Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

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

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

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

We are looking for a few new board members with experience on non-profit boards. Particular strengths would be: passion for addressing homelessness, strategic planning, fundraising, finance. We could particularly use someone with bookkeeping and/or treasurer experience.

The Terrace Hill grounds contain historic gardens, which include both vegetable and flower gardens. Planting is done once per year in May, and volunteers are needed throughout the season to weed, deadhead and maintain the gardens. Times and hours vary. Special events may require expanded volunteer help. Volunteers come in for any length shift between 6:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and must be able to do physical work in the sun.

Background check required.

Stowe Heights Challenge Course (SHCC) is a program of Community Youth Concepts on the East Side of Des Moines open from annually from May to October in 2020. Volunteer projects can be completed as individuals, family groups or other groups beginning in April and including months of operation. Due to the large amount of space and outdoor nature of the projects social distancing can be practiced while volunteering.  There are a variety of projects including landscaping, invasive species removal, general cleanup, painting, building projects at a variety of skill levels and trail creation.  For more information about Stowe Heights and volunteer projects, please contact jane@cyconcepts.org or 515-243-4292.  Please visit the Stowe Heights website to learn more about programming. 

Stowe Heights is a brand new program and as such interested supporters can volunteer in a number of ways including support with technology, website, social media and simply spreading the word about this hidden east side gem. 

Contact our volunteer coordinator to discuss your own talents and we can find a job that will support one or all of our 3 public performances each year. Work an audition check-in table, write a grant, clean up after rehearsals, host a party, make or shop for a prop, there are so many ways you can "Dance behind the scenes" to support the 200 or so volunteer dancers ages 8-adult bring a beautiful production to the stage! 

One acre of land is set aside at the Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center each year to grow sweet potatoes and donate them to area food agencies such as the Food Bank of Iowa and DMARC. In addition, apples that would otherwise go to waste can be gleaned from the orchard and donated to Iowans in need. Volunteers are needed to plant, tend and harvest the sweet potatoes and pick and sort apples for donation.

The Wallace House has a small kitchen garden with a mix of perennials, annuals, herbs and vegetables. We're looking for a volunteer to maintain the garden periodically during the spring, summer and fall. This might include planting a few annuals, weeding, watering and deadheading. You set your own schedule.

Without a computer at home, many children enter preschool unfamiliar with the world of technology. As a computer pal volunteer, you can make sure children in Head Start classrooms have a safe and fun introduction to the computer. Teachers will look to you to engage the children in educational games and to make sure that everyone gets their turn! One-on-one and small group work helps children gain the confidence and skills they'll need for a successful start in school. Pre-schoolers will be looking forward to your arrival! Computer Pals should enjoy working with young children 3-4 years old. A Computer Pal should be familiar with basic knowledge of computers. Orientation and individual training is provided.

Everybody’s gotta eat. Why not give back while you eat as a Mealtime Partner with the Drake University Head Start Program. Pick a meal that works best for you, breakfast, lunch, or snack, to eat and socialize with children ages 2-4. Mealtime Partners are energetic, caring volunteers who encourage children to try new foods, while teaching them skills such as pouring, setting the table, and serving food. Eating with a group of three-year-olds is the most fun you’ll have at mealtime without playing with your food.

Who says volunteering has to be a chore? Why not play instead? As a playtime partner, you’ll participate in fun activities while encouraging children ages 2-5 to actively explore the world around them. You’ll help them solve problems, encourage kids to ask questions, and provoke them to use words to describe their ideas and feelings as they play. On top of having a blast, you’ll help our students develop creativity, communication and socialization skills. Playtime Partners can participate at various Head Start and Early Head Start centers throughout the metro area, including Norwalk, Indianola, Ankeny, and Mitchellville. This volunteer should enjoy working with young children and having lots of fun.

When you volunteer, the more you give, the more you get back. As a Graphics Art Assistant for the Drake University Head Start and Early Head Start Programs, this doesn’t just mean a warm, fuzzy feeling. By helping design posters, brochures, and educational information, you’ll develop new material to bolster your portfolio while giving back to an organization that helps youngsters succeed. Lend us your creativity and graphic arts expertise, and we’ll widely circulate your work. So in a very real way, you get what you give-if not more. All you need to get started is a computer, some Graphic Art or design experience, and access to email. Contact us today, and give your creativity a Head Start.

Where else can you shake up the future of the world with a little finger paint? Where else can story time inspire a Pulitzer Prize winner? And how else can you solve the next generation’s biggest problems by helping to put together a jigsaw puzzle? As a classroom volunteer with the Drake University Head Start program, you’ll assist teachers with daily activities in the classroom, but your overall impact could be much more profound. Working with 3-4 year old children on art activities, reading, puzzles, and more is a great way to gain experience in early education, while making a real difference in a child’s life. The Classroom Volunteer should have an interest in working with young children and Head Start staff. Head Start classrooms meet federal performance standards and state licensing standards.

Head Start gives every child an opportunity to succeed, but they can only do so with a strong board of directors. As a Community Representative on the Policy Council, you will work with parents of currently enrolled children to make decisions that will influence program outcomes and activities. Not only will you help shape programming at Drake University Head Start, but you will also provide mentoring and support to these families.

Time Commitment: Monthly meeting on the second Tuesday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Includes light dinner.

