Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

Signing up to sponsor and participate in a Tuesday night dinner will give you a chance to directly connect with our residents and our cause. Our #MoreThanAMeal program provides not only a hearty meal to all 140 of our residents but also creates a sense of community, turning our campus into a home for the folks who live here. In order to provide this support for our community members, we rely on a sponsorship of 250 dollars; this allows us to provide a dignified home cooked meal made with love. With a group of ten people, it equals out to only 25 dollars per person! You and a group of friends or co-workers would prepare and serve the meal, followed by the opportunity to get to know our residents stories by sitting down and having dinner with them. It is known to be one of the most impactful volunteer opportunities we offer in our home according to volunteers who have participated in the past!

Please contact nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org with questions!

We have a beautiful courtyard with garden spaces that would be so vibrant with the addition of hand painted kindness rocks. We love the idea that residents could stroll outside and see little pieces of art with positive words and/or pictures. These rocks can be painted offsite and dropped off anytime between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday though Friday and 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/27

Bingo and Trivia is a great way to directly connect with our residents and our cause! Often times, an individual or small group will host the bingo night and bring in between 8 – 10 small prizes (ranging in the 5-10 dollar range) and one prize for the blackout round (around the 20 dollar price point). We will provide the bingo set and even bake up some delicious cookies for your bingo night! Popular prizes are things like towel sets, household cleaning items, pots and pans or décor items that residents can use to personalize their apartments!

Game nights are always eagerly looked forward too! PPlease Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

To register for the opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/31

Create joyful bags full of fun/delicious goodies - think stocking stuffers! Treats, soaps, lotions, chap stick, pens, socks etc. Get creative and decorate the bags or even include a handwritten note on or in the bag to let our folks know that you are wishing them well! If you would like to ensure that all residents receive a kindness bag - please plan on making 140 bags. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

Donations can be dropped off anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday though Friday and between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Learn more or register for the opportunity here: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/admin/projects/27/dashboard 

 Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions!

Clean clothing is a basic human need, not a luxury. At the YSHC, we do have an on-site laundry facility; however, many of our folks, because of transportation or financial barriers, are unable to supply the quarters needed for a load of laundry. We are grateful for the community support we have received in regards to laundry supplies, providing us with ample laundry pods and dryer sheets for laundry kits; however, many folks are unable to use these supplies due to not having the quarters needed for a wash and a dry. One load of laundry is equal to eleven quarters and our dream is that each residents will have access to a laundry kit (twelve quarters, a laundry pod and a dryer sheet) when in need. Would you consider holding a spare change drive at your work, with your friends and neighbors, or reaching out to your children’s sports team or school? Spare change and all other donations can be dropped off anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

Birthdays are a big part of what home means at the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus. Every residents receives a birthday card signed by staff on their birthday but we are thinking bigger and we need your help! We dream of having a Birthday Bash each month that includes cake and other fun birthday activities for members of our community. Many of our residents are faced with financial barriers that prevent them from enjoying cake on their birthday; or, they don’t have family to celebrate with, so we are excited to show them how much our community cares through this event. To host a Birthday Bash, you would need to sponsor the funds/make 140 pieces of cake (or cupcakes) as we want to ensure all residents are invited. If you prefer, we can purchase the cake for you for a $50 dollar contribution. You can also bring in fun party supplies (table clothes, themed paper plates, streamers, etc.) to decorate and really make it feel like a birthday party. Upon arrival, you and your group of 5 or less will be able to decorate, serve, and get to know some amazing folks that call the YSHC home. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

Birthday bashes can take place Monday, Wednesday or Thursday between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

Learn more, or register for the opportunity here: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/26

  There are few things as rewarding as helping a homeless animal find a new home. When you volunteer at the ARL, you make a difference for homeless animals AND the people  choosing to adopt them.

Volunteering can take a variety of forms. From serving as an ambassador spreading awareness in the community, to providing enrichment and socialization for an animal, to training other volunteers on how to support our mission, volunteer team members give their time and talent to change the lives of thousands of pets each year. We could not do what we do without you, and we have unmet needs waiting for more talented volunteers to help us fulfill our mission!!!

ARL volunteers are  committed to furthering our mission to protect the welfare of animals, preserve the human-animal bond, and prevent the overpopulation of companion animals.

We would love to have you on our team! 

email Volunteer Coorinator Molly Olson at mapplegate@arl-iowa.org if interested!!

Ever wished you had a backstage pass to see everything that goes into a production? This is it! As a volunteer working backstage at The Des Moines Playhouse, you'll do much more than observe the action. If ladders, lights, and hand tools intrigue you, consider joining the Light Hanging Crew which carefully positions each light prior to a show. Volunteers are also needed to run the light board, followspots, and sound board during shows. And for a true backstage experience during the show, consider joining the shift/fly Crew. Crew volunteers stay busy changing the set during scene breaks and intermission - including scenery that is flown in from above! Staff will provide hands-on training for all roles so you'll be confident when the house lights go down. Join the team and let the fun begin!    

Learn more: https://www.dmplayhouse.com/volunteer/back-stage  

PARTICIPATE AS A SALES COORDINATOR

Engage in saving lives from cancer by selling potted mum plants within your company/organization, neighborhood, family and friends. There are four great products to promote, a 4 inch potted mum ($10), a 6 inch potted mum ($20), a Gift of Hope mum ($25) to be delivered cancer patients at Des Moines area cancer centers and a Gift of Gratitude mum ($25) to be delivered to healthcare workers at Des Moines area hospitals. We will provide you with all the materials you need in order to be a successful sales coordinator!

As the sales coordinator, you will collect orders both in person and online between July 14-16, turn in your orders and then deliver the 4 and 6 inch potted mums to those who purchased between August 26-28.  We will take care of delivering the Gift of Hope and Gift of Gratitude mums to the local cancer centers for you and those who purchased them.

If you are interested in this opportunity or to hear about other ways to get involved with the American Cancer Society, please respond today!

Join us and help serve dinner to our Braving Grief Support Group participants at Amanda the Panda. Volunteers will have an opportunity to do light meal preparation and setup, help serve the meal, and clean up after the meal.

Our groups take place on Monday evenings from 6pm-7:30pm and Kitchen Helpers are helping us out from 5:00pm-7:00pm.

This is a great opportunity for you and a group of friends/co-workers to volunteer together at, too!

All tours at Terrace Hill are by reservation only and are led by Docents. Tours are offered March through December at 10:30 am and 12:00 pm, Tuesdays through Saturdays. Docents work with adults and children. In addition to Terrace Hill's regular tour schedule, Docents are occasionally needed to staff special events during evenings and weekends. Docents should enjoy working with people of all ages, have good public speaking skills and have a passion for learning and sharing the history of Terrace Hill.

