Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

“We Are Momentum” Video Capture Volunteer

Purpose
Support our “We Are Momentum” social media campaign by capturing meaningful, story-driven video content that highlights the voices and creativity of Momentum artists. In this role, you’ll help document artist identities, personal stories, and creative processes through short-form video, contributing to a campaign that introduces a new artist each week and culminates in a collective “We Are Momentum” feature.

General Expectations
As a volunteer, you are expected to:
Capture short video clips of participating artists, including:
- “I am _______ (name), and this is my art.”
- Group and individual clips of “We are Momentum.”
- Prompt artists with a provided list of questions to capture short, authentic artist bios.
- Film “b-roll” footage of artists working on their art to support storytelling/visual variety.
- Create a welcoming environment that helps artists feel at ease on camera.
- Engage with artists in a friendly, respectful, and encouraging manner.
- Follow provided guidance for framing, audio, and general content capture
- Communicate with staff regarding scheduling, participation, and any questions that arise.
- Represent Momentum’s mission and values in a positive and professional manner.

Optional (not required):
- Assist with basic video editing or compilation if you have experience and interest.
- Use personal video equipment if preferred. Smartphone capture is sufficient.

Time Commitment
This is a short-term, project-based role. Filming sessions will be scheduled in coordination with staff and may take place over multiple visits to capture a range of artists. Each session may last 1–3 hours depending on participation.

Health and Safety
Follow all studio health and safety protocols.
Be mindful of artists’ comfort levels and obtain clear consent before recording.
Respect boundaries and ensure a supportive, low-pressure environment during filming.
Maintain confidentiality regarding any personal information shared during interviews.

Overview:

We’re seeking skilled and passionate photographers and videographers to help capture the impact of our Open Books mental health awareness campaign. This pro bono role allows you to use your creative talents to tell meaningful stories, highlight campaign events, and bring visibility to mental health in our community.

Responsibilities:

- Capture high-quality photos and/or video footage of the quarterly events, with a specific focus on capturing the storytelling portion of the evening.

- Provide raw footage or edited assets (if you want!) for use in social media, newsletters, and campaign materials.

- Respect participant privacy and obtain consent for media use when necessary.

Qualifications:

Experience in photography and/or videography, including editing and post-production (optional).

Professionalism, reliability, and comfort working in dynamic, community-focused event settings.

Ability to work respectfully with diverse participants, including individuals impacted by mental health conditions.

Access to your own equipment (camera, lenses, lighting, etc.).

Time Commitment:

Approximately 1.5 hours per event, 4 times per year.

Ideally, the same volunteers would cover all events for continuity:

- Thursday, June 25, 2026 – How Support Actually Works 

- Wednesday, September 9, 2026 – Inside Youth Mental Health Services

- Thursday, December 10, 2026 – The Role of Art in Mental Health

- Wednesday, March 3, 2027 – Mental Health and the Justice System

Event times: 4:30–6 PM (Networking 4:30–5 PM; Program 5–6 PM)

Impact:

Your work will help share the voices and stories of individuals impacted by mental health challenges, highlight the work CSA does to support those with mental health conditions or disabilities in the region, and public awareness of these issues. Volunteers will have the opportunity to showcase their work publicly.

How to Apply:

Please contact Katelyn Gonzalez - katelyng@teamcsa.org with your portfolio and a brief note about your interest in supporting the campaign.

Purpose

Help make our studio tools more accessible by creating clear, easy-to-follow instructional resources for Momentum artists. In this role, you’ll demonstrate how to use studio equipment—such as 3D printers, sewing machines, Cricut machines, and more—while capturing both video and step-by-step written guides that artists can reference independently. Your work will support skill-building, confidence, and safe use of equipment across the studio.

General Expectations

As a volunteer, you are expected to:

- Learn and demonstrate proper use of studio equipment, including safety considerations.

- Create clear, step-by-step instructional guides to accompany video content.

- Capture video demonstrations that align with written instructions for ease of use.Use platforms such as Scribe, Whale, or similar to document processes.

- Take an iterative approach—testing instructions and refining based on feedback.

- Engage with artists to understand where confusion may occur and adjust accordingly.

- Ensure instructions are accessible and easy to follow for a range of skill levels.

- Communicate with staff regarding priorities, equipment use, and documentation needs.

- Represent Momentum’s mission and values in a positive and professional manner.

Time Commitment

This is a flexible, project-based role. Volunteers may focus on documenting one piece of equipment or multiple tools over time. Scheduling will be coordinated with staff based on studio availability and project needs.

Health and Safety

- Follow all studio health and safety protocols.

- Ensure all demonstrations model safe and appropriate use of equipment.

