Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

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.

inCOMMON will have a mix of indoor and outdoor activities available to help us clean and beautify properties and facilities for the fall. Work will involve painting, cleaning and light yardwork and landscaping.

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

Experience working with children is preferred.

Come and support the Des Moines Art Center's largest annual community event - now celebrating it's 25th year! Volunteers are crucial in this celebration, serving as greeters, aiding in hands-on art activities, and helping keep spaces tidy. 

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.

Our Skate Nights are held on the second Friday of every month and have become a true community favorite! From 5:00–8:00 p.m., families, friends, and neighbors come together to enjoy an evening of fun, laughter, and connection on the rink.

These events are a wonderful way to bring people of all ages together, creating lasting memories while promoting a safe and welcoming environment.

Volunteers play a key role in making these nights special—whether it’s greeting families, helping with skates, or assisting with concessions. Join us in keeping this tradition rolling and help us create an unforgettable experience for our community!

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

If you enjoy working in an office environment, here is your volunteer opportunity!  We are need of another office volunteer. This volunteer position will include filing paperwork in patient charts, assembling admission folders, patient/family information folders and other office duties. This is a very flexible volunteer position, come in the day(s) and hours you want.  

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.  

Please provide us with your t-shirt size in the comments

Please provide us with your t-shirt size in the comments

Please provide us with your t-shirt size in the comments

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.​

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

Help protect our local waterways by giving some TLC to drain inlets in select areas of the city.

Volunteers will clean up litter in and around storm drain inlets, attach “No Dumping” decals to unmarked storm drains if present, and share educational resources with nearby neighbors.

This service project is offered from March - October, as weather allows.

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

Want to deepen your connection to your community and lead with purpose? United Way’s Civic Circle discussion series offers an opportunity to explore the many ways you can make a difference. Participants dive into the nine civic actions of the Civic Circle, reflecting on their role in fostering a community where everyone is seen, supported, and thriving. Through thoughtful conversation and shared experiences, you’ll examine your values and connect with others who care about building a stronger community. Join the conversation and discover your path to a more engaged civic life! For more information, visit our website.

Sign up here for the next Civic Circle discussion series.

Program Fee: $35

Monitor and assists members of Dubuque Unidos in different areas:

Please provide us with your t-shirt size in the comments

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help with:

Event setup and decorating

Organizing event materials

Arranging seating and displays

Ensuring everything is ready for our guests before the big night

Your time, energy, and support will directly contribute to the success of the Gala, which raises funds to empower and uplift entrepreneurs, small businesses, and communities across the Midlands.

Whether you can give a couple of hours or the whole afternoon, your contribution makes a difference!

Let’s come together in gratitude and community—because when we lift together, we rise together.

Threshold CoC is hosting Project Connect (Formerly known as Project Homeless Connect Omaha), a FREE one-day, one-stop shop event where folx that are currently unhoused or at risk of losing their housing can receive a variety of on-site services and support. Resources available at the event consist, but are not limited to: Healthcare & Wellness, legal aid, medicaid/disability benefit application assistance, housing and shelter, workforce assistance etc. This year the event will be hosted at Baxter Arena on October 21, 2025 from 10:00 am - 3:00pm. 

Navigators will be paired with consumers on a 1:1 ratio and assist folx in accessing services they are interested in.  Folx with no knowledge or beginner understandings of the Omaha Metro Area homelessness system and its resources should register as "Beginner Navigators". Folx that have extended knowledge of the Omaha Metro Area Homelessness Continuum of Care (case managers, street outreach workers, etc) should register as "Advanced Navigators". 

Volunteers are expected to attend one (1) training session prior to the event. Three online training sessions will be available via Zoom and details will be emailed to volunteers approximately one (1) week prior to the selected training date. Volunteers are expected to create their own calendar holds prior to receiving Zoom meeting details in their email. If you are unable to join any of the sessions below, please select "NEED ALTERNATIVE TIME" and we will reach out to you with alternative training methods :) 

Available training sessions: 

-October 15, 2025: 10:30am-12pm

-October 15, 2025: 6pm-7:30pm

-October 16, 2025:12pm-1:30pm 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday:

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Float 11:00-3:00

Afternoon Desk or Attending 1:00-4:00

Thursday: We stay open late

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00- 2:00

Float 1:00-5:00

Night Desk or Attending 2:00 -7:00

Friday - Saturday - Sunday

Morning Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Float 11:00-3:00

Afternoon Desk or Attending 10:00-1:00

Goodwill’s Work Experience program will be starting up again this August. Participants receive on-site job training, learn work-based skills, and even some skills they can use in their everyday life. Participants are given the opportunity to work while learning how to work.