Staff Partner: Claudia Murphy

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

Expectations of Individual Board Members

Each individual Board member is expected to

We are looking for volunteers to work with the District Court Mediation program in the Small Claims Court system. You will assist landlords and tenants as well as litigants with money claims  to resolve  their issues or differences.

We operate (5) five days a week with morning and afternoon sessions of up to 3.5 hours each. We can be flexible to accommodate your preferences for days and times. 

We  will provide you training with experienced mediators. This is an opportunity to continuously learn and provide a valuable service to the Court, litigating parties and the community. Please contact jseidlin@pcbaonline.org to get started in the most worthwhile opportunity.

Help our future workforce figure out their path so their educational path is one that leads to positive outcomes. The Mentor Advantage Program (MAP), a state certified mentoring program, builds relationships between middle and high school youth and professionals. Mentors and mentees are matched based on personality, gender, and the mentee’s career interest. MAP's intent is to introduce youth to the mentor’s career and expose them to a “behind-the-scenes” look at how educational concepts are applied in a real-world setting. Matches are encouraged to spend time at the mentor’s place of employment, giving the mentee an apprenticeship-like experience, and explore what other opportunities might be in their areas of interest.

To find out how to get involved as a student or mentor, contact our Mentoring Coordinator, John Preston, at 515-243-4292 or john@cyconcepts.org . 

The Beacon of Life transitional housing facility requires 24-hour staffing to support our clients. The Resident Assistant is the first and primary point of contact for meeting many of our clients' needs throughout their stay. RA shifts run from 12am - 8am, 8am - 4pm, and 4pm - 12am. We are always seeking volunteers to help out during these times or even to split shifts. 

RA duties include:

Respond to resident needs
Greet visitors and answer phone
Call residents on "pass" to verify whereabouts
Random drug and alcohol testing
Handle medications: dispensing, counting, checking in new medications and refills
Check indoor household chores
Light cleaning
Special projects as designated by Case Manager

AlRazi Academy is in need for volunteers to help students with reading and/or math skills. More than 75% of our students are either low income, refugees and or immigrants and they cant afford extra help in reading or math skills. Most of the younger kids are English learners and having volunteers help with more reading time can be a great help for them and their teachers  to develop their reading and communication skills. 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for those affected by mental health conditions. We are currently recruiting presenters for our Ending the Silence program. Ending the Silence is a 50-minute presentation on signs and symptoms of mental illness designed to change misconceptions and “end the silence” surrounding mental health. It gives participants information and first-hand accounts from two presenters.

NAMI IOWA is seeking individuals over the age of 18 who are comfortable with public speaking and have a connection to mental illness (through yourself or a friend/family member) to fill two different types of presenter roles – 1) lead presenter (over 18 to lead the PowerPoint presentation using personal experience) and 2) young adult (between the ages of 18-35 to speak about their story after the PowerPoint). Given the novel coronavirus, presentations may occur either virtually or in-person. Incentives are offered for presenters. 

Please fill out this google form if you are interested: https://forms.gle/righoG9HbfvcYMDR6

You may also reach out to Nina Richtman at Nina@namiiowa.org directly.

We are a Lutheran congregation on the east side of Des Moines. Across from Stowe School near the Fairgrounds. We are willing to pay the $60 to sponsor Pr. James and Nyandit.

We have a Sudanese American married couple who are in need of whom we are sponsoring. Their names are Pastor James and Nyandit Puotyal. He is a Lutheran pastor who is undergoing Dialysis three times a week at Methodist Hospital. They live in the Basement of Nyandit's cousin. They only own a bed to sleep on. Nyandit works at Hormel in Nevada. Pastor James began working at Mosaic Ministries and can no longer work. Nyandit's cousin's wife wants them to move out as soon as possible. We have a possible apartment in Altonna, a income restricted one. They need furniture, etc.

Click Respond to get more information.

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

Description:

Volunteers will pack food supplies for families in boxes or bags to be distributed at mobile pantry sites to accommodate the need for drive-thru and pick up models. This is an emergency response for the effects of COVID19.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

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

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 10

Dress Code: Closed-toed shoes are required; no exceptions. Dress comfortably. Gloves will be provided.

Location(s): Food Bank of Iowa has two volunteer centers

For more information contact Michaela Devaney at MDevaney@foodbankiowa.org or click Respond.

* In Order to Volunteer please sign up on the Food Bank of Iowa's Website*

Food/care packages for youth:

Due to Covid-19, we are unable to hold weekly groups where youth were provided at least one meal and at times food to take home. More concerning is the fact youth aren’t attending school where they were getting the majority of their nutrition. Many of the youth we serve are at risk of not having their daily food needs met and this is an especially challenging time for them. Our goal is to drop off bi-weekly food baskets/care packages for the most needy youth in our programs. 

Specific needs: The Program is seeking food donations that would consist of items that could be refrigerated, frozen, or that have preservatives. Ensuring that youth have food for several days. Overall, anything will help and is appreciated.

Note: In order to follow government safety protocols for Covid-19, we will work with each donor on a drop off site that they will be able to safely drop the donation without having any contact with anyone. Once they leave; we will have a team member get the food and distribute it accordingly. 