Background check required.

Dental Connections, Inc. is always looking for a variety of volunteers for our various programs.

Opportunities can range from working in our community programs such as the Smile Squad, administrative functions, event attendance and/or planning, and much more!

We welcome long term or short term volunteers with a variety of interests!

When a resident moves in, we are excited to greet and show them to their apartment where they will find a laundry basket filled with all of the essentials they need to feel supported on their first day home. However, we are running low on many of the items needed listed below! Would you consider donating these items for our new friends? Please contact brooke.heldt@dmymca.org for details. You can also check out our regularly updated Amazon wish list here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3... to find the items that are frequently needed to support our residents.

The following items are used in a Welcome Home Care Basket: 

We have a variety of tasks throughout the week that need helping hands to complete. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to participate in a variety of activities to support and uplift those who call the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus their home. Some examples being....donation sorting, assisting with meal opportunities, organizing and cleaning projects, stocking our pantry and more!

Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions!

To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/40

Come support YSHC residents in their wellness journey by volunteering your time to participate in our walking club! On the dates listed below, we will meet at the “Y Sign'' located at 2 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, Iowa at 4:00 p.m. and walk to and from the locations listed. You will be supporting our folks as they prepare for the Crane 5k event on May 13th at Grays Lake park where residents and community members will walk/run together in support of our mission to eliminate homelessness in the community.

Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions! You must be 18 years or older to participate in the walking club. We hope to see you there! 

To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/28

The Iowa Wild hockey team has invited Adaptive Sports Iowa to be the recipients of the "Split the Pot" raffle that takes place at all home games throughout the 2023-24 season. The volunteers will assist in selling raffle tickets throughout the games up until the end of the second intermission. At that point, a drawing will take place and the proceeds raised during the game will be split between the winning ticket and Adaptive Sports Iowa. This is a tremendous fundraising opportunity for our organization that will have profound effects on our ability to serve our mission. 

The system in place for the volunteers is extremely user-friendly. Each volunteer will have a wireless device that will print the ticket as well as update a real-time amount ticker on the scoreboard. 

Each volunteer will receive free admission into the game and a free ticket to another game!

Please sign up online at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084CAFA92EA5FD0-iowa10#/ to receive volunteer instructions.

For further questions, please contact us at 888-777-8881 ext. 714 or email karlie.hunter@iowasportsfoundation.org.

 Get together with your friends, neighbors or co-workers to throw a pantry or hygiene drive for our 149 residents! For inspiration and ideas for as to what is needed most in our home, check out our amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3?ref_=wl_share

Donations can be dropped off anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. 

Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions!

Food Sorting: Food Bank of Iowa receives donations of food items that need labeled, counted and boxed. We need volunteers to make this possible and opportunities are scheduled in advance before we know what the food items may be when they arrive. Help us accept more food and feed the 175,000+ Iowans we serve!

Examples: Packing BackPack sacks, checking dates and food safety of food drive items, bagging bulk produce, putting bulk rice or pasta into family sized bags, boxing up like items into equally weighted boxes, and more!

GREAT FOR INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES & GROUPS (up to 20)!

Key Responsibilities:

Support/Training:  Volunteers will be given instructions upon arrival, and will have staff support throughout their shift.

Qualifications:

Age Requirement:  For safety reasons, all volunteers in the warehouse must be 10 or older.

Dress Code:  Closed-toe shoes are required in the warehouse.  Also, please dress comfortably and in layers.  The temperature in the warehouse can vary.

Volunteers will take the Food Bank of Iowa's van and drop off boxes, signs and/or bins for the collection of food in the Des Moines metro. Addresses and training provided on site. Valid driver's license required.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift.

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18

Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes are required; no exceptions. Dress comfortably.

We are looking for a few bright, forward thinking individuals to take us to the next level. We need those who have social media and marketing experience so that we can promote our social events for individuals with intellectual disabilities. 

We need social media/marketing professionals to promote our social and special events for individuals with intellectual disabilities. 

Description

Many of our delivery recipients have come to depend on the DMARC Delivery Program that was born out of the necessity during the pandemic. We need volunteers to deliver boxes of food to home addresses to serve our community. Shifts are Monday- Friday from 9am-11am, please sign up for specific shifts on our volunteer portal to keep an accurate schedule. 

Sign up for a shift here!

Key Responsibilities:

 Support/Training:

Volunteers will be provided with instructions and ongoing guidance from a DMARC warehouse staff person at the beginning and for the duration of each shift. DMARC will contact volunteers the day before a shift to confirm the need for assistance and place available volunteer drivers on our route schedule.

 Qualifications:

Dress Code:

Please wear clothing that is presentable and appropriate for variable weather conditions--volunteers will be walking to and from personal vehicles for deliveries. Blue DMARC volunteer tee shirts are available upon request. 

Age Requirement:

For safety reasons, all volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over the age of 18) at all times during their volunteer shift.

Growing up is only getting more complicated. Children in grades 6-12 have big and small choices to make every day. As a JUMP mentor, you can be the listening ear and positive role model for a Johnston student. Meeting for 1 class period each week during the school day, you will help a young person set goals, reinforce basic skills and chart a positive course for his or her life. Staff will provide training and any support you need along the way. Applications are mailed to anyone interested.  A basic background check is completed before matching with a student.  

Go to https://johnstonpartnership.org/jump/ to learn more and complete an application...We'll find you a perfect match!

In collaboration with the Director of Programs, the Programming Committee is to ensure the Center for Social Ministry’s programs have sustainable strategies and are achieving their intended educational impact and outcomes.

Duties and Accountabilities

Join our fun crew as a volunteer cashier in the Medical Center’s Gift Shop and make a difference in someone's day!

A little bit about what you'll be doing:
* Interacting with staff, visitors, and patients and helping them locate desired gift shop items.
* Operating a computerized register system (easy to navigate; one-on-one training will be provided).
* Answering the phone.
* Taking payment for purchases and making change when necessary.
* Replacing merchandise from back stock as needed (no heavy lifting).
* Assist in keeping the Gift Shop clean and tidy (nothing strenuous).
* Providing directions and giving non-medical information when requested.

What we're looking for:
* Must be at least 16 years of age.
* Ability to volunteer for a weekly shift.
* 6-month commitment (may be non-consecutive).
* Ability to communicate with people of all backgrounds.
* Familiarity with principals of retailing is helpful.
* Ability to count money and make change.