Join us for a rewarding volunteer event on September 12th!

What You'll Do:

How many? We are looking for 6-8 volunteers. We have three different sites to assist at. (Blair, Council Bluffs, and our Omaha site at 4115 S 72nd St.)

Why?

The Work Experience participants can use all the support they can get. We do our best to cultivate an environment that welcomes learning and development, but sometimes the participants could benefit from a one-on-one approach. This is a great opportunity to make a positive impact on these individuals as well as the community. Your participation shows a level of compassion that we try to emulate day in and day out. Any assistance provided also provides a good example for the participants to look up to. Finally, you are guaranteed to have a great time! Working with our participants will warm your heart and leave you with a sense of pride you can carry with you long after you leave the facility. We can’t wait to see you there!

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.

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:

September

October

November

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.​

Goodwill Omaha’s YouthBuild program is gearing up to welcome a new class of dedicated young adults in October. To ensure they have the best start possible, we need your help to clean and organize our YouthBuild shop.

Join us for a rewarding volunteer event on September 12th!

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will have multiple roles including:

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

In conjunction with Day of Caring and the celebration of volunteerism across our great community, we are inviting you to join us to prepare nutritious, grab-&-go meals for the young adults at Omaha Home for Boys.

As a volunteer, you will be preparing ingredients for simple freezer meals and assembling meal kits.

Come be a part of this meaningful project that will put easy-to-cook, nutritious meals into the hands of the young adults served by OHB. Many of our young adult clients are also single parents who are trying to provide for little ones. What better way to support these young adults and children than by providing them with a meal to share!

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:

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:

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 at a time.    

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 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.

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

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

Volunteers 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.

Salomon and his family of eight have been working hard with our Housing Counseling team in our pre-purchase counseling program to be able to get to the point where they would qualify for a home. They have been working to raise their credit and bring down their debt. Salomon even took up another job and hasn’t been able to see his kids for three months in order to be able to purchase a home.

On top of that, Salomon has been trying to figure out how to secure the yard for his 6 children because of loitering near the yard due to a nearby restaurant. We are so happy to announce that thanks to a grant from Wells Fargo, we will be able to provide the family with a fence for free! They are overjoyed at the news! Now we just need a great group of volunteers to come out and help us get the job done!

What to Expect: Join us for a day of hard work and teamwork as we construct and paint a fence that will not only protect their property but also provide a sense of safety for the children. No prior construction experience is needed.

After you register here, Jayson Shaffer from HOME, Inc. will reach out to you about how to get fully registered. Please keep an eye out for that email! 

What to Bring: 

What We Provide: 

Why Volunteer? This project is more than just building a fence; it’s about giving this family and their kids a safe place to play and grow and create memories! By volunteering your time and skills, you will help create a space for these children to thrive.

Location: Address will be given after you have registered to maintain homeowner privacy.

Support adult learners in our English or Citizenship classes! You’ll assist the lead instructor by guiding participants through activities, holding conversations to build confidence, and providing one-on-one support. This role helps create a positive, engaging learning environment for all participants.
(Citizenship classes are held Mondays, and Fridays from 6–8 PM and English classes are held Tuesdays from 6–8 PM - both at our Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center.)

Share your passion for teaching by guiding English language learners through lessons and activities. As a Lead English Class Volunteer, you’ll plan and lead the class, create a welcoming space, and help participants of all levels build confidence and improve their communication skills. (Classes are held Tuesdays from 6–8 PM at the Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center.)

*MUST BE 16 years old or older to sign up

Each year we partner with the University of Iowa Athletic Department to put on a haunted house at our Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center. While the student-athletes work hard to put together a "scare"tastic haunted house, we put together food and fun for families to enjoy before and after their haunted experience.

Date: Saturday, October 11th
Location: Pheasant Ridge Neighborhood Center (2651 Roberts Rd, Iowa City. 52246)

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! 

Volunteers — or “Snow Heroes” — who would like to help shovel snow from public sidewalks for Cedar Rapids residents in need this winter. Snow Hero volunteers can sign up on the City of Cedar Rapids website at www.CityofCR.com/SnowBuddies. Heroes must be at least 18 years old and provide their own snow-removal equipment. 

Snow Heroes will be paired with eligible residents in need - based on factors such as location and availability. Snow Heroes will not be allowed to solicit or accept money, tips or gifts for their volunteer activities. Can't commit to the whole winter season but want to help keep our sidewalks safe and clear? Backup Snow Buddies are needed as well! 

