Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

Volunteer: Girls on the Run Coach - Spring 2026

Warm-up your spirit fingers, lace up your sneakers and inspire a group of girls to be strong and healthy. Teams of volunteer coaches facilitate our easy to follow curriculum with small groups of girls over the course of 8 weeks. Amidst the conversation, laughter, hugs and energy awards, you will witness transformational change in the girls and don’t be surprised if you realize that you are positively changing as well! Ready to make a difference and encourage girls to realize their full potential? The first step is signing up. Ready, Set, Coach!

Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa

Warm-up your spirit fingers, lace up your sneakers and inspire a group of girls to be strong and healthy. Teams of volunteer coaches facilitate our easy to follow curriculum with small groups of girls over the course of 8 weeks. Amidst the conversation, laughter, hugs and energy awards, you will witness transformational change in the girls and don’t be surprised if you realize that you are positively changing as well! Ready to make a difference and encourage girls to realize their full potential? The first step is signing up. Ready, Set, Coach!

Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Mar 23, 2026 through May 17, 2026

Zip Code: 50265

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Career Accelerator Program

Pi515's Career Accelerator Program is a 9-week program for high school students designed to explore diverse career fields, engage with industry speakers, and build digital literacy and interpersonal skills. The "Upskill Yourself" curriculum develops essential career readiness skills, and students who complete the program have the opportunity to earn 2 free DMACC credits. Participants will create a professional resumé, write a cover letter, and practice effective interview strategies through mock interviews and guided feedback.

Class is held from 3:45-5:00p downtown at the Pi515 Office (710 Ninth St, Des Moines, IA 50392) on Mondays and Wednesdays from March 25-May 20. We are looking for industry volunteers to share their expertise on the following topics:

Resume Writing (4/1)Career Planning (4/6)College Exploration (4/8)LinkedIn (4/13)Networking (4/15)Interview Prep (4/22)Digital Literacy (4/27)Time Management (5/4)Conflict Resolution (5/6)Mock Interviews** (5/13)

**We are in especial need of volunteers to conduct mock interviews on Wednesday, May 13th.


Organization: Pi515

Pi515's Career Accelerator Program is a 9-week program for high school students designed to explore diverse career fields, engage with industry speakers, and build digital literacy and interpersonal skills. The "Upskill Yourself" curriculum develops essential career readiness skills, and students who complete the program have the opportunity to earn 2 free DMACC credits. Participants will create a professional resumé, write a cover letter, and practice effective interview strategies through mock interviews and guided feedback.

Class is held from 3:45-5:00p downtown at the Pi515 Office (710 Ninth St, Des Moines, IA 50392) on Mondays and Wednesdays from March 25-May 20. We are looking for industry volunteers to share their expertise on the following topics:

Resume Writing (4/1)Career Planning (4/6)College Exploration (4/8)LinkedIn (4/13)Networking (4/15)Interview Prep (4/22)Digital Literacy (4/27)Time Management (5/4)Conflict Resolution (5/6)Mock Interviews** (5/13)

**We are in especial need of volunteers to conduct mock interviews on Wednesday, May 13th.


Organization: Pi515

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Mar 25, 2026 through May 20, 2026

Zip Code: 50392

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Organizing Donations at our Shelter

Group Sign Up: Groups can email Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org to schedule. For group of 4 or more, you can choose your date and time. We are pretty flexible as long as another group isn't already signed up.

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 12 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.​

Organization: Families Forward

Group Sign Up: Groups can email Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org to schedule. For group of 4 or more, you can choose your date and time. We are pretty flexible as long as another group isn't already signed up.

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 12 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.​

Organization: Families Forward

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: ♻️ Lenten Project: Cans for a Cause

This Lenten season, TIM’s CLUBe is launching a simple project with meaningful impact. We’re asking our residents to collect and donate their redeemable cans and bottles throughout the season. It’s a small, consistent way to practice discipline, work together, and give back.

We’re also inviting our community to join us. As you collect your redeemable cans and bottles during Lent, consider setting them aside for TIM’s CLUBe.