Volunteer Benefits:

* Annual appreciation luncheon
* 10% discount on gift shop purchases
* Free small fountain drink, coffee, or tea from the cafeteria
* 30% discount on cafeteria purchases
* Ability to park anywhere on main campus
* Free flu shot & covid boosters (as supplies allow)
* Service hours

If you're looking for a fun and rewarding place to volunteer, then this is the place for you! Come share your smile with us!

Join our fun crew as a volunteer cashier in the Medical Center’s Gift Shop and make a difference in someone's day!

A little bit about what you'll be doing:
* Interacting with staff, visitors, and patients and helping them locate desired gift shop items.
* Operating a computerized register system (easy to navigate; one-on-one training will be provided).
* Answering the phone.
* Taking payment for purchases and making change when necessary.
* Replacing merchandise from back stock as needed (no heavy lifting).
* Assist in keeping the Gift Shop clean and tidy (nothing strenuous).
* Providing directions and giving non-medical information when requested.

What we're looking for:
* Must be at least 16 years of age.
* Ability to volunteer for a weekly shift.
* 6-month commitment (may be non-consecutive).
* Ability to communicate with people of all backgrounds.
* Familiarity with principals of retailing is helpful.
* Ability to count money and make change.

Volunteer Benefits:

* Annual appreciation luncheon
* 10% discount on gift shop purchases
* Free small fountain drink, coffee, or tea from the cafeteria
* 30% discount on cafeteria purchases
* Ability to park anywhere on main campus
* Free flu shot & covid boosters (as supplies allow)
* Service hours

If you're looking for a fun and rewarding place to volunteer, then this is the place for you! Come share your smile with us!

Join our fun crew as a volunteer cashier in the Medical Center’s Gift Shop and make a difference in someone's day!

A little bit about what you'll be doing:

Helping us call staff with apparel orders when delivered

Restock Broadlawns merchandise and apparel- folding shirts for display etc.
* Interacting with staff, visitors, and patients and helping them locate desired gift shop items.
* Operating a computerized register system (easy to navigate; one-on-one training will be provided).
* Answering the phone.
* Taking payment for purchases and making change when necessary.
* Replacing merchandise from back stock as needed (no heavy lifting).
* Assist in keeping the Gift Shop clean and tidy (nothing strenuous).
* Providing directions and giving non-medical information when requested.

What we're looking for:
* Must be at least 16 years of age.
* Ability to volunteer for a weekly shift.
* 6-month commitment (may be non-consecutive).
* Ability to communicate with people of all backgrounds.
* Familiarity with principals of retailing is helpful.
* Ability to count money and make change.

Volunteer Benefits:

* Annual appreciation luncheon
* 10% discount on gift shop purchases
* Free small fountain drink, coffee, or tea from the cafeteria
* 30% discount on cafeteria purchases
* Ability to park anywhere on main campus
* Free flu shot & covid boosters (as supplies allow)
* Service hours

If you're looking for a fun and rewarding place to volunteer, then this is the place for you! Come share your smile with us!

Join our fun crew as a volunteer cashier in the Medical Center’s Gift Shop and make a difference in someone's day!

A little bit about what you'll be doing:
* Interacting with staff, visitors, and patients and helping them locate desired gift shop items.
* Operating a computerized register system (easy to navigate; one-on-one training will be provided).
* Answering the phone.
* Taking payment for purchases and making change when necessary.
* Replacing merchandise from back stock as needed (no heavy lifting).
* Assist in keeping the Gift Shop clean and tidy (nothing strenuous).
* Providing directions and giving non-medical information when requested.

What we're looking for:
* Must be at least 16 years of age.
* Ability to volunteer for a weekly shift.
* 6-month commitment (may be non-consecutive).
* Ability to communicate with people of all backgrounds.
* Familiarity with principals of retailing is helpful.
* Ability to count money and make change.

Volunteer Benefits:

* Annual appreciation luncheon
* 10% discount on gift shop purchases
* Free small fountain drink, coffee, or tea from the cafeteria
* 30% discount on cafeteria purchases
* Ability to park anywhere on main campus
* Free flu shot & covid boosters (as supplies allow)
* Service hours

If you're looking for a fun and rewarding place to volunteer, then this is the place for you! Come share your smile with us!

Do you love to socialize? Do you love to help and serve others? Are you an upbeat and positive person? This opportunity is perfect for you!

Volunteers will utilize UnityPoint Health – Des Moines' mission and core values to anticipate and proactively promote a positive and friendly patient experience by providing information about the Comfort Cart Menu options, and ensuring the patient receives the requested items.

Volunteers will be responsible for completing the following tasks on North 3 and North 4 located at UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center (downtown hospital campus):

Click here to apply now!

Click here to apply now!

Location:

Click here to apply today!

Click here to apply now!

STEPS AND SMILES: Do you want to brighten someone's day with flowers?  Are you an upbeat and positive person? Do you love to get your steps in? This opportunity is perfect for you!

Volunteers will utilize UnityPoint Health-Des Moines' mission and core values to anticipate and proactively promote a positive and friendly patient experience by verifying, recording, and delivering floral arrangements to patients from outside florists and both Gift Shops on the downtown campus.  

Click here to apply now!

RETAIL AND RECOVERY: The Gift Shop is a place to shop and to relax; our volunteers help our customers with their positive cheerful dispositions. Volunteers will utilize UnityPoint Health-Des Moines' mission and core values to anticipate and proactively promote a positive and friendly patient and visitor experience by helping them purchase items in the Gift Shop.

Click here to apply!

Click here to apply today!

Click here to apply now!

Note: When applying for this specific volunteer role, please click "Iowa Lutheran Hospital" under "Assignment Preference".

Click here to apply now!

The Dream Team uses the power of a bicycle to help youth develop a positive approach to life's challenges. We serve 50 youth who have been referred to our team through a professional - therapist, counselor, JCO, etc. 

Our mentors are committed to helping youth riders by offering guidance, providing assistance, and sharing life experiences. Volunteers are dynamic role models who are dedicated to helping our youth riders and play a crucial role in empowering teens to become healthy and confident adults. Several volunteer opportunities are available, each with their own set of responsibilities and time commitments. Our season runs from March - July with training on Monday, Thursday evenings from 5 pm-8:30 pm and on Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm. Mentors are asked to attend 50% of the training rides to develop relationships with the youth:

Riding Mentor: Adult riding mentors are expected to attend at least 50% of all indoor and outdoor training practices and at least one campout. Riding mentors are also encouraged to participate in RAGBRAI, if possible. Successful mentors work with the youth riders to help them complete the program and grow as young adults.