If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Director of the ManUp Iowa Mentoring Program, Zach Smith @ zachsmith@manupiowa.com or by cell @ 515-988-9358 (text or call) 

Ankeny Dollars for Scholars is an all-volunteer organization that provides scholarships to graduating students of Ankeny Community School District.  The 2020 - 2021 school year marks the organization's 38th year!  ADFS is a clearing house for donations from generous individuals, businesses, organizations; all donations are used to fund scholarships -- 100% of every donation goes to scholarships.  With over $1 million in scholarships awarded to date, volunteers fundraise to cover all administrative costs, facilitate the application and matching process, work with donors and potential donors, fundraise to add to scholarship donation monies, promote post-secondary training and education, and more.  

The organization welcomes potential volunteers to consider attending a meeting to learn more about the committees that make ADFS successful.  Committees include Fundraising/Finance, Marketing/Communications, and Scholarships.  Each committee meets either monthly or bi-monthly for approximately one hour at a time; at certain times of the year, depending on activities, more or less time is helpful.

Professionals in areas of marketing, accounting, fundraising who would like to volunteer yet utilize their skills are welcome; no professional experience or prior experience in volunteering in these areas, though, are required.   

Hello Friends of Mosaic! 

We are hunkered down and working diligently to keep everyone, safe and happy! You can help us!  The need for fabric face masks is great across the Mosaic network. If you are able to support us in this way, we are urgently requesting your help! Please share this need with your congregation, circle of friends, virtual networks or maybe you have been looking for a new hobby - now is a great time to learn how to sew... :)  

Here are a couple easy patterns to follow from Craft Passion (http://ow.ly/ceyr30qrEen) and Sweet Red Poppy (http://ow.ly/zSQp30qrEeq). 

We are able to arrange pick up or items can be dropped off at our Urbandale office. Please contact Katie Flippen if you need further information! Katie's contact info is 515-868-0602, katie.flippen@mosaicinfo.org. 

Thank you for your support!

Mosaic in Central Iowa Office

11141 Aurora Avenue - Bldg. #3

Urbandale, IA  50322

Contact us now to be included in our Summer, 2020 training! We are taking applications!

The safety of our volunteers is a high priority for UnityPoint Hospice. Due to COVID-19, we have decided to pause on providing volunteer services in patient homes and hospice houses. We are hopeful for the day when our lives return to some sense of normalcy and the excellent support volunteers provide to our patients and teams can resume. We will be ready to on-board new volunteers!

Volunteers support patients through companionship and friendly visits. Volunteering is your opportunity to find a connection with a patient – perhaps you’ve both been fly fishing in Alaska? Or maybe you share a love of quilting or crafting? Sometimes our patients want a volunteer to read to them or play card games. Other times a family care giver wants a respite or a few hours to get groceries or lunch with a friend and they are comforted knowing that a volunteer is able to be with their loved one.

Hospice volunteers are needed to provide care and comfort to patients in their homes in our community. Volunteers must

Hospice does not prolong life nor does it hasten death, but instead focuses on creating a life full of comfort, dignity and peace for people in the final stages of life. Hospice addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of every patient while also providing support for the entire family. The sooner a patient receives hospice care, the sooner these comforting benefits begin.

This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to make an impact to a patient in your neighborhood.

The safety of our volunteers is a high priority for UnityPoint Hospice. Due to COVID-19, we have decided to pause on providing volunteer services in patient homes and hospice houses. We are hopeful for the day when our lives return to some sense of normalcy and the excellent support volunteers provide to our patients and teams can resume. We will be ready to on-board new volunteers!

Through this partnership, we strive to match veteran patients with volunteers who were also veterans. This allows veteran patients to be paired with a hospice volunteer who is also a veteran who may have a better understanding of what the patient has experienced. Veteran volunteers may help with:

We offer the opportunity for our veteran patients to be honored for their service through a pinning ceremony done by hospice staff. The veteran is encouraged to invite their friends and family to participate and share memories. We enjoy involving our volunteers who are veterans with pinning ceremonies for our patients and in our communities.

For all hospice volunteers:

Volunteers support patients through companionship and friendly visits. Volunteering is your opportunity to find a connection with a patient – perhaps you’ve both been fly fishing in Alaska? Or maybe you share a love of quilting or crafting? Sometimes our patients want a volunteer to read to them or play card games. Other times a family care giver wants a respite or a few hours to get groceries or lunch with a friend and they are comforted knowing that a volunteer is able to be with their loved one.

Hospice volunteers are needed to provide care and comfort to patients in their homes in our community. Volunteers must

Hospice does not prolong life nor does it hasten death, but instead focuses on creating a life full of comfort, dignity and peace for people in the final stages of life. Hospice addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of every patient while also providing support for the entire family. The sooner a patient receives hospice care, the sooner these comforting benefits begin.

This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to make an impact to a patient in your neighborhood.

During our garden season (April through October), we are in need of volunteers to help us with upkeep and maintenance of our 1.5 acre community garden. Activities may include watering, planting, weeding, etc. All are welcome!

Email Allison Kane, program manager, at akane@phcinc.net if you are interested in setting up a time to come and volunteer.

We are recruiting members for our new organizational structure. We are identifying prospective Board members to meet 6-8 times a year. If you have a passion in helping children and families, please consider volunteering your time for a worthy case.

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities:

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

Qualifications:

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

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

Volunteers will assist with the day-to-day operation of the museum, tasks will include things like welcoming visitors, sanitizing toys, and keeping exhibits tidy.