At the end of the season, we’ll schedule pickups to collect donations. If you’d like to participate, email us at timsclubedsm@gmail.com to let us know you’re joining in, and we’ll reach out after Easter to coordinate a pickup time. We are also looking for donations during this Lenten season.

Small acts, done together, can make a big difference.

Organization: TIM's CLUBe

This Lenten season, TIM’s CLUBe is launching a simple project with meaningful impact. We’re asking our residents to collect and donate their redeemable cans and bottles throughout the season. It’s a small, consistent way to practice discipline, work together, and give back.

We’re also inviting our community to join us. As you collect your redeemable cans and bottles during Lent, consider setting them aside for TIM’s CLUBe.

At the end of the season, we’ll schedule pickups to collect donations. If you’d like to participate, email us at timsclubedsm@gmail.com to let us know you’re joining in, and we’ll reach out after Easter to coordinate a pickup time. We are also looking for donations during this Lenten season.

Small acts, done together, can make a big difference.

Organization: TIM's CLUBe

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Apr 6, 2026

Zip Code: 50321

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Annual Baby Gear Swap

Help Monsoon prepare for our 3rd Annual Baby Gear Swap, a community mutual aid event where participants can freely give and take items for littles ages 0–5 years.

There are many ways to help:

- Leading Up (January-May): Clean, sort, and organize donations at storage unit in Valley Junction (WDM) 

- Day Before the Event (Friday, May 8): Unload and set up donations at Franklin Event Center (DSM)

After receiving your completed form, a Monsoon staff member will contact you via email to confirm your shifts and share additional details.  For more information or questions, please contact Violet Baccam at violet@monsooniowa.org or 515-664-0386.

Organization: Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity

Help Monsoon prepare for our 3rd Annual Baby Gear Swap, a community mutual aid event where participants can freely give and take items for littles ages 0–5 years.

There are many ways to help:

- Leading Up (January-May): Clean, sort, and organize donations at storage unit in Valley Junction (WDM) 

- Day Before the Event (Friday, May 8): Unload and set up donations at Franklin Event Center (DSM)

After receiving your completed form, a Monsoon staff member will contact you via email to confirm your shifts and share additional details.  For more information or questions, please contact Violet Baccam at violet@monsooniowa.org or 515-664-0386.

Organization: Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50310

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Stock the Food Pantry (evenings & weekends)

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

Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.

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.

Organization: Families Forward

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

Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.

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.

Organization: Families Forward

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Multicultural Welcome Pantry

Volunteer with Monsoon at the Global Neighbors Multicultural Food Pantry on Thursdays from 10:30a-2:30p, located in the former Polk County Northside Pantry building at 3010 6th Ave Des Moines, IA 50313. This pantry offers culturally familiar foods that help Central Iowa families feel at home while getting the support they need.

Volunteer duties range from registering new guests, assisting shoppers with grocery items, restocking shelves, and cleaning/organizing area(s), among other assignments.

Organization: Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity

Volunteer with Monsoon at the Global Neighbors Multicultural Food Pantry on Thursdays from 10:30a-2:30p, located in the former Polk County Northside Pantry building at 3010 6th Ave Des Moines, IA 50313. This pantry offers culturally familiar foods that help Central Iowa families feel at home while getting the support they need.

Volunteer duties range from registering new guests, assisting shoppers with grocery items, restocking shelves, and cleaning/organizing area(s), among other assignments.

Organization: Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50313

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Faulkes Heritage Woods Restoration

Join the City of Marion, Trees Forever, and INHF at Faulkes Heritage Woods in Marion for an afternoon of removing invasive Japanese barberry from the woodland understory. The natural occurrence of the 2020 derecho devastated the 110 acres of white oaks — a tree that takes generations to grow into the mighty oaks we all admire. The downed trees created canopy gaps that allow barberry to flourish, where it shades out native spring ephemerals and competes with young white oak seedlings — key species needed to rebuild the resilient oak canopy that once kept invasive plants in check. 