Due to capacity and a scheduling conflict, we are changing locations from our urban farm to community garden.  The community garden is where City Sprouts started 30 years ago.  This site is where our offices are located and we host the majority of our community events and workshops.  There is a chicken coop, geodesic greenhouse, outdoor free fridge/pantry, u-pick community garden, and more.  Volunteers will be helping clear out and beautify an overgrown area outside of our fence, deep cleaning the chicken coop, and helping to paint some garden signs (if there are some creative folks in the group).  

Volunteer intake form: Please take a few minutes to fill out the volunteer intake form at least 48 hours prior to the volunteer event

Location: 4002 Seward Street

Parking: Street parking is available on 40th street and Seward.  We are in a residential neighborhood where spots are limited, so carpooling is encouraged!!

Garden Host: Shannon 402-707-2860

**Please dress for the weather in closed-toed shoes and clothing appropriate for outdoor work.  Bring a refillable water bottle and work gloves if you have then (otherwise we have some to share).  Garden is located next to our office/education center and has indoor bathroom access.  We will gather by the chicken coop on the North side of the building.  

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. 

Each year, Keep Omaha Beautiful engages thousands of volunteers from all ages and skill levels who want to contribute to a healthy urban ecosystem. Service activities are designed to benefit our community and the environment.

During this year's Day of Caring, help our community by volunteering to reduce litter pollution at Hanscom Park!

Please dress comfortably and casually with closed toe shoes, bring plenty of water, and don't forget your sunscreen!

Volunteers will connect with KOB staff at the pavilion.

Help Stephen Center revitalize their campus groups by removing old weed mesh, pulling weeds, and picking up litter. 

United Way of Johnson & Washington Counties publishes a monthly Volunteer Express with new, urgent, one-time, short-term, and event volunteer opportunities in the community. 

We hope you take a look, sample a volunteer opportunity and GET INVOLVED!

Use this link to review the Volunteer Express Newsletter!!

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.

Make a Difference in Your Community—Right from Home!

Are you passionate about your local community and want to help others discover how to give back? We're looking for seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us update and enrich local pages on Ways to Connect, our national directory of volunteer sites.

Ways to Connect is a crowdsourced platform designed to boost traffic and engagement to local volunteer websites—like this one! With just a bit of online research and your enthusiasm, you can help neighbors easily find volunteer opportunity platforms, service clubs, mutual aid groups, and more—making it simpler than ever for everyone to make an impact locally.

What You'll Do:

Conduct quick, simple online research to identify active service clubs, mutual aid groups, and upcoming volunteer events in your community.

Enhance your community's page on Ways to Connect by ensuring the information is current, accurate, and inviting for potential volunteers.

Optional: Promote your community’s page on social media to help friends and family find a path to service.

Why Volunteer with Inspiring Service?

Easy and flexible: Volunteer remotely at your convenience.

Immediate community impact: Help your neighbors discover meaningful ways to contribute.

Small commitment: Volunteer for as little as 2 hours, or as much as you'd like.

Growth opportunities: Volunteers can explore deeper involvement through our Ambassador program.

Ready to help your community thrive? Join us today and make volunteering more accessible for everyone.

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.

Join us in making our campus shine! Calling all volunteers who want to make a positive impact on our campus! We are recruiting volunteers to help with our campus beautification project. Whether you have a green thumb or just a passion for creating a more beautiful environment, we want YOU to join us.

Friday September 12th 9am-1pm, CRCC Southwest Center 5321 S 138th St, Omaha NE 68137

No prior experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm and a pair of gloves (all other supplies and equipment provided). However if you have a favorite tool that would be helpful please bring what you want! Let's make our campus the best it can be!

(Tasks include weeding, tearing out dead plants and bushes, mulching, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, etc.)

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.

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.

Volunteers will finish preparing our appetizers for our Artoberfest Fundraiser.  This may include chopping fruits & vegetables, make cracker trays, preparing dips, and other simple recipes. Beginners welcome.

The MacNider Art Museum needs volunteers to help prep appetizers for our Artoberfest Fundraiser.  This may include chopping fruits & vegetables, make cracker trays, preparing dips, and other simple recipes. Beginners welcome. 

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.  

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.

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!

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

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

The tasks on our farm include:

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

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

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!