The West Des Moines Historical Society is seeking energetic and detail oriented volunteers to help with a new project- a master inventory of the Jordan House and Bennett School Museums. Both museums house collections of artifacts dating back to the early days of the State, and we are launching a huge project to ensure the protection and preservation of all the items. 

The volunteer opportunity would require you to take an inventory of each room and compare this inventory to existing paper records. Each object in the room will be cataloged, inspected and a detailed form filled out for the purpose of entering into a computerized database. Each item will be photographed for identification purposes. 

Volunteer requirements: 

Flexible hours. Long-term benefits. No experience necessary.

It's a fact, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa's one-to-one youth mentoring has a real and positive impact on children and their futures by defending their potential. Children enrolled in our programs show consistent improvements in self-confidence, academic performance, and relationships with peers and family members. No experience is necessary, you just have to know how to have fun and want to make a positive lasting impact on the life of a child.

Community-Based Mentoring allows individuals who are 18 or older to visit with a child twice a month for a minimum of four hours a month. Bigs spend time with their Littles participating in activities throughout the community- whether it's going to the zoo, playing catch or just taking a walk, the possibilities are endless. The great part is, with every activity, a friendship grows. We also provide options for individuals to be Community-Based Mentors in pairs--Big Duos or Big Families. Note: A year commitment is required to be a Community-Based mentor.

Currently, there are over 100 children waiting to be matched with a mentor. Become a Defender of Potential and change a child's life. Contact us today. Please include your phone number in your response.  Mentors must be at least 18 years of age and be committed to spending only four hours a month with a child in need, for a minimum of one year.

Flexible hours. Long-term benefits. No experience necessary.

It's a fact, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa's one-to-one youth mentoring has a real and positive impact on children and their futures by defending their potential. Children enrolled in our programs show consistent improvements in self-confidence, academic performance, and relationships with peers and family members.

No experience is necessary, you just have to know how to have fun and want to make a positive lasting impact on the life of a child.

School-Based Mentoring allows individuals, high school age or older, to meet one-to-one with a child at the Little's elementary or middle school for 30-60 minutes each week during or after school. Matches spend time playing games, doing homework or just talking-all while building a relationship to increase the child's self-confidence and academic performance.

School-Based Plus is an extension of our School-Based Mentoring Program. The only difference is Bigs and Littles have the opportunity to meet once a month outside of the school setting. Mentors must be at least 18 years old, and the match must be together for three or more months.

Currently, there are over 100 children waiting to be matched with a mentor. Become a Defender of Potential and change a child's life. Contact us today to get involved! Please include your phone number in your response. Mentors must be high school age or older and spend four hours a month helping to make a difference in the life of a child.

Flexible hours. Long-term benefits. No experience necessary.

It's a fact, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa's one-to-one youth mentoring has a real and positive impact on children and their futures by defending their potential. Children enrolled in our programs show consistent improvements in self-confidence, academic performance, and relationships with peers and family members. No experience is necessary, you just have to know how to have fun and want to make a positive lasting impact on the life of a child.

Community-Based Mentoring allows individuals who are 18 or older to visit with a child twice a month for a minimum of four hours a month. Bigs spend time with their Littles participating in activities throughout the community- whether it's going to the zoo, playing catch or just taking a walk, the possibilities are endless. The great part is, with every activity, a friendship grows. We also provide options for individuals to be Community-Based Mentors in pairs--Big Duos or Big Families. Note: A year commitment is required to be a Community-Based mentor.

Currently, there are 100 children waiting to be matched with a mentor. Become a Defender of Potential and change a child's life. Contact us today. Please include your phone number in your response. Mentors must be at least 18 years of age and be committed to spending only four hours a month with a child in need, for a minimum of one year.

Are you passionate about the value of a music education? 

Are you looking for an opportunity to help underserved and low-income children in our community be exposed to our choral program which sciene has proved helps a child brain develope faster?

We are looking for enthusiastic, energetic, and motivated community members to join our board.

We are looking for people with different talents and skills including, but not limited to, marketing, volunteer management, fundraising, legal, graphic design, business leadership, etc.

In this role you will advise, govern, and oversee policy and direction for the organization as well as assist with the promotion of Iowa Youth Chorus and support the organization’s mission and needs.

About Iowa Youth Chorus:
The Iowa Youth Chorus (IYC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the highest level of artistic training to the youth of central Iowa. IYC provides world-class choral education where young singers can develop skills in choral singing, music theory, and artistic expression. For more information, please see the IYC website at http://www.iowayouthchorus.org

Our Vision
The individuals we serve will flourish as part of an internationally acclaimed organization that inspires personal development, celebrates diversity and fosters international goodwill. As advocates for the performing arts, we are partners with our community and with the world.

Our Mission
We will nurture the human spirit by enriching the lives of youth through musical excellence, helping them reach their fullest potential and live enriched lives through vocal music.

Major Responsibilities:
• Serve as an IYC ambassador and assist with IYC visibility and marketing.
• Promote the organization’s mission, values, and programs
• Long-term planning for Iowa Youth Chorus growth and development
• Fundraising and outreach
• Financial management including reviewing and approving the annual budget
• Policy development for IYC programs and procedures
• Attend board meetings on a regular basis
• Actively participate in committee work
• Staff development and oversight of personnel
• Adhere to the Board's Give or Get Policy in order to demonstrate our IYC internal commitment to the broader community and funders.