In-Season Support Mentor: Adult in-season support mentors assist with rest stops during outdoor training and campouts. While support volunteers might not be riding next to youth riders on the road, they are still asked to serve as positive role models and mentors.

Truck driver Mentor: Assist Dream Team with driving a Ryder truck to campouts and during the week of RAGBRAI. Critical role in supporting the team and keeping the youth engaged while at camp.

General: Interested in helping, but not sure where you fit in right now? No worries, join as a general volunteer and we'll keep you updated on upcoming opportunities!

Are you a person with a disability who wants to get involved and make a difference? Do you have a family member with a disability or do you work to improve life for people with disabilities? If so, please consider applying for the Iowa Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC). 

The Iowa SILC is seeking new members 18 and over to fill vacancies for terms beginning July 1, 2024.  The Council seeks to maintain diversity of representation including disability, age, ethnicity, and life experiences.  All appointments to the Council will be appointed by the Governor.  

What is the Iowa SILC?

The Iowa SILC is a federally mandated council that works closely with its partners to develop a Statewide Plan for Independent Living (SPIL).  The SPIL (or state plan) serves as a guide that includes the activities planned by the state to achieve its independent living objectives.

What is the time commitment?

Full-Council meetings are held four times a year, with three virtual meetings and one hybrid meeting. The hybrid meeting occurs during our annual board training retreat in October.  Meetings last approximately 5 hours each and are typically held on the third Thursday of the month from 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM.  They are also expected to participate in one SILC committee. Total time commitment is around 50 hours a year.

How to apply:

If you or someone you know would like to apply for membership on the Council, please apply online.  We welcome you to share this notice with as many individuals as you wish.  This information is also available on the Iowa SILC website and the Iowa SILC Facebook Page.

This process can be lengthy and new members are not always appointed before the terms begin in July.  We appreciate your patience.  If you have questions or need further information or assistance, please feel free to contact us. 

Help make tie blankets for the youth we serve! These blankets will be given out during Street Outreach, where we go to camps and bring supplies to those in need, as well as to youth who are moving into our facilities, many without any possessions of their own. Help keep our youth warm and feeling loved!

• Volunteer group size: unlimited (2-4 volunteers can cut and tie 1 blanket per hour)
• Volunteer hours: Varies
• Company financial resources needed: Organization would need to supply the fabric and scissors. Fabric for one blanket start at around $8 and increase depending on fabric patterns and size.

Please contact our Community Engagement Coordinator, Gabe Tena, to coordinate a time to drop off your tie blanket. 
Email: gtena@yss.org
Phone number: 602-625-4851

Purpose:

LSI's Senior Immigrant and Refugee Program serves people over the age of 60 working towards their citizenship with extra support to foster community connections, improve quality of life, and work towards the goal of US citizenship. Volunteers lead and support in classes focused on English and Citizenship to support participants towards those goals. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, participants meet at the Polk County Central Senior Center for supplemental activities like art, tai chi, and tutoring to supplement Monday/Wednesday class offerings and support socialization.

Key responsibilities

Adjust plans, techniques, and/or approaches to meet the learning styles of the students and follow the instruction of the ESL Activities Specialist with the ultimate goal of helping students become independent learners

Time commitment

Children & Families of Iowa is in need of the following items

At this time in-kind donations are accepted by appointment only. Monetary gifts can be made online or through the postal service. Please contact the Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa via email volunteer@CFIowa.org to make an appointment.

Mailing Address:
Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa
1111 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314

Amanda the Panda is looking for volunteers to help maintain our outdoor space. 

Help with mowing the lawn, weeding, trimming hedges, and other yard task that you are able to complete. Tools would be provided to complete the task.

Provide as much or as little time as you would. You can provide 1-2 hours a week, 1-2 hours every other week, 1-2 hours a month, or even provide this service once.

Help represent EveryStep in the community by being our mascot, Amanda, at schools and other functions!

Volunteer will dress up in our Amanda the Panda costume and provide support for attendees at events. The volunteer should be able to respond appropriately at events (being quiet when necessary, or excited and waving at parades), represent the personality of Amanda, and the demeanor of the organization in public.

Volunteers should be friendly, comfortable around children and grieving families, and comfortable working indoors or outdoors in a costume covering head to feet.

Training on the costume is provided. Volunteer will need to pass a background check as well.

Provide a meal to share with our Campus residents. Serve the meal and enjoy the meal with them. Our kids are 10-18 years old. Groups can be a variety of sizes, from 20- 80 teens and staff. These are special treats and can be provided a variety of ways. Catered meals are always welcomed. Special Family or cultural meals are encouraged. We try to do one each month during the week. 

We are seeking compassionate volunteers to provide support to grieving youth as School Support Group Facilitators.

Group Facilitator volunteers are required to pass our Facilitator Training prior to volunteering. If you are interested in volunteering as a Group Facilitator or would like more information, please email us at afagen@everystep.org

Amanda the Panda is looking for volunteers to help out in Childcare during our Braving Grief Support Groups.

The Childcare Helper role offers the opportunity to connect, supervise, and provide childcare in our play area or outside in our courtyard while their caregivers are in group. Kiddos are under the age of 5 and toys and activities are provided. 

Groups are held in 6-week sessions on Monday evenings, and volunteers could choose to help out with 1 or multiple weeks. Dinner is also provided each week. 

Amanda the Panda seeks Group Facilitators to help fulfill its mission of providing hope and healing to individuals and families who have experienced the death of a loved one. With the goal of promoting peer support and connectivity, our Braving Grief support groups work to recognize how grief affects our minds and our bodies. Our Braving Grief series includes specific groups like Traumatic Loss,  Little Footprints: Perinatal and Infant Loss, and Youth groups. Each activity helps participants identify and accept grief emotions like anger and guilt, learn healthy coping skills, and create rituals to honor loved ones who have died. 

Group Facilitator volunteers are required to pass our Virtual Facilitator Training prior to volunteering. If you are interested in volunteering as a Group Facilitator or would like more information, please email us at afagen@everystep.org or follow this link to complete our online application: http://bttr.im/o2oo2 

Our team needs assistance every summer watering the enabling gardens our persons served use to plant flowers and vegetables! Ideally, we are looking for individuals to take a consistent shift one day a week (watering will take approximately an hour). Saturdays and Sundays are highest priority, but help during the week would be welcomed, too. We have all the supplies you need but recommend you bring your own gardening gloves!

We are always looking for assistance with filing, copying, placing marketing materials in folders, and other basic clerical tasks.  This can be scheduled for a set day and time of the week (Monday through Friday between the hours of 8-4:30) or we may have special projects come up that we would specifically call you to complete.  The tasks being completed would be a tremendous assistance to our staff many times being the last part of a project and enable us to take marketing materials ready to go to meetings, conferences, etc. or provide information to our persons served families, etc.