Night Eyes 
Help us celebrate Night Eyes, October 16 - 19 & 23 - 26
We are looking for volunteers who want to have fun and celebrate Halloween at the Zoo!
Volunteer Age Requirement:  13 & Up!
 Volunteer opportunities include:
           Candy Runners
           Treat Stations
           Specialized costume characters
           Zone Captains
           Fun Zone Attendants
 The following shifts are available during Night Eyes: 4:30 – 9:00pm
 To sign up:  https://signup.com/go/XzjTBMJ

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

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

Camp Hantesa is a local summer camp for youth in grades K-12. With more than 150 acres, it takes a lot of extra hands to maintain our facilities and grounds. Join us for a day of service dedicated to closing our seasonal facilities, making minor maintenance improvements, and beautifying camp for our campers!

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. 

Use this Sign Up Genius to help at Free Lunch in Sept/Oct/Nov!

Teams from different community groups organize most of our meals, and there are also slots for ad hoc volunteers from 10:30-1:30 or 11:30-1:30. Open Day (ad hoc) volunteers prepare, serve, and clean up after the meal when no pre-formed volunteer team is designated. Extra help with serving and cleaning is needed both on Open Days and on some days with pre-formed volunteer teams. 

New folks: Make sure you navigate to 1105 Gilbert COURT, (not Gilbert STREET). Park behind the building on the west side; you'll find the volunteer entrance there. Call Free Lunch Program at 319-337-6283 if you have any issues. When you arrive, we will have you review and sign our Orientation and Waiver document, which you can preview here. 

We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to support our upcoming adaptive tree-climbing event at Fontenelle Forest!

This high-flying experience is designed for blind and low vision youth (ages 10+) and adults who are ready to take on wooden planks, swinging staircases, ropes, and ziplines. Each participant is paired with a personal guide who describes obstacles and helps them determine their next move. That’s where you come in.

We’re seeking volunteers with:

As a guide, you’ll help ensure each participant feels confident, supported, and ready to take the leap. With various courses at different heights and difficulties, no two climbs are the same, and neither is the impact you’ll make

Calling all friendly ghosts and ghouls!

We are looking for some friendly faces to pass out treats to kiddos at our Spooky StoryWalk Storytime and costume parade at the Bee Branch Greenway on Saturday, October 4 from 2-3pm. 

What you’ll do:

A few things to know:

When: Saturday, October 4 - event starts at 2pm with a storytime, with the parade/treat stations after (what we need you for!) 

Where: 22nd Street Bee Branch Greenway

Questions? Contact Maggie Turza, Volunteer Coordinator for Carnegie-Stout at mturza@carnegiestout.org or 563-589-4243. 

Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa has an exciting, short-term, mission-focused volunteer opportunity for you to work with elementary-aged girls to help them build courage, confidence, and character in Girl Scout Club!

This short-term after-school program is for girls in grades K-5 and takes place one hour each week, for five weeks. Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa partners with schools and community partners around the Central Iowa area to make these Girl Scout Clubs possible! Several after school Girl Scout Clubs are starting soon and we need your help as a club facilitator!

Club size, dates, and times vary by location. We’ll provide you with training, resources, lesson plans and supplies for each session, as well as ongoing support to deliver a positive learning environment for girls! Each week, you’ll lead participants in hands-on activities—encouraging them as they learn and try new things.

While participating in a traditional Girl Scout troop experience is the heart of Girl Scouting, some girls and their families have barriers and challenges that prevent them from having access to a Girl Scout troop. That’s where Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa’s Mission Outreach programs come in! The goal of Mission Outreach is to meet girls where they are, in an effort to reduce barriers and expand access to Girl Scout programming, providing opportunities for leadership, adventure, and success. We work with youth-serving community partners in our council to bring high-quality, short-term Girl Scout experiences to girls. A part of the Mission Outreach program is Girl Scout Club! Club sessions are designed based off the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, providing girls an onsite and hands-on learning environment to explore the areas of STEAM, outdoors, life skills, and entrepreneurship to build courage, confidence, and character. All activities are girl-led and guided by a trained Girl Scout Club Volunteer! Our activity plans include: Self-expression and empowerment, Social relationship development, STEAM, Teamwork and leadership, Financial literacy and money management, Engaged citizenship. 

The MacNider Art Museum's annual Artoberfest fundraiser is fast approaching. We are looking for volunteers to help iron our 50+ tablecloths.

Time, day, & length  are flexible during regular business hours. We just ask you give us 24 notice. Feel free to bring your headphones and listen to music while ironing. The Museum is open Tuesday/Thursday 9am-5pm & Wednesday/ Friday 9am-5pm. Some Saturdays available as long as the Museum doesn't have a rental. Mondays available with prior approval. 