We hope you’ll join us as a community to help us ensure that future generations get to once again enjoy a stroll amongst the mighty white oaks. We'll start the afternoon with a half-mile hike to warm up before we get to work. After the restoration work, we'll regroup at Goldfinch Tap+Eatery to celebrate over a hard-earned beverage.

**If weather conditions are unfavorable on April 3, the event will be rescheduled for Friday, April 10, from 1–4 p.m.


ABOUT FAULKES HERITAGE WOODS

Sisters Alice Smith and Elizabeth Barry, along with their nieces, Nancy and Cynthia Thompson, donated a portion of the land value of what is now known as Faulkes Heritage Woods to INHF in 1999. The habitat was named in honor of their grandmother and great-grandmother, Alice Faulkes. Sticking to the family's wishes of increasing awareness around conservation needs, INHF transferred the land to the City of Marion, ensuring it would become the beloved public park it is today — protected in perpetuity through an INHF conservation easement.

This 110-acre wildlife haven has not only provided refuge for woodland creatures and a favorite hiking destination for the Marion community, but has also served as an outdoor classroom for nearby colleges and schools focused on environmental education.

Learn more and register to volunteer at https://www.inhf.org/events/faulkes-heritage-woods-restoration

What to expect:

We’ll be using various hand tools (handsaws or loppers) to manually cut invasive brush so native species can thrive.No experience necessary. Instruction will be provided onsite, but you can view a how-to video ahead of time here.Participants will work to remove plants with thorns.

Organization: Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Join the City of Marion, Trees Forever, and INHF at Faulkes Heritage Woods in Marion for an afternoon of removing invasive Japanese barberry from the woodland understory. The natural occurrence of the 2020 derecho devastated the 110 acres of white oaks — a tree that takes generations to grow into the mighty oaks we all admire. The downed trees created canopy gaps that allow barberry to flourish, where it shades out native spring ephemerals and competes with young white oak seedlings — key species needed to rebuild the resilient oak canopy that once kept invasive plants in check. 

We hope you’ll join us as a community to help us ensure that future generations get to once again enjoy a stroll amongst the mighty white oaks. We'll start the afternoon with a half-mile hike to warm up before we get to work. After the restoration work, we'll regroup at Goldfinch Tap+Eatery to celebrate over a hard-earned beverage.

**If weather conditions are unfavorable on April 3, the event will be rescheduled for Friday, April 10, from 1–4 p.m.


ABOUT FAULKES HERITAGE WOODS

Sisters Alice Smith and Elizabeth Barry, along with their nieces, Nancy and Cynthia Thompson, donated a portion of the land value of what is now known as Faulkes Heritage Woods to INHF in 1999. The habitat was named in honor of their grandmother and great-grandmother, Alice Faulkes. Sticking to the family's wishes of increasing awareness around conservation needs, INHF transferred the land to the City of Marion, ensuring it would become the beloved public park it is today — protected in perpetuity through an INHF conservation easement.

This 110-acre wildlife haven has not only provided refuge for woodland creatures and a favorite hiking destination for the Marion community, but has also served as an outdoor classroom for nearby colleges and schools focused on environmental education.

Learn more and register to volunteer at https://www.inhf.org/events/faulkes-heritage-woods-restoration

What to expect:

We’ll be using various hand tools (handsaws or loppers) to manually cut invasive brush so native species can thrive.No experience necessary. Instruction will be provided onsite, but you can view a how-to video ahead of time here.Participants will work to remove plants with thorns.

Organization: Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 10, 2026

Zip Code: 52403

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Character Day at Blank Park Zoo

Character Day is an attendance booster for the Zoo, taking place April 12 th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Guests
can enjoy all the normal zoo amenities, as well as interact with real life characters, creating pirate and princess
themed crafts, activities, and experiences with general admission. There will be a VIP ticket upgrade option for
guests. VIP guests will have access to exclusive activities and experiences. Characters that will be at the Zoo
include princesses, pirates, mystical creatures, and more.