- Clearly communicate any safety considerations within instructional materials.

- Be mindful of artists’ safety and comfort when testing instructions or gathering feedback.

Part-Time | 10-20 hours weekly | In-person or hybrid, fully remote may be considered  - West Des Moines, IA | Flexible Schedule

About Community Support Advocates:

Community Support Advocates is a 501c3 mission-driven nonprofit serving individuals with mental health diagnoses and disabilities through innovative programming, advocacy, and the arts.  We’re looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Fundraising & Research Intern to support our development team. This unpaid internship offers hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, prospect research, and donor data management. The Fundraising & Research Intern will report directly to the Director of Development.

Key Responsibilities:

- Research individual donors, grant opportunities, corporate giving programs, and foundations.

- Compile, analyze, and organize donor and prospect lists.

- Systematize donor outreach protocols.

- Assist with light database management and data entry.

- Help identify key funding strategies and giving priorities.

- Provide general administrative support related to fundraising projects and events.

Ideal Candidate:

- Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills.

- Comfortable using spreadsheets & online research tools or an ability/willingness to learn.

- Interest in fundraising, nonprofit management, or related fields.

- Familiarity with CRM systems such as Bloomerang is a plus, but not required.

Commitment:

- 10-20 hours per week, flexible schedule.

- Minimum 3 month commitment

- Hybrid or fully remote work options may be considered

What You’ll Gain:

- Experience in nonprofit development and fundraising strategy.

- Skills in prospect research and data management.

- Insight into donor engagement and philanthropy in Central Iowa.

- Mentorship and networking opportunities.

- Letter of recommendation upon successful completion of internship.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and a brief note about your interest to katelyng@teamcsa.org.

Part-Time | Flexible (In-person, hybrid, or remote considered) | West Des Moines, IA

About Community Support Advocates

Community Support Advocates is a mission-driven nonprofit amplifying the voices of individuals with mental health diagnoses and disabilities through innovative programming, advocacy, and the arts. We believe in the power of creativity to connect, heal, and inspire. We’re seeking a creative intern or volunteer to support graphic design and visual content creation across our marketing and communications efforts. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys designing with purpose and wants to build a strong, real-world portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

Graphic Design & Visual Content (Primary Focus)

- Design social media graphics, flyers, event materials, and donor-facing assets

- Create branded templates for recurring campaigns, events, and communications

- Develop visually compelling content that aligns with CSA’s brand and voice

- Maintain consistency across all visual materials (digital and print)

- Prepare and organize files for both print and digital use

Campaign & Creative Support

- Design assets for marketing campaigns, events, and fundraising initiatives

- Create materials for donor engagement such as slide decks, one-pagers, and proposals

- Develop promotional materials and templates for community outreach and events

Digital Content Support

- Format and prepare content for social media and email marketing

- Schedule and publish content across platforms as needed

- Engage with comments and flag any concerns to staff

Website & Design Projects

- Assist with website updates (WordPress), including visual layout and content placement

- Support larger creative projects such as website refreshes, branding assets, and campaign visuals

Requirements

- Proficiency in Canva and strong understanding of design fundamentals (layout, typography, color, hierarchy)

- Strong visual storytelling skills and attention to detail

- Ability to take direction and iterate on feedback

- Organized and able to manage multiple design tasks independently

- Basic proficiency in Google Workspace

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)

- Strong writing skills for captions, headlines, or short-form content

- Experience with WordPress

- Photography, video, or short-form content creation experience

- Background in graphic design, marketing, or a related field

- Interest in mental health, disability advocacy, or the arts

- Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator is a plus.

What You’ll Gain

- A portfolio of real-world design work across campaigns, events, and digital platforms

- Hands-on experience working on a variety of creative projects in a nonprofit setting

- Mentorship and professional feedback

- Flexible scheduling and a collaborative, supportive environment

- A professional reference or letter of recommendation upon completion, if desired.

To Apply

Please send your resume and 2–3 design samples or a portfolio link to katelyng@teamcsa.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Part-Time | 10-20 hours weekly | In-person or hybrid, fully remote may be considered  - West Des Moines, IA | Flexible Schedule

Overview

We’re seeking a detail-oriented and personable volunteer or intern to support our volunteer intake process. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with people, staying organized, and helping create a smooth, welcoming onboarding experience for new volunteers.

Key Responsibilities

- Conduct brief introductory calls with prospective volunteers (15–20 minutes) to welcome them and assess interests.

- Guide new volunteers through onboarding steps, including ensuring all required paperwork and trainings are completed.

- Track and update volunteer information in our database with accuracy and timeliness.

- Respond to basic questions about volunteer opportunities, expectations, and scheduling.

