Volunteer: Hope Ministries Thanksgiving Food Donation DayThis Thanksgiving we will be serving and delivering over 4,000 meals. To make this possible, we will be hosting a Food Donation Day on Wednesday, November 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Food Donations will be accepted at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines). Donations can be dropped off inside the facility and individuals are invited to tour Bethel Mission. Needed food donation items include: Case of bottled water Ground beef, pork loin, bacon, ham Milk, cheese, eggs, butter #10 cans of green beans or mixed veggies Condiments: Ranch & Italian salad dressing, ketchup, and mustard Coffee (ground) Organization: Hope Ministries This Thanksgiving we will be serving and delivering over 4,000 meals. To make this possible, we will be hosting a Food Donation Day on Wednesday, November 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Food Donations will be accepted at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines). Donations can be dropped off inside the facility and individuals are invited to tour Bethel Mission. Needed food donation items include: Case of bottled water Ground beef, pork loin, bacon, ham Milk, cheese, eggs, butter #10 cans of green beans or mixed veggies Condiments: Ranch & Italian salad dressing, ketchup, and mustard Coffee (ground) Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 25, 2026 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Christmas Meal Volunteer RegistrationHope Ministries wants to bless you this Christmas! On Thursday, December 24, Hope Ministries will be delivering Christmas Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on Monday, November 2 and meal order reservations will be available on Monday, November 30. Volunteer Needs To make Christmas meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above the age of 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer registration opens on Monday, November 2. To register, visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Organization: Hope Ministries Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Christmas! On Thursday, December 24, Hope Ministries will be delivering Christmas Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on Monday, November 2 and meal order reservations will be available on Monday, November 30. Volunteer Needs To make Christmas meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above the age of 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer registration opens on Monday, November 2. To register, visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Dec 24, 2026 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries - Mission: ChristmasMake this Christmas special for the men, owmen, and children at Hope Ministries! Help us bless the individuals staying in our shelter and recovery centers with practical and personal gifts. When you register to be a part of Mission: Christmas, we can ensure that the guests in our care receive a gift on Christmas day. Registration to fill Mission: Christmas gift bags will open on Monday, October 5. To fill one or more bags, register online before Friday, November 27, at hopeiowa.org/events/mission-christmas/. Drop off week is December 7-11. Organization: Hope Ministries Make this Christmas special for the men, owmen, and children at Hope Ministries! Help us bless the individuals staying in our shelter and recovery centers with practical and personal gifts. When you register to be a part of Mission: Christmas, we can ensure that the guests in our care receive a gift on Christmas day. Registration to fill Mission: Christmas gift bags will open on Monday, October 5. To fill one or more bags, register online before Friday, November 27, at hopeiowa.org/events/mission-christmas/. Drop off week is December 7-11. Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Dec 7, 2026 through Dec 11, 2026 Zip Code: 50327 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Easter Meal Volunteer RegistrationHope Ministries wants to bless you this Easter! On Saturday, March 27, Hope Ministries will be delivering Easter Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on February 15 and meal order reservations will open on March 1. Volunteer Needs To make Easter meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer opportunities will open February 15. Register by visiting our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Organization: Hope Ministries Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Easter! On Saturday, March 27, Hope Ministries will be delivering Easter Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on February 15 and meal order reservations will open on March 1. Volunteer Needs To make Easter meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer opportunities will open February 15. Register by visiting our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Mar 27, 2027 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Be a Holiday Hero at Families Forward New Directions ShelterJoin us in creating a memorable holiday season for families at the Families Forward New Directions Shelter! We need caring volunteers to help transform our shelter into a warm, festive home for the holidays. Help is needed: Mondays from 1:00pm - 3:00pmWednesdays from 9:00am - 11:00am or 5:30pm - 7:30pmFridays from 9:00am - 12:00pmHow you will help: Transform Our Shelter for the Holidays Help us create a warm, festive home for families this holiday season. Volunteers will organize and prepare our space so that children and parents can experience the joy and comfort they deserve. Curate Holiday Magic Sort and organize donated gifts and essential items for our Holiday Gift Room, where families can choose presents at no cost. Your work ensures every child has something special to open and every family has what they need. Prepare for the Season Ahead As the holidays wind down, help us thoughtfully pack away decorations and organize items for next year, setting us up for success in serving families year-round. Please note: Depending on our needs each day, you may help with one or more of these activities during your shift. Questions: Contact Missy Reams by email at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. Volunteer Information: Volunteers should be 10 years of age or older. Volunteers ages 10 - 14 must have an adult on site with them.We welcome 4 volunteers at time. Other dates and times: If you would like to bring a bigger group or come at a different time, please emailmissy@familiesforward.org. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. 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 Join us in creating a memorable holiday season for families at the Families Forward New Directions Shelter! We need caring volunteers to help transform our shelter into a warm, festive home for the holidays. Help is needed: Mondays from 1:00pm - 3:00pmWednesdays from 9:00am - 11:00am or 5:30pm - 7:30pmFridays from 9:00am - 12:00pmHow you will help: Transform Our Shelter for the Holidays Help us create a warm, festive home for families this holiday season. Volunteers will organize and prepare our space so that children and parents can experience the joy and comfort they deserve. Curate Holiday Magic Sort and organize donated gifts and essential items for our Holiday Gift Room, where families can choose presents at no cost. Your work ensures every child has something special to open and every family has what they need. Prepare for the Season Ahead As the holidays wind down, help us thoughtfully pack away decorations and organize items for next year, setting us up for success in serving families year-round. Please note: Depending on our needs each day, you may help with one or more of these activities during your shift. Questions: Contact Missy Reams by email at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. Volunteer Information: Volunteers should be 10 years of age or older. Volunteers ages 10 - 14 must have an adult on site with them.We welcome 4 volunteers at time. Other dates and times: If you would like to bring a bigger group or come at a different time, please emailmissy@familiesforward.org. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. 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: Coat Drives (& Warm Winter-Wear)Help us provide warm coats and winter-wear for those struggling financially in our community. We believe everyone has the right to be warm and be protected from the cold Iowa winter weather. The following new and gently-used items are needed: Warm hats and gloves Scarves Thermal underwear Socks / thermal socks Coats Snow pants Snow bootsDrop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 48 hours for scheduling.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 Help us provide warm coats and winter-wear for those struggling financially in our community. We believe everyone has the right to be warm and be protected from the cold Iowa winter weather. The following new and gently-used items are needed: Warm hats and gloves Scarves Thermal underwear Socks / thermal socks Coats Snow pants Snow bootsDrop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 48 hours for scheduling.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: Runs Until Feb 28, 2027 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Children's Activities at New Directions ShelterVolunteers are needed to help children ages 1 to 17 with crafts, games, and activities that our staff will plan. Our shelter provides emergency housing for up to 8 families with children at a time. Most children's activities have between 5 to 15 children in attendance. Volunteer Responsibilities and Activity Information: Volunteers are needed between 4:30pm to 6:30pm on Wednesdays. Volunteers will help set up and clean up the activity. (Staff will provide guidance.) Volunteers will interact with the children and help them participate in the activity. Children come and go during the event. Volunteers will do 2-3 sessions of the activity to allow all children to participate as they arrive home to the shelter for the evening. If you would like to plan or bring a craft or activity, please just let us know. We'd love your help in planning.Volunteers: All ages are welcome to volunteer. Youth 14 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Child volunteers should be signed up, too.Questions? Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. Large Group Volunteering for Children's Events: If you have a larger group that would like to help with a children's event, please email Missy Reams at Missy@familiesforward.org. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Volunteers are needed to help children ages 1 to 17 with crafts, games, and activities that our staff will plan. Our shelter provides emergency housing for up to 8 families with children at a time. Most children's activities have between 5 to 15 children in attendance. Volunteer Responsibilities and Activity Information: Volunteers are needed between 4:30pm to 6:30pm on Wednesdays. Volunteers will help set up and clean up the activity. (Staff will provide guidance.) Volunteers will interact with the children and help them participate in the activity. Children come and go during the event. Volunteers will do 2-3 sessions of the activity to allow all children to participate as they arrive home to the shelter for the evening. If you would like to plan or bring a craft or activity, please just let us know. We'd love your help in planning.Volunteers: All ages are welcome to volunteer. Youth 14 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Child volunteers should be signed up, too.Questions? Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. Large Group Volunteering for Children's Events: If you have a larger group that would like to help with a children's event, please email Missy Reams at Missy@familiesforward.org. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Day of the Dead VolunteerAbout Day of the Dead Day of the Dead is one of the Des Moines Art Center’s largest annual events. This free community celebration includes art activities, performances, food, and experiences for visitors of all ages. We’re looking for volunteers to help