Term length:
Iowa Youth Chorus Board Members serve a three-year term and are eligible for one additional consecutive term.

Meeting Times and Commitment:
• The Board of Directors meets monthly for at least 10 months of the year at a time agreeable to the majority
• Board Members actively participate and support at least one committee based on interest/area of expertise
• Board Members are asked to attend Iowa Youth Chorus fundraising events and performances as often as possible

Qualifications:
• Commitment to supporting Iowa Youth Chorus mission and programs
• Desire to support choral education opportunities for central Iowa youth
• Results-oriented individual dedicated to achieving defined objectives
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work with others
• Professional experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: music, business management, finance, accounting, real-estate, technology, law

To Apply:
Please email director@iowayouthchorus.org with your name, phone number, and a couple sentences about yourself and why you are interested.

Thank you!

Are you interested in getting out in the community to volunteer? Volunteer with EveryStep Grief and Loss Services: Home of Amanda the Panda. We'd love to have you!

One of the many opportunities for volunteering with EveryStep includes being a community educator. The volunteer will serve as a representative of EveryStep at community events, volunteer fairs, and similar functions. The aim is to spread awareness about our services, engage with the community, and/or recruit volunteers. Training for this opportunity is required.

Qualifications/Desired Attributes:

AnB Education is a non-profit organization pairing exchange students with host families and public/private high schools across the US for one semester or one academic year programs. Each year, students from all over the world come to the United States to learn English and experience our unique culture.

We are looking for volunteers across the US to join our mission as Local Coordinators. LCs are our "on the ground" assets during the program year for our exchange students. LCs are tasked with recruiting volunteer families to host our J-1 international students, and then supervising the exchange student(s) throughout the school year. Our Local Coordinators are paid a modest stipend for their efforts, based on their number of placed students, and have the opportunity to work with international students from around the world and help our students' dreams come true! It is also fulfilling to share your small part of America with the world, and bring the world to your area!

Successful Local Coordinators are typically:

-Self motivated

-Independent

-Open-minded

-Interested in different cultures

-Enjoy working with youth

-Strong at public speaking/recruiting

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Local Coordinator with us, please reach out and we will be happy to answer any questions you have, and help get you started placing international students in your area!

Spend some quality time outside with your group or organization beautifying a park, wildlife area or trail. As an Adopt-A-Park sponsor, your group will help the Polk County Conservation Board manage its more than 18,000 acres of public land. We are always in need of volunteers, and especially teams of volunteers, willing to give their time to improve our parks through trash removal, painting, seed collection, plantings, woodland and prairie restoration, trail maintenance and more. With the Adopt -a-Park program your group gets to pick its favorite park or trail, so choose one near your business, church or school and help keep Polk County beautiful. Volunteers groups are required to sign up for a one-year commitment. Responsibilities vary based on age, interest, and need, and we’ll do our best to find the opportunity that best matches the volunteer. Training will be provided as needed on the job.

We are seeking community leaders to serve as members of our Board of Directors.  Directors have special knowledge, abilities and experiences that can contribute to the growth of Camp Fire in Central Iowa.  The board of directors consists of 16 to 18 members of the community and meets six times per year.  Many board members serve on committees that may meet more often. Camp Fire is very respectful of your time, by making meetings efficient and purposeful.

In this role, you will make three commitments; a commitment of time, a commitment of belief, and a commitment of financial support.

A COMMITMENT OF TIME

Conducting the business of Camp Fire Heart of Iowa means meeting as a board, in committees and with community groups. Meetings take time. Plus, time has to be given between one meeting and the next to complete assignments and make preparations. As a board member, you will also have opportunities to participate in council program activities, fundraising events, community forums and trainings. These are important ways to learn about your council and community and to stay in touch with the concerns of the members. Some board members over commit themselves. This leads to burnout and poor decisions. It is not good for the agency or for you. It is up to you to decide your personal limits. Good board members assume responsibility for only what they can complete efficiently and effectively.

A COMMITMENT OF TIME

Conducting the business of Camp Fire Heart of Iowa means meeting as a board, in committees and with community groups. Meetings take time. Plus, time has to be given between one meeting and the next to complete assignments and make preparations. As a board member, you will also have opportunities to participate in council program activities, fundraising events, community forums and trainings. These are important ways to learn about your council and community and to stay in touch with the concerns of the members. Some board members over commit themselves. This leads to burnout and poor decisions. It is not good for the agency or for you. It is up to you to decide your personal limits. Good board members assume responsibility for only what they can complete efficiently and effectively.

A COMMITMENT OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT

The board is responsible for obtaining financial support from the communities it serves. This may be done in many ways, but the individual commitment of each board member is essential. Each board member contributes to the financial stability of the council in three ways.

If you feel you have skills in marketing, finances, law, programming or planning, and you want to make a difference for young people in an outdoor setting, Camp Fire is the opportunity for you to give back to the community. Terms for this next board calendar start in March and extend for two years.

Camp Fire Heart of Iowa, a nonprofit with over 100 years of serving Central Iowa seeks enthusiastic marketing and digital communication professionals to serve on our marketing committee. 

Working with staff and other volunteers, the marketing committee will help shape the marketing efforts of our agency as we move toward 2020, and help us respond to this ever changing environment.  Responsibilities will include print, web and social media outreach as well as press releases and events.