This volunteer would be able to follow simple directions, work independently, and be organized.

Youth thrive on quality time - movies, restaurants, trips to the Science Center. Outings like these provide opportunities for mentors to make a difference in a child's life. Whether discussing important life decisions or just having fun together, mentors help youth become their best. Quality time cannot be purchased, only shared, so we look to volunteers like you! 

Training for volunteers will help you learn to think like a mentor. Process includes application, background check, proof of car insurance and a valid driver's license.

The pandemic has put thousands of central Iowa families in tough financial situations. As a result, the need for prescription assistance is at an all time high. We are in need of volunteers to help support our Drug Donation Repository. We recover unused medicines across the US that go unused in health care facilities and pharmacies. The medicines are inspected by pharmacists and distributed to clinics and pharmacies across the state that care for low income, underinsured and uninsured patients. 

We provide a clean, supportive, and flexible volunteer space and strictly follow all COVID-19 protocols. Scheduling is very flexible based on availability, weather, and donation volume. 

Volunteers are needed to sort incoming donations, organize donated inventories, and assist in the preparation of outgoing orders. 

We take great care of our volunteers and will make sure your experience with us is rewarding, supportive and valued!

The pandemic has put thousands of central Iowa families in tough financial situations. As a result, the need for prescription assistance is at an all time high. We are in need of a volunteer driver to help pick-up donated medicine from participating pharmacies in Central Iowa. These unused medicines will be inspected by pharmacists and distributed to clinics and pharmacies across the state that care for low income, underinsured and uninsured patients. 

We provide a clean, supportive, and flexible volunteer space and strictly follow all COVID-19 protocols. Scheduling is very flexible based on availability, weather, and donation volume. Driver will be responsible for running one delivery route (3 – 5 hours) once a month. We take great care of our volunteers and will make sure your experience with us is rewarding, supportive and valued!

Requirements include:

Theater Attendant volunteers provide wayfinding, confirm that films are running correctly, and make sure that theaters are ready to welcome guests. This position will report to the Manager on duty. Responsibilities: -Ensure that the theater space is clean before and after a film plays. Cleaning may include tasks such as vacuuming, sweeping, and replacing the trash. -Have basic knowledge of the history of the Varsity Cinema, membership, and other frequently asked questions. -Direct guests to their seats as they arrive for their film. -Confirm that films are successfully playing. This includes making basic checks on projection, sound, lights, and temperature. -Report inappropriate guest behavior to the manager on duty during the run of the film.

Literacy Kits are used at early childhood centers and schools throughout central Iowa to help students in kindergarten through fifth grade learn and love to read.

Our Literacy Kits were designed by experts to focus on the skills young children need when learning to read while, at the same time, diving deeper into the book and its themes.

Each Literacy Kit includes:

If you would like to purchase literacy kits as an activity for your group, the first step is to contact us.

Next, we will help you decide which book title you would like to purchase and how many kits you need. The cost is $8 per kit. This covers the cost of the book and the materials needed to make a kit. On average, volunteers can make one to two kits per hour.

We have the following books available for purchase:

If you would like to see more details on these titles, please visit LITERACY KITS | United Way of Central Iowa (unitedwaydm.org)

Then, we arrange the pickup of your materials (or we can deliver). 

You and your volunteers then complete the Literacy Kit activity on-site at your business, home, church, school, club, etc. You can choose the timeframe for the activity, as well. We have an ongoing need for the kits. 

Next, you return the completed kits to United Way. Then we distribute them to nonprofits, child care centers, and after-school programs. 

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, please visit LITERACY KITS | United Way of Central Iowa (unitedwaydm.org). To make the volunteer experience as easy and convenient, United Way offers an online volunteer sign-up. 

For additional questions, contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org or 515-246-2504.

LSI's CSA is a way for Des Moines area eaters to support former refugee farmers starting their small business. Volunteers can help by getting the food organized and ready for pickup.

CSA packing happens on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the summer. . Volunteers can also help with transporting produce to our pick up locations around the metro.

Volunteers also pack and deliver monthly food boxes year round to former refugee seniors to help alleviate food insecurity. This generally happens the third Monday and Tuesday of each month.

The Road To Recovery Volunteer Driver provides people with transportation to and from their cancer-related medical appointments. Drivers donate their time to help people with cancer get the lifesaving treatments they need.

As a Road to Recovery driver, you can serve your community and help local people, provide support and encouragement, have rewarding one to one interactions with cancer patients, build relationships and save lives. Road to Recovery offers flexible scheduling, you drive as much or as little as you want when you want.

Volunteers choose the rides that work best for their schedule. Most rides are scheduled during the weekday between 7am and 7pm. The American Cancer Society asks volunteers to commit to a minimum of 2 rides per month.

REQUIREMENTS:
• Between the ages of 18 and 84.
• Valid driver’s license and adequate automobile insurance.
• Access to a safe and reliable vehicle.
• Pass background check and motor vehicle records checks.
• Comfortable using technology with reliable internet access.
• Complete required training and follow through on ride commitments.
• Appreciation and respect for diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and cultures of patients, caregivers, volunteers, and staff.
• Must certify completion of COVID-19 vaccination series at least 14 days prior to participating in the program and agree to stay up to date with vaccination series, including all recommended vaccine boosters.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Utilize mobile-friendly ride coordination tool to manage transportation requests.
• Follow safe driving procedures and disease transmission guidelines, including COVID-19 safety procedures.
• Abide by American Cancer Society privacy, confidentiality, and program guidelines.
• Participate in program evaluations and promotional opportunities, including new driver recruitment efforts, as applicable.

Volunteers are needed to assist with dinners, receptions, Terrace Hill Teas, and other special events. Volunteers assist the Terrace Hill chef with food preparation, set-up, serving, and clean-up of dinners and receptions. 

Background check required.

This volunteering opportunity works alongside the GDM Habitat for Humanity ReStore staff to ensure all tools and equipment available to borrow from the Tool Library are clean and in full working order. 

This encourages an exemplary experience for the library members by helping guarantee quality items are available for their use on a consistent & reliable basis. This in turn supports the longevity of the Tool Library program, and its goal of supporting stable housing through the availability of low or no cost tools for community homeowners to utilize in the maintenance of their homes. 

We are needing expertise or prior experience particularly in working with:

-Small engines/combustion engines:

   -lawnmowers         -chainsaws

   -tillers                   -compactors

   -weed-eaters         -aerators

   -pressure washers  -etc.