Mascot Characters x4
Dress up in one of the six mascot costumes and have a blast meeting and taking pictures with guests!
Wanda The Wallaby Mascot x1
TBD Mascot x1
TBD Mascot x1

Mascot Character Guides x4
Volunteers are paired with a mascot to help guide them throughout the zoo, and help them take breaks
if needed

Ride Attendant x2
Located on the Holmes Foster Event Center Pad, volunteers will help maintain lines while children wait
to ride

VIP Slide attendant x 2
Located in the event center, volunteers will monitor the slide and direct only one kid on each slide at a
time

VIP Inflatable attendant x 2
Located in the event center, volunteers will monitor the bounce house and direct no more than five kids
at a time in the bounce house

VIP Greeter x2
Located in the event center, volunteer will greet VIP guests as they come in and hand out their SWAG
bag

Prize Table Attendant x1
Volunteer will be stationed at the prize table, and hand out a reward to children completing the treasure
hunt

General Admission Activity hub attendant x4
Located in the Large and Small Pavilions, volunteers will assist in crafts and activities and monitor the
pavilion. Restock items as needed


Volunteer Hours

Shift 1:  9:45 - 12:00

Shift 2: 11:45 - 2:00


Sign Up Link: https://signup.com/go/pKmNfNB

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

Character Day is an attendance booster for the Zoo, taking place April 12 th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Guests
can enjoy all the normal zoo amenities, as well as interact with real life characters, creating pirate and princess
themed crafts, activities, and experiences with general admission. There will be a VIP ticket upgrade option for
guests. VIP guests will have access to exclusive activities and experiences. Characters that will be at the Zoo
include princesses, pirates, mystical creatures, and more.


Mascot Characters x4
Dress up in one of the six mascot costumes and have a blast meeting and taking pictures with guests!
Wanda The Wallaby Mascot x1
TBD Mascot x1
TBD Mascot x1

Mascot Character Guides x4
Volunteers are paired with a mascot to help guide them throughout the zoo, and help them take breaks
if needed

Ride Attendant x2
Located on the Holmes Foster Event Center Pad, volunteers will help maintain lines while children wait
to ride

VIP Slide attendant x 2
Located in the event center, volunteers will monitor the slide and direct only one kid on each slide at a
time

VIP Inflatable attendant x 2
Located in the event center, volunteers will monitor the bounce house and direct no more than five kids
at a time in the bounce house

VIP Greeter x2
Located in the event center, volunteer will greet VIP guests as they come in and hand out their SWAG
bag

Prize Table Attendant x1
Volunteer will be stationed at the prize table, and hand out a reward to children completing the treasure
hunt

General Admission Activity hub attendant x4
Located in the Large and Small Pavilions, volunteers will assist in crafts and activities and monitor the
pavilion. Restock items as needed


Volunteer Hours

Shift 1:  9:45 - 12:00

Shift 2: 11:45 - 2:00


Sign Up Link: https://signup.com/go/pKmNfNB

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 12, 2026

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Event Photographer or Videographer

The Day of Innovation is Pi515's flagship annual event. With a focus on entrepreneurship, technology, and problem-solving, the Day of Innovation creates a dynamic platform for students to present projects, pitch ideas, and engage real-world challenges. The summit brings together students, educators, industry leaders, and community supporters to celebrate the achievements, creativity, and potential of Iowa youth and Pi515 participants. 

To highlight this event and our mission, we seek a talented photographer and/or videographer. 1-2 hours of event coverage would do wonders for our ability to tell our story. We would love to speak with anyone interested to find a mutually beneficial arrangement and to honor your time and work.

Organization: Pi515

The Day of Innovation is Pi515's flagship annual event. With a focus on entrepreneurship, technology, and problem-solving, the Day of Innovation creates a dynamic platform for students to present projects, pitch ideas, and engage real-world challenges. The summit brings together students, educators, industry leaders, and community supporters to celebrate the achievements, creativity, and potential of Iowa youth and Pi515 participants. 

To highlight this event and our mission, we seek a talented photographer and/or videographer. 1-2 hours of event coverage would do wonders for our ability to tell our story. We would love to speak with anyone interested to find a mutually beneficial arrangement and to honor your time and work.