If you want to make a difference for young people in an active, outdoor organization, Camp Fire is the opportunity for you.

Dental Connections, Inc. is searching for board members to join our Board of Directors!  Interested candidate must have a passion to be a part of an organization that focuses on the under-served community in need of dental care.  

Time commitment includes 7 board meetings per year, plus unidentified time commitments based on a variety of sub-committees or board work that may occur outside of regularly scheduled meetings.

We are currently seeking individuals with backgrounds in fundraising & development, marketing, and accounting, though we are open to other backgrounds as well.

Please reach out if there is interest or further questions!

Volunteers will take the Food Bank of Iowa's van and deliver BackPack™ sacks to Des Moines area schools. Shifts will take place every other Wednesday and Friday morning throughout the school year. You can pick whichever day works for you! Valid driver's license required.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift. A map with the route along with a GPS will be provided.

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18

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

The West Des Moines Historical Society (WDMHS) is seeking new members to join our Board of Directors. This is a volunteer opportunity to work collectively with other board members to oversee the governance of the WDMHS. The Board meets monthly for approximately one and a half hours.  Board terms are a three year commitment, with the option to serve an additional three years. All Board members are asked to serve on at least one Committee and participate in monthly committee meetings. WDMHS Committees are: Buildings & Grounds, Membership Development (Individuals), Fundraising (Corporate/Government), Education, Promotions/Special Events, Governance, Program Outreach: Special Populations and Exhibits.

Board members should believe in the mission of the WDMHS which is: The West Des Moines Historical Society is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to Community Enrichment through Educaiton, Preservation & Celebration of the History and Heritage of West Des Moines.

The WDMHS owns and manages events, activities and education at two significant properties in West Des Moines. The historic home of James C. Jordan (2001 Fuller Road) is the only Central Iowa stop on the Underground Railroad open to the public. The Bennett School (4001 Fuller Road) was built in 1926 and is one of the very last one-room schoolhouses utilized In Polk County.

The West Des Moines Historical Society is specifically interested in volunteers with experience in one or more of the following competencies: corporate fundraising, marketing, communications and human resources. Expertise in these areas across varying platforms such as social media, web, print, etc. is preferred. Prior experience in non-profit fundraising would also be preferred. The Board member would assist with the development and creation of marketing materials and/or with initiatives to ultimately meet the fundraising needs of WDMHS. This is a great opportunity for a professional to serve their community while gaining valuable teamwork and management experience.

If you are interested in this position or would like more information regarding the opportunity or about our organization, we’d love to hear from you! Call Executive Director Gale Brubaker at 515.225.1286 or via email at gbrubaker@wdmhs.org.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Iowa Chapter is looking for a skilled volunteer with an interest in communications to provide support for our website and social media.  This opportunity is well-suited towards those who enjoy engaging with technology and is flexible to fit the availability of the volunteer.

SUMMARY:  The Social Media and/or Website coordinator will take direction from the NASW Executive Director and/or board leadership to develop postings and content for the chapter’s Facebook page and website.  The opportunity is customizable to the specific interests and availability of the volunteer.  For example, the volunteer could promote NASW chapter activities through social media postings, attend chapter events to take photos and develop posts sharing the event with NASW followers, or draft profiles of board members for the chapter website.  NASW could work with student interns to make this opportunity fit their needs but is also happy to work with ongoing volunteers who share these skills.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Required Skills:

Project Management

Professionalism

TIMEFRAME:

Length of commitment: up to one year, depending upon the availability of the volunteer

Estimated total hours: varied, depending upon availability of the volunteer

Scheduling: At discretion of volunteer

SERVICE SITE: 

This is an off-site volunteer opportunity, to be completed using the volunteer’s own technology equipment and/or software, phone, and Internet connection.  During regular business hours, the NASW Iowa office equipment and phones may be available. The NASW, Iowa office is located at 1620 Pleasant St Ste 212, Des Moines, IA 50314.  Free street parking is available and the building is near several DART bus routes.  An accessible entrance is located on the North side of the building.

BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING WITH US:

NASW, IOWA AGREES TO:

VOLUNTEER AGREES TO:

ABOUT THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS AND THE IOWA CHAPTER:

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with 132,000 members. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies. The Iowa Chapter of NASW is the major professional social work organization in the state. NASW is committed to the mission of advancing professional social work practice and the profession; and to promoting human rights, social and economic justice, and unimpeded access to services for everyone. The more than 1,100 Iowa members work in a broad range of settings including hospitals and other health care settings, community agencies, government, academia, business, nursing homes, schools, and private practice. The Iowa Chapter is committed to responding to member inquires regarding social work practice, legislative and social policy issues, continuing education, licensing issues, and other informational requests.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Iowa Chapter is looking for outgoing, action-oriented volunteers to help contact potential sponsors and partners for NASW training events.  This opportunity is well-suited towards those who work in agencies that employ multiple social workers or who have connections to Iowa social service agencies (however having these prior connections is not required).