The East Euclid Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity ReStore is open from Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, and we would love to have you for 2 dedicated days for at least 3-4 hours per day, or whenever your schedule allows. Tools will be provided for you to use and there will be a dedicated area of the store for you to work in with our staff if needed. Thank you for considering this opportunity!

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Contact Jen Stadler at 515-242-8394 or jennifer.stalder@dmschools.org for more information or to plan your delivery. 

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

The Iowa Center for Children’s Justice gives children a voice in divorce and custody conflicts by providing focused legal representation and services for kids. We strive to create stability for children of divorce, lessen the effect of family conflict on children, connect families to support systems and needed resources, and make children’s voices heard.

We do this by offering education workshops to school-age children of divorcing parents to help kids understand and cope with their parents’ separation and divorce. The workshops give children a confidential place to talk about their feelings.  The two-hour workshops are interactive using artwork, games, videos, discussions, and role play to get children comfortable and engaged in conversation. The workshops are two hours on Tuesday evenings once a month. Children are grouped by age; 6-9, 10-12, and 13-16 and placed into age appropriate settings. This is a one-time, court ordered class. 

Help to answer phone at front desk and greet visitors in a pleasant manner as they enter the building.

If you have some time and are looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity, please consider volunteering at EveryStep's Giving Tree Thrift Store. Volunteer tasks include; clothing steamer, fitting room attendant, clothing washer, clothing straightener, baker for fun events, holiday décor-pricer, back door greater, and washing donated dishes.

If you are interested in volunteering at The Giving Tree, please contact Megan at mjensen@everystep.org. 

Volunteers must complete orientation and pass a background check prior to volunteering. 

The Habitat ReStores raise over $400,000 in the sales of donated appliances each year, due largely in part to the effort of staff and volunteers to process and prepare materials in an efficient manner. In order to provide quality items and encourage sales to fund our programs, the ReStores are seeking dedicated volunteers to work alongside our staff to clean, test, and repair donated appliances of all types. The sale of donated appliances provides functioning appliance units to the community, keeps working items out of the landfills, and raises funds for Habitat for Humanity’s affordable housing programs in the Metro area.

This position requires the willingness and ability to:

Note: Experience with appliance maintenance & repair is a plus!! 

Habitat will provide:

Time commitment:

Want to help the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, but building just isn’t your thing? Come help us out at the ReStores, discount home improvement stores selling new and gently used home improvement materials, with all proceeds going directly back into GDM Habitat. The ReStores are open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., with two convenient locations in the metro at 2200 E Euclid and 4033 NW Urbandale Dr. Volunteers in the ReStores load and unload donations, sort and price items, stock shelves, and assist with other exciting, indoor activities. ReStore volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult unless completing school based service hours, and must bring a waiver with parent or guardian signature. School based service hour volunteers must be approved through our ReStore Volunteer Coordinator, Zach Frank zfrank@gdmhabitat.org before signing up. 

Shifts are typically from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. or 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., but are somewhat flexible. Volunteer group sizes are limited to 10 volunteers per site. All volunteers must wear designated PPE including face masks. 

Sign-up for a ReStore shift on our website that will work for you:  https://gdmhabitat.org/restore/restore-volunteer/

Do you want to make a difference in a young person's life while you learn about another culture, create and build friendships, and make ever-lasting memories? Do you have a caring heart and extra space in your home? AnB Education is looking for you! Make a difference today and host an international exchange student! Our students will be arriving around August 2019 for the next school year, and will stay in the US for 10 months. Most of our students are from China, South Korea, and Vietnam and aged 15-18.

All our students need is:

Please contact us at: hostfamily@anbeducation.com to learn more! 

In collaboration with the Executive Director, the Fundraising Committee oversees development efforts and fundraising.

Duties and Accountabilities

Responsible for the overall fundraising plan that incorporates a series of appropriate tactics such as special events, direct mail, sponsorships, etc. Special events may be in partnership with the Community Engagement Committee.

Genesis Youth Foundation is looking for volunteers who can drive our van to pick up Genesis Youth Foundation kids from their homes, and bring them to either practice and/or programming. A license is required to fulfill this role and experience driving a van is desired, but not required.

Programming and practice run Monday through Friday from 5:30pm-7:30pm. Please provide Genesis with what days of the week work best for you to drive, and we will try to coordinate with you! If you cannot make a day during the week, Genesis Youth Foundation also has soccer games (during Spring and Fall seasons) on the weekend that you can help out with!

The van driver receives a list of Genesis kids' homes that are attending soccer or programming before heading onto their route, and those same children will be on the list to drop off after programming/soccer. The van driver should leave around 4:00pm to pick up all the kids, and make it to the center/field for 5:20pm at the latest. Practice or programming ends at 7:30pm - so the van driver would need to arrive at the center/field at 7:30pm to bring the kids home. 

Genesis Youth Foundation is looking for volunteers who are interested in coaching or helping to coach our youth soccer teams! The coaching position involves showing up and running 1 practice a week, and leading the team in a game(s) on the weekend. You will be a leader for the players, and are expected to endorse sportsmanship, fair play, and full participation in the sport. As a coach you will need to plan and supervise games and practices - and if you are working with another coach, keep constant communication with them about the team.

An understanding of soccer as a sport is desired. Practices are usually held from 5:30pm-7:30pm on various days of the week (depending on the team), and games vary on the weekend due to schedules provided by ISL. If you cannot commit to a full time coach, please reach out and ask about an assistant coach! 

Genesis Youth Foundation is searching for a volunteer who is able to help manage and coordinate the ins-and-outs of our youth soccer team(s). The team manager position is essentially the link between the coach, players, parents and Genesis FC. A manager needs to be competent in handling communication between multiple groups of people - the families, players, coaches, Genesis FC and Iowa Soccer League. Communication skills are very important for a manager! This role also helps maintain all information/records relating to each player/family - this can include player cards, roster information, registration information, phone numbers, etc. Managers will also need to help with team registrations for events and help with distribution of uniforms/equipment to players.

The team manager role is the second most time consuming position on the soccer team, right after the coach. It is understandable that this position requires a lot of time and organization. If you want to help Genesis with some of these tasks, but cannot complete all of them - please reach out and we can try to work together for a task list that best suits your needs. Also please note that you would be the team manager of just one team, not all of them.

At Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity volunteers work with our staff members in the community to help people stay safe and comfortable in their homes through our Rock the Block home repair program. Rock the Block is in need of volunteers Wednesday - Fridays from 8:15 a.m. - 4 p.m. with lunch on your own from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Rock the Block is a housing outreach program that assists low-income residents with:

No experience is needed, our construction managers teach you all the skills you need to get the job done. This program allows residents in the Greater Des Moines area to stay in their homes, age in place, have safe accessibility and to have great pride in their homes. 

