state levels, and complete annual continuing education to remain certified.  Visits to facilities are generally unannounced and can be made at any time, any day generally between the hours of 8am-8pm.

For a volunteer who may wish to make an impact but not wish/be able to make visits to facilities, there are more administrative volunteer opportunities available on an individualized basis.

If you have a passion for helping other people, especially those most vulnerable in our state, feel free to contact us for an application!  866-236-1430 or sltco@hhs.iowa.gov

We provide daily activities that stimulate residents mind, body, and soul. We are committed to helping our residents continue to lead a positive and rewarding life by helping them maintain their independence for as long as possible. Some of our residents live with dementia; your support can help them cope with the disorientation they are feeling. A key part of this role will be to provide reassurance and company to residents. We encourage you to share your unique talents and stories with residents.

The Health Center is a busy environment, it is essential that volunteers are independent and proactive. While you need to listen to staff, you also need to seek out the one-to-one experiences.

Please fill out an application through:

www.oaknoll.com/volunteer

Friends of the Family is looking for individuals who are interested in helping to support our Grants Manager with ensuring programs are following guidelines and funding requirements.

What You Will Do:  

Event volunteers will assist the Friends of the Family development team execute events to meet fundraising and community engagement goals. We have a few options when it comes to helping with events, they are preparing for events, working events and cleaning up events. Task are written out below. If you enjoy mingling with community members and creating a fun environment these opportunities are for you. If you enjoy helping with behind the scenes of events these opportunities are also for you! Volunteers are necessary for the success of events and we love having individuals or teams help. 

Tasks: 

Preparing for events entail printing and cutting materials, selecting and packing supplies and decorations, setting up the venue. 

Working events entails greeting and checking guests in, helping with live and silent auctions. 

Cleaning up events entails collecting and packing supplies and decorations, helping guests with auction items and check out, cleaning up the venue. 

Upcoming Events: 

Putt an End to Homelessness: August 15th 2025

A Night In...: November 14th 2025

Chef's Take a Stand: April 2nd 2026

Iowa HHS Community Access Economic Assistance is seeking dedicated volunteers to support the Imaging Center in Cedar Rapids. This opportunity involves assisting with the organization, management, and processing of important documents, enhancing our ability to serve the community efficiently.

1.       Assist with scanning, filing, and organizing documents and records.

2.       Support staff in managing electronic records and databases.

3.       Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information.

4.       Provide administrative support as needed, including data entry and communication tasks.

5.       Maintain a clean and organized work environment.

·         Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

·         Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office and database software.

·         Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

·         Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with staff.

·         Reliability, punctuality, and a positive attitude.

Bridges Mentoring Program is a community based 1:1 mentoring program that matches adult volunteers with youth mentees ages 5 to 17.  Mentors spend one hour per week with their mentee developing a positive supportive relationship.  Initial and on going training is provided.  The duration of a match is a minimum of one year.

Examples of mentoring activities can include playing a game, conversation, sharing a hobby,  attending a play, going to the library and much more.  The Bridges Program provides periodic large group activity opportunities.

The program coordinator provides match oversight.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank! We appreciate your support of our mission. Help make a direct impact in ensuring families access healthy food by volunteering in the Community Garden! Tasks can include planting, pulling weeds, watering, harvesting, and much more!

To sign up immediately through our website, please visit NEIFB Volunteer Website and sign up. Locate "Community Garden" on the calendar and start receiving notifications for your volunteer time! For questions, please contact Raechel Miller at rmiller@neifb.org.

Location: 1605 Lafayette Street, Waterloo, Iowa 50703

2 Hours | 8:00am-10:00am

You must wear closed toe shoes. 

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank! We appreciate your support of our mission. For those interested in gaining experience in a warehouse setting, this volunteer opportunity is perfect for you. The Northeast Iowa Food Bank is looking for individuals to assist with basic support in the warehouse.

To sign up immediately through our website, please visit NEIFB Volunteer Website and sign up. Locate "Warehouse" on the calendar and start receiving notifications for your volunteer time! For questions, please contact Raechel Miller at rmiller@neifb.org.

Location: 1605 Lafayette Street, Waterloo, Iowa 50703

Flexible Scheduling!

Hours Vary | 8:00 am-4:30 pm hours are available. 

You must wear closed toe shoes.