Organization: Pi515

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 23, 2026

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Uncorked

This event will focus heavily on the birds of Blank Park Zoo. Wine sampling will take place near or at different bird exhibits. There are several painting experiences guests can either purchase or participate in for free!


Greeter & Discovery Center Entrance– Stationed at the cabin in the lobby. Greet guests and pass out
complimentary wine glasses (while supplies last). Ensure any guests entering the DC do not have an
alcoholic beverage.  


Sampling Station Attendant – Provide 1 oz. samples of product requested. One sample per person.
Simple information about the wine will be provided. An infographic board about the bird near that exhibit
will also be at the sampling table.


Volunteer Time: 5:15 - 7:30


Volunteer Sign Up: https://signup.com/go/aLcMjUN

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

This event will focus heavily on the birds of Blank Park Zoo. Wine sampling will take place near or at different bird exhibits. There are several painting experiences guests can either purchase or participate in for free!


Greeter & Discovery Center Entrance– Stationed at the cabin in the lobby. Greet guests and pass out
complimentary wine glasses (while supplies last). Ensure any guests entering the DC do not have an
alcoholic beverage.  


Sampling Station Attendant – Provide 1 oz. samples of product requested. One sample per person.
Simple information about the wine will be provided. An infographic board about the bird near that exhibit
will also be at the sampling table.


Volunteer Time: 5:15 - 7:30


Volunteer Sign Up: https://signup.com/go/aLcMjUN

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 23, 2026

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Family BBQ and Game Night

Join us for a BBQ dinner packed with fun games and activities for the whole family! We'll be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the sides, along with popcorn, snow cones, and a chocolate fountain.If you can't make it but still want dinner, feel free to stop by and grab some food.This is a free dinner, but donations are welcome!

Organization: Community Hand Up

Join us for a BBQ dinner packed with fun games and activities for the whole family! We'll be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the sides, along with popcorn, snow cones, and a chocolate fountain.If you can't make it but still want dinner, feel free to stop by and grab some food.This is a free dinner, but donations are welcome!

Organization: Community Hand Up

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On May 5, 2026

Zip Code: 50266

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Spring Into Action

Join us in restoring Iowa’s woodland habitats and supporting the growth of native trees, grasses, and wildflowers!

Together with the Blank Park Zoo and Polk County Conservation, volunteers will help remove invasive plant species that threaten the health and diversity of our native woodlands. Invasive plants put significant pressure on our ecosystems, affecting both native plants and wildlife. By removing these species, you’ll help create space for Iowa plants and animals to thrive. As an added benefit, some of the plants removed, like honeysuckle, become a special treat for animals cared for at the Zoo.

This hands-on volunteer opportunity offers a fun and meaningful service-learning experience. You will learn how to identify native and invasive plant species, practice effective invasive removal techniques, and discover how your efforts directly support the health of local ecosystems at Fort Des Moines Park. Come lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of restoring the natural beauty of Iowa’s woodlands.

Date: May 9

Time: 9:00 - 11:00

Sign Up Link: https://polkcountyiowa.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/78

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

Join us in restoring Iowa’s woodland habitats and supporting the growth of native trees, grasses, and wildflowers!

Together with the Blank Park Zoo and Polk County Conservation, volunteers will help remove invasive plant species that threaten the health and diversity of our native woodlands. Invasive plants put significant pressure on our ecosystems, affecting both native plants and wildlife. By removing these species, you’ll help create space for Iowa plants and animals to thrive. As an added benefit, some of the plants removed, like honeysuckle, become a special treat for animals cared for at the Zoo.

This hands-on volunteer opportunity offers a fun and meaningful service-learning experience. You will learn how to identify native and invasive plant species, practice effective invasive removal techniques, and discover how your efforts directly support the health of local ecosystems at Fort Des Moines Park. Come lend a hand, learn something new, and be part of restoring the natural beauty of Iowa’s woodlands.