Volunteer group sizes are limited to 7-8 volunteers per site. All volunteers must wear designated PPE including face masks. Volunteers must be 16 and up to participate. Youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult (age 21 +) and must bring a waiver with parent or guardian signature. To sign up for Rock the Block, please visit our website http://gdmhabitat.org/rtb-volunteers/ 

Genesis Youth Foundation is looking to add volunteers to the Ubuntu Technology Program. In Ubuntu Tech., our students are engaged in STEM topics through specific programs including Project Lead the Way: Medical Detectives, FIRST LEGO League: Explore & Challenge teams, and Digital Arts program.

We are looking for volunteers willing to each of the individual programs. Medical Detectives is on Monday & Thursday, FIRST LEGO League Explore is on Tuesday & Challenge is on Thursday, and our digital arts program runs on Tuesday & Thursday.

Our programs typically operate on a weekly basis from 1 - 3 hours, depending on the program. Our standard hours are Monday - Friday from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.

If you are willing to help to level the playing field, there is a place for you at GYF. 

The Guest Service Representative role at the Science Center of Iowa is a vital role to the first impression a participant gets.  The Guest Service Representative will be stationed near the front doors to welcome participants to SCI, hand out a daily programs schedule, and direct participants to where they need to go. 

Duties:

Qualifications:

Expectations:

At EveryStep, volunteers play an important role in the organization's ability to live out its mission. Simply put, without our dedicated volunteers, EveryStep would not be able to provide care and support to thousands of patients, clients, families, and our own staff every year. EveryStep Hospice and our volunteers help those living with a serious illness make the best out of every day. 

Hospice volunteer opportunities include:

Are you interested in becoming a Hospice volunteer or learning more? Please follow this link to complete our online application and be connected with our Volunteer Coordinator. 

EveryStep Hospice Application - http://bttr.im/xsdfr 

We are looking for your help to spread the word on the benefits of getting vaccinated by helping our team distribute flyers for upcoming vaccine clinics, yard signs, educational materials, and more to the wider community. If you are passionate about helping others, are interested in reaching underserved populations, and want to play a part in keeping our community well, contact us!

We can work with your schedule- every little bit helps!

We need your help delivering interoffice mail across our offices in Des Moines! Volunteers are needed each weekday for about 2 hours, and will drive from one location to the next (for a total of 5 offices) dropping off and picking up interoffice mail. 

Keep the FreeStore free by helping us restock and arrange household items in our warehouse. You can give your time just once or make it a weekly event Tuesday and/or Friday mornings from 9 am to noon. We need volunteers each shift to unpack and sort donations, restock shelves, and support our goal of recycling cardboard and items that may be usable by other agencies.

We have the truck if you have the time. The FreeStore needs individuals like you to pick up donated furniture, which will be given to women and children who have escaped abusive situations. Pickup volunteers will confirm the pickup with the donor the day before, perform a vehicle maintenance check before departing the warehouse, and assure the donated items meet the FreeStore quality standards before loading the furniture on the truck.

Furniture pickup volunteers will need access to email in order to communicate schedules and assignments as well as a personal cell phone for truck to store and truck to donor calls.

Start your Saturday off right by helping families start a new life away from an abusive situation. Working with the FreeStore, you'll deliver furniture and other household items to clients' new apartments on Saturday mornings and feel great about yourself the rest of the weekend. Volunteers will meet at the FreeStore warehouse to help load the items to be delivered, and then follow the FreeStore truck to the client's house where we will unload and re-assemble the furniture.

No prior experience is needed, just the desire to help others.

Be the connection between those with an extra bed and those without. Join the FreeStore in their mission to provide furniture to families who are starting over. Use your ability to communicate and get folks organized as you receive calls from potential donors and coordinate pick-up of items.

Our pick-up teams rely on someone like you to create an efficient schedule so we can fill our warehouse and help more people. Working from home, volunteers receive calls for two weeks followed by six weeks off, and so the rotation continues. By fielding these important phone calls, you will help women who are leaving domestic violence shelters and other difficult circumstances.

United Way of Central Iowa is committed to supporting those in our community who have been impacted by COVID-19 and those who may be impacted by unforeseen economic conditions. Show people in central Iowa how much you care and how much they matter by writing a note — or more — of encouragement. 

United Way will share your messages with our nonprofit partners who are serving the individual people and families in the categories you have to choose from in the form to the right, including healthcare, nonprofit frontline workers providing food and basic needs, seniors in care facilities who can't see family, and kids whose school and out-of-school programming are new and different. These people need the time and positivity you have to give. They need your encouragement right now.

Write a quick note to thank and encourage people in your community — your neighbors, friends or maybe even your co-workers — who are helping to keep our community safe during this time, or to someone vulnerable in the community who may have fallen on hard times, or is feeling isolated and lonely. You can submit a note online using our virtual note form on this page.

Here are a sample messages to help get you started:

House of Mercy Child Care Center is in need of:

If you have items to donate please email Andy Smith at ASmith2@mercydesmoines.org or call 515-643-6545.

Thank you for your support!

About House of Mercy Child Development Center:

John R. Grubb/House of Mercy Child Development Center is a licensed and nationally accredited (NAEYC) childcare facility, serving the children of House of Mercy’s residential clients. The Center serves children age six-weeks old through school age. 

AlRazi Academy is in need for help in starting meals at our program following the child and adult food program standards and regulation . 75% of the families we serve are low income, refugees and immigrants. AlRazi Academy is in the process of starting food program to help serve Children and families who are in need. 

Organize, sort books on shelves, perform routine circulation desk tasks,assist students and staff with locating materials using the available software system, shelve books, and help with light cleaning, checks in or renews materials and shelves returned items. Check out books once the children have made their selections.

T-Shirt Tote Bags are needed to serve families with a pre-packed sack of food at our mobile pantries. We need your help to turn donated T-Shirts into Tote Bags using our provided instructions (link below). 

Instructions: https://www.foodbankiowa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DIY-TShirt-Tote.pdf

NASW Iowa is seeking a volunteer(s) who can help us with creating videos for our annual awardees.  We like to do a 5 minute video of the awardee answering questions about their passion and their careers.  We try very hard to prep our awardees so they answer their questions succinctly, to minimize editing, but we generally need some editing done. 

The Nutrition Team meets Sunday mornings from 9:30-11:00 to sort perishable food and distribute it into coolers for Outreach on Sunday afternoons.  Volunteers serve one Sunday a month.