Help match volunteers to appropriate projects based on interests and organizational needs.

- Post and maintain volunteer opportunities across platforms (organization website, Idealist, United Way volunteer portal), ensuring listings are current and consistent.

- Assist in collecting and tracking volunteer hours.

- Support distribution and collection of volunteer feedback surveys.

- Serve as project manager for volunteer projects ensuring forward momentum and that volunteers have what they need to be successful.

- Flag more complex questions or concerns to staff as needed.

What You’ll Gain

- Hands-on experience in nonprofit operations, volunteer coordination, and community engagement

- Exposure to CRM/database management, volunteer recruitment platforms, and onboarding systems

- Development of communication, administrative, and customer service skills

- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping a positive volunteer experience

- Letter of recommendation upon successful completion of internship, if desired

Ideal Candidate

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills (comfortable on phone and email)

- Highly organized with attention to detail

- Responsive and reliable with good follow-through

- Comfortable learning and using databases, CRM systems, and online platforms

- Interest in nonprofit work, community engagement, or program coordination

Time Commitment

- Flexible, approximately 20 hours per week (customized as needed)

- Some weekday availability preferred for calls and communication

- Supervision & Support Reports to the Development Director

- Training and onboarding provided

To Apply

Please send your resume and a brief note of interest to katelyng@teamcsa.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Momentum Art Studio Volunteer

Purpose

Support the day-to-day operations of Momentum Art Studio by helping maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment for artists. Momentum Art Studio operates within Mainframe Studios and serves dozens of artists each week. As a studio volunteer, you’ll provide an extra set of hands to help the studio run smoothly while fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive space for creative expression. While basic art knowledge can be helpful, it is not required. What matters most is a willingness to support others, create a welcoming environment, and assist the Program Coordinator as needed.

Volunteers are expected to be adaptable and responsive to shifting studio needs, helping wherever support is most useful on a given day. Experience working with individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions is a plus. Compassion, patience, reliability, and a warm, respectful approach are essential.

General Expectations

Time Commitment

This is an ongoing volunteer opportunity requiring approximately 2 hours per week or per month, depending on availability. Consistency is key. The studio is open Wednesday–Friday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, and volunteer schedules will be coordinated with staff based on availability and studio needs.

Health and Safety

Follow all health and safety protocols provided by staff.Be mindful of artists’ physical and emotional well-being and alert staff to any concerns.Help ensure the studio remains clean, organized, and free from hazards.

The Community Support Advocates Board of Directors is seeking candidates for our volunteer Board Director position. Board Directors are elected to a 3 year term. The Board is responsible for

Expectations of Individual Board Members

Each individual Board member is expected to

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

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

We’re seeking volunteers with a mix of strengths to help energize and expand our fundraising efforts. Roles include community ambassadors who can represent us at events and networking meetings; Data-minded volunteers to help track metrics and strengthen our storytelling with hard hitting data; Event-savvy planners to support larger events; and creative idea generators who bring fresh perspectives, honest feedback, and a willingness to brainstorm and try new approaches. If you love connecting, analyzing, organizing, or dreaming up new possibilities — there’s a place for you on this committee.

Available Roles:

1. Community Ambassador
For the outgoing, people-loving connector

- Serve as a positive, inspiring representative of Community Support Advocates at community events, networking meetings, and partner gatherings.

- Build new relationships with individuals, businesses, and community groups who may be interested in supporting our mission.

- Share stories, speak confidently about our programs, and help spark interest in our work.

- Identify opportunities for visibility, collaboration, and outreach.

2. Data & Metrics Lead
For the analytical thinker who loves turning information into insight

- Help create and refine systems for tracking meaningful fundraising metrics.

- Identify trends, set benchmarks, and recommend data-driven improvements to our strategies.

- Work with staff to integrate objective impact measures into fundraising stories and reports.

- Support the committee in making informed decisions based on results and patterns.

3. Event Planning & Partnerships Coordinator
For the planner, organizer, or well-connected community builder

- Provide leadership and support in planning larger fundraising events and campaigns.

- Contribute creative ideas and logistical expertise to ensure events run smoothly.

- Leverage personal and professional networks to secure venues, partners, sponsors, vendors, and in-kind support.

- Help develop materials, timelines, and processes that keep event planning on track.

4. Creative Strategist & Idea Generator
For the visionary, the dreamer, and the “what if we tried this?” thinker

- Bring fresh ideas, new approaches, and innovative strategies to the committee.

- Help brainstorm campaign concepts, storytelling angles, engagement activities, and community-wide efforts.

- Assist in testing new ideas and supporting their implementation.

- Ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions, and help the committee refine its approach.