Additional Artoberfest prep volunteer opportunities to come.

Be ready to make some noise with a variety of exciting musical instruments, you get to make. 

Volunteers will assist our young crafters with their art projects. This may include passing out supplies, re-explaining the craft instructions, helping with cutting, helping with gluing and other simple tasks.

Fall is in the air at Tanager, and we’re getting ready for a season full of fun and celebration for the kids we serve!  

We’re currently accepting donations of fall-themed items to help make our events extra special, including Halloween & Thanksgiving decorations (no strings/wires, please), Halloween costumes, pumpkins for use at Inpatient and Camp Tanager, and candy for our Trunk or Treat. Your generosity helps us bring the warmth and joy of the season to our youth — thank you for being part of our fall festivities!

Our elementary literacy program is gearing up to deliver around 8,000 books to students across our schools - and we need your help to make it happen!

We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to stamp books, sort by grade level/class, and stack them for easy finding. 

Whether you're a master organizer, speedy stamper, or just someone who wants to make a difference, we would love to have you join us!

Join us in making our campus shine! Calling all volunteers who want to make a positive impact on our campus! We are recruiting volunteers to help with our campus beautification project. Whether you have a green thumb or just a passion for creating a more beautiful environment, we want YOU to join us.

Friday September 12th 9am-1pm, CRCC Northwest Center 2010 N 88th St. Omaha, NE 68134

No prior experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm and a pair of gloves (all other supplies and equipment provided). However if you have a favorite tool that would be helpful please bring what you want! Let's make our campus the best it can be!

(Tasks include weeding, tearing out dead plants and bushes, mulching, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, etc.)

At The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night we gather as a community to celebrate, honor, and remember those touched by cancers. Friends, families, schools, corporate teams, and sponsors join together to bring light to the darkness of cancer. The funds raised by this community fund lifesaving research, advocacy and support for blood cancer patients and their families. Join us in the fight to cure cancer! This is a family-friendly event with a Kids Glow Zone area, great local food vendors, fireworks show and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. Volunteer at our event to help fight blood cancer!

At The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night we gather as a community to celebrate, honor, and remember those touched by blood cancers. The funds raised by this community fund lifesaving research, advocacy and support for blood cancer patients and their families.

We need volunteers to help throughout the day in various roles:

Painting the interior walls of the second building

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.

We celebrate the month's birthdays for independent residents on the third Tuesday of each month. We are seeking volunteers for a 30-45 minute performance from around 5:00-5:45! This can include singing, piano or other instruments, or other types of performance, and may be done solo or in a small group.

Volunteers can enjoy a delicious meal in appreciation for their service.

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.​

Have a large group that is looking to volunteer together? We’d love your help! We welcome groups of up to 75 volunteers at one time. We can only host one large volunteer group per day. Our calendar can fill up quickly.

Volunteer shifts range from 2 – 8 hours. (You choose.) Volunteer opportunities include:

For more information or to sign up: 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 information about the work our organization does to support the community.  

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.​

Families Forward New Directions Shelter has several flower beds in front our family shelter (giant, 3-story red brick house) and several behind. We are looking for a volunteer (or a small group) that is interested in helping us plan perennials into these flower beds to make maintenance and support of these flower beds easier. The family shelter is located at 3001 Grand Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315. 

We have numerous perennials at our other location where our child development center and pantry are located. Volunteers have done a wonderful job over the last ten years of donating and planting numerous perennials. The plants could potentially be split and planted at the family shelter. 

We have many volunteers that love to help us with our projects. We are just looking for some plant-savvy volunteers to help us create a diagram, or plan, of which plants should go into which flower beds. We want to allow these plants to thrive and create a beautiful yard for the children to play in and their families to enjoy. 

Timing for this project is flexible, and we can meet with you during the week, evenings or weekends. Volunteers can be involved in the planting, but not required. We also would welcome the donation of perennial plants. 

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

Volunteers are needed to assist with picking up food donations for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry at various retailers and grocery stores. We are looking for volunteers that could help on a regular basis (either weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Volunteers should be 18 years old or older. 

Hours available for this position are:

Volunteers would help in the following way:

To Volunteer: Contact Missy Reams for scheduling at missy@familiesforward.org, or by phone at 515-989-8404, or by text at 515-346-8895.

About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, Bidwell 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.

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

Volunteers help in the following way each day:   

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.