You don't have to be Vince Lombardi to make a huge impact in the Special Olympic sports world. Help adults and youth with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities discover their athletic potential by coaching, supervising, and supporting them in a variety of sports and events. We have coaching opportunities for people who are passionate about people and sports, including basketball, weightlifting, track and field, swimming, soccer, bocce ball, softball, golf, volleyball, and bowling.

No formal skills are needed, just a positive attitude and the ability to support and encourage participants in their efforts. Link Associates will provide required training in First Aid, CPR, universal precautions, introduction to ID/DD and mandatory reporter. Volunteers must also complete an application, including a background and abuse check.

Be the life of the party as a Special Events Support Volunteer for Link Associates. While the typical “life of the party” may be the one who grabs the most attention, you’ll provide the real life blood to our events by setting up, decorating, serving refreshments, cleaning up, and socializing with participants of dances, parties, and other special programs. Contact us today to learn more about our upcoming events, and look forward to your next volunteer gig.

Going to the movies, shopping at the mall, eating out. These aren’t exactly activities you would chalk up as charitable, but when you’re a residential volunteer that’s exactly what they are. Link Associates needs patient and friendly volunteers to assist our Residential Counselors as they provide support for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities on community outings. Have some fun out in the community while enriching the lives the adults we serve.

Volunteers need to complete a Link Associates Volunteer Application, which includes a background check. You will also need to complete the required agency trainings offered by Link Associates to make sure you’re ready and able to provide the most good possible.

Help others find their calling! Join our team in providing quality vocational day programs to those with intellectual disabilities. Whether you read to clients, assist with work tasks or crafts, or go along on community outings, you will bring a sense of purpose and joy to others! Getting started is simple! Process includes the Link Associates Volunteer Application form, background checks, and agency trainings.

Love to read? Or is gardening more your thing? How about cooking? Link Associates has all sorts of fun ways for volunteers to get involved. We offer activities such as book club, cooking club, gardening group, games, music, swimming, field trips, and more, and we need fun-loving volunteers to help make these activities run smoothly. Join us between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and have some fun while giving back.

To get started, volunteers need to complete an application with background checks and participate in a volunteer orientation. Any necessary training will be provided.

Introduce others to the world of art! As a volunteer for Community Art Connection, you’ll have the opportunity to present your artwork to a group of 25 adults with intellectual disabilities and lead a hands-on, art-related activity. Anything from painting to flower arranging, sing-a-longs to drama-your talents will truly be appreciated. Join us just one evening or sign-up to come every month or two - you decide. The artists at Link Associates are waiting for you!

Hope Ministries Thrift Store is great for small group’s 5-10 people.

Revenue from Hope Ministries Thrift supports Hope Ministries’ programs and services for men, women and children who are homeless, hungry, abused or addicted. Therefore, whether you are shopping at our stores, donating items that can be sold, or volunteering your time, you are helping support our food, shelter and recovery services!

We have two locations:

4640 Merle Hay Rd

500 E Army Post Rd

We invite you and your group of 5-10 people to volunteer for 3-4 hours at a time on our Corporate Friday’s of the month (every Friday is a Corporate Friday ;)

Possible duties include:

- Receiving and receipting donated items

-Sorting donated items into categories

-Tagging items into categories such as clothing, housewares, accessories, jewelry, etc.

-Testing electric items

-Preparing items for sale and putting items out on the sales floor purging unsold items from the sales floor

We would love to have you, thank you for your consideration.

If you’d like to schedule a Corporate Friday Volunteer shift please contact me, Leslie Green lgreen@hopeiowa.org or 515-265-7272

Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a chronic connective tissue disease.  There is no cure and no medicine.  Hardening of the skin is one of the most visible manifestations of the disease. It can also attack internal organs. 

Do you know someone with this disease?   Do you have an interest in helping the Scleroderma community, increasing awareness and education regarding Scleroderma, and supporting research to find a cure?  If yes, then consider joining the Board of Directors of the Scleroderma Foundation Heartland Chapter!

Responsibilities

By joining the Board of Directors (BOD), you will be asked to attend BOD meetings every other month (6 times per year) remotely via Zoom. 

Board members help provide the following:

Qualifications

No specific knowledge of Scleroderma is required.  Business experience with planning, budgets, financial oversite is preferred but not required.  Any previous board experience is a plus.  Information you need to perform your role as a Board Member will be provided.  A desire and passion to assist the Heartland Chapter Scleroderma community is strongly desired. 

Compensation

The Board of Directors is a volunteer position.  As a thank you for your service, Board members may have the opportunity to attend the National Scleroderma Foundation Conference, with expenses paid for by the Heartland Chapter.

Our Three-Fold Mission of Support, Education and Research

Free-Response Question:

How may we contact you?  Please provide your preferred email and/or phone number.

HeartlandChapter@scleroderma.org

Join our volunteer team! An integral piece of our interdisciplinary team, volunteers provide patient care and support services according to his/her experience and training and in compliance with organization policies. We are looking for volunteers willing to meet our patients where they are to cut their hair! 

We provide our patients with in-home care so that they can remain wherever they are most comfortable (nursing home, assisted living, memory care, etc.) so we are looking for volunteers in the communities that we serve. Our current service area includes Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Story, and Warren Counties. Share your talents with our patients! Our volunteers report consistently that they find their experiences very gratifying.

Our Volunteer Coordinator and skilled staff members will orient volunteers to work confidently with our patients ensuring a positive volunteer environment. Contact us to see how you can put your skills to use, further enriching the lives of our patients! You may share your gifts in a very flexible timeframe but are typically requested by the patient to occur once each week for at least one hour. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator to discuss this unique opportunity.

Join our volunteer team! An integral piece of our interdisciplinary team, volunteers provide patient care and support services according to his/her experience and training and in compliance with organization policies. Volunteer areas may include companionship, respite, homemaking duties, running errands, veteran-to-veteran programming, music, community outreach, etc.

We provide our patients with in-home care so that they can remain wherever they are most comfortable (nursing home, assisted living, memory care, etc.) so we are looking for volunteers in the communities that we serve. Our current service area includes Boone, Dallas, Jasper, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Story, and Warren Counties. Share your talents with our patients! Our volunteers report consistently that they find their experiences very gratifying.

Our Volunteer Coordinator and skilled staff members will orient volunteers to work confidently with our patients ensuring a positive volunteer environment. Contact us to see how you can put your skills to use, further enriching the lives of our patients! You may share your gifts in a very flexible timeframe but are typically requested by the patient to occur once each week for at least one hour. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator to discuss this unique opportunity. 

We are looking for someone that speaks Greman!