Volunteer: Shelter DinnersThank you for your interest in preparing dinner(s) for the families staying at New Directions Shelter. Dinners are primarily needed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Dates Dinners Are Currently Needed: September Wednesdays - 24 Saturdays - 27 Sundays - 28October Wednesdays - 1, 8, 15, 22, 29Saturdays - 25November This opportunity involves preparing (or buying) and donating a well-balanced, child-friendly dinner. The meal needs to feed up to 20 people (mostly children). Food needs to be dropped off by 4:00 - 4:30 pm on the designated day. Meals are just dropped off; there is no serving involved. We do have the ability to heat/re-heat as needed. Drinks and/or desserts are not required but are appreciated. More information will be provided to you after sign up, or contact Melanie Wright if you have any questions. 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 Thank you for your interest in preparing dinner(s) for the families staying at New Directions Shelter. Dinners are primarily needed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Dates Dinners Are Currently Needed: September Wednesdays - 24 Saturdays - 27 Sundays - 28October Wednesdays - 1, 8, 15, 22, 29Saturdays - 25November This opportunity involves preparing (or buying) and donating a well-balanced, child-friendly dinner. The meal needs to feed up to 20 people (mostly children). Food needs to be dropped off by 4:00 - 4:30 pm on the designated day. Meals are just dropped off; there is no serving involved. We do have the ability to heat/re-heat as needed. Drinks and/or desserts are not required but are appreciated. More information will be provided to you after sign up, or contact Melanie Wright if you have any questions. 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: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: HORSES, HUMANS, HOPE, HEALING - Start with ORIENTATIONWe offer a one-hour ORIENTATION for all interested in learning more about Rhythms of Grace, a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization that partners with special horses to offer healing and hope to children and adults with special needs. During ORIENTATION, you'll discover the benefits of volunteering and how you can be a part of the success of our participants. After attending ORIENTATION, individuals may sign up for TRAINING and find the volunteer opportunity that suits their interests. After training, voluntees may walk beside riders with disabilities, groom, take and lead horses and help care for the horses outside. There are more than 130 volunteer hour shifts available each week. Organization: Rhythms of Grace We offer a one-hour ORIENTATION for all interested in learning more about Rhythms of Grace, a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization that partners with special horses to offer healing and hope to children and adults with special needs. During ORIENTATION, you'll discover the benefits of volunteering and how you can be a part of the success of our participants. After attending ORIENTATION, individuals may sign up for TRAINING and find the volunteer opportunity that suits their interests. After training, voluntees may walk beside riders with disabilities, groom, take and lead horses and help care for the horses outside. There are more than 130 volunteer hour shifts available each week. Organization: Rhythms of Grace Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Sep 8, 2025 Zip Code: 50063 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Organizing Donations at our ShelterVolunteers are needed to organize our donation area and do light cleaning in our shared living spaces (living room, dining room, and kitchen). Volunteers would be organizing clothing, personals/toiletries, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cleaning products, school supplies, food items, and much more. We provide basic necessities every month for up to the 77 families staying in New Directions Shelter, The Home Connection, and our other housing programs. This is a great project for a single person to work on, or you can sign up to bring a group (up to 10 people at a time). Volunteers should be 10 and older. Youth 14 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Questions? Sign up to receive more information or contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service, but our food pantry does. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Volunteers are needed to organize our donation area and do light cleaning in our shared living spaces (living room, dining room, and kitchen). Volunteers would be organizing clothing, personals/toiletries, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cleaning products, school supplies, food items, and much more. We provide basic necessities every month for up to the 77 families staying in New Directions Shelter, The Home Connection, and our other housing programs. This is a great project for a single person to work on, or you can sign up to bring a group (up to 10 people at a time). Volunteers should be 10 and older. Youth 14 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Questions? Sign up to receive more information or contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service, but our food pantry does. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Children's Activities at the 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 at a time. 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 to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. Large Group Volunteering for Children's Events: If you have a larger group that would like to help with a children's event, please email Missy Reams at Missy@familiesforward.org. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. 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 at a time. 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 to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. Note: This program does not accept court-ordered community service. Large Group Volunteering for Children's Events: If you have a larger group that would like to help with a children's event, please email Missy Reams at Missy@familiesforward.org. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Stock the Food Pantry (evenings & weekends)Volunteers are needed to help stock the pantry on Tuesday nights, Thursday nights, and some Saturdays. Volunteers will help in the following ways: Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.Volunteers should be 5 years of age or older to volunteer. Youth 12 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Note: Tuesday nights will be weekly again starting 10/14/25. Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, the Bidwell Pantry provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Volunteers are needed to help stock the pantry on Tuesday nights, Thursday nights, and some Saturdays. Volunteers will help in the following ways: Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.Volunteers should be 5 years of age or older to volunteer. Youth 12 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Note: Tuesday nights will be weekly again starting 10/14/25. Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, the Bidwell Pantry provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Fence Build for a Family of 8 (PM Shift)Salomon and his family of eight have been working hard with our Housing Counseling team in our pre-purchase counseling program to be able to get to the point where they would qualify for a home. They have been working to raise their credit and bring down their debt. Salomon even took up another job and hasn’t been able to see his kids for three months in order to be able to purchase a home. On top of that, Salomon has been trying to figure out how to secure the yard for his 6 children because of loitering near the yard due to a nearby restaurant. We are so happy to announce that thanks to a grant from Wells Fargo, we will be able to provide the family with a fence for free! They are overjoyed at the news! Now we just need a great group of volunteers to come out and help us get the job done! What to Expect: Join us for a day of hard work and teamwork as we construct and paint a fence that will not only protect their property but also provide a sense of safety for the children. No prior construction experience is needed. After you register here, Jayson Shaffer from HOME, Inc. will reach out to you about how to get fully registered. Please keep an eye out for that email! What to Bring: Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes (crocs, birkenstocks, and similar shoes are not considered close toed shoes.) Water / A reuseable water bottle Sunscreen A willingness to help!What We Provide: All necessary supplies, tools, and PPE Water fill up station SnacksA warm sense of community and the chance to positively impact someone's life.Why Volunteer? This project is more than just building a fence; it’s about giving this family and their kids a safe place to play and grow and create memories! By volunteering your time and skills, you will help create a space for these children to thrive. Location: Address will be given after you have registered to maintain homeowner privacy. Organization: HOME, Inc. Salomon and his family of eight have been working hard with our Housing Counseling team in our pre-purchase counseling program to be able to get to the point where they would qualify for a home. They have been working to raise their credit and bring down their debt. Salomon even took up another job and hasn’t been able to see his kids for three months in order to be able to purchase a home. On top of that, Salomon has been trying to figure out how to secure the yard for his 6 children because of loitering near the yard due to a nearby restaurant. We are so happy to announce that thanks to a grant from Wells Fargo, we will be able to provide the family with a fence for free! They are overjoyed at the news! Now we just need a great group of volunteers to come out and help us get the job done! What to Expect: Join us for a day of hard work and teamwork as we construct and paint a fence that will not only protect their property but also provide a sense of safety for the children. No prior construction experience is needed. After you register here, Jayson Shaffer from HOME, Inc. will reach out to you about how to get fully registered. Please keep an eye out for that email! What to Bring: Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes (crocs, birkenstocks, and similar shoes are not considered close toed shoes.) Water / A reuseable water bottle Sunscreen A willingness to help!What We Provide: All necessary supplies, tools, and PPE Water fill up station SnacksA warm sense of community and the chance to positively impact someone's life.Why Volunteer? This project is more than just building a fence; it’s about giving this family and their kids a safe place to play and grow and create memories! By volunteering your time and skills, you will help create a space for these children to thrive. Location: Address will be given after you have registered to maintain homeowner privacy. Organization: HOME, Inc. Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Oct 23, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Power Read Lead Volunteer (PRL Volunteer)Do you love making a difference in your community and are comfortable leading a group? Everybody Wins! Iowa is searching for charismatic volunteers to guide the program and other volunteers at our school sites. This volunteer role serves as a liaison between school staff, students, mentors, and Everybody Wins! Iowa, as well as leads the school site's Power Read program. We are seeking individuals who have:PRL volunteers will support one school to start, but more can be added depending on your availability. Most schools will need approximately 90 minutes of support each week. School schedules vary, but hours are primarily between 9 AM - 1 PM Monday - Friday. Schools and schedule can be found on the website: www.everybodywinsiowa.org. Please reach out to Stacy Pearce, Operations Manager, volunteer@everybodywinsiowa.org, for more information or to apply! Organization: Everybody Wins! Iowa Do you love making a difference in your community and are comfortable leading a group? Everybody Wins! Iowa is searching for charismatic volunteers to guide the program and other volunteers at our school sites. This volunteer role serves as a liaison between school staff, students, mentors, and Everybody Wins! Iowa, as well as leads the school site's Power Read program. We are seeking individuals who have:PRL volunteers will support one school to start, but more can be added depending on your availability. Most schools will need approximately 90 minutes of support each week. School schedules vary, but hours are primarily between 9 AM - 1 PM Monday - Friday. Schools and schedule can be found on the website: www.everybodywinsiowa.org. Please reach out to Stacy Pearce, Operations Manager, volunteer@everybodywinsiowa.org, for more information or to apply! Organization: Everybody Wins! Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Sept. 9 Adult Literacy Volunteer Literacy Tutor OrientationVolunteer Literacy Tutor (Coach) Orientation DMACC Urban Campus, 1100 7th St, Des Moines Tuesday, September 9 10:30 AM to Noon To attend the orientation, volunteers complete a literacy coach application: Volunteer Literacy Coach Application This orientation is open to anyone who has a desire Volunteer literacy coaches make a huge difference in a struggling reader's life. You meet one-to-one with an assigned adult from the community or with a new Iowan who needs Email Vickie Merrifield, vlmerrifield@dmacc.edu, or stop by Room 110, Building 1, Organization: Adult Literacy Center at DMACC Volunteer Literacy Tutor (Coach) Orientation DMACC Urban Campus, 1100 7th St, Des Moines Tuesday, September 9 10:30 AM to Noon To attend the orientation, volunteers complete a literacy coach application: Volunteer Literacy Coach Application This orientation is open to anyone who has a desire Volunteer literacy coaches make a huge difference in a struggling reader's life. You meet one-to-one with an assigned adult from the community or with a new Iowan who needs Email Vickie Merrifield, vlmerrifield@dmacc.edu, or stop by Room 110, Building 1, Organization: Adult Literacy Center at DMACC Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Sep 9, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm - Team Building for Volunteer GroupsAre you looking for a great team-building volunteer opportunity for your work group/department, school team or group, church group, social club, or friend group? If so, we invite you to learn, work and have some fun together in the Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm! We currently have several dates available in October, with the greatest need on Mondays and Fridays. The hydroponic farm is a 3,000 square foot indoor farm capable of producing 20,000 pounds of leafy greens a year. Our farm provides some of our most at risk populations in the metro a source of fresh, healthy greens year-round. We also provide greens to other WesleyLife and local communities. Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. We can accommodate groups up to 15 people per 2-hour shift, and we offer three shifts daily, Monday through Friday (10 a.m. - Noon; Noon to 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most! The tasks on our farm include: Seeding: This task is what it sounds like, seeding all of our baby plants! This task is good for someone who likes to sit and enjoy the peace that comes with putting a seed in a hole. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Harvesting: This is when our plants begin to become salad! This will include removing rafts from the system and cutting the heads from the roots. There will also be plenty of cleaning and working alongside the packing team as needed. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Packing: The packing process is when our lettuce heads get washed, dried, and packed into bags. Often done in tandem with harvesting, this is the step that prepares our food to go! This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Cleaning: The most important of all tasks! Cleaning ensures our facility is both healthy for our plants and those we serve. This includes cleaning hydroponic systems, kitchen ware, floors, walls, etc. This task is done daily and anyone who comes to the farm should be ready to clean.Once you express interest in volunteering at the farm from this listing, you will receive separate communication from Claire Smith, Assistant Grower. You can also reach out to her directly at csmith6@wesleylife.org. Volunteering at the Meals on Wheels hydroponic farm only takes place Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Organization: WesleyLife Are you looking for a great team-building volunteer opportunity for your work group/department, school team or group, church group, social club, or friend group? If so, we invite you to learn, work and have some fun together in the Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm! We currently have several dates available in October, with the greatest need on Mondays and Fridays. The hydroponic farm is a 3,000 square foot indoor farm capable of producing 20,000 pounds of leafy greens a year. Our farm provides some of our most at risk populations in the metro a source of fresh, healthy greens year-round. We also provide greens to other WesleyLife and local communities. Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. We can accommodate groups up to 15 people per 2-hour shift, and we offer three shifts daily, Monday through Friday (10 a.m. - Noon; Noon to 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most! The tasks on our farm include: Seeding: This task is what it sounds like, seeding all of our baby plants! This task is good for someone who likes to sit and enjoy the peace that comes with putting a seed in a hole. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Harvesting: This is when our plants begin to become salad! This will include removing rafts from the system and cutting the heads from the roots. There will also be plenty of cleaning and working alongside the packing team as needed. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Packing: The packing process is when our lettuce heads get washed, dried, and packed into bags. Often done in tandem with harvesting, this is the step that prepares our food to go! This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Cleaning: The most important of all tasks! Cleaning ensures our facility is both healthy for our plants and those we serve. This includes cleaning hydroponic systems, kitchen ware, floors, walls, etc. This task is done daily and anyone who comes to the farm should be ready to clean.Once you express interest in volunteering at the farm from this listing, you will receive separate communication from Claire Smith, Assistant Grower. You can also reach out to her directly at csmith6@wesleylife.org. Volunteering at the Meals on Wheels hydroponic farm only takes place Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Organization: WesleyLife Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Meals on Wheels Friendly CallerThank you for your consideration to become part of the Meals on Wheels Friendly Caller Program! Social connectedness is a critical component of overall well-being – the calls you make help form a network of support around our most vulnerable clients. As a Friendly Caller, you will become part of a team, who, on any given weekday, delivers nearly 2,000 healthy, delicious meals to older adults, veterans, and adults with special needs in Polk and Dallas Counties. Along with a hot meal, the team delivers a friendly face and a daily well-being check to each of our participants. A Friendly Caller like you allows Meals on Wheels to provide an added support system to participants who are isolated and often lonely. Your call may support the client’s emotional wellbeing and give peace of mind to family members who worry about their loved ones but can’t always be with them. Calls can take place 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can establish a regular call schedule with your matched clients on a 1x/week, 2x/month, or 1x/month basis. Calls last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. This is a great time to become a Friendly Caller volunteer! We are matching Meals on Wheels participants with volunteers. We all play an important role in protecting the health, safety, and privacy of our participants, team members, and volunteers. You will receive instructions on how to make sure you're doing your part, and ongoing training can be provided upon request. Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org (515-699-3249). Organization: WesleyLife Thank you for your consideration to become part of the Meals on Wheels Friendly Caller Program! Social connectedness is a critical component of overall well-being – the calls you make help form a network of support around our most vulnerable clients. As a Friendly Caller, you will become part of a team, who, on any given weekday, delivers nearly 2,000 healthy, delicious meals to older adults, veterans, and adults with special needs in Polk and Dallas Counties. Along with a hot meal, the team delivers a friendly face and a daily well-being check to each of our participants. A Friendly Caller like you allows Meals on Wheels to provide an added support system to participants who are isolated and often lonely. Your call may support the client’s emotional wellbeing and give peace of mind to family members who worry about their loved ones but can’t always be with them. Calls can take place 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can establish a regular call schedule with your matched clients on a 1x/week, 2x/month, or 1x/month basis. Calls last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. This is a great time to become a Friendly Caller volunteer! We are matching Meals on Wheels participants with volunteers. We all play an important role in protecting the health, safety, and privacy of our participants, team members, and volunteers. You will receive instructions on how to make sure you're doing your part, and ongoing training can be provided upon request. Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org (515-699-3249). Organization: WesleyLife Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Meals on Wheels Home Delivery VolunteerEvery weekday, Wesley Life Meals on Wheels prepares and delivers nearly 2,000 hot, nutritious lunches to homebound older adults, veterans, and people living with disabilities. Our volunteers support this mission by delivering meals directly to those in need, while taking a moment to check in with our participants to make sure they are safe and well. In 2024, WesleyLife Meals on Wheels delivered 428,116 hot meals to older adults, veterans, and people living with physical and mental disabilities. We know that 91% of our clients report eating healthier, and 94% of our clients are able to stay independent in their own homes thanks in part to Meals on Wheels. As a WesleyLife Meals on Wheels volunteer, you will: Promote local food security Provide needed human interaction and social connection Support the physical and mental wellbeing of those we serve Enhance the peace of mind of our participants and their loved onesAs a Volunteer Delivery Driver, you will help deliver meals Monday through Friday to client homes throughout Polk County between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. We have 17 different routes to choose from, all ranging in estimated delivery time and number of clients served. Check out our interactive map of Meals on Wheels Volunteer Routes to find a route that works for you! Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org (515) 229-7467. Click here to apply today! Organization: WesleyLife Every weekday, Wesley Life Meals on Wheels prepares and delivers nearly 2,000 hot, nutritious lunches to homebound older adults, veterans, and people living with disabilities. Our volunteers support this mission by delivering meals directly to those in need, while taking a moment to check in with our participants to make sure they are safe and well. In 2024, WesleyLife Meals on Wheels delivered 428,116 hot meals to older adults, veterans, and people living with physical and mental disabilities. We know that 91% of our clients report eating healthier, and 94% of our clients are able to stay independent in their own homes thanks in part to Meals on Wheels. As a WesleyLife Meals on Wheels volunteer, you will: Promote local food security Provide needed human interaction and social connection Support the physical and mental wellbeing of those we serve Enhance the peace of mind of our participants and their loved onesAs a Volunteer Delivery Driver, you will help deliver meals Monday through Friday to client homes throughout Polk County between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. We have 17 different routes to choose from, all ranging in estimated delivery time and number of clients served. Check out our interactive map of Meals on Wheels Volunteer Routes to find a route that works for you! Contact Tawnya Fields, Meals on Wheels Volunteer Coordinator, for more information: tfields@wesleylife.org (515) 229-7467. Click here to apply today! Organization: WesleyLife Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm VolunteerThe Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm is a 3,000 square foot indoor farm capable of producing 20,000 pounds of leafy greens a year. Our farm provides some of our most at risk populations in the metro a source of fresh, healthy greens year-round. We also provide greens to other WesleyLife and local communities. Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming, and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most. The tasks on our farm include: Seeding: This task is what it sounds like, seeding all of our baby plants! This task is good for someone who likes to sit and enjoy the peace that comes with putting a seed in a hole. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Harvesting: This is when our plants begin to become salad! This will include removing rafts from the system and cutting the heads from the roots. There will also be plenty of cleaning and working alongside the packing team as needed. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Packing: The packing process is when our lettuce heads get washed, dried, and packed into bags. Often done in tandem with harvesting, this is the step that prepares our food to go! This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Cleaning: The most important of all tasks! Cleaning ensures our facility is both healthy for our plants and those we serve. This includes cleaning hydroponic systems, kitchen ware, floors, walls, etc. This task is done daily and anyone who comes to the farm should be ready to clean.Once you express interest in volunteering at the farm from this listing, you will receive separate communication from Claire Smith, Assistant Grower. You can also reach out to her directly at csmith6@wesleylife.org. Volunteering at the Meals on Wheels hydroponic farm only takes place Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Organization: WesleyLife The Meals on Wheels Hydroponic Farm is a 3,000 square foot indoor farm capable of producing 20,000 pounds of leafy greens a year. Our farm provides some of our most at risk populations in the metro a source of fresh, healthy greens year-round. We also provide greens to other WesleyLife and local communities. Training will be provided for every task. We do not require a background in gardening or farming, and only ask that you have an open mind and drive to help feed others. Come help us grow nutrition for those who need it most. The tasks on our farm include: Seeding: This task is what it sounds like, seeding all of our baby plants! This task is good for someone who likes to sit and enjoy the peace that comes with putting a seed in a hole. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Harvesting: This is when our plants begin to become salad! This will include removing rafts from the system and cutting the heads from the roots. There will also be plenty of cleaning and working alongside the packing team as needed. This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Packing: The packing process is when our lettuce heads get washed, dried, and packed into bags. Often done in tandem with harvesting, this is the step that prepares our food to go! This is done over 1 to 2 days during the week. Cleaning: The most important of all tasks! Cleaning ensures our facility is both healthy for our plants and those we serve. This includes cleaning hydroponic systems, kitchen ware, floors, walls, etc. This task is done daily and anyone who comes to the farm should be ready to clean.Once you express interest in volunteering at the farm from this listing, you will receive separate communication from Claire Smith, Assistant Grower. You can also reach out to her directly at csmith6@wesleylife.org. Volunteering at the Meals on Wheels hydroponic farm only takes place Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Organization: WesleyLife Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Monthly Food Collection Neighborhood CoordinatorA Neighborhood Coordinator creates a strong support network where neighbors help neighbors, fostering unity and connection. Instead of individual donations, it’s many at one time - amplifying impact! Your vision inspires others to step up to fill a need, while strengthening community bonds with every food drive and delivery. Organization: PORCH Communities A Neighborhood Coordinator creates a strong support network where neighbors help neighbors, fostering unity and connection. Instead of individual donations, it’s many at one time - amplifying impact! Your vision inspires others to step up to fill a need, while strengthening community bonds with every food drive and delivery. Organization: PORCH Communities Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Night Eyes - Iowa's Merry Not Scary Halloween EventNight Eyes Organization: Blank Park Zoo Night Eyes Organization: Blank Park Zoo Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Oct 16, 2025 through Oct 26, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Camp Volunteer DayCamp Hantesa is a local summer camp for youth in grades K-12. With more than 150 acres, it takes a lot of extra hands to maintain our facilities and grounds. Join us for a day of service dedicated to closing our seasonal facilities, making minor maintenance improvements, and beautifying camp for our campers! Organization: Camp Fire Heart Of Iowa Camp Hantesa is a local summer camp for youth in grades K-12. With more than 150 acres, it takes a lot of extra hands to maintain our facilities and grounds. Join us for a day of service dedicated to closing our seasonal facilities, making minor maintenance improvements, and beautifying camp for our campers! Organization: Camp Fire Heart Of Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Sep 18, 2025 Zip Code: 50036 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Girl Scout Club FaciltiatorGirl Scouts of Greater Iowa has an exciting, short-term, mission-focused volunteer opportunity for you to work with elementary-aged girls to help them build courage, confidence, and character in Girl Scout Club! This short-term after-school program is for girls in grades K-5 and takes place one hour each week, for five weeks. Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa partners with schools and community partners around the Central Iowa area to make these Girl Scout Clubs possible! Several after school Girl Scout Clubs are starting soon and we need your help as a club facilitator! Club size, dates, and times vary by location. We’ll provide you with training, resources, lesson plans and supplies for each session, as well as ongoing support to deliver a positive learning environment for girls! Each week, you’ll lead participants in hands-on activities—encouraging them as they learn and try new things. While participating in a traditional Girl Scout troop experience is the heart of Girl Scouting, some girls and their families have barriers and challenges that prevent them from having access to a Girl Scout troop. That’s where Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa’s Mission Outreach programs come in! The goal of Mission Outreach is to meet girls where they are, in an effort to reduce barriers and expand access to Girl Scout programming, providing opportunities for leadership, adventure, and success. We work with youth-serving community partners in our council to bring high-quality, short-term Girl Scout experiences to girls. A part of the Mission Outreach program is Girl Scout Club! Club sessions are designed based off the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, providing girls an onsite and hands-on learning environment to explore the areas of STEAM, outdoors, life skills, and entrepreneurship to build courage, confidence, and character. All activities are girl-led and guided by a trained Girl Scout Club Volunteer! Our activity plans include: Self-expression and empowerment, Social relationship development, STEAM, Teamwork and leadership, Financial literacy and money management, Engaged citizenship. Organization: Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa has an exciting, short-term, mission-focused volunteer opportunity for you to work with elementary-aged girls to help them build courage, confidence, and character in Girl Scout Club! This short-term after-school program is for girls in grades K-5 and takes place one hour each week, for five weeks. Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa partners with schools and community partners around the Central Iowa area to make these Girl Scout Clubs possible! Several after school Girl Scout Clubs are starting soon and we need your help as a club facilitator! Club size, dates, and times vary by location. We’ll provide you with training, resources, lesson plans and supplies for each session, as well as ongoing support to deliver a positive learning environment for girls! Each week, you’ll lead participants in hands-on activities—encouraging them as they learn and try new things. While participating in a traditional Girl Scout troop experience is the heart of Girl Scouting, some girls and their families have barriers and challenges that prevent them from having access to a Girl Scout troop. That’s where Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa’s Mission Outreach programs come in! The goal of Mission Outreach is to meet girls where they are, in an effort to reduce barriers and expand access to Girl Scout programming, providing opportunities for leadership, adventure, and success. We work with youth-serving community partners in our council to bring high-quality, short-term Girl Scout experiences to girls. A part of the Mission Outreach program is Girl Scout Club! Club sessions are designed based off the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, providing girls an onsite and hands-on learning environment to explore the areas of STEAM, outdoors, life skills, and entrepreneurship to build courage, confidence, and character. All activities are girl-led and guided by a trained Girl Scout Club Volunteer! Our activity plans include: Self-expression and empowerment, Social relationship development, STEAM, Teamwork and leadership, Financial literacy and money management, Engaged citizenship. Organization: Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Light The Night IowaAt The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night we gather as a community to celebrate, honor, and remember those touched by cancers. Friends, families, schools, corporate teams, and sponsors join together to bring light to the darkness of cancer. The funds raised by this community fund lifesaving research, advocacy and support for blood cancer patients and their families. Join us in the fight to cure cancer! This is a family-friendly event with a Kids Glow Zone area, great local food vendors, fireworks show and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. Volunteer at our event to help fight blood cancer! Organization: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) At The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night we gather as a community to celebrate, honor, and remember those touched by cancers. Friends, families, schools, corporate teams, and sponsors join together to bring light to the darkness of cancer. The funds raised by this community fund lifesaving research, advocacy and support for blood cancer patients and their families. Join us in the fight to cure cancer! This is a family-friendly event with a Kids Glow Zone area, great local food vendors, fireworks show and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. Volunteer at our event to help fight blood cancer! Organization: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Sep 10, 2025 Zip Code: 50023 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Block Printing Project LeaderThe Botanical Artisan Guild is looking for a volunteer to help develop and coordinate a project to make block printing art to support the Guild. This person will be responsible for organizing regularly scheduled sessions with interested volunteers for training, carving and printing. Additionally, they will be responsible for developing ideas for relief printing products, organizing tools and supplies and communicating with volunteers. Successful candidates should have the following qualifications: --Enjoy working with others to create art that can be sold in the Garden Shop --Experience in block printing either from school or home hobby projects --Be willing to train others in the skills of linocut carving and relief printing on paper and fabric --Availability during daytime hours The Botanical Artisans Guild is a group of volunteers who create arts and crafts to sell in the garden shop. Their inspiration comes from the plants and gardens at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. If interested, applicants can drop an email to artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com for more information. Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden The Botanical Artisan Guild is looking for a volunteer to help develop and coordinate a project to make block printing art to support the Guild. This person will be responsible for organizing regularly scheduled sessions with interested volunteers for training, carving and printing. Additionally, they will be responsible for developing ideas for relief printing products, organizing tools and supplies and communicating with volunteers. Successful candidates should have the following qualifications: --Enjoy working with others to create art that can be sold in the Garden Shop --Experience in block printing either from school or home hobby projects --Be willing to train others in the skills of linocut carving and relief printing on paper and fabric --Availability during daytime hours The Botanical Artisans Guild is a group of volunteers who create arts and crafts to sell in the garden shop. Their inspiration comes from the plants and gardens at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. If interested, applicants can drop an email to artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com for more information. Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Make No-Sew T-shirt BagsNeed a project to do at home? We need bags for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Recycle your old t-shirts into no-sew t-shirt bags. We can use over 120 t-shirt bags per day, so we welcome large donations of these bags. (We are now serving 6,000 to 9,000 people per month.) Please let us know if you would like someone from Families Forward to come share the impact that this project provides to our organization and those we serve.Making no-sew t-shirt bags is a great project that you can do from home and allows you to re-purposes an old t-shirt. No-sew t-shirt bags are sturdier than plastic bags, can hold more food items, and be re-used. This project is also kid-friendly and environmentally friendly. We also need used plastic grocery bags, paper grocery bags and cloth bags. Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 For Instructions: Click here to view the instructions to make the bags. Questions? Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Need a project to do at home? We need bags for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Recycle your old t-shirts into no-sew t-shirt bags. We can use over 120 t-shirt bags per day, so we welcome large donations of these bags. (We are now serving 6,000 to 9,000 people per month.) Please let us know if you would like someone from Families Forward to come share the impact that this project provides to our organization and those we serve.Making no-sew t-shirt bags is a great project that you can do from home and allows you to re-purposes an old t-shirt. No-sew t-shirt bags are sturdier than plastic bags, can hold more food items, and be re-used. This project is also kid-friendly and environmentally friendly. We also need used plastic grocery bags, paper grocery bags and cloth bags. Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 For Instructions: Click here to view the instructions to make the bags. Questions? Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Large Group Volunteer OpportunitiesHave a large group that is looking to volunteer together? We’d love your help! We welcome groups of up to 75 volunteers at one time. We can only host one large volunteer group per day. Our calendar can fill up quickly. Volunteer shifts range from 2 – 8 hours. (You choose.) Volunteer opportunities include: Up to 75 volunteers: Available evenings and weekends at our Hartford Campus (pantry, childcare center, and flower beds / yardwork). With a 60-90 day notice, we can host a week day opportunity, too. Up to 30 volunteers: Available weekdays, evenings, and weekends at our Hartford Campus (pantry, childcare center, and flower beds / yardwork). Up to 15 volunteers: Available weekdays at our shelter or our pantry. Evenings and Weekends: Volunteer groups need to be a minimum of 4 volunteers to schedule but can be up to 75 people.For more information or to sign up: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including information about the work our organization does to support the community. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Have a large group that is looking to volunteer together? We’d love your help! We welcome groups of up to 75 volunteers at one time. We can only host one large volunteer group per day. Our calendar can fill up quickly. Volunteer shifts range from 2 – 8 hours. (You choose.) Volunteer opportunities include: Up to 75 volunteers: Available evenings and weekends at our Hartford Campus (pantry, childcare center, and flower beds / yardwork). With a 60-90 day notice, we can host a week day opportunity, too. Up to 30 volunteers: Available weekdays, evenings, and weekends at our Hartford Campus (pantry, childcare center, and flower beds / yardwork). Up to 15 volunteers: Available weekdays at our shelter or our pantry. Evenings and Weekends: Volunteer groups need to be a minimum of 4 volunteers to schedule but can be up to 75 people.For more information or to sign up: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including information about the work our organization does to support the community. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Help Us Plan our Perennial Flower BedsFamilies Forward New Directions Shelter has several flower beds in front our family shelter (giant, 3-story red brick house) and several behind. We are looking for a volunteer (or a small group) that is interested in helping us plan perennials into these flower beds to make maintenance and support of these flower beds easier. The family shelter is located at 3001 Grand Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315. We have numerous perennials at our other location where our child development center and pantry are located. Volunteers have done a wonderful job over the last ten years of donating and planting numerous perennials. The plants could potentially be split and planted at the family shelter. We have many volunteers that love to help us with our projects. We are just looking for some plant-savvy volunteers to help us create a diagram, or plan, of which plants should go into which flower beds. We want to allow these plants to thrive and create a beautiful yard for the children to play in and their families to enjoy. Timing for this project is flexible, and we can meet with you during the week, evenings or weekends. Volunteers can be involved in the planting, but not required. We also would welcome the donation of perennial plants. Questions? Contact Missy Reams.Email: missy@familiesforward.org Phone: 515-989-8404Text: 515-346-8895About 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 Families Forward New Directions Shelter has several flower beds in front our family shelter (giant, 3-story red brick house) and several behind. We are looking for a volunteer (or a small group) that is interested in helping us plan perennials into these flower beds to make maintenance and support of these flower beds easier. The family shelter is located at 3001 Grand Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315. We have numerous perennials at our other location where our child development center and pantry are located. Volunteers have done a wonderful job over the last ten years of donating and planting numerous perennials. The plants could potentially be split and planted at the family shelter. We have many volunteers that love to help us with our projects. We are just looking for some plant-savvy volunteers to help us create a diagram, or plan, of which plants should go into which flower beds. We want to allow these plants to thrive and create a beautiful yard for the children to play in and their families to enjoy. Timing for this project is flexible, and we can meet with you during the week, evenings or weekends. Volunteers can be involved in the planting, but not required. We also would welcome the donation of perennial plants. Questions? Contact Missy Reams.Email: missy@familiesforward.org Phone: 515-989-8404Text: 515-346-8895About 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 Oct 18, 2025 Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Help Pick Up Grocery Store DonationsVolunteers are needed to assist with picking up food donations for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry at various retailers and grocery stores. We are looking for volunteers that could help on a regular basis (either weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Volunteers should be 18 years old or older. Hours available for this position are: Fridays from 9:00am - 11:00am Mondays from 8:30am - 10:00amThursdays from 8:00am - 11:00amVolunteers would help in the following way: Accompany volunteer or staff to designated grocery stores and retailers.Load and unload food items into vehicle and pantry.Maintain accurate records of food donations.Store food items properly.To Volunteer: Contact Missy Reams for scheduling at missy@familiesforward.org, or by phone at 515-989-8404, or by text at 515-346-8895. About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, Bidwell provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Volunteers are needed to assist with picking up food donations for the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry at various retailers and grocery stores. We are looking for volunteers that could help on a regular basis (either weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Volunteers should be 18 years old or older. Hours available for this position are: Fridays from 9:00am - 11:00am Mondays from 8:30am - 10:00amThursdays from 8:00am - 11:00amVolunteers would help in the following way: Accompany volunteer or staff to designated grocery stores and retailers.Load and unload food items into vehicle and pantry.Maintain accurate records of food donations.Store food items properly.To Volunteer: Contact Missy Reams for scheduling at missy@familiesforward.org, or by phone at 515-989-8404, or by text at 515-346-8895. About Bidwell Pantry: At the Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving up to 6,700 individuals per month, Bidwell provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Food and Clothing Pantry VolunteersVolunteers are needed to help families get food, clothing and other basic necessities at the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Training is provided when a volunteer first arrives. Individual Signup: To sign up individually or up to 3 people, click here.Volunteers help in the following way each day: Food Pantry Guide: Guiding families through their grocery “shopping” experience. Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.Volunteers needed Monday through Friday (day time and evening shifts) and some Saturdays. Volunteers should be 5 years of age or older to volunteer. Youth 12 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404 or by text at 515-346-8895. About Families Forward Bidwell Pantry: At the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving 6,000 - 9,000 individuals per month, our pantry provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Volunteers are needed to help families get food, clothing and other basic necessities at the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry. Training is provided when a volunteer first arrives. Individual Signup: To sign up individually or up to 3 people, click here.Volunteers help in the following way each day: Food Pantry Guide: Guiding families through their grocery “shopping” experience. Clothing Pantry: Sorting, hanging, and organizing clothing and household donations. Grocery Aisles: Stocking and facing grocery items.Volunteers needed Monday through Friday (day time and evening shifts) and some Saturdays. Volunteers should be 5 years of age or older to volunteer. Youth 12 years of age and younger should have an adult on site with them while volunteering. Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404 or by text at 515-346-8895. About Families Forward Bidwell Pantry: At the Families Forward Bidwell Pantry, we provide basic necessities to families in need. Help families “shop” through our free building for food, personal care items, clothing, and household items. Serving 6,000 - 9,000 individuals per month, our pantry provides hope to families and helps them bridge the gap, so that they can spend their hard earned money on other necessities besides food and clothing. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help, including an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. Information for First-time Volunteers: Click here for information about parking, how to check in when you arrive, and much more. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Collect Used Plastic Grocery Bags for PantryThe Bidwell Pantry needs used plastic grocery bags to help bag up the pantry guests’ groceries. The Bidwell Pantry serves 6,000 to 9,000 individuals per month. With the rising costs of food and supplies, you can help make a difference more than ever. We also accept used paper grocery bags and cloth bags. We are currently serving between 100 to 150 families per day and need 2-3 bags for each person's groceries. Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward The Bidwell Pantry needs used plastic grocery bags to help bag up the pantry guests’ groceries. The Bidwell Pantry serves 6,000 to 9,000 individuals per month. With the rising costs of food and supplies, you can help make a difference more than ever. We also accept used paper grocery bags and cloth bags. We are currently serving between 100 to 150 families per day and need 2-3 bags for each person's groceries. Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) Has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Clothing Donation DrivesHost a Clothing Donation Drive to help provide clothing and needed items to those struggling financially in our community. The Families Forward Bidwell Pantry serves between 6,000 to 9,000 people each month, so all sizes and ages of clothing are welcome. (All items are free to those that come to our pantry.) Scheduling a Drop Off Donations that are more than 5 garbage bags or boxes must be scheduled 2-3 days in advance. To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 2-3 business days for scheduling.Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315
About Families Forward: Families Forward has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Host a Clothing Donation Drive to help provide clothing and needed items to those struggling financially in our community. The Families Forward Bidwell Pantry serves between 6,000 to 9,000 people each month, so all sizes and ages of clothing are welcome. (All items are free to those that come to our pantry.) Scheduling a Drop Off Donations that are more than 5 garbage bags or boxes must be scheduled 2-3 days in advance. To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 2-3 business days for scheduling.Drop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315
About Families Forward: Families Forward has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: DMARC Ambassadors Committee
Activities include: Commitment: Every other month for 1.5-2 hours, with optional additional engagement. Ideal for: New or long-time supporters, young professionals, civic-minded individuals, or anyone looking to get more involved with hands-on experiences! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)
Activities include: Commitment: Every other month for 1.5-2 hours, with optional additional engagement. Ideal for: New or long-time supporters, young professionals, civic-minded individuals, or anyone looking to get more involved with hands-on experiences! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: DMARC Red Barrel Committee
Key activities: Commitment: Meets 2–4 times per year with occasional tasks in between, such as organizing drives or contacting new locations. Ideal for: Volunteers with marketing, logistics, or retail experience- or a love for hands-on food drive efforts! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)
Key activities: Commitment: Meets 2–4 times per year with occasional tasks in between, such as organizing drives or contacting new locations. Ideal for: Volunteers with marketing, logistics, or retail experience- or a love for hands-on food drive efforts! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: DMARC Corporate Leadership CabinetThe Corporate Leadership Cabinet is a network of community-minded business leaders who support DMARC through strategic partnerships, resource sharing, and community engagement. Members act as ambassadors within their sectors to raise awareness of DMARC’s mission, contribute financially or in-kind, and help open doors to new opportunities. Activities include: Ideal for: Professionals and executives who want to lend their influence to reduce food insecurity in Greater Des Moines. Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) The Corporate Leadership Cabinet is a network of community-minded business leaders who support DMARC through strategic partnerships, resource sharing, and community engagement. Members act as ambassadors within their sectors to raise awareness of DMARC’s mission, contribute financially or in-kind, and help open doors to new opportunities. Activities include: Ideal for: Professionals and executives who want to lend their influence to reduce food insecurity in Greater Des Moines. Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Board of Health VolunteerDallas County is seeking a volunteer to fill a vacancy on the Dallas County Board of Health. This position oversees administration of the Dallas County Health Department. Volunteers with a passion for public health and a comfort level with governmental budgets or finance are especially welcomed. Volunteers would be asked to attend monthly meetings on the third Thursday of the month from 6:00-7:30pm, unless there is no business for the Board to discuss. Organization: Dallas County Health Department Dallas County is seeking a volunteer to fill a vacancy on the Dallas County Board of Health. This position oversees administration of the Dallas County Health Department. Volunteers with a passion for public health and a comfort level with governmental budgets or finance are especially welcomed. Volunteers would be asked to attend monthly meetings on the third Thursday of the month from 6:00-7:30pm, unless there is no business for the Board to discuss. Organization: Dallas County Health Department Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50003 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Spring Greens Event Committee
Date: April 30th, 2026 at DMARC’s headquarters, 100 Army Post Rd., Des Moines. Subcommittees include: Sponsorship – Secure financial sponsors and help meet revenue goals. Raffle – Source a high-value raffle item and coordinate raffle sales and promotion. Logistics – Coordinate event setup, managing timelines and volunteers. Communications & Promotions – Assist with marketing materials, social media, and press outreach. Decor & Design – Plan and implement the event’s decor and design. Pallet Project – Recruitment of organizations, clubs and faith communities to design and create a pallet project for the Spring Greens event. Commitment: Ideal for: Organized, creative individuals who enjoy event planning, fundraising, or outreach! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)
Date: April 30th, 2026 at DMARC’s headquarters, 100 Army Post Rd., Des Moines. Subcommittees include: Sponsorship – Secure financial sponsors and help meet revenue goals. Raffle – Source a high-value raffle item and coordinate raffle sales and promotion. Logistics – Coordinate event setup, managing timelines and volunteers. Communications & Promotions – Assist with marketing materials, social media, and press outreach. Decor & Design – Plan and implement the event’s decor and design. Pallet Project – Recruitment of organizations, clubs and faith communities to design and create a pallet project for the Spring Greens event. Commitment: Ideal for: Organized, creative individuals who enjoy event planning, fundraising, or outreach! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Food Pantry VolunteerThe DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to assist clients with food orders, stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items, and accept donations. Volunteers will help families shop to meet their food and personal care needs. Some lifting is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday as well as Tuesdays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may either commit to one shift per week, or volunteer intermittently as a sub. Please note, we are seeking volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis either by committing to a regular weekly shift OR by subbing on an intermittent basis - we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the food pantry due to the training involved. In addition, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. The food pantry is located in the Valley Junction neighborhood of West Des Moines. Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information, or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services The DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to assist clients with food orders, stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items, and accept donations. Volunteers will help families shop to meet their food and personal care needs. Some lifting is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday as well as Tuesdays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may either commit to one shift per week, or volunteer intermittently as a sub. Please note, we are seeking volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis either by committing to a regular weekly shift OR by subbing on an intermittent basis - we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the food pantry due to the training involved. In addition, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. The food pantry is located in the Valley Junction neighborhood of West Des Moines. Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information, or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Organization Requirement: >14 years old Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: ELL Teacher - Level 2 ClassWest Des Moines Human Services is seeking a volunteer to teach a small English Language Learner (ELL) class for adults on Tuesday mornings from 10 am to noon from September 9th through November 18th. Volunteers will provide group and one-on-one instruction for adult learners at West Des Moines Human Services. Knowledge of a second language and teaching experience are not necessary to volunteer! Please call 515-222-3663 or email HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov for more information. Organization: West Des Moines Human Services West Des Moines Human Services is seeking a volunteer to teach a small English Language Learner (ELL) class for adults on Tuesday mornings from 10 am to noon from September 9th through November 18th. Volunteers will provide group and one-on-one instruction for adult learners at West Des Moines Human Services. Knowledge of a second language and teaching experience are not necessary to volunteer! Please call 515-222-3663 or email HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov for more information. Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: ELL Assistant VolunteerWest Des Moines Human Services is seeking volunteers to assist in English Language Learner (ELL) classes on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings from 10 am to noon. Volunteers in this role would serve as an assistant to a lead teacher. Minimum commitment is one 2-hour class per week for 10 weeks. Volunteers will provide small group and one-on-one instruction for adult learners. Knowledge of a second language is not necessary to volunteer. Please call 515-222-3663 for more information or email HumanServices@wdm.iowa.gov Organization: West Des Moines Human Services West Des Moines Human Services is seeking volunteers to assist in English Language Learner (ELL) classes on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings from 10 am to noon. Volunteers in this role would serve as an assistant to a lead teacher. Minimum commitment is one 2-hour class per week for 10 weeks. Volunteers will provide small group and one-on-one instruction for adult learners. Knowledge of a second language is not necessary to volunteer. Please call 515-222-3663 for more information or email HumanServices@wdm.iowa.gov Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Family BBQ and Game NightWe are hosting a BBQ dinner and game night. Dinner will be open and free to the public. Our goal is to serve 200 meals in one night. Organization: Community Hand Up We are hosting a BBQ dinner and game night. Dinner will be open and free to the public. Our goal is to serve 200 meals in one night. Organization: Community Hand Up Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Oct 7, 2025 Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: DISCOVER the WILD DAY Volunteer OpportunitiesDISCOVER the WILD Days at the Zoo! The purpose of these days is to connect the Zoo guest with the Zoo's SAVING the WILD conservation priority animals, conservation organizations, AZA, and how to TAKE ACTION for the natural world around them. These days are planned and coordinated by the Zoo's Education Team. Activities are simple, interactive and can be learned the day of the event. Shifts are from 9:45 - 12:00 & 11:45 - 2:00. Volunteers ages 9 and up are welcomed. ** Volunteers under the age of 13 MUST have an adult chaperone signed up with them. 2025 DISCOVER the WILD Days September 20 - Red Pandas October 12 - Vultures November 8 - Turtles December 28 - Cotton-top TamarinsSIGN UP using this link: https://signup.com/go/mvXkzPu Organization: Blank Park Zoo DISCOVER the WILD Days at the Zoo! The purpose of these days is to connect the Zoo guest with the Zoo's SAVING the WILD conservation priority animals, conservation organizations, AZA, and how to TAKE ACTION for the natural world around them. These days are planned and coordinated by the Zoo's Education Team. Activities are simple, interactive and can be learned the day of the event. Shifts are from 9:45 - 12:00 & 11:45 - 2:00. Volunteers ages 9 and up are welcomed. ** Volunteers under the age of 13 MUST have an adult chaperone signed up with them. 2025 DISCOVER the WILD Days September 20 - Red Pandas October 12 - Vultures November 8 - Turtles December 28 - Cotton-top TamarinsSIGN UP using this link: https://signup.com/go/mvXkzPu Organization: Blank Park Zoo Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Corporate & Business Volunteer TeamsOur Mission Repairing homes, revitalizing communities, rebuilding lives. Our Vision Safe homes and communities for everyone. Experience. Expertise. For 30 years, we have been dedicated to helping low-income homeowners with critical home repairs and modifications for accessibility. We work every day to rebuild homes, striving to make them safe and healthy for local families. No cost, ever to the family. On average, our homeowners live at or below the poverty level and are forced to choose between food, medicine and shelter needs. We provide these critical home repairs at no cost to qualified homeowners. Rebuilding Together is often the last resort to preserving their homeownership – their only personal asset. Our partner sponsors provide funds and/or an optional volunteer day to provide much needed repairs to homes. Your company or group can sign up today and we will match your team with a family in need! Thanks to the generosity of our partners, our network moves the needle on addressing the low-income families living in unsafe and unhealthy homes across our community. Our efforts to rebuild lives and communities would not be possible without their continued support. Partner Sponsor benefits are numerous: Immediate positive impact on our communities in one day. Demonstrating your organization’s commitment to community service and quality of life in the greater Des Moines area. Great employee team-building and community leadership opportunity. A wide variety of projects to match your group size and skill level. Your employee team can manage the project or we will provide a project manager. Favorable publicity: media, press releases, logo placement, news articles, social media, photos, signage & etc. Preserving and improving Des Moines’ aging housing stock while helping a family in need. Alliance with nationally respected Rebuilding Together organization (160+ affiliates nationwide). Leveraged investment with every dollar resulting in four times the donation in market value through volunteer labor and in-kind donations.Organization: Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines Our Mission Repairing homes, revitalizing communities, rebuilding lives. Our Vision Safe homes and communities for everyone. Experience. Expertise. For 30 years, we have been dedicated to helping low-income homeowners with critical home repairs and modifications for accessibility. We work every day to rebuild homes, striving to make them safe and healthy for local families. No cost, ever to the family. On average, our homeowners live at or below the poverty level and are forced to choose between food, medicine and shelter needs. We provide these critical home repairs at no cost to qualified homeowners. Rebuilding Together is often the last resort to preserving their homeownership – their only personal asset. Our partner sponsors provide funds and/or an optional volunteer day to provide much needed repairs to homes. Your company or group can sign up today and we will match your team with a family in need! Thanks to the generosity of our partners, our network moves the needle on addressing the low-income families living in unsafe and unhealthy homes across our community. Our efforts to rebuild lives and communities would not be possible without their continued support. Partner Sponsor benefits are numerous: Immediate positive impact on our communities in one day. Demonstrating your organization’s commitment to community service and quality of life in the greater Des Moines area. Great employee team-building and community leadership opportunity. A wide variety of projects to match your group size and skill level. Your employee team can manage the project or we will provide a project manager. Favorable publicity: media, press releases, logo placement, news articles, social media, photos, signage & etc. Preserving and improving Des Moines’ aging housing stock while helping a family in need. Alliance with nationally respected Rebuilding Together organization (160+ affiliates nationwide). Leveraged investment with every dollar resulting in four times the donation in market value through volunteer labor and in-kind donations.Organization: Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Garden HostDo you want to learn more about the Botanical Garden? Are you already a big fan and want to share your enthusiasm? Garden Hosts provide an additional layer of hospitality beyond the admission desk to ensure that guests have a quality experience during their visit. No green thumb is needed (you aren’t expected to know every plant here) just an interest in learning how to help someone enjoy their experience when they visit. To review the position description or apply go to https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com/support/volunteer/ . Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Do you want to learn more about the Botanical Garden? Are you already a big fan and want to share your enthusiasm? Garden Hosts provide an additional layer of hospitality beyond the admission desk to ensure that guests have a quality experience during their visit. No green thumb is needed (you aren’t expected to know every plant here) just an interest in learning how to help someone enjoy their experience when they visit. To review the position description or apply go to https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com/support/volunteer/ . Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Fiber ArtsDo you enjoy sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, felted wool, or other types of fabric crafting? The Botanical Artisan Guild (BAG) of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden seeks volunteers who enjoy any of these activities to support the Fiber Arts Committee. This is a group of volunteers who create botanically inspired items that are sold in the gift shop. Proceeds support the Botanical Garden. This is a flexible and creative volunteer role. The committee meets regularly, and volunteers work both in small groups and/or independently at home. This volunteer role is under the guidance of the Fiber Arts Committee Coordinator and the Botanical Artisan Guild Coordinator (both volunteer led roles). The BAG overall works with the Retail Program Manager at the Garden. Interested? Fill out a volunteer application: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960. Questions? Email: artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com. Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Do you enjoy sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, felted wool, or other types of fabric crafting? The Botanical Artisan Guild (BAG) of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden seeks volunteers who enjoy any of these activities to support the Fiber Arts Committee. This is a group of volunteers who create botanically inspired items that are sold in the gift shop. Proceeds support the Botanical Garden. This is a flexible and creative volunteer role. The committee meets regularly, and volunteers work both in small groups and/or independently at home. This volunteer role is under the guidance of the Fiber Arts Committee Coordinator and the Botanical Artisan Guild Coordinator (both volunteer led roles). The BAG overall works with the Retail Program Manager at the Garden. Interested? Fill out a volunteer application: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960. Questions? Email: artisanguild@dmbotanicalgarden.com. Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Admission Desk/Garden Shop - Weekdays The Admission Desk and Garden Shop Assistant provides high quality guest experience and promotes Botanical Garden activities, events, membership and more. Greatest needs are Wednesday mornings and afternoons as well Friday afternoons. Other shifts are available as well. Volunteers should be involved frequently enough to keep up on skills needed for the role and current events. Seasonal hours may be slightly different. Application can be made at: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960 Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden The Admission Desk and Garden Shop Assistant provides high quality guest experience and promotes Botanical Garden activities, events, membership and more. Greatest needs are Wednesday mornings and afternoons as well Friday afternoons. Other shifts are available as well. Volunteers should be involved frequently enough to keep up on skills needed for the role and current events. Seasonal hours may be slightly different. Application can be made at: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1325256960 Organization: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Celebrate the HarvestJoin other volunteers from throughout our community in helping bring in the harvest! Enjoy the weather and help your neighbors in need. Organization: Faith and Grace Garden Join other volunteers from throughout our community in helping bring in the harvest! Enjoy the weather and help your neighbors in need. Organization: Faith and Grace Garden Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Oct 30, 2025 Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Girls on the Run 5K presented by EMC InsuranceDo you love to give back? Support our big day as a volunteer. There are roles for every skill, interest, and ability level! Volunteer tasks include packet pick-up, merchandise, water station and welcome committee. Sign-up here: https://www.pinwheel.us/r/8ZP1oYe Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa Do you love to give back? Support our big day as a volunteer. There are roles for every skill, interest, and ability level! Volunteer tasks include packet pick-up, merchandise, water station and welcome committee. Sign-up here: https://www.pinwheel.us/r/8ZP1oYe Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 9, 2025 Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Girls on the Run Coach - Fall 2025Warm-up your spirit fingers, lace up your sneakers and inspire a group of girls to be strong and healthy. Teams of volunteer coaches facilitate our easy to follow curriculum with small groups of girls over the course of 8 weeks. Amidst the conversation, laughter, hugs and energy awards, you will witness transformational change in the girls and don’t be surprised if you realize that you are positively changing as well! Ready to make a difference and encourage girls to realize their full potential? The first step is signing up. Ready, Set, Coach! Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa Warm-up your spirit fingers, lace up your sneakers and inspire a group of girls to be strong and healthy. Teams of volunteer coaches facilitate our easy to follow curriculum with small groups of girls over the course of 8 weeks. Amidst the conversation, laughter, hugs and energy awards, you will witness transformational change in the girls and don’t be surprised if you realize that you are positively changing as well! Ready to make a difference and encourage girls to realize their full potential? The first step is signing up. Ready, Set, Coach! Organization: Girls on the Run of Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Sep 15, 2025 through Nov 9, 2025 Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Group Tree Planting OpportunityAre you looking for a fun way for your corporate team or service group to give back while spending time outdoors? We have a great opportunity for you! We're looking for groups of 10+ volunteers to help us increase the tree canopy in low equity neighborhoods around Des Moines. Adding trees to a community has a ton of benefits, including an increase in physical and mental health! We're currently scheduling tree planting shifts for this fall, with opportunities in October on Wednesdays and Fridays. We're already filling out our schedule, so reach out soon if you'd like to help in our mission. Email bcook@treesforever.org to get more information! Organization: Trees Forever Are you looking for a fun way for your corporate team or service group to give back while spending time outdoors? We have a great opportunity for you! We're looking for groups of 10+ volunteers to help us increase the tree canopy in low equity neighborhoods around Des Moines. Adding trees to a community has a ton of benefits, including an increase in physical and mental health! We're currently scheduling tree planting shifts for this fall, with opportunities in October on Wednesdays and Fridays. We're already filling out our schedule, so reach out soon if you'd like to help in our mission. Email bcook@treesforever.org to get more information! Organization: Trees Forever Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Oct 31, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Comfort HostPurpose: Volunteers will provide support and be a point of contact for family and friends, at the desk in the surgery waiting lobby and other lobbies in procedural areas. Responsibilities: Maintain a clean and welcoming lounge areaAnswer phonePass along messages and questions between patient care team and patient friends and family members - excluding clinical information and other details according to HIPPA guidelines.Monitor supply of coffee, Kleenex and other comfort items used by people in the waiting roomProvide directions to additional hospital locations and servicesSkills/Experience: Excellent communication skills, prior customer service preferredComfortable using Microsoft 365 productsAbility to use a phoneAbility to pass a criminal and offender background check and volunteer health screeningTraining Required: Successful completion of identified training modules as identified by the departmentAttend a new volunteer orientationComplete required annual trainings as assigned, maintain any necessary certifications or licenses, and participate in trainings as identified.Organization: MercyOne Central Iowa Purpose: Volunteers will provide support and be a point of contact for family and friends, at the desk in the surgery waiting lobby and other lobbies in procedural areas. Responsibilities: Maintain a clean and welcoming lounge areaAnswer phonePass along messages and questions between patient care team and patient friends and family members - excluding clinical information and other details according to HIPPA guidelines.Monitor supply of coffee, Kleenex and other comfort items used by people in the waiting roomProvide directions to additional hospital locations and servicesSkills/Experience: Excellent communication skills, prior customer service preferredComfortable using Microsoft 365 productsAbility to use a phoneAbility to pass a criminal and offender background check and volunteer health screeningTraining Required: Successful completion of identified training modules as identified by the departmentAttend a new volunteer orientationComplete required annual trainings as assigned, maintain any necessary certifications or licenses, and participate in trainings as identified.Organization: MercyOne Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Iowa Volunteer Long-Term Care Ombudsman- Polk and surrounding countiesThe Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman coordinates a volunteer ombudsman program, and we are actively seeking volunteers throughout the state of Iowa! After completing initial certification training, a volunteer ombudsman in our program will make regular visits to an assigned long-term care facility to help serve as a voice for residents, talking with them about their rights, empowering them, and providing advocacy. Our volunteers are asked to spend a minimum of 3 hours per month in their assigned facility, complete monthly reports, work with long-term care ombudsman staff at the local and state levels, and complete annual continuing education to remain certified. Visits to facilities are generally unannounced and can be made at any time, any day generally between the hours of 8am-8pm. For a volunteer who may wish to make an impact but not wish/be able to make visits to facilities, there are more administrative volunteer opportunities available on an individualized basis. If you have a passion for helping other people, especially those most vulnerable in our state, feel free to contact us for an application! 866-236-1430 or sltco@hhs.iowa.gov Organization: Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman coordinates a volunteer ombudsman program, and we are actively seeking volunteers throughout the state of Iowa! After completing initial certification training, a volunteer ombudsman in our program will make regular visits to an assigned long-term care facility to help serve as a voice for residents, talking with them about their rights, empowering them, and providing advocacy. Our volunteers are asked to spend a minimum of 3 hours per month in their assigned facility, complete monthly reports, work with long-term care ombudsman staff at the local and state levels, and complete annual continuing education to remain certified. Visits to facilities are generally unannounced and can be made at any time, any day generally between the hours of 8am-8pm. For a volunteer who may wish to make an impact but not wish/be able to make visits to facilities, there are more administrative volunteer opportunities available on an individualized basis. If you have a passion for helping other people, especially those most vulnerable in our state, feel free to contact us for an application! 866-236-1430 or sltco@hhs.iowa.gov Organization: Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50319 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Food Distribution VolunteerWest Des Moines Human Services is seeking volunteers for its Anytime Food Program which distributes donated and rescued food items. This opportunity is available weekdays from 7:45 am to 9:00 am at West Des Moines Human Services. Volunteers help with food set-up, organization, and distribution of the food items. Distribution takes place outside, rain or shine, however volunteers are not expected to assist in inclement weather. Volunteers are asked to commit to one shift per week. Some lifting involved (up to 25 lbs). Please note, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. Prior to volunteering, you must make an appointment to visit our office for an interview/tour and to complete volunteer forms. A background check is also required prior to volunteering. Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information, or email HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov. Organization: West Des Moines Human Services West Des Moines Human Services is seeking volunteers for its Anytime Food Program which distributes donated and rescued food items. This opportunity is available weekdays from 7:45 am to 9:00 am at West Des Moines Human Services. Volunteers help with food set-up, organization, and distribution of the food items. Distribution takes place outside, rain or shine, however volunteers are not expected to assist in inclement weather. Volunteers are asked to commit to one shift per week. Some lifting involved (up to 25 lbs). Please note, we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. Prior to volunteering, you must make an appointment to visit our office for an interview/tour and to complete volunteer forms. A background check is also required prior to volunteering. Please call 515-222-3663 for additional information, or email HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov. Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Clothing Closet VolunteerThe Clothing Closet at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to accept, sort and straighten donations of clothing, shoes, toys, towels, linens, blankets, home decor and housewares. Volunteers will also assist clients as needed and keep the room neat and organized. Morning and afternoon shifts available, Monday through Friday. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may commit to a regular weekly shift, or volunteer on an intermittent basis on Tuesday evenings from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Some lifting is required. Please note, we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the Clothing Closet and we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. The Clothing Closet provides free goods to qualifying low-income households. Please call 515-222-3663 for more information or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services The Clothing Closet at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to accept, sort and straighten donations of clothing, shoes, toys, towels, linens, blankets, home decor and housewares. Volunteers will also assist clients as needed and keep the room neat and organized. Morning and afternoon shifts available, Monday through Friday. Shifts are in two to three hour increments. Volunteers may commit to a regular weekly shift, or volunteer on an intermittent basis on Tuesday evenings from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Some lifting is required. Please note, we do not offer one-time volunteer opportunities in the Clothing Closet and we are not able to accomodate those in need of court-ordered community service hours. The Clothing Closet provides free goods to qualifying low-income households. Please call 515-222-3663 for more information or email: HSvolunteer@wdm.iowa.gov