support the event and create a welcoming, organized experience for visitors. What Day of the Dead Volunteers Do Depending on the assignment, volunteers may: Greet and orient visitors Assist with hands-on art activities—no art experience required Support performances and community partners Help visitors navigate the building and event schedule Encourage participation and answer basic questions Assist with light setup or cleanupVolunteers always work alongside staff
and receive clear instructions and support. Time Commitment Day of the Dead takes place once a year Typical shifts range from 2–4 hours Morning, afternoon, setup, and cleanup opportunities may be available No ongoing volunteer commitment is requiredWho We’re Looking For Day of the Dead volunteers are: Friendly, dependable, and comfortable interacting with the public Interested in supporting families, children, and community members Able to work in a lively and busy environment At least 14 years old No prior museum or event experience is requiredThis role is well-suited for students,
educators, artists, retirees, families, community groups, and anyone interested
in supporting a major community event. Why Volunteer? Support a free community celebration Help visitors enjoy a busy and exciting event Gain experience in museum and event settings Meet people who care about art and communityHelp the Art Center be a place where everyone feels welcomeHow to Get Involved Volunteer assignments and event details are provided before the event. Interested? Fill out the Volunteer Application: Or contact Mia Buch at mbuch@desmoinesartcenter.org. Organization: Des Moines Art Center About Day of the Dead Day of the Dead is one of the Des Moines Art Center’s largest annual events. This free community celebration includes art activities, performances, food, and experiences for visitors of all ages. We’re looking for volunteers to help
support the event and create a welcoming, organized experience for visitors. What Day of the Dead Volunteers Do Depending on the assignment, volunteers may: Greet and orient visitors Assist with hands-on art activities—no art experience required Support performances and community partners Help visitors navigate the building and event schedule Encourage participation and answer basic questions Assist with light setup or cleanupVolunteers always work alongside staff
and receive clear instructions and support. Time Commitment Day of the Dead takes place once a year Typical shifts range from 2–4 hours Morning, afternoon, setup, and cleanup opportunities may be available No ongoing volunteer commitment is requiredWho We’re Looking For Day of the Dead volunteers are: Friendly, dependable, and comfortable interacting with the public Interested in supporting families, children, and community members Able to work in a lively and busy environment At least 14 years old No prior museum or event experience is requiredThis role is well-suited for students,
educators, artists, retirees, families, community groups, and anyone interested
in supporting a major community event. Why Volunteer? Support a free community celebration Help visitors enjoy a busy and exciting event Gain experience in museum and event settings Meet people who care about art and communityHelp the Art Center be a place where everyone feels welcomeHow to Get Involved Volunteer assignments and event details are provided before the event. Interested? Fill out the Volunteer Application: Or contact Mia Buch at mbuch@desmoinesartcenter.org. Organization: Des Moines Art Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 1, 2026 Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Oakridge Holiday Assistance DriveHOLIDAY GIVING The holiday season is a perfect time to give back to the community, and your gift to Oakridge Neighborhood can make a lasting impact on families and individuals. Here's how you can make a difference: GIFT CARDS & CASH DONATIONS Donations of cash or gift cards to Walmart,Hy-Vee, Dollar General, etc. provide vital assistance for families to use for food, clothing, and essentials. SHOES & WINTER GEAR Give
the gift of warmth this season with new shoes, sweatshirts, coats, underwear, and socks
for the children and families at Oakridge. All sizes welcome from youth to adults. HOUSEHOLD ESSENTIALS & PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Please help our low-income families have a brighter holiday season by donating household products, personal care items, diapers, and blankets. Organization: Oakridge Neighborhood Services HOLIDAY GIVING The holiday season is a perfect time to give back to the community, and your gift to Oakridge Neighborhood can make a lasting impact on families and individuals. Here's how you can make a difference: GIFT CARDS & CASH DONATIONS Donations of cash or gift cards to Walmart,Hy-Vee, Dollar General, etc. provide vital assistance for families to use for food, clothing, and essentials. SHOES & WINTER GEAR Give
the gift of warmth this season with new shoes, sweatshirts, coats, underwear, and socks
for the children and families at Oakridge. All sizes welcome from youth to adults. HOUSEHOLD ESSENTIALS & PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Please help our low-income families have a brighter holiday season by donating household products, personal care items, diapers, and blankets. Organization: Oakridge Neighborhood Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Volunteers Power SafeNetRx!With the influx of medication donations and increasing need for medication assistance, we need your help. Our volunteers assist in logging incoming donations into our inventory. Learn more about how you can make a difference in our community and sign up to volunteer at SafeNetRx today! Organization: SafeNetRx With the influx of medication donations and increasing need for medication assistance, we need your help. Our volunteers assist in logging incoming donations into our inventory. Learn more about how you can make a difference in our community and sign up to volunteer at SafeNetRx today! Organization: SafeNetRx Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50111-5282 Allow Groups: Yes |