Date: May 9

Time: 9:00 - 11:00

Sign Up Link: https://polkcountyiowa.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/78

Organization: Blank Park Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On May 9, 2026

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Stamp Out Hunger- Warehouse Sorting Volunteer

Description

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

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!
Shifts are two hours long and all skill levels and abilities are welcome! Sign up below or online here!  

Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)

Description

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

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!
Shifts are two hours long and all skill levels and abilities are welcome! Sign up below or online here!  

Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Stuff the Bus 2026 - Sorting & Distribution

Stuff the Bus book drive is being held at Athene on Tuesday, May 12th from 11am to 1pm. Our goal is to collect 30,000 books for children from birth to middle school. (Our greatest need is for early childhood books -- birth to age 8.) Books are donated to childcare centers and child-serving programs in Dallas, Polk, and Warren counties to help us reach our goals in the area of Education Success.

Volunteers are needed at United Way after the book drive to assist in sorting books into pre-determined categories. By sorting the books on Wednesday, May 13th, it will make it easier for the community to navigate the room in a safe and efficient way ensuring they find the age appropriate books for the youth they serve during the distribution days. 

Volunteers will continued to be needed during distribution days (starting Thursday, May 14th) to help keep the room tidy and assist community members as they come in to pick up their books. The final shift on May 19th will be a clean-up shift. 

Volunteers are welcome to sign-up for more than one shift!

Questions? Please contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager, at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org. 

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Stuff the Bus book drive is being held at Athene on Tuesday, May 12th from 11am to 1pm. Our goal is to collect 30,000 books for children from birth to middle school. (Our greatest need is for early childhood books -- birth to age 8.) Books are donated to childcare centers and child-serving programs in Dallas, Polk, and Warren counties to help us reach our goals in the area of Education Success.

Volunteers are needed at United Way after the book drive to assist in sorting books into pre-determined categories. By sorting the books on Wednesday, May 13th, it will make it easier for the community to navigate the room in a safe and efficient way ensuring they find the age appropriate books for the youth they serve during the distribution days. 

Volunteers will continued to be needed during distribution days (starting Thursday, May 14th) to help keep the room tidy and assist community members as they come in to pick up their books. The final shift on May 19th will be a clean-up shift. 

Volunteers are welcome to sign-up for more than one shift!

Questions? Please contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager, at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org. 

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50314

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Mathes Woodland Restoration + Hike

Make your way to the woods for a spring morning outdoors! Volunteers will hand-pull garlic mustard—one of Iowa’s most invasive plants—from Mathes’ woodlands. Garlic mustard spreads rapidly and displaces native plants and wildflowers, causing serious damage to wooded landscapes if left unchecked. We’ll start the morning pulling garlic mustard and wrap up with a moderately difficult hike while keeping an eye out for spring ephemerals.

What to expect

Volunteers will hand-pull garlic mustardBending and kneeling will be involvedTerrain can be hilly and uneven. Volunteers are encouraged to work at their own pace and comfort level.No experience necessaryInstructions will be provided onsite, but you can view a how-to video ahead of time here.

Learn more and register to volunteer at https://www.inhf.org/events/mathes-woodland-restoration 

Needed attire & equipment

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking bootsLong pants and layers. You may be working with thorny plants so sturdy clothes that can withstand rips (or you don't mind ripping) are encouraged.Work gloves (Leather is best - we'll have some extras if needed)Water bottleFeel free to bring other desired items like a hiking stick, binoculars, field guide and/or camera, if you like! 

Other details

Families are welcomePlease arrive 10 minutes early.There will be no restroom on site. The nearest restroom will be in Pella, which is about a 10-minute drive. A moderately challenging walk roughly 100 yards from the meeting location will be required. Mathes does not have a parking area, so participants will park alongside the gravel road (Dakota Drive) near the meeting location.Expect to work on wooded hillsides with moderate slopes.Expect to interact with general woodland plants, including thorny shrubs, as well as occasional logs or fallen trees. Gloves will be provided if desired. You will be asked to acknowledge a liability waiver when you register. 