Symphony Experience Stewards are an essential part of the volunteer ensemble by helping orchestrate a warm, welcoming atmosphere for our sponsors and special guests. With your attentive eye and friendly presence, you help us set the stage for an exceptional evening of music and connection at the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony.

No formal experience is required...just a smile, a passion for people, and a love for the arts. Together, we ensure every guest feels valued and immersed in the magic of the music!

Please volunteer to assist students with virtual math tutoring either during the school day or after school.

To help patients look good—which can help patients feel better—UnityPoint Hospice Cedar Rapids seeks licensed barbers and cosmetologists to volunteer their services to homebound hospice patients.

Professionals who volunteer must have a current and valid state license, and they also must undergo hospice volunteer training. You can be a part of helping not only to maintain someone's very appearance, but to maintain their dignity of life.

Hospice is not a place, but a philosophy of care. While a hospice serves those on their end-of-life journey, the process really concerns living—and, in as many cases as possible, living in the patient's home. At UnityPoint Hospice, we provide each patient comfort and the best possible care. Our volunteers play a critical role in our patients’ journey. They help to fulfill our goal — to help patients and their families live every moment.

UnityPoint Hospice volunteers complete 14 hours of training in hospice philosophy, end-of-life care issues, and documentation. They also participate in ongoing educational opportunities throughout the year. We seek licensed barbers and hairdressers to volunteer, providing haircuts and related services to hospice patients in their homes.

For more information or to register for our next orientation opportunity, contact Amber Young, hospice volunteer coordinator, at (319) 369-7744, or amber.young@unitypoint.org.

Being a hospice volunteer is an opportunity to provide compassionate support to patients and families facing end-of-life journeys. This meaningful experience involves visiting a patient weekly or bi-weekly in their home/care center to offer companionship. This companionship may include sitting with them, talking, listening, holding their hand, reading books, playing music, or simply being present. Volunteers are a vital piece of the hospice team and the care that we provide.

We are looking for veteran volunteers who would like to visit with our veteran patients. These veteran volunteers have the unique ability to relate to and connect with Veteran patients in a way that our other volunteers cannot.

Volunteer today and join us in a life changing experience for both you and the patients we serve. Very flexible and based on your schedule. No experience needed- just a compassionate heart. We serve patients in a 50-mile radius of Cedar Rapids. You will always be matched to patients within your preferred locations!

To become a volunteer, contact Haley Tackaberry, volunteer coordinator, at 319.491.4498, or email haley.tackaberry@unitypoint.org.

Being a hospice volunteer is an opportunity to provide compassionate support to patients and families facing end-of-life journeys. This meaningful experience involves visiting a patient weekly or bi-weekly in their home/care center to offer companionship. This companionship may include sitting with them, talking, listening, holding their hand, reading books, playing music, or simply being present. Volunteers are a vital piece of the hospice team and the care that we provide. Volunteer today and join us in a life changing experience for both you and the patients we serve. Very flexible and based on your schedule. No experience needed- just a compassionate heart. We serve patients in a 50-mile radius of Cedar Rapids. You will always be matched to patients within your preferred locations!

UnityPoint Hospice volunteers complete 14 hours of training in hospice philosophy, end-of-life care issues, and documentation. They also participate in ongoing educational opportunities throughout the year. Volunteering opportunities can range from an hour or so with a patient weekly or every other week, to several hours weekly in the office, in our hospital in-patient unit, or in patients’ homes or care facilities.

Note: We are in particular need of veterans to serve as hospice volunteers, because veterans who become hospice patients often ask for a veteran to serve as a volunteer.

For more information or to register for our next orientation opportunity, contact Haley Tackaberry, hospice volunteer coordinator, at (319)-491-4498, or haley.tackaberry@unitypoint.org.

Want an easy way to make a big impact in someone's life?

Join our team of upbeat, big-hearted people who help to bring peace to those with terminal illnesses.

As a respite care volunteer with UnityPoint Hospice, you stay with the patient to allow caregivers or loved ones time to take care of themselves. This may be time to get a haircut, go to the grocery store, or even a day-long outing with friends. A visit with a patient might last two to four hours (or, in rare instances, enough time to allow the caregiver a day-long outing).