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Organization Requirement: >14 years old Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Math TutoringPlease volunteer to assist students with virtual math tutoring either during the school day or after school. Organization: Virtual Campus Please volunteer to assist students with virtual math tutoring either during the school day or after school. Organization: Virtual Campus Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Lead with Purpose: Join SCIC’s Board of Directorshalom Community Impact Center (SCIC) is looking for passionate and committed individuals—including community members and business leaders—to serve on our Board of Directors. SCIC empowers refugees and underserved communities through programs such as English Language Learning (ELL), digital literacy, academic support, summer youth programs, preschool education, and job readiness assistance. Our mission is to equip individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in every area of life. As a board member, you’ll play a vital role in guiding SCIC’s strategic direction, expanding its reach, and increasing its impact. We welcome those with experience in nonprofit leadership, education, business development, workforce training, or community engagement. If you're passionate about equity, inclusion, and helping others build a brighter future, we invite you to bring your voice and vision to our board. Together, we can make a lasting difference. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center halom Community Impact Center (SCIC) is looking for passionate and committed individuals—including community members and business leaders—to serve on our Board of Directors. SCIC empowers refugees and underserved communities through programs such as English Language Learning (ELL), digital literacy, academic support, summer youth programs, preschool education, and job readiness assistance. Our mission is to equip individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in every area of life. As a board member, you’ll play a vital role in guiding SCIC’s strategic direction, expanding its reach, and increasing its impact. We welcome those with experience in nonprofit leadership, education, business development, workforce training, or community engagement. If you're passionate about equity, inclusion, and helping others build a brighter future, we invite you to bring your voice and vision to our board. Together, we can make a lasting difference. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Marketing & Communications Intern (Unpaid)Marketing & Communications Intern (Unpaid) About Community Support Advocates: We’re looking for a creative, motivated, and detail-oriented Marketing & Communications Intern to support our outreach and engagement efforts. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in nonprofit marketing and communications. We encourage anyone with interest to apply. The Marketing & Communications Intern will report directly to the Director of Development. Key Responsibilities: Draft clear, compelling content for newsletters, blog posts, and website updates Manage and schedule social media content using Hootsuite across multiple platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) Respond to social media comments in a professional and timely manner Identify gaps in social media strategy and additional ways to engage our audience Design promotional graphics and social media posts using Canva Assist in developing communication strategies for events, campaigns, and special initiatives Monitor and report on social media engagement and analytics Ensure brand consistency across all communications materials Support development and fundraising initiatives including but not limited to grant research, campaign development, and more. Requirements: Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills Familiarity with major social media platforms and trends Basic graphic design skills using Canva or other design software Ability to manage time and meet deadlines independently Detail-oriented, creative, and eager to learn Willingness to commit to a minimum of a 3 month tenure - 6 or 12 months is preferred Must be able to navigate and utilize the Google Suite platform to find and save files Experience with Hootsuite or similar social media scheduling tools Background in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field Interest in the arts, mental health, or disability advocacy Basic understanding of WordPress Ability to navigate and pull reports in a CRM database (Bloomerang) What You’ll Gain: Real-world experience in nonprofit marketing and digital communications Mentorship and feedback from experienced professionals A flexible, supportive environment where your ideas matter The opportunity to make a meaningful impact through storytelling and digital advocacy Expansion of knowledge in digital marketing & communications, as it relates to community engagement, fundraising, and development efforts Portfolio-building opportunities and a letter of recommendation upon successful completion To Apply: Organization: Community Support Advocates (CSA) Marketing & Communications Intern (Unpaid) About Community Support Advocates: We’re looking for a creative, motivated, and detail-oriented Marketing & Communications Intern to support our outreach and engagement efforts. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in nonprofit marketing and communications. We encourage anyone with interest to apply. The Marketing & Communications Intern will report directly to the Director of Development. Key Responsibilities: Draft clear, compelling content for newsletters, blog posts, and website updates Manage and schedule social media content using Hootsuite across multiple platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) Respond to social media comments in a professional and timely manner Identify gaps in social media strategy and additional ways to engage our audience Design promotional graphics and social media posts using Canva Assist in developing communication strategies for events, campaigns, and special initiatives Monitor and report on social media engagement and analytics Ensure brand consistency across all communications materials Support development and fundraising initiatives including but not limited to grant research, campaign development, and more. Requirements: Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills Familiarity with major social media platforms and trends Basic graphic design skills using Canva or other design software Ability to manage time and meet deadlines independently Detail-oriented, creative, and eager to learn Willingness to commit to a minimum of a 3 month tenure - 6 or 12 months is preferred Must be able to navigate and utilize the Google Suite platform to find and save files Experience with Hootsuite or similar social media scheduling tools Background in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field Interest in the arts, mental health, or disability advocacy Basic understanding of WordPress Ability to navigate and pull reports in a CRM database (Bloomerang) What You’ll Gain: Real-world experience in nonprofit marketing and digital communications Mentorship and feedback from experienced professionals A flexible, supportive environment where your ideas matter The opportunity to make a meaningful impact through storytelling and digital advocacy Expansion of knowledge in digital marketing & communications, as it relates to community engagement, fundraising, and development efforts Portfolio-building opportunities and a letter of recommendation upon successful completion To Apply: Organization: Community Support Advocates (CSA) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Fundraising Research Intern (Unpaid)Fundraising & Research Intern (Unpaid) About Community Support Advocates: We’re looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Fundraising & Research Intern to support our development team. This unpaid internship offers hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, prospect research, and donor data management.The Fundraising & Research Intern will report directly to the Director of Development. Key Responsibilities: Research individual donors, grant opportunities, corporate giving programs, and foundations Compile, analyze, and organize donor and prospect lists Systematize donor outreach protocols Assist with light database management and data entry Help identify key funding strategies and giving priorities Provide general administrative support related to fundraising projects and events Ideal Candidate: Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills Comfortable using spreadsheets and online research tools such as Instrumental and Foundation Directory Online Interest in fundraising, nonprofit management, or related fields Familiarity with CRM systems such as Bloomerang is a plus, but not required Commitment: 5–10 hours per week, flexible schedule Minimum 3 month commitment Hybrid work options may be considered What You’ll Gain: Experience in nonprofit development and fundraising strategy Skills in prospect research and data management Insight into donor engagement and philanthropy in Central Iowa Mentorship and networking opportunities Letter of Recommendation upon successful completion of internship To Apply: Organization: Community Support Advocates (CSA) Fundraising & Research Intern (Unpaid) About Community Support Advocates: We’re looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Fundraising & Research Intern to support our development team. This unpaid internship offers hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, prospect research, and donor data management.The Fundraising & Research Intern will report directly to the Director of Development. Key Responsibilities: Research individual donors, grant opportunities, corporate giving programs, and foundations Compile, analyze, and organize donor and prospect lists Systematize donor outreach protocols Assist with light database management and data entry Help identify key funding strategies and giving priorities Provide general administrative support related to fundraising projects and events Ideal Candidate: Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills Comfortable using spreadsheets and online research tools such as Instrumental and Foundation Directory Online Interest in fundraising, nonprofit management, or related fields Familiarity with CRM systems such as Bloomerang is a plus, but not required Commitment: 5–10 hours per week, flexible schedule Minimum 3 month commitment Hybrid work options may be considered What You’ll Gain: Experience in nonprofit development and fundraising strategy Skills in prospect research and data management Insight into donor engagement and philanthropy in Central Iowa Mentorship and networking opportunities Letter of Recommendation upon successful completion of internship To Apply: Organization: Community Support Advocates (CSA) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Resource Closet Support & Donation SortingThis is a great opportunity for individuals who want to get involved but may not be able to commit on a weekly or monthly basis. The Young Women's Resource Center offers three essential resource closets to support participants: the Young Moms Closet, the Food Pantry, and the Hygiene Closet. Tasks include: Sorting through donated goods to ensure they are clean, usable, and properly categorized. Stock and organize hygiene items, food donations, and supplies for participants in designated closets to ensure easy access and distribution. Assisting with inventory checks and helping to maintain a well-organized donation area.If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center This is a great opportunity for individuals who want to get involved but may not be able to commit on a weekly or monthly basis. The Young Women's Resource Center offers three essential resource closets to support participants: the Young Moms Closet, the Food Pantry, and the Hygiene Closet. Tasks include: Sorting through donated goods to ensure they are clean, usable, and properly categorized. Stock and organize hygiene items, food donations, and supplies for participants in designated closets to ensure easy access and distribution. Assisting with inventory checks and helping to maintain a well-organized donation area.If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Essential Items Donation DriveCan't volunteer? You can still make a difference! Support local youth and young women by hosting a donation drive for essential items from our wish list. Most needed items: Full-size deodorant, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, lotionLip balm/chapstickBaby and toddler diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6), Toddler Pull-Ups, unscented baby wipesMenstrual pads with wings (size 1)If you’re interested in hosting a donation drive contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Can't volunteer? You can still make a difference! Support local youth and young women by hosting a donation drive for essential items from our wish list. Most needed items: Full-size deodorant, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, lotionLip balm/chapstickBaby and toddler diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6), Toddler Pull-Ups, unscented baby wipesMenstrual pads with wings (size 1)If you’re interested in hosting a donation drive contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Meal ProvidersMeals play a critical role in supporting our participants who are facing food insecurity. You can either prepare a homemade meal or arrange for a meal to be delivered or catered. This is a great opportunity for individuals or groups! Please note that we do not have on-site kitchen facilities for meal preparation. If you choose to prepare meals at home, we do require a brief Food Safety training, which can be completed online from the comfort of your home. Family style meals for 20 people should include a main dish, two sides, and a gallon of milk. Dessert is optional. Meals can be dropped off in re-heatable containers such as a foil tray or crockpot. If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Meals play a critical role in supporting our participants who are facing food insecurity. You can either prepare a homemade meal or arrange for a meal to be delivered or catered. This is a great opportunity for individuals or groups! Please note that we do not have on-site kitchen facilities for meal preparation. If you choose to prepare meals at home, we do require a brief Food Safety training, which can be completed online from the comfort of your home. Family style meals for 20 people should include a main dish, two sides, and a gallon of milk. Dessert is optional. Meals can be dropped off in re-heatable containers such as a foil tray or crockpot. If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Childcare VolunteersAs a Childcare Volunteer, you’ll provide our Young Mom’s children with a safe space to play while their mom is learning parenting skills, financial literacy, what to expect in pregnancy and more. We currently have openings for childcare volunteers on two evenings: every Monday from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. and the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 5:45 – 7:15 p.m. Scheduling is flexible, a long-term commitment is preferred. An interview, background check, and childcare-focused training are required for this position. If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center As a Childcare Volunteer, you’ll provide our Young Mom’s children with a safe space to play while their mom is learning parenting skills, financial literacy, what to expect in pregnancy and more. We currently have openings for childcare volunteers on two evenings: every Monday from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. and the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 5:45 – 7:15 p.m. Scheduling is flexible, a long-term commitment is preferred. An interview, background check, and childcare-focused training are required for this position. If you’re interested in volunteering with YWRC, please complete a volunteer application online at https://ywrc.org/volunteer-application/ or contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information. Organization: Young Women's Resource Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Your team can make an impact! All 4 Locations!Looking for something fun to do with your team, small group, business, family, or church group? Consider volunteering at the Many Hands Market! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration Groups large and small can come to our thrift store (or we will come to YOU!) Help us sort and process donations of clothes, handbags, shoes, toys and more! This is an activity for all abilities. It is great for team building and strengthening. 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Looking for something fun to do with your team, small group, business, family, or church group? Consider volunteering at the Many Hands Market! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration Groups large and small can come to our thrift store (or we will come to YOU!) Help us sort and process donations of clothes, handbags, shoes, toys and more! This is an activity for all abilities. It is great for team building and strengthening. 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Thrift Volunteer - Perfect for Silver Cord - NO SCHEDULE - All 4 Locations!PERFECT SCHEDULE for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Serve Monday - Saturday during store hours for as long or as little fits into your schedule. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market PERFECT SCHEDULE for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Serve Monday - Saturday during store hours for as long or as little fits into your schedule. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Merle Hay Store - Metal Recycling VolunteerOur goal at Many Hands is to be good stewards of the items we are given. We try to repurpose, reuse, or recycle as much as possible. This volunteer opportunity would be at our Merle Hay store sorting metal into categories to be recycled. This opportunity could be 5-10 hours a week, at your convenience to help us process metal items from our thrift stores. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Our goal at Many Hands is to be good stewards of the items we are given. We try to repurpose, reuse, or recycle as much as possible. This volunteer opportunity would be at our Merle Hay store sorting metal into categories to be recycled. This opportunity could be 5-10 hours a week, at your convenience to help us process metal items from our thrift stores. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Love Thrifting? Earn rewards for service!We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift stores. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. Hours of service can qualify for store discount or towards mission trips! At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SHIFT SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation then serve at your convenience during store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift stores. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. Hours of service can qualify for store discount or towards mission trips! At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SHIFT SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation then serve at your convenience during store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Linen Volunteer - All 3 Locations!We are looking for volunteers to serve in our linen department. This is a great little department that handles all of the fabric, sheets, curtains, etc. You would work with other volunteers and staff to sort, measure, price and hang linens. No scheduling, flexible time commitments and a great community. Online Registration All for a GREAT cause! All proceeds go to local and global missions. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market We are looking for volunteers to serve in our linen department. This is a great little department that handles all of the fabric, sheets, curtains, etc. You would work with other volunteers and staff to sort, measure, price and hang linens. No scheduling, flexible time commitments and a great community. Online Registration All for a GREAT cause! All proceeds go to local and global missions. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Flexible, Fun THRIFT Volunteering! All 4 LocationsWe are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Sign up for an orientation then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Sign up for an orientation then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Flexible Scheduling- Great for Silver Cord Students - All 4 Locations!Perfect for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Monday - Saturday whenever the store is open for as long or as little fits into your schedule. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Perfect for Silver Cord and Student Volunteers! Monday - Saturday whenever the store is open for as long or as little fits into your schedule. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. NO Scheduling...flexible hours! At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. We are a thrift store with a purpose that provides a better way of donating and serving.
Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Electronics Testers Needed - All 4 locations!Come test and help price electronics. We've got TVs, Radios, Video Games, You name it! We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation in the location you want to serve then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Come test and help price electronics. We've got TVs, Radios, Video Games, You name it! We are ALWAYS taking volunteers at our thrift store. We have individual opportunities as well as opportunities for small groups. At the thrift store, you can sort and process donations, tag clothing items, create displays, help with marketing, and much more. We want to find the best fit for you. Find community and encouragement. NO SCHEDULING REQUIRED. Schedule an orientation in the location you want to serve then serve at your convenience within store hours. At our Grimes, Clive, Indianola and Merle Hay locations. Online Registration 100% of our proceeds go back towards local and global missions. Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Tax PreparerNO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Become a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Tax Preparer with Iowa Center for Economic Success. We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. You can become an IRS trained and certified volunteer tax preparer prior to the beginning of the tax season, and then assist tax payers by accurately preparing their taxes for free. Organization: Iowa Center for Economic Success NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Become a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Tax Preparer with Iowa Center for Economic Success. We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. You can become an IRS trained and certified volunteer tax preparer prior to the beginning of the tax season, and then assist tax payers by accurately preparing their taxes for free. Organization: Iowa Center for Economic Success Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) GreeterNO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Become a Greeter for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program with Iowa Center for Economic Success. We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. If you are a friendly person, this could be the role for you! You would be the first person to interact with taxpayers coming to have their tax returns prepared free of charge. Your responsibility would be to greet the clients, make sure they have some basic tax documents, and add them to the list for tax preparation.
Organization: Iowa Center for Economic Success NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Become a Greeter for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program with Iowa Center for Economic Success. We are looking for volunteers who want to have significant impact in the lives of people in their own community. If you are a friendly person, this could be the role for you! You would be the first person to interact with taxpayers coming to have their tax returns prepared free of charge. Your responsibility would be to greet the clients, make sure they have some basic tax documents, and add them to the list for tax preparation.
Organization: Iowa Center for Economic Success Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Board of DirectorsCommunity Hand Up Board of Directors OverviewThe Board partners with the Chairman and Executive Director to guide Community Hand Up from a new nonprofit to a sustainable national organization. It provides governance, strategic leadership, and fundraising support, but does not manage daily operations unless requested.Board ResponsibilitiesGovernance: Set policies, ensure legal compliance, and uphold the mission.Fundraising: Each Director must make an annual financial contribution and connect the Executive Director with at least 4 potential donors per year.Engagement: Attend all meetings and events, serve on at least one committee, and actively participate in evaluations and planning.Expectations of Board MembersContribute time, talent, and treasure.Understand internal and external organizational dynamics.Collaborate on policy and strategic direction.Evaluate leadership and fellow board members.Avoid conflicts of interest and uphold ethical standards.Key DutiesMonitor programs and services.Oversee financial health and strategic planning.Recruit and vet new board members.Ensure legal and ethical compliance.QualificationsIdeal candidates will have:Leadership experience in business, government, philanthropy, or nonprofits.A strong fundraising track record.Passion for the mission and beneficiaries.Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.Integrity, credibility, and commitment.Meeting ScheduleThe Board meets the 3rd Tuesday at 6 PM (via Teams or in person) in January, February, March, May, July, September, and the 2nd Tuesday in November. Meetings last approximately 2 hours.
Organization: Community Hand Up Community Hand Up Board of Directors OverviewThe Board partners with the Chairman and Executive Director to guide Community Hand Up from a new nonprofit to a sustainable national organization. It provides governance, strategic leadership, and fundraising support, but does not manage daily operations unless requested.Board ResponsibilitiesGovernance: Set policies, ensure legal compliance, and uphold the mission.Fundraising: Each Director must make an annual financial contribution and connect the Executive Director with at least 4 potential donors per year.Engagement: Attend all meetings and events, serve on at least one committee, and actively participate in evaluations and planning.Expectations of Board MembersContribute time, talent, and treasure.Understand internal and external organizational dynamics.Collaborate on policy and strategic direction.Evaluate leadership and fellow board members.Avoid conflicts of interest and uphold ethical standards.Key DutiesMonitor programs and services.Oversee financial health and strategic planning.Recruit and vet new board members.Ensure legal and ethical compliance.QualificationsIdeal candidates will have:Leadership experience in business, government, philanthropy, or nonprofits.A strong fundraising track record.Passion for the mission and beneficiaries.Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.Integrity, credibility, and commitment.Meeting ScheduleThe Board meets the 3rd Tuesday at 6 PM (via Teams or in person) in January, February, March, May, July, September, and the 2nd Tuesday in November. Meetings last approximately 2 hours.
Organization: Community Hand Up Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50266 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Admin AsstThis volunteer would assist in administrative tasks such as data entry, sending letters etc. Individual should be comfortable with typing, excel and working independently. Organization: Willkie House This volunteer would assist in administrative tasks such as data entry, sending letters etc. Individual should be comfortable with typing, excel and working independently. Organization: Willkie House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Marketing VolunteerThis individual will assist in marketing efforts for Willkie House. Tasks would vary based on individual skills. Assistance with social media marketing, design of printed and virtual materials etc Organization: Willkie House This individual will assist in marketing efforts for Willkie House. Tasks would vary based on individual skills. Assistance with social media marketing, design of printed and virtual materials etc Organization: Willkie House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Afterschool VolunteersCome work with youth during our afterschool program and provide extra help in our classrooms! Tasks could be tutoring or assisting with an activity. This opportunity is also open to groups who would like to volunteer together. Groups willing to throw theme/holiday parties are welcome also Organization: Willkie House Come work with youth during our afterschool program and provide extra help in our classrooms! Tasks could be tutoring or assisting with an activity. This opportunity is also open to groups who would like to volunteer together. Groups willing to throw theme/holiday parties are welcome also Organization: Willkie House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Advocate For ChildrenAs a CASA volunteer, you will be empowered by the courts to help make a child’s dream of a forever home a reality. You will be the one consistent adult in these children’s lives, fighting for and protecting their right to be treated with the dignity and respect that every child deserves. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but also their children and generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. No special experience is required. At CASA we offer comprehensive pre-service training, coaching and monthly opportunities to meet with other CASAs. We promise you will have the support you need to feel confident in this role. The following video captures the role and duties of the CASA in less than 4 minutes. What is a CASA? https://youtu.be/F5xth-p-9LE
Organization: CASA of Iowa As a CASA volunteer, you will be empowered by the courts to help make a child’s dream of a forever home a reality. You will be the one consistent adult in these children’s lives, fighting for and protecting their right to be treated with the dignity and respect that every child deserves. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but also their children and generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. No special experience is required. At CASA we offer comprehensive pre-service training, coaching and monthly opportunities to meet with other CASAs. We promise you will have the support you need to feel confident in this role. The following video captures the role and duties of the CASA in less than 4 minutes. What is a CASA? https://youtu.be/F5xth-p-9LE
Organization: CASA of Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50319 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Join WesleyLife Hospice's "We Honor Veterans" Program – Make a Lasting Impact on Fellow Veterans As a veteran, you understand the unique bond and experiences that only fellow service members can share. WesleyLife Hospice invites you to extend that camaraderie by joining our We Honor Veterans program. WesleyLife Hospice is the ONLY Central Iowa Hospice to earn the Level 5 (highest possible) distinction with the We Honor Veterans Program created by the VA and The Alliance for Care at Home. Your support can bring dignity, comfort, and honor to veterans at the end of their journey. - Background Check and Drug Screen/Physical - Completion of Hospice Training provided by WesleyLife Organization: WesleyLife As a veteran, you understand the unique bond and experiences that only fellow service members can share. WesleyLife Hospice invites you to extend that camaraderie by joining our We Honor Veterans program. WesleyLife Hospice is the ONLY Central Iowa Hospice to earn the Level 5 (highest possible) distinction with the We Honor Veterans Program created by the VA and The Alliance for Care at Home. Your support can bring dignity, comfort, and honor to veterans at the end of their journey. - Background Check and Drug Screen/Physical - Completion of Hospice Training provided by WesleyLife Organization: WesleyLife Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Volunteer English InstructorThe Volunteer English Instructor would be responsible for facilitating high-quality English for adult learners. Facilitate classes for ELL students in English “instruct ‘ and collaborate with multilingual co-teachers to interpret important class announcements and/or communication. Collaborate with RIVA AmeriCorps members to adapt lesson plans and learning activities to meet students’ needs and interests. Organization: RIVA (Refugee & Immigrant Voices in Action) The Volunteer English Instructor would be responsible for facilitating high-quality English for adult learners. Facilitate classes for ELL students in English “instruct ‘ and collaborate with multilingual co-teachers to interpret important class announcements and/or communication. Collaborate with RIVA AmeriCorps members to adapt lesson plans and learning activities to meet students’ needs and interests. Organization: RIVA (Refugee & Immigrant Voices in Action) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Emergency Family Shelter Meal ProviderVolunteers prepare a meal to serve shelter clients for dinner. Needs to feed up to 35 people. Meal Provider Guidelines: https://files.constantcontact.com/8783fe31201/551e3a62-4760-4af1-8cbb-907e95581d13.pngOrganization: Catholic Charities of Des Moines Volunteers prepare a meal to serve shelter clients for dinner. Needs to feed up to 35 people. Meal Provider Guidelines: https://files.constantcontact.com/8783fe31201/551e3a62-4760-4af1-8cbb-907e95581d13.pngOrganization: Catholic Charities of Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Visibility Event SupportAre you outgoing, community-minded, and passionate about making a difference? We’re looking for an energetic volunteer to help represent LifeServe Blood Center at local events and help spread the word about the importance of blood donation. We will provide the event set up, promotional hand outs and talking points. If you love chatting with people and want to help save lives in your own community by promoting local blood drives, we’d love to have you on our team! The special events and the time commitment will vary. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER Are you outgoing, community-minded, and passionate about making a difference? We’re looking for an energetic volunteer to help represent LifeServe Blood Center at local events and help spread the word about the importance of blood donation. We will provide the event set up, promotional hand outs and talking points. If you love chatting with people and want to help save lives in your own community by promoting local blood drives, we’d love to have you on our team! The special events and the time commitment will vary. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50131 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: VEHICLE CLEANING SPECIALISTWe are looking for a self-motivated and detail-oriented person to thoroughly clean the inside of our delivery vehicles. This would be a 2-hour minimum per week commitment on Sundays. The project would involve wiping down the dashboard and console, cleaning the windshields, vacuuming the carpets and the upholstery. Cleaning kit and shop vac are provided on site. Volunteer will need to drive the vehicles so a complete background and motor vehicle check will need to be done. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER We are looking for a self-motivated and detail-oriented person to thoroughly clean the inside of our delivery vehicles. This would be a 2-hour minimum per week commitment on Sundays. The project would involve wiping down the dashboard and console, cleaning the windshields, vacuuming the carpets and the upholstery. Cleaning kit and shop vac are provided on site. Volunteer will need to drive the vehicles so a complete background and motor vehicle check will need to be done. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50131 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: REGIONAL DRIVERWe are looking for local volunteers who are willing to transport blood products and supplies to our donor centers and area local hospitals. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER We are looking for local volunteers who are willing to transport blood products and supplies to our donor centers and area local hospitals. Organization: LIFESERVE BLOODCENTER Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50131 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: LSI Immigrant and Refugee Community Services Donation DriveHelp a newly arrived family feel at home in our community by participating in LSI's Immigrant and Refugee Community Services Donation Drive! LSI provides basic home and personal items to ensure newly arrived individuals and families have the resources they need to be successful in our community. LSI will give these donated items to families who can use them to feel safe and secure in their home. Greatest needed items are: -Shampoo/Conditioner - Deodorant - Toothpaste/Toothbrushes -Dental Floss - Diapers -Other babycare items - Laundry and/or dish soap - Household cleaners Please drop off new items to LSI's 3200 University Ave location during regular business hours or contact claudia.schmugge@lsiowa.org to schedule. Organization: Lutheran Services In Iowa - Des Moines Help a newly arrived family feel at home in our community by participating in LSI's Immigrant and Refugee Community Services Donation Drive! LSI provides basic home and personal items to ensure newly arrived individuals and families have the resources they need to be successful in our community. LSI will give these donated items to families who can use them to feel safe and secure in their home. Greatest needed items are: -Shampoo/Conditioner - Deodorant - Toothpaste/Toothbrushes -Dental Floss - Diapers -Other babycare items - Laundry and/or dish soap - Household cleaners Please drop off new items to LSI's 3200 University Ave location during regular business hours or contact claudia.schmugge@lsiowa.org to schedule. Organization: Lutheran Services In Iowa - Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Polk County Pantry Delivery VolunteersMake a meaningful difference in the lives of families in need by joining IMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Pantry Delivery Program in Polk County! As a Delivery Volunteer, you’ll ensure that essential food and personal pantry items reach those who may not have access to transportation. Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Make a meaningful difference in the lives of families in need by joining IMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Pantry Delivery Program in Polk County! As a Delivery Volunteer, you’ll ensure that essential food and personal pantry items reach those who may not have access to transportation. Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50021 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Drake Neighborhood Food Pantry VolunteerIMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Des Moines, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership IMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Des Moines, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Boone Food Pantry VolunteerIMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Boone, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership IMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Boone, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50036 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Ankeny Food Pantry VolunteerIMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Ankeny, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership IMPACT Community Action Partnership’s Food Pantry in Ankeny, Iowa, is looking for dedicated volunteers to support local families in need. With a variety of tasks available, there’s something for everyone! As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring smooth pantry operations by: Whether you're looking for a one-time opportunity or an ongoing volunteer experience, we’d love to have you join us! Please note that all volunteers must submit an application, and complete orientation/training prior to volunteering with us. Please complete your application by visiting our website at www.impactcap.org/volunteer Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50021 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: EWI Board MemberEverybody Wins! Iowa (EWI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring children’s success in school and life through weekly one-to-one read-aloud experiences with caring adults. EWI is seeking Board Members who will serve a minimum three (3) year term and assist EWI to achieve its mission to increase children’s success in school and in life through reading and mentoring experiences with caring volunteers. Terms are eligible for renewal to a maximum of three (3) consecutive terms. The Board meets every other month (July, September, November, January, March, and May) on Mondays from 5:30-6:30 PM. All Board Members are expected to participate in Committee activities and attend Committee meetings. Current committees include Marketing, Recruitment, and Special Events. Committee meetings are held every month, the first Monday, from 5:30-6:30 PM. In 2002, when Everybody Wins! Iowa was initially launched, our Power Read program served just 15 students in 3 Des Moines schools. The program is now serving nearly 300 students each year in 3 counties (Dallas, Polk, Warren) in 6 school districts in the cities of Ankeny, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Norwalk, Perry, and Waukee. Visit this link for more information: Everybody Wins! Iowa Volunteer Board Opportunities Please reach out to Karen Ligas, Executive Director, at statedirector@everybodywinsiowa.org or (515) 277-7590 for additional information and the board member nomination form. Organization: Everybody Wins! Iowa Everybody Wins! Iowa (EWI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring children’s success in school and life through weekly one-to-one read-aloud experiences with caring adults. EWI is seeking Board Members who will serve a minimum three (3) year term and assist EWI to achieve its mission to increase children’s success in school and in life through reading and mentoring experiences with caring volunteers. Terms are eligible for renewal to a maximum of three (3) consecutive terms. The Board meets every other month (July, September, November, January, March, and May) on Mondays from 5:30-6:30 PM. All Board Members are expected to participate in Committee activities and attend Committee meetings. Current committees include Marketing, Recruitment, and Special Events. Committee meetings are held every month, the first Monday, from 5:30-6:30 PM. In 2002, when Everybody Wins! Iowa was initially launched, our Power Read program served just 15 students in 3 Des Moines schools. The program is now serving nearly 300 students each year in 3 counties (Dallas, Polk, Warren) in 6 school districts in the cities of Ankeny, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Norwalk, Perry, and Waukee. Visit this link for more information: Everybody Wins! Iowa Volunteer Board Opportunities Please reach out to Karen Ligas, Executive Director, at statedirector@everybodywinsiowa.org or (515) 277-7590 for additional information and the board member nomination form. Organization: Everybody Wins! Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Produce Table VolunteerIn Partnership with Lutheran Services of Iowa, we are looking for a volunteer every Tuesday from 3:30-5:30pm to supervise the produce table. Members of the community would come into the vestibule and pick up their produce, and the volunteer's job would be to sit at the table provide support for those coming in to pick up produce, and help unpack produce upon delivery. Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa In Partnership with Lutheran Services of Iowa, we are looking for a volunteer every Tuesday from 3:30-5:30pm to supervise the produce table. Members of the community would come into the vestibule and pick up their produce, and the volunteer's job would be to sit at the table provide support for those coming in to pick up produce, and help unpack produce upon delivery. Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50320 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Make a Difference: Become a Reading Buddy or Tutor at SCIC!Shalom Community Impact Center (SCIC) is seeking loving and caring individuals to come alongside our children and help them grow through education and connection. Our programs primarily serve children and families from Eastern Africa and Afghanistan, though we welcome individuals from various backgrounds. SCIC provides a nurturing environment through our Preschool, Afterschool Academic Support Program, and Summer Program — all designed to support children as they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our summer programs serve children from 5 to 18 years old, providing tailored academic support to youth of all ages. We are looking for loving and caring individuals to serve as reading buddies and reading tutors. Whether you’re helping a preschooler prepare for kindergarten, teaching an elementary student to read, or assisting an older student who needs to catch up, your time and support can make a lasting difference. No teaching experience is required — just a willingness to serve and build meaningful relationships. If you’re passionate about education and supporting children, we would love for you to come alongside our children as part of the SCIC volunteer team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Shalom Community Impact Center (SCIC) is seeking loving and caring individuals to come alongside our children and help them grow through education and connection. Our programs primarily serve children and families from Eastern Africa and Afghanistan, though we welcome individuals from various backgrounds. SCIC provides a nurturing environment through our Preschool, Afterschool Academic Support Program, and Summer Program — all designed to support children as they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our summer programs serve children from 5 to 18 years old, providing tailored academic support to youth of all ages. We are looking for loving and caring individuals to serve as reading buddies and reading tutors. Whether you’re helping a preschooler prepare for kindergarten, teaching an elementary student to read, or assisting an older student who needs to catch up, your time and support can make a lasting difference. No teaching experience is required — just a willingness to serve and build meaningful relationships. If you’re passionate about education and supporting children, we would love for you to come alongside our children as part of the SCIC volunteer team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Open Doors to Employment: Volunteer with SCIC’s Job Readiness Program!Volunteer to Help Refugees Build Careers: Empowerment Through Language and Support at SCIC! At SCIC, we are committed to helping refugees and immigrants overcome barriers to employment. We provide essential support in job applications, resume writing, interview skills, and more—always offering services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. We’re looking for volunteers to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the job search process with confidence. The ability to speak Afghani, Kinyarwanda, Swahili, or Spanish is appreciated but not required—English speakers are welcome and can make a lasting impact. If you're passionate about uplifting others and supporting their journey toward self-sufficiency, we’d love to have you on our volunteer team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Volunteer to Help Refugees Build Careers: Empowerment Through Language and Support at SCIC! At SCIC, we are committed to helping refugees and immigrants overcome barriers to employment. We provide essential support in job applications, resume writing, interview skills, and more—always offering services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. We’re looking for volunteers to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the job search process with confidence. The ability to speak Afghani, Kinyarwanda, Swahili, or Spanish is appreciated but not required—English speakers are welcome and can make a lasting impact. If you're passionate about uplifting others and supporting their journey toward self-sufficiency, we’d love to have you on our volunteer team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Help Refugees Navigate with Your Translation Skills at SCIC!At Shalom Community Impact Center, we are dedicated to uplifting refugees and immigrants by removing barriers and helping them access essential services. We offer linguistic and culturally-relevant support to help individuals navigate healthcare, education, immigration services, and other vital systems. We are looking for volunteers who can assist with interpretation and translation services, including verbal assistance, and help with reading and editing important letters and documents. Your support will help refugees and immigrants feel empowered as they navigate new systems. Please note: we do not provide legal advice for legal documents, but we are happy to refer individuals to low-cost or no-cost community legal resources when necessary. If you are passionate about helping others and breaking down language barriers, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers and make a meaningful impact! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center At Shalom Community Impact Center, we are dedicated to uplifting refugees and immigrants by removing barriers and helping them access essential services. We offer linguistic and culturally-relevant support to help individuals navigate healthcare, education, immigration services, and other vital systems. We are looking for volunteers who can assist with interpretation and translation services, including verbal assistance, and help with reading and editing important letters and documents. Your support will help refugees and immigrants feel empowered as they navigate new systems. Please note: we do not provide legal advice for legal documents, but we are happy to refer individuals to low-cost or no-cost community legal resources when necessary. If you are passionate about helping others and breaking down language barriers, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers and make a meaningful impact! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Empower Refugees: Volunteer with SCIC’s English Learning Classes!SCIC is pleased to offer Community-Based English Learning (CBESL), a program designed to address one of the biggest barriers refugees and immigrants face — limited English-speaking skills. This barrier often hinders access to education, employment, and upward mobility. Our CBESL Program is an entry-level course specifically for adult refugees and immigrants at the beginner level. What sets our program apart is the Co-Teacher method, which pairs each student with a co-teacher from their own community. The co-teacher speaks the student’s native language, understands their culture, and is aware of the specific challenges refugees and immigrants face when accessing community resources. Co-teachers assist in delivering class material, facilitate communication between students and the lead teacher, and provide feedback to ensure that the class is culturally relevant and effective. Co-teachers also play a vital role in building relationships within the community, spreading the word about our classes, and staying in touch with students outside the classroom to improve retention and success. In addition, we are looking for volunteers to watch children aged 2-3 years olds (when volunteers are available) during the ELL classes. Volunteers will provide a safe and nurturing environment while parents focus on learning. We also offer a preschool program for children 3-5 years old to support families as they attend classes. If you’re passionate about supporting refugees and immigrants, helping young children, and fostering a positive learning environment, we’d love for you to join our team of dedicated volunteers! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center SCIC is pleased to offer Community-Based English Learning (CBESL), a program designed to address one of the biggest barriers refugees and immigrants face — limited English-speaking skills. This barrier often hinders access to education, employment, and upward mobility. Our CBESL Program is an entry-level course specifically for adult refugees and immigrants at the beginner level. What sets our program apart is the Co-Teacher method, which pairs each student with a co-teacher from their own community. The co-teacher speaks the student’s native language, understands their culture, and is aware of the specific challenges refugees and immigrants face when accessing community resources. Co-teachers assist in delivering class material, facilitate communication between students and the lead teacher, and provide feedback to ensure that the class is culturally relevant and effective. Co-teachers also play a vital role in building relationships within the community, spreading the word about our classes, and staying in touch with students outside the classroom to improve retention and success. In addition, we are looking for volunteers to watch children aged 2-3 years olds (when volunteers are available) during the ELL classes. Volunteers will provide a safe and nurturing environment while parents focus on learning. We also offer a preschool program for children 3-5 years old to support families as they attend classes. If you’re passionate about supporting refugees and immigrants, helping young children, and fostering a positive learning environment, we’d love for you to join our team of dedicated volunteers! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Make a Summer Shine: Volunteer for SCIC’s K-12 Summer Program!At SCIC, we believe our youth are the future, and we are committed to helping refugee and immigrant students thrive. Our Summer Program is designed to provide essential academic support in subjects such as reading, writing, math, science, English, and the arts. In addition to academic enrichment, we offer structured supervision, positive role models, and a safe, supportive environment for students K-12th grade. Throughout the summer, students also engage in recreation and fun activities, ensuring that learning is paired with physical and social development. We provide nutritious snacks and a free lunch to all participants. SCIC is dedicated to empowering youth with the tools they need for a successful academic journey, and we rely on dedicated volunteers like you to make this happen. If you’re passionate about supporting youth and helping them build a strong foundation for their future, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center At SCIC, we believe our youth are the future, and we are committed to helping refugee and immigrant students thrive. Our Summer Program is designed to provide essential academic support in subjects such as reading, writing, math, science, English, and the arts. In addition to academic enrichment, we offer structured supervision, positive role models, and a safe, supportive environment for students K-12th grade. Throughout the summer, students also engage in recreation and fun activities, ensuring that learning is paired with physical and social development. We provide nutritious snacks and a free lunch to all participants. SCIC is dedicated to empowering youth with the tools they need for a successful academic journey, and we rely on dedicated volunteers like you to make this happen. If you’re passionate about supporting youth and helping them build a strong foundation for their future, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Unlock Potential: Volunteer to Teach Digital Literacy at SCIC!These days, a computer is more than just a tech device. It’s a doorway to employment, education, healthcare, social connection, and so much more. At SCIC, we are committed to removing the barriers to digital access by offering digital literacy classes to refugees and immigrants. These classes are culturally sensitive and, when possible, conducted in the refugees' and immigrants' native languages. We welcome volunteers who can assist with these important classes. The ability to speak Afghani, Kinyarwandan, Lingala, Swahili, Spanish, or Burmese is greatly appreciated, but not required. English speakers are also welcome to join us in this impactful work! If you’re passionate about helping others gain essential skills for a better future, we would love to have you as part of our team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center These days, a computer is more than just a tech device. It’s a doorway to employment, education, healthcare, social connection, and so much more. At SCIC, we are committed to removing the barriers to digital access by offering digital literacy classes to refugees and immigrants. These classes are culturally sensitive and, when possible, conducted in the refugees' and immigrants' native languages. We welcome volunteers who can assist with these important classes. The ability to speak Afghani, Kinyarwandan, Lingala, Swahili, Spanish, or Burmese is greatly appreciated, but not required. English speakers are also welcome to join us in this impactful work! If you’re passionate about helping others gain essential skills for a better future, we would love to have you as part of our team! Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Shape Young Minds: Become a Preschool Volunteer at Shalom Preschool!!SCIC is proud to offer a licensed preschool program for children ages 3-5, primarily serving the children of refugees. Our preschool consists of a 3-year-old room and a 4-year-old room, where children not only prepare for school but also develop essential English language skills. Our Preschool also serves as an additional summer support while their parents attend ELL (English Language Learner) classes. We are dedicated to ensuring these children are well-prepared for kindergarten and a successful academic journey. We are always looking for caring and dedicated volunteers to help guide these young learners, whether it’s through one-on-one support, engaging activities, or simply providing a positive presence in their lives. Your time and support can make a significant impact on their educational journey. If you’re passionate about early childhood education and want to make a difference, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers and help nurture these children as they prepare for a bright future. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center SCIC is proud to offer a licensed preschool program for children ages 3-5, primarily serving the children of refugees. Our preschool consists of a 3-year-old room and a 4-year-old room, where children not only prepare for school but also develop essential English language skills. Our Preschool also serves as an additional summer support while their parents attend ELL (English Language Learner) classes. We are dedicated to ensuring these children are well-prepared for kindergarten and a successful academic journey. We are always looking for caring and dedicated volunteers to help guide these young learners, whether it’s through one-on-one support, engaging activities, or simply providing a positive presence in their lives. Your time and support can make a significant impact on their educational journey. If you’re passionate about early childhood education and want to make a difference, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers and help nurture these children as they prepare for a bright future. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Help Kids Succeed: Volunteer for Academic Support at SCIC!At SCIC, we believe our youth are the future, and we are committed to rising to the challenge of supporting refugee and immigrant students. Our After School Academic Support Program is designed to nurture their growth academically and personally. Through this program, we provide students from K-12th grade with critical academic support in subjects such as reading, writing, math, science, English, and the arts. Beyond academics, our program offers much-needed structure and supervision after school, along with opportunities for recreation, socialization, and mentoring. Students engage in enriching activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being while being guided by positive role models. SCIC is dedicated to providing a comprehensive, supportive environment where every child can thrive, both in and outside of the classroom. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center At SCIC, we believe our youth are the future, and we are committed to rising to the challenge of supporting refugee and immigrant students. Our After School Academic Support Program is designed to nurture their growth academically and personally. Through this program, we provide students from K-12th grade with critical academic support in subjects such as reading, writing, math, science, English, and the arts. Beyond academics, our program offers much-needed structure and supervision after school, along with opportunities for recreation, socialization, and mentoring. Students engage in enriching activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being while being guided by positive role models. SCIC is dedicated to providing a comprehensive, supportive environment where every child can thrive, both in and outside of the classroom. Organization: Shalom Community Impact Center Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50322 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Help Keep Pets Home! Board Role - Pantry OrganizerThe Pet Project helps keep pets with their families and out of shelters through proactive programming. We are looking for someone with great organizational skills who would like to join our active all-volunteer board to manage our pantry. The position includes scheduling shifts, training new volunteers for pantry work or special activities, and keep the pantry shelves organized to ensure we use the food with the closest expiration date first. The role would partner closely with the Inventory Manager position. Our organization does not require a financial commitment to join the board, but we actively participate in the operation and serving our clients. We ask that members support our activities and provide a level of donation they are comfortable with. Commitment would be to attend one-hour board meeting monthly, work a pantry shift on Saturday each month, attend the pantry committee meeting every six weeks, and flexible hours to organize product and volunteer needs. Organization: The Pet Project Midwest The Pet Project helps keep pets with their families and out of shelters through proactive programming. We are looking for someone with great organizational skills who would like to join our active all-volunteer board to manage our pantry. The position includes scheduling shifts, training new volunteers for pantry work or special activities, and keep the pantry shelves organized to ensure we use the food with the closest expiration date first. The role would partner closely with the Inventory Manager position. Our organization does not require a financial commitment to join the board, but we actively participate in the operation and serving our clients. We ask that members support our activities and provide a level of donation they are comfortable with. Commitment would be to attend one-hour board meeting monthly, work a pantry shift on Saturday each month, attend the pantry committee meeting every six weeks, and flexible hours to organize product and volunteer needs. Organization: The Pet Project Midwest Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Help Keep Pets Home! Volunteer Role - Website & Social MediaThe Pet Project helps keep pets with their families and out of shelters through proactive programming. We are looking for someone with experience managing social media accounts and updating a Wordpress website who would like to join our organization as a volunteer (possibility for board membership if desired)! Our current social media manager needs some help to be able to accomplish everything we want to do. The common actives include creating posts, managing our social media account, and updating our website as needed. If you prefer just volunteering without a board commitment, this work is volunteer and can be done fully remote if desired.