About Mathes

The Mathes Property encompasses 51 acres with rolling hills of oak/hickory savanna, woodland and a plethora of spring ephemeral wildflowers. The property sits atop a ridge just before dropping into the South Skunk River floodplain north of the property. This natural area sits just a few miles outside the town of Pella and is a refuge for wildlife, including deer, turkey, owls and a number of birds. Mathes came to INHF through a bequest from former landowner, Harold Mathes, in 2010. It is now owned and stewarded by INHF.

Directions

From Pella, head north on Main St. about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto 228th Pl. until the stop sign. Turn left onto 240th Pl. to the first gravel road. Turn left on Dakota Dr. and look for INHF signs.

Contact Kayleen Leetch with questions at kleetch@inhf.org

Organization: Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Make your way to the woods for a spring morning outdoors! Volunteers will hand-pull garlic mustard—one of Iowa’s most invasive plants—from Mathes’ woodlands. Garlic mustard spreads rapidly and displaces native plants and wildflowers, causing serious damage to wooded landscapes if left unchecked. We’ll start the morning pulling garlic mustard and wrap up with a moderately difficult hike while keeping an eye out for spring ephemerals.

What to expect

Volunteers will hand-pull garlic mustardBending and kneeling will be involvedTerrain can be hilly and uneven. Volunteers are encouraged to work at their own pace and comfort level.No experience necessaryInstructions will be provided onsite, but you can view a how-to video ahead of time here.

Learn more and register to volunteer at https://www.inhf.org/events/mathes-woodland-restoration 

Needed attire & equipment

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking bootsLong pants and layers. You may be working with thorny plants so sturdy clothes that can withstand rips (or you don't mind ripping) are encouraged.Work gloves (Leather is best - we'll have some extras if needed)Water bottleFeel free to bring other desired items like a hiking stick, binoculars, field guide and/or camera, if you like! 

Other details

Families are welcomePlease arrive 10 minutes early.There will be no restroom on site. The nearest restroom will be in Pella, which is about a 10-minute drive. A moderately challenging walk roughly 100 yards from the meeting location will be required. Mathes does not have a parking area, so participants will park alongside the gravel road (Dakota Drive) near the meeting location.Expect to work on wooded hillsides with moderate slopes.Expect to interact with general woodland plants, including thorny shrubs, as well as occasional logs or fallen trees. Gloves will be provided if desired. You will be asked to acknowledge a liability waiver when you register. 

About Mathes

The Mathes Property encompasses 51 acres with rolling hills of oak/hickory savanna, woodland and a plethora of spring ephemeral wildflowers. The property sits atop a ridge just before dropping into the South Skunk River floodplain north of the property. This natural area sits just a few miles outside the town of Pella and is a refuge for wildlife, including deer, turkey, owls and a number of birds. Mathes came to INHF through a bequest from former landowner, Harold Mathes, in 2010. It is now owned and stewarded by INHF.

Directions

From Pella, head north on Main St. about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto 228th Pl. until the stop sign. Turn left onto 240th Pl. to the first gravel road. Turn left on Dakota Dr. and look for INHF signs.

Contact Kayleen Leetch with questions at kleetch@inhf.org

Organization: Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On May 14, 2026

Zip Code: 50219

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Family BBQ and Game Night

Join us for a BBQ dinner packed with fun games and activities for the whole family! We'll be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the sides, along with popcorn, snow cones, and a chocolate fountain.If you can't make it but still want dinner, feel free to stop by and grab some food.This is a free dinner, but donations are welcome!

Fill out volunteer form here:  Family BBQ and Game Night Volunteer Sign Up – Fill out form

Organization: Community Hand Up

Join us for a BBQ dinner packed with fun games and activities for the whole family! We'll be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the sides, along with popcorn, snow cones, and a chocolate fountain.If you can't make it but still want dinner, feel free to stop by and grab some food.This is a free dinner, but donations are welcome!

Fill out volunteer form here:  Family BBQ and Game Night Volunteer Sign Up – Fill out form

Organization: Community Hand Up

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 6, 2026

Zip Code: 50266

Allow Groups: Yes