SUMMARY:  The Sponsorship Recruiters will work closely with NASW’s Education and Training Committee to identify and reach out to Iowa organizations that employ social workers and may have an interest in sponsoring or otherwise partnering with NASW to schedule and host relevant trainings.  The Sponsorship Recruiters are responsible for making contact with the organizations and communicating back to NASW committee members and/or staff regarding the interests of the organizations.  The volunteer will have the flexibility to complete these tasks on his/her own time, by an agreed-upon deadline.  The volunteer will schedule meetings, as needed, to report back to NASW on the results of the outreach.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Required Skills:

Project Management

Professionalism

TIMEFRAME:

Length of commitment: up to one year, depending upon the availability of the volunteer

Estimated total hours: varied, depending upon availability of the volunteer

Scheduling: At discretion of volunteer

SERVICE SITE: 

This is an off-site volunteer opportunity, to be completed using the volunteer’s own technology equipment and/or software, phone, and Internet connection.  During regular business hours, the NASW Iowa office equipment and phones may be available. The NASW, Iowa office is located at 1620 Pleasant St Ste 212, Des Moines, IA 50314.  Free street parking is available and the building is near several DART bus routes.  An accessible entrance is located on the North side of the building.

Iowa International Center is looking for a volunteer with web design experience. Responsibilities include updating our visual appearance, as well as optimizing user experience in the following ways:

All it takes is the determination of one individual to step up and make a difference in girls lives with the Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa. As a volunteer, you’ll introduce girls to new experiences that show them they’re capable of more than they ever imagined. They’ll each find their inner G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, Leader) after all!

Benefits of volunteering as a Troop “Co-leader” with Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa

All applicants must register as a volunteer first. After completing our annual membership fee, all volunteers are background checked. From there we will reach out to you to provide you with the rest.

Thank you for considering volunteering with Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa as a Troop “Co-Leader”. During this experience you will be the girls’ cheerleader, guide and mentor. Imagine the excitement, the impact, the memories made – those are the moments you’ll share at Girl Scouts with your troop!

Have an extra bedroom? Homestay hosting is an excellent opportunity to spend time with international visitors in your own home as you provide lodging during their Des Moines program. We have homestay hosting opportunities for as little as three days or as long as three weeks! Iowa International Center provides homestay hosting for approximately three programs per year, but we accept applications all year round. This is one of our most popular opportunities!

Have you always wondered what goes on behind closed doors in some of Des Moines’ most successful companies and offices? Get a chance to sit in on professional meetings with international visitors as a volunteer driver. It’s guaranteed that you’ll learn something new! Volunteer drivers must have a valid driver’s license and are subject to background checks. Iowa law requires drivers who are compensated for providing transportation to have a taxicab license; therefore, we cannot reimburse our volunteer drivers for their mileage. Driver opportunities are available year-round.

Wondering how you can help bridge the gaps that divide our world? Volunteer with the dynamic team at The Iowa International Center - an organization promoting cultural respect and understanding. Your time will be well-spent as you with assist office staff with scheduling interpretation services, processing payments and database management.

Qualifications:

Be more cosmopolitan without leaving home as a citizen diplomat with the Iowa International Center Being a hospitality host you’ll not only interact and learn from your international visitors, but it’s a great opportunity for our visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at what life is life in Des Moines. Bring them to your home for a casual dinner and conversation for a wonderful "person to person" intercultural experience! International guests visit Iowa year-round, so there’s always an opportunity to be a host.

Provide transportation for your guests from their hotel and back again. Accommodate special dietary restrictions.

Give back while horsing around at the Jester Park Equestrian Center. We need kind-hearted horse-lovers to help us with the Exceptional Riders and Freedom to Grow programs, which offer therapeutic riding opportunities to individuals with physical and mental disabilities and to children in at-risk situations. You’ll have the opportunity to assist riders on horses, help out the staff, prepare for special events, and complete horse-care related chores. Our riding programs offer riders a unique opportunity to improve the quality of their lives by creating positive experiences and success stories. Note: Check out the Freedom to Grow program highlighted on 13 Cares--link: http://www.whotv.com/news/specialreports/13cares/ Volunteers must be 18 or older to handle horses, and adolescents must be accompanied by a parent or a guardian.

Looking for volunteers that would like to provide an class for children 10-18 years old with your favorite hobby or talent.  Painting, pottery, jewelry making, braiding, baking, crafting, scrapbooking, dancing, yoga, zumba, music, model building, knitting, running, drawing, writing, you can do it - we would like to learn it!  A class can be a one time event, a few weeks or ongoing.

You’re going to read the local daily paper anyway - here’s your opportunity to help others while you’re at it. Lend your voice to IRIS - a statewide radio station providing readings of local and national print publications for the blind and print disabled. We’re reading from seven cities, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Can we welcome you to the team in Des Moines, Cedar Falls, Mason City, Iowa City, Fort Dodge, Sioux City or Ames? You don't have to be theatrical or have a broadcaster voice. We are looking for everyday people to do this extraordinary service. Given we read seven days a week, it’s easy to find a shift that works for you!

Our primary requirement is dependability. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. 

Love is hard work. Fortunately, when you work at something you love, it tends to be a very rewarding experience. If you have an appreciation or love for the great outdoors, giving back through the Polk County Conservation (PCC) will be more than worth your while. Help us protect of our county’s natural heritage by cleaning up parks, restoring woodlands and prairies, monitoring the ecosystem, educating the public, leading other volunteers through activities, and helping with special events and projects at PCC-managed areas On the job training will be provided as needed.

VNS of Iowa's Storybook Project recruits, screens and trains volunteers to work with incarcerated parents and/or grandparents at the Iowa Correctional Institute for Women (ICIW) in Mitchellville, Iowa and the Newton Correctional Release Center (CNRC) in Newton, Iowa.

Once per month, volunteers work with the mother, grandmother or father. The parent/grandparent and volunteer choose a book from the Storybook library that is appropriate for the child. The parent or grandparent reads the book while the volunteer records the reading onto a digital voice recorder. The book and CD are mailed to the child.

 Welcoming a new baby requires a lot of gear, and many moms simply can’t afford these basic items.

You can help by hosting a Stork’s Nest Baby Shower!

Invite friends from work or church or the neighborhood - gifts will go directly to pregnant women in Polk County who live on an income less than 150% of the Federal Poverty Limit. You plan the party, and we’ll provide information about what these moms need most. Start your guest list today!

Did you know that kids who can’t read by the end of third grade are 4 times more likely to drop out of school than their peers?

Power Read is a literacy and mentoring program that pairs volunteers and elementary school students to read together on a weekly basis. Everybody Wins! Iowa and United Way of Central Iowa are partnering to provide reading and mentoring experiences to children who might not have one-on-one attention from an adult. Power Read’s ultimate goal? To increase children’s chances of success in school and in life. If interested click the blue Respond Button

Mediation is about solving problems without the burdens and expenses of the court system. Volunteer mediators make sure that everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, has access to mediation services. Whether people are dealing with a fender bender or a contract dispute, you can help create the environment where disputing parties can sit down, discuss, and solve their problems. Volunteers will work with the Polk County Court Mediation Program through the Small Claims Division of the Fifth Judicial District Court. Volunteers will be assigned to the Polk County Courthouse. Volunteers 55 years old and over who enroll in the 55+ Initiative are eligible for transportation reimbursement. Training is required and will be provided.

Do you have a talent for fundraising?  Enjoy drumming up publicity?  Like the details of event planning?  Just looking to get engaged in the Ankeny community more?

The Ankeny Alumni Association, Inc. welcomes volunteers to assist with the organization's ongoing fundraising, publicity, and event planning efforts. We would love for you to join us! Please contact us for meeting times/dates.

Quality of life at the end of life. You can help bring this support to individuals and families. Whether behind the scenes with administrative support or providing companionship to patients, your presence will make a difference on the Care Initiatives Hospice team. Volunteers are needed in Central Iowa including the Ames, Des Moines, Panora, Marshalltown, State Center, Story City, Stratford, Jefferson, Zearing, and Montezuma areas.  You will visit hospice patients in a nursing facility or in their home.

Volunteers receive specialized training. Training sessions are offered throughout the year to meet the availability of the volunteers. Completed application, background and reference checks are required.

Our volunteers are a vital part of keeping the library running. We are currently looking for a volunteer to help shelve books that are reserved for patrons. Volunteers may be asked in addition to help with craft projects, data entry work, and restocking supplies around the library.

This is a weekly commitment, taking up approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Shelvers should be able to bend down and straighten repeatedly. Must be detail oriented and be able to alphabetize. We are currently needing assistance some afternoons from 1:30 to 3:30. Application form and City of Des Moines volunteer waiver is required and can be found here. http://dmpl.org/volunteer

5-2-1-0 is the foundation of change of an evidence-based childhood obesity prevention program addressing many aspects of wellness. Its message is used to aid children, ages birth to 18, make healthy lifestyle choices.  5-2-1-0 helps to create a sustainable healthy environment for staff, children and families.

Throughout the year we have several opportunities available to help with providing health and wellness information and education to the community.  Full training will be provided.

Some examples of activities you may be involved in, include;

Please note, all volunteers will be required to complete a background check, TB test and drug testing.

The Arthritis Foundation is looking for dedicated individuals to serve on its Iowa Leadership Board.  The office is located in West Des Moines, but serves all of Iowa.  

There are currently openings for:

Fundraising Chair, Volunteer Engagement Chair, Help & Support Chair

Not ready to commit to being a Char?  We also are looking for Board Members to serve on committees for fundraising, advocacy, Juvenile Arthritis, special events, help & support, and more.

TRAINING AND SUPPORT

The Norwalk Free Medical Clinic is in need of nurses, nursing assistants, and medical assistants to assist at our free clinic on Thursday evenings. Once an application is approved, we allow very flexible scheduling and try our best to work around your schedule. We ask that volunteers work at least 1 2 hour shift every 3 months. Besides getting to dramatically improve the lives of those in our community, you can build your resume, get experience, and feel great about helping others! 

Iowa Legal Aid provides free, high quality legal education, advice and representation to low-income and elderly Iowans with civil legal problems that most dramatically affect Iowa’s poor and vulnerable populations. We rely on volunteers to help us reach even more people and provide them with excellent services. If you would like a meaningful, dynamic and professional volunteer position, please consider serving as a volunteer intake assistant for Iowa Legal Aid’s Hotline for Older Iowans (Hotline).

Key responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Training and Support:

Time Commitment:

Position Location:

Position Benefits:

Please note that all positions may not be available at all times or locations nearest you. For example, a particular position may have been filled or we may have limited capacity to engage volunteers with certain types of skills. Even though we cannot guarantee a placement to every prospective volunteer, we will do our best to match the applicants’ skills and interests with our present needs.

Iowa Legal Aid is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified applicants upon request

Auxiliary aids and services are available in alternative formats