Volunteers are essential to the compassionate and personalized care provided by UnityPoint Hospice. Before you can visit patients, Iowa law requires hospice volunteers to undergo 14 hours of training (as well as background checks). At UnityPoint Hospice, we provide some of that training in person, and some of it online. Training includes such topics as hospice philosophy, attitudes toward death, preparing for death at home, spirituality in hospice, communication skills, and grief/bereavement.

To become a volunteer, call Haley Tackaberry, volunteer coordinator, at 319-491-4498, or email haley.tackaberry@unitypoint.org.

UnityPoint Hospice provides individualized patient and family-centered care to eastern Iowans within a 50-mile radius of Cedar Rapids. UnityPoint Hospice volunteers serve patients and their families in their homes or in care facilities as well as in the inpatient unit at UnityPoint St. Luke's Hospital. Volunteers' many services include providing companionship, socialization, and two- to three-hour respite services.  

By supplementing museum staff without receiving direct remuneration, volunteers enable the Museum & Aquarium to expand our services to the public, to further research and develop operations, and to project and maintain our positive image in the community.

The RiverWorks Assistant (Education) (2nd floor) is responsible for helping the Educator at the RiverWorks Stream Table during peak hours. Please help clean up any water, hang up smocks and collect boats. Extra towels and smocks are available in the storage closet. This area can get wet, so volunteers/interns should wear footwear that will not hold water. The volunteer can assist the learning process while the children and adults are having fun. Shifts are available daily from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and/or 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Please state availability when responding

RiverWorks volunteers are needed 7 days a week 363 days a year (closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Day). Volunteers are asked to consider a weekly schedule of 1-2 hours per week. (The Museum & Aquarium requires at least 10 hours per year to remain an active volunteer). Active volunteers will earn the following benefits:

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS (After 10 hours commitment) All benefits are subject to change

When volunteers work in public areas and commit to a regular schedule, they are given a museum uniform shirt (similar to a polo shirt). The uniform shirt should be worn with tan or khaki colored pants; no blue jeans, blue jean skirts, or shorts. Capri khakis are acceptable.  All volunteers must wear a name badge to be identified as a museum volunteer.

We look forward to hearing from you!

By supplementing museum staff without receiving direct remuneration, volunteers enable the Museum & Aquarium to expand our services to the public, to further research and develop operations, and to project and maintain our positive image in the community.

The volunteer greeter position is a vital position at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. The greeter is one of the first faces the River Museum guests will see. The greeter welcomes each visitor to our campus with a “Welcome” and a “Smile”. The greeter stands near the front doors of the Mississippi River Center and the National River Center.

If visitors are entering for the first time in either building the greeter offers the visitor a map of the campus and answers any questions they may have. Questions may vary from:

Greeters are needed 7 days a week 363 days a year (closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Day). Greeters are asked to consider a weekly schedule of 1-2 hours per week. (The Museum & Aquarium requires at least 10 hours per year to remain an active volunteer). Active volunteers will earn the following benefits:

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS All benefits are subject to change

Interested volunteers will be contacted to set up an interview. Interviews take approximately 45 minutes and will include a small tour of the facility.

We look forward to hearing from you!

By supplementing museum staff without receiving direct remuneration, volunteers enable the Museum & Aquarium to expand our services to the public, to further research and develop operations, and to project and maintain our positive image in the community.

The Blacksmith/Maintenance/Skilled volunteer (Boat Shop) is located in the boat shop or blacksmith shop in the Mississippi River Discovery Center. This is a group of volunteers that get together on Thursday mornings to help with electrical, woodworking, blacksmithing, building, and repairing projects for the Museum & Aquarium. If you like to work with your hands, have a skill that you would like to utilize or have wanting to learn a skill, this is the position for you!

Blacksmith/Maintenance/Skilled volunteers are needed 2 days a week. currently each Thursday morning but we are looking at adding skilled volunteers on Saturdays and Sundays, once trained. (The Museum & Aquarium requires at least 10 hours per year to remain an active volunteer). Active volunteers will earn the following benefits:

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS All benefits are subject to change

When volunteers work in public areas and commit to a regular schedule they will be given a museum uniform shirt (similar to a polo shirt). skilled volunteers are encouraged to follow our safety policies, further discussion on apparel and equipment upon confirmation of acceptance. 

Interested volunteers will be contacted to set up an interview. Interviews take approximately 45 minutes and will include a small tour of the facility.

We look forward to hearing from you!