Optional board opportunity: Our organization does not require a financial commitment to join the board, but we actively participate in the operation and serving our clients. Commitment would be to attend one-hour board meeting monthly, work a pantry shift on Saturday approximately every other month, and flexible hours to manage the finances. Organization: The Pet Project Midwest The Pet Project helps keep pets with their families and out of shelters through proactive programming. We are looking for someone with experience managing social media accounts and updating a Wordpress website who would like to join our organization as a volunteer (possibility for board membership if desired)! Our current social media manager needs some help to be able to accomplish everything we want to do. The common actives include creating posts, managing our social media account, and updating our website as needed. If you prefer just volunteering without a board commitment, this work is volunteer and can be done fully remote if desired.
Optional board opportunity: Our organization does not require a financial commitment to join the board, but we actively participate in the operation and serving our clients. Commitment would be to attend one-hour board meeting monthly, work a pantry shift on Saturday approximately every other month, and flexible hours to manage the finances. Organization: The Pet Project Midwest Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Need disaster responders to help people in needDisaster Action Team: While big hurricanes and wildfires get the most news coverage, smaller disasters are no less devasting to the families affected. Most of the 60,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are smaller disasters like home fires. As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can help comfort and support people in your community by meeting any immediate needs such as food, shelter, clothing or supplies and connecting them to long term recovery services. We supply all the training you need. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!
Organization: American Red Cross Disaster Action Team: While big hurricanes and wildfires get the most news coverage, smaller disasters are no less devasting to the families affected. Most of the 60,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are smaller disasters like home fires. As a Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can help comfort and support people in your community by meeting any immediate needs such as food, shelter, clothing or supplies and connecting them to long term recovery services. We supply all the training you need. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer!
Organization: American Red Cross Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Health Services AssociatesDisaster Health Services Team: During large disasters, you can use your professional skills as a licensed healthcare provider to deliver hands on care and education to shelter residents. Free online training will be provided and can count towards nursing continuing education units. If the need arises, volunteers are asked to commit to multiple local shifts of 4-12 hours each. For those able to travel outside of their local area, a commitment of at least 10-14 consecutive days, working 8- or 12-hour shifts is required. Qualified licenses include RN, LPN, LVN, EMT, Paramedic, MD, DO, PA, NP, APRN. Only RNs have full scope of practice. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer! Organization: American Red Cross Disaster Health Services Team: During large disasters, you can use your professional skills as a licensed healthcare provider to deliver hands on care and education to shelter residents. Free online training will be provided and can count towards nursing continuing education units. If the need arises, volunteers are asked to commit to multiple local shifts of 4-12 hours each. For those able to travel outside of their local area, a commitment of at least 10-14 consecutive days, working 8- or 12-hour shifts is required. Qualified licenses include RN, LPN, LVN, EMT, Paramedic, MD, DO, PA, NP, APRN. Only RNs have full scope of practice. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer! Organization: American Red Cross Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Blood Donor AmbassadorsBlood Donor Ambassador: Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. The need for blood is constant and so is the need for volunteers at our Blood Drives to help save lives. Volunteer Blood Donor Ambassadors ensure that blood donors have a pleasant and fulfilling experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. During a blood drive, whether you’re greeting donors, answering questions or thanking them for their donation, your courtesy and professionalism will create a favorable impression that encourages ongoing donor support. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer! Organization: American Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador: Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. The need for blood is constant and so is the need for volunteers at our Blood Drives to help save lives. Volunteer Blood Donor Ambassadors ensure that blood donors have a pleasant and fulfilling experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. During a blood drive, whether you’re greeting donors, answering questions or thanking them for their donation, your courtesy and professionalism will create a favorable impression that encourages ongoing donor support. For more information or to apply go to: https://www.redcross.org/volunteertoday Scan QR code to be a Red Cross volunteer! Organization: American Red Cross Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: New Fundraising Volunteer Roles at Dorothy's HouseDorothy's House is looking for energetic volunteers who support our mission, have great communication skills and have experience in fundraising (or willingness to learn). Good handwriting is also a plus! Our new Director of Development is seeking dedicated volunteers to support fundraising efforts such as writing thank you letters to donors, publicizing events and recruiting new sponsors. Depending on the task, fundraising volunteers will meet with staff biweekly or monthly - either in person or virtually.
Volunteers are a special part of the mix at Dorothy's House. Providing survivors with an environment for recovery and restoration requires many hands, minds and hearts. We look to the community to bring a variety of backgrounds, interests, and skills to share with our participants. Through our residential programs, Dorothy's House for those whose lives have been interrupted by human trafficking, exploitation and prostitution. Organization: Dorothy's House Dorothy's House is looking for energetic volunteers who support our mission, have great communication skills and have experience in fundraising (or willingness to learn). Good handwriting is also a plus! Our new Director of Development is seeking dedicated volunteers to support fundraising efforts such as writing thank you letters to donors, publicizing events and recruiting new sponsors. Depending on the task, fundraising volunteers will meet with staff biweekly or monthly - either in person or virtually.
Volunteers are a special part of the mix at Dorothy's House. Providing survivors with an environment for recovery and restoration requires many hands, minds and hearts. We look to the community to bring a variety of backgrounds, interests, and skills to share with our participants. Through our residential programs, Dorothy's House for those whose lives have been interrupted by human trafficking, exploitation and prostitution. Organization: Dorothy's House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: InterpreterWe are looking for volunteer interpreters to either come in person or have on our contact list to call for interpretation. Languages include; Swahili, Arabic, Farsi, Dari, Spanish, and French. Please contact tconway@refugees.org if you are interested. Organization: U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants Des Moines We are looking for volunteer interpreters to either come in person or have on our contact list to call for interpretation. Languages include; Swahili, Arabic, Farsi, Dari, Spanish, and French. Please contact tconway@refugees.org if you are interested. Organization: U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: DEITY Fastpitch Volunteer CoachesDEITY Fastpitch is looking for current and former softball coaches and players to conduct and/or assist with DEITY FP camps and programs. This opportunity is well-suited towards those who played at the college level and/or has significant coaching experience and want to stay connected, give back, and help grow the numbers, quality, and inclusiveness of softball.
Organization: DEITY Fastpitch, LTD DEITY Fastpitch is looking for current and former softball coaches and players to conduct and/or assist with DEITY FP camps and programs. This opportunity is well-suited towards those who played at the college level and/or has significant coaching experience and want to stay connected, give back, and help grow the numbers, quality, and inclusiveness of softball.
Organization: DEITY Fastpitch, LTD Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Friends of WDM Parks & Rec Board MemberFriends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board Member Opportunity Are you passionate about making a difference in the West Des Moines community? If so, consider joining the Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation as a board member! As a board member, you'll collaborate with dedicated individuals to support and enhance our parks and recreation programs, expand community outreach, and drive membership growth. We are looking for motivated individuals with leadership goals, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to making a positive impact. What Time Commitment Should I Expect?Monthly Meetings: Board members meet once a month for approximately 90 minutes on the 2nd or 3rd Thursday from 5:30–7:00 p.m. Committee Engagement: Expect approximately 3–4 hours per month per committee you join. Committee meetings provide working collaborative opportunities to achieve board goals between the monthly meetings. Event Volunteering: There are additional (fully optional) opportunities to volunteer at Friends or Friends-adjacent events throughout the year, typically falling on weekends. What are the Attendance Expectations? Regular attendance at the monthly board meetings is essential and expected for all Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board members. Maintaining consistent attendance supports collaboration and ensures progress on key projects. Your commitment to attendance directly contributes to our success and impact in the community. Each board member is expected to volunteer for at least one committee. The committees include Finance/Executive; Membership Management; Fundraising; Marketing & Outreach; Partnerships & Programs; and other ad-hoc or event-based committees. Do Board Members Make Personal Financial Commitments? The Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board is dedicated to securing financial support for our community programs and funded projects such as Legacy Woods or Athene Bridge. Board members play a vital role in ensuring the financial stability and growth of our parks and programs. Each board member’s commitment is crucial. Each board member is expected to make a personal financial contribution within their means, most often by way of a ‘Founding Friends’ annual membership. While the amount of the contribution has an impact, the act of giving itself is significant, as it demonstrates to others in the community that board members are personally invested in the success of our parks. What Might I be Doing as a Board Member? Planning and Executing Fundraising and Community Enrichment Events - Board members plan for several events throughout each year, including Friends fundraisers, community engagement, and environmental and conservation efforts. Finding Opportunities to Support the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department - The city-managed department has ample volunteer opportunities throughout its seasonal event programming. Board members will often support the Parks and Recreation department via arranging sponsorships or simply volunteering their time. Growing Awareness and Membership for the Friends - The Friends of WDM Parks and Rec organization has a big dream to make the West Des Moines Parks system the best it can be. Growing awareness of the Friends and its mission, and finding ways to add new ‘Friends’ as members is a frequent goal and task. Identifying Funding Sources and Seeking Contributions - Each board member also helps identify potential funding sources for Friends of WDM Parks & Rec. Your knowledge of the community and connections will support the development of a robust financial support program. Board members should be willing to ask for contributions, as part of a coordinated effort led by the board to ensure we meet our funding goals. Are There Any Special Skill Sets Needed? If you have experience in marketing, finance, accounting, law, event planning, volunteer board strategic planning, and/or are passionate about enhancing community spaces for West Des Moines residents, we invite you to consider joining our board. Terms begin in March and extend for three years. How to ApplyIf you’re enthusiastic about West Des Moines parks and recreation, ready to bring new ideas to the table, and committed to creating a more vibrant community, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to our Board President at friendsofwdmparks@gmail.com and fill out a volunteer application to help us get to know you. Join us in making a difference for West Des Moines Parks and Recreation! Organization: Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board Member Opportunity Are you passionate about making a difference in the West Des Moines community? If so, consider joining the Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation as a board member! As a board member, you'll collaborate with dedicated individuals to support and enhance our parks and recreation programs, expand community outreach, and drive membership growth. We are looking for motivated individuals with leadership goals, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to making a positive impact. What Time Commitment Should I Expect?Monthly Meetings: Board members meet once a month for approximately 90 minutes on the 2nd or 3rd Thursday from 5:30–7:00 p.m. Committee Engagement: Expect approximately 3–4 hours per month per committee you join. Committee meetings provide working collaborative opportunities to achieve board goals between the monthly meetings. Event Volunteering: There are additional (fully optional) opportunities to volunteer at Friends or Friends-adjacent events throughout the year, typically falling on weekends. What are the Attendance Expectations? Regular attendance at the monthly board meetings is essential and expected for all Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board members. Maintaining consistent attendance supports collaboration and ensures progress on key projects. Your commitment to attendance directly contributes to our success and impact in the community. Each board member is expected to volunteer for at least one committee. The committees include Finance/Executive; Membership Management; Fundraising; Marketing & Outreach; Partnerships & Programs; and other ad-hoc or event-based committees. Do Board Members Make Personal Financial Commitments? The Friends of West Des Moines Parks & Recreation board is dedicated to securing financial support for our community programs and funded projects such as Legacy Woods or Athene Bridge. Board members play a vital role in ensuring the financial stability and growth of our parks and programs. Each board member’s commitment is crucial. Each board member is expected to make a personal financial contribution within their means, most often by way of a ‘Founding Friends’ annual membership. While the amount of the contribution has an impact, the act of giving itself is significant, as it demonstrates to others in the community that board members are personally invested in the success of our parks. What Might I be Doing as a Board Member? Planning and Executing Fundraising and Community Enrichment Events - Board members plan for several events throughout each year, including Friends fundraisers, community engagement, and environmental and conservation efforts. Finding Opportunities to Support the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department - The city-managed department has ample volunteer opportunities throughout its seasonal event programming. Board members will often support the Parks and Recreation department via arranging sponsorships or simply volunteering their time. Growing Awareness and Membership for the Friends - The Friends of WDM Parks and Rec organization has a big dream to make the West Des Moines Parks system the best it can be. Growing awareness of the Friends and its mission, and finding ways to add new ‘Friends’ as members is a frequent goal and task. Identifying Funding Sources and Seeking Contributions - Each board member also helps identify potential funding sources for Friends of WDM Parks & Rec. Your knowledge of the community and connections will support the development of a robust financial support program. Board members should be willing to ask for contributions, as part of a coordinated effort led by the board to ensure we meet our funding goals. Are There Any Special Skill Sets Needed? If you have experience in marketing, finance, accounting, law, event planning, volunteer board strategic planning, and/or are passionate about enhancing community spaces for West Des Moines residents, we invite you to consider joining our board. Terms begin in March and extend for three years. How to ApplyIf you’re enthusiastic about West Des Moines parks and recreation, ready to bring new ideas to the table, and committed to creating a more vibrant community, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to our Board President at friendsofwdmparks@gmail.com and fill out a volunteer application to help us get to know you. Join us in making a difference for West Des Moines Parks and Recreation! Organization: Friends of West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |