Volunteer: Johnston Gives - Give a gift, Spread joy!Help us bring joy to others this holiday season!
Gift joy to families in need through our Johnston Gives program. The Johnston Partnership, in cooperation with the Johnston Community School District, provides a gift card for households with school-aged kids who see more hardship than joy at the holiday season. Last year, we helped over 500 students, and we anticipate this year will be the much more. $50 helps sponsor 1 child, but any dollar amount is helpful. Organization: Johnston Partnership For A Healthy Community Help us bring joy to others this holiday season!
Gift joy to families in need through our Johnston Gives program. The Johnston Partnership, in cooperation with the Johnston Community School District, provides a gift card for households with school-aged kids who see more hardship than joy at the holiday season. Last year, we helped over 500 students, and we anticipate this year will be the much more. $50 helps sponsor 1 child, but any dollar amount is helpful. Organization: Johnston Partnership For A Healthy Community Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Dec 31, 2025 Zip Code: 50131 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Host a Toy Drive! (for Families Forward Toy Pantry)Toys, toys, toys! Every year, the Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves up to 1,000 children in the Des Moines Metro. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet, and the toys they receive at the Toy Pantry may be the only gifts that they receive. Won't you help make a child's Christmas bright? Toys are needed by Friday, December 12, 2025. Click here to see our entire shopping list. The Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves all children ages 0 to 18. Most Needed Items: Teenager Gifts Toys and Age-appropriate Gifts for ages 0-18 Stocking Stuffers Books (new or gently-used) Hats & Gloves Stuffed Animals (new or "looks-like" new) Blankets & Quilts Gift Cards to Walmart, Target, & Amazon ($20) All items should be brand new.Drop Off Location & Hours: Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue: Questions or To Schedule a Drop Off: For questions or to schedule evening and weekend drop offs, 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 Toys, toys, toys! Every year, the Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves up to 1,000 children in the Des Moines Metro. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet, and the toys they receive at the Toy Pantry may be the only gifts that they receive. Won't you help make a child's Christmas bright? Toys are needed by Friday, December 12, 2025. Click here to see our entire shopping list. The Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry serves all children ages 0 to 18. Most Needed Items: Teenager Gifts Toys and Age-appropriate Gifts for ages 0-18 Stocking Stuffers Books (new or gently-used) Hats & Gloves Stuffed Animals (new or "looks-like" new) Blankets & Quilts Gift Cards to Walmart, Target, & Amazon ($20) All items should be brand new.Drop Off Location & Hours: Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue: Questions or To Schedule a Drop Off: For questions or to schedule evening and weekend drop offs, 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: Runs Until Dec 18, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
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 Baby Hub, the Food Pantry, and the Care 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 Baby Hub, the Food Pantry, and the Care 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: Holiday Wish List for Families Forward New Directions Shelter & The Home ConnectionThank you for your interest in supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season! To sign up to help, click here! We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness: General Wish List Items – A variety of gifts to choose from to purchase for families in both New Directions Shelter and The Home Connection. These items need to be dropped off at New Directions Shelter by Friday, December 5th. To view the Wish List shopping list, click here. Essential Needs Baskets for The Home Connection – Donors would provide each family in The Home Connection with an essential needs basket. The estimated cost for each of these completed baskets is $250-$300. Donors are provided with a checklist of items that should be purchased & delivered to Families Forward by Friday, December 5th. To view the Essential Needs Basket shopping list, click here. You may choose to support both programs. We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones. Please contact Melanie Wright with 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 supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season! To sign up to help, click here! We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness: General Wish List Items – A variety of gifts to choose from to purchase for families in both New Directions Shelter and The Home Connection. These items need to be dropped off at New Directions Shelter by Friday, December 5th. To view the Wish List shopping list, click here. Essential Needs Baskets for The Home Connection – Donors would provide each family in The Home Connection with an essential needs basket. The estimated cost for each of these completed baskets is $250-$300. Donors are provided with a checklist of items that should be purchased & delivered to Families Forward by Friday, December 5th. To view the Essential Needs Basket shopping list, click here. You may choose to support both programs. We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones. Please contact Melanie Wright with 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: Runs Until Dec 8, 2025 Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Holiday Essential Needs Baskets for Families Forward The Home ConnectionThank you for your interest in supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season! To sign up to help, click here! We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness: General Wish List Items – A variety of gifts to choose from to purchase for families in both New Directions Shelter and The Home Connection. These items need to be dropped off at New Directions Shelter by Friday, December 5th. To view the Wish List shopping list, click here. Essential Needs Baskets for The Home Connection – Donors would provide each family in The Home Connection with an essential needs basket. The estimated cost for each of these completed baskets is $250-$300. Donors are provided with a checklist of items that should be purchased & delivered to Families Forward by Friday, December 5th. To view the Essential Needs Basket shopping list, click here. You may choose to support both programs. We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones. Please contact Melanie Wright with 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 supporting the families at Families Forward this holiday season! To sign up to help, click here! We have two ways you can support Iowa's most vulnerable children & families experiencing homelessness: General Wish List Items – A variety of gifts to choose from to purchase for families in both New Directions Shelter and The Home Connection. These items need to be dropped off at New Directions Shelter by Friday, December 5th. To view the Wish List shopping list, click here. Essential Needs Baskets for The Home Connection – Donors would provide each family in The Home Connection with an essential needs basket. The estimated cost for each of these completed baskets is $250-$300. Donors are provided with a checklist of items that should be purchased & delivered to Families Forward by Friday, December 5th. To view the Essential Needs Basket shopping list, click here. You may choose to support both programs. We ask that all gifts remain unwrapped so families can experience the joy in picking items out and wrapping them for their loved ones. Please contact Melanie Wright with 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: Runs Until Dec 30, 2025 Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Coat Drives (& Warm Winter-Wear)Help us provide warm coats and winter-wear for those struggling financially in our community. We believe everyone has the right to be warm and be protected from the cold Iowa winter weather. The following new and gently-used items are needed: Warm hats and gloves Scarves Thermal underwear Socks / thermal socks Coats Snow pants Snow bootsDrop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 48 hours for scheduling. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Help us provide warm coats and winter-wear for those struggling financially in our community. We believe everyone has the right to be warm and be protected from the cold Iowa winter weather. The following new and gently-used items are needed: Warm hats and gloves Scarves Thermal underwear Socks / thermal socks Coats Snow pants Snow bootsDrop Off Location: 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines IA 50315 To schedule a drop off, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please allow 48 hours for scheduling. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Jan 31, 2026 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Children's Hat and Glove Donation DriveEvery year, at our Holiday Toy Pantry, we provide hats and gloves for the 1,500 children receiving gifts at our event. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet. We need your help to make sure that these children have the warm essentials that they need for the cold winter days ahead. The Holiday Toy Pantry will start on 12/07/2024. Donation Drop Off Information: Drop-off Bin: Starting Monday, November 11, 2024, there will be a no contact drop off bin to drop off blankets and toys behind the yellow building by our administrative office, on the sidewalk between the building and the playground. Address: 1203 Hartford Ave., Des Moines IA 50315For 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 Every year, at our Holiday Toy Pantry, we provide hats and gloves for the 1,500 children receiving gifts at our event. These children's families are struggling to make ends meet. We need your help to make sure that these children have the warm essentials that they need for the cold winter days ahead. The Holiday Toy Pantry will start on 12/07/2024. Donation Drop Off Information: Drop-off Bin: Starting Monday, November 11, 2024, there will be a no contact drop off bin to drop off blankets and toys behind the yellow building by our administrative office, on the sidewalk between the building and the playground. Address: 1203 Hartford Ave., Des Moines IA 50315For 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: Runs Until Dec 30, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Put TP under our Christmas Tree!Toilet paper is one of our most commonly requested items in our on-site hygiene pantry. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic we can all relate to the fear of running out of this essential need item. Many of our women still face this fear daily due to transportation and/or financial barriers that prevent them from being able to purchase this item from the store. Will you help put TP under our Christmas tree to support our residents through the holidays and beyond? Any amount will make an important and positive impact! Donations can be dropped off at the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus, located at 2 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50309 anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Or, send TP directly to our door using our Amazon wish list here:https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3?ref_=wl_share Please contact nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org with questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Toilet paper is one of our most commonly requested items in our on-site hygiene pantry. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic we can all relate to the fear of running out of this essential need item. Many of our women still face this fear daily due to transportation and/or financial barriers that prevent them from being able to purchase this item from the store. Will you help put TP under our Christmas tree to support our residents through the holidays and beyond? Any amount will make an important and positive impact! Donations can be dropped off at the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus, located at 2 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50309 anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Or, send TP directly to our door using our Amazon wish list here:https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3?ref_=wl_share Please contact nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org with questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Ronald McDonald House Wish List DonationsAt Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa, we proudly serve families from Iowa, across the U.S., and around the world. Our pantry provides meals, sweet treats, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials for these families during their stay-and we would greatly appreciate your support! If you’re interested in organizing a Pantry Wish List Drive or setting up a donation drive, please reach out. We can share details about the pantry and toiletry items currently needed. If you’d prefer to donate directly from our wish list, please visit our website at www.rmhdesmoines.org. Our wish list covers items needed for both of our Ronald McDonald Houses. For donated items, we kindly ask that they be shipped to: 1441 Pleasant St This helps ensure the right items reach the correct House location. For questions or to arrange a drop-off time, please contact volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call us at 515-243-2111. Thank you for helping us make a difference for families in need! Organization: Ronald McDonald House At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa, we proudly serve families from Iowa, across the U.S., and around the world. Our pantry provides meals, sweet treats, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials for these families during their stay-and we would greatly appreciate your support! If you’re interested in organizing a Pantry Wish List Drive or setting up a donation drive, please reach out. We can share details about the pantry and toiletry items currently needed. If you’d prefer to donate directly from our wish list, please visit our website at www.rmhdesmoines.org. Our wish list covers items needed for both of our Ronald McDonald Houses. For donated items, we kindly ask that they be shipped to: 1441 Pleasant St This helps ensure the right items reach the correct House location. For questions or to arrange a drop-off time, please contact volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call us at 515-243-2111. Thank you for helping us make a difference for families in need! Organization: Ronald McDonald House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Jan 31, 2026 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
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: 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: October Wednesday - 22November December Wednesdays - 3, 10, 17, 24 (Xmas Eve), 31 (NY's Eve)Saturdays - 20, 27Sunday - 7Thursdays - 25 (Xmas Day), Jan 1st (NY's Day)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. Office Phone 515-244-9748 | Email: melanie@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 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: October Wednesday - 22November December Wednesdays - 3, 10, 17, 24 (Xmas Eve), 31 (NY's Eve)Saturdays - 20, 27Sunday - 7Thursdays - 25 (Xmas Day), Jan 1st (NY's Day)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. Office Phone 515-244-9748 | Email: melanie@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: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Fall Party Supplies Needed for Child Development CenterFamilies Forward Child Development Center is having a Fall Party for kids on Friday, October 31st. Our child development center welcomes 58 children ages newborn through 5. Donations are needed for the event. Donations should be dropped off by Wednesday, October 29th. If you have any difficulties getting signed up to bring items, please email: missy@familiesforward.org Click Here to Sign Up to Bring Items for the Fall Party!The following items are needed: 60 Mini Pumpkins (3-4 inch)60 Large Paint Brushes (at least ½ inch wide)10 Mini Chocolate Candy Bar Variety Bags of Candy10 Bags of Tootsie Rolls (fruit or chocolate flavored)3 Miscellaneous Large Bags of Candy60 Spider Rings60 Fake Eyeballs60 Small Prizes and Trinkets60 Plain Sugar Cookies10 Cans of Frosting – 16 oz vanilla or white10 Containers of Sprinkles (fall colors if possible but not required)Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404 or by text at 515-346-8895. We can provide suggested retailers or online links to purchases supplies. 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 Families Forward Child Development Center is having a Fall Party for kids on Friday, October 31st. Our child development center welcomes 58 children ages newborn through 5. Donations are needed for the event. Donations should be dropped off by Wednesday, October 29th. If you have any difficulties getting signed up to bring items, please email: missy@familiesforward.org Click Here to Sign Up to Bring Items for the Fall Party!The following items are needed: 60 Mini Pumpkins (3-4 inch)60 Large Paint Brushes (at least ½ inch wide)10 Mini Chocolate Candy Bar Variety Bags of Candy10 Bags of Tootsie Rolls (fruit or chocolate flavored)3 Miscellaneous Large Bags of Candy60 Spider Rings60 Fake Eyeballs60 Small Prizes and Trinkets60 Plain Sugar Cookies10 Cans of Frosting – 16 oz vanilla or white10 Containers of Sprinkles (fall colors if possible but not required)Questions: Contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404 or by text at 515-346-8895. We can provide suggested retailers or online links to purchases supplies. 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: Happens On Oct 29, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Food DonationsOur food pantry is very busy all year but especially during the holidays as families struggle to provide basic necessities along with holiday gifts. Organization: The Salvation Army - Des Moines Our food pantry is very busy all year but especially during the holidays as families struggle to provide basic necessities along with holiday gifts. Organization: The Salvation Army - Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50325 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Food Pantry Restocking VolunteerThe DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items, assist with food rescue, unload donations and drive the van. Lifting or moving of up to 50 lbs is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday. In general, shifts are two to three hours, but this is flexible. Please note, this position is open to volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis by committing to a regular weekly shift. 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. PLEASE NOTE: as of June 2025, we do not have a need for additional restocking volunteers at this time. Please check back at a later date.
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services The DMARC Food Pantry at West Des Moines Human Services is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, rotate inventory, package personal care items, assist with food rescue, unload donations and drive the van. Lifting or moving of up to 50 lbs is required. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, Monday through Friday. In general, shifts are two to three hours, but this is flexible. Please note, this position is open to volunteers who can help on an ongoing basis by committing to a regular weekly shift. 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. PLEASE NOTE: as of June 2025, we do not have a need for additional restocking volunteers at this time. Please check back at a later date.
Organization: West Des Moines Human Services Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50265 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Drake Neighborhood Front Desk ReceptionistThe Front Desk Reception Volunteer is the welcoming face of our food pantry and office locations. This role is essential to creating a warm, respectful, and organized environment for guests, volunteers, and community members. Volunteers at the front desk provide direct support to staff, answer questions, and help ensure smooth daily operations. Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership The Front Desk Reception Volunteer is the welcoming face of our food pantry and office locations. This role is essential to creating a warm, respectful, and organized environment for guests, volunteers, and community members. Volunteers at the front desk provide direct support to staff, answer questions, and help ensure smooth daily operations. Organization: IMPACT Community Action Partnership Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Organizing Donations at our ShelterGroup Sign Up: Groups can email Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org to schedule. For group of 4 or more, you can choose your date and time. We are pretty flexible as long as another group isn't already signed up.
Volunteers are needed to organize our donation area and do light cleaning in our shared living spaces (living room, dining room, and kitchen). Volunteers would be organizing clothing, personals/toiletries, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cleaning products, school supplies, food items, and much more. We provide basic necessities every month for up to the 77 families staying in New Directions Shelter, The Home Connection, and our other housing programs. This is a great project for a single person to work on, or you can sign up to bring a group (up to 10 people at a time). Volunteers should be 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 Group Sign Up: Groups can email Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org to schedule. For group of 4 or more, you can choose your date and time. We are pretty flexible as long as another group isn't already signed up.
Volunteers are needed to organize our donation area and do light cleaning in our shared living spaces (living room, dining room, and kitchen). Volunteers would be organizing clothing, personals/toiletries, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cleaning products, school supplies, food items, and much more. We provide basic necessities every month for up to the 77 families staying in New Directions Shelter, The Home Connection, and our other housing programs. This is a great project for a single person to work on, or you can sign up to bring a group (up to 10 people at a time). Volunteers should be 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: 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: 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 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: 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: 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: 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: Wish List DonationsAt Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa, we proudly serve families from Iowa, across the U.S., and around the world. Our pantry provides meals, sweet treats, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials for these families during their stay-and we would greatly appreciate your support! If you’re interested in organizing a Pantry Wish List Drive or setting up a donation drive, please reach out. We can share details about the pantry and toiletry items currently needed. If you’d prefer to donate directly from our wish list, please visit our website at www.rmhdesmoines.org. Our wish list covers items needed for both of our Ronald McDonald Houses. For donated items, we kindly ask that they be shipped to: 1441 Pleasant St This helps ensure the right items reach the correct House location. For questions or to arrange a drop-off time, please contact volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call us at 515-243-2111. Thank you for helping us make a difference for families in need! Organization: Ronald McDonald House At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa, we proudly serve families from Iowa, across the U.S., and around the world. Our pantry provides meals, sweet treats, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials for these families during their stay-and we would greatly appreciate your support! If you’re interested in organizing a Pantry Wish List Drive or setting up a donation drive, please reach out. We can share details about the pantry and toiletry items currently needed. If you’d prefer to donate directly from our wish list, please visit our website at www.rmhdesmoines.org. Our wish list covers items needed for both of our Ronald McDonald Houses. For donated items, we kindly ask that they be shipped to: 1441 Pleasant St This helps ensure the right items reach the correct House location. For questions or to arrange a drop-off time, please contact volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call us at 515-243-2111. Thank you for helping us make a difference for families in need! Organization: Ronald McDonald House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: DMARC-Ket Food Pantry VolunteerPlease join us as a DMARC Food Pantry Volunteer! Volunteering at the DMARC-Ket Food Pantry is just like helping a friend shop for groceries! As a food pantry volunteer, you will assist visitors in selecting their food items after they have gone through the intake process. Help visitors choose food items and bag items. Carry items to visitors’ car or other modes of transportation as needed. Assisting Food Pantry Manager with miscellaneous tasks as needed. Read and comply with any posted daily directives from the Food Pantry Manager regarding the handling of any special food products such as produce or frozen food. Utilize safe food-handling and food storage practices.Time Requirement: Various shifts available throughout the month and week! New DMARC-Ket Hours! We are now open daily, Monday- Friday, from 9am-5pm. We are also open the first Saturday of the month from 9am-1pm. Volunteer Shift Hours are as follows: Monday- Friday 2pm- 4pm. We appreciate any and all help, if these times do not work for you and you'd like to come in different times between the pantry hours, please call the Volunteer & Outreach Manager, Amanda Parkins at 515-277-6969 ext. 220. Support/Training: Volunteers will be provided with instructions and ongoing guidance from a DMARC staff person for the duration of their shift. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your shift for direction. Qualifications: Possess a passion and enthusiasm for assisting individuals and families in crisis. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while under pressure. Ability to bend, squat and frequently lift items up to 35 pounds. Sign up on our volunteer portal! We look forward to working with you! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Please join us as a DMARC Food Pantry Volunteer! Volunteering at the DMARC-Ket Food Pantry is just like helping a friend shop for groceries! As a food pantry volunteer, you will assist visitors in selecting their food items after they have gone through the intake process. Help visitors choose food items and bag items. Carry items to visitors’ car or other modes of transportation as needed. Assisting Food Pantry Manager with miscellaneous tasks as needed. Read and comply with any posted daily directives from the Food Pantry Manager regarding the handling of any special food products such as produce or frozen food. Utilize safe food-handling and food storage practices.Time Requirement: Various shifts available throughout the month and week! New DMARC-Ket Hours! We are now open daily, Monday- Friday, from 9am-5pm. We are also open the first Saturday of the month from 9am-1pm. Volunteer Shift Hours are as follows: Monday- Friday 2pm- 4pm. We appreciate any and all help, if these times do not work for you and you'd like to come in different times between the pantry hours, please call the Volunteer & Outreach Manager, Amanda Parkins at 515-277-6969 ext. 220. Support/Training: Volunteers will be provided with instructions and ongoing guidance from a DMARC staff person for the duration of their shift. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your shift for direction. Qualifications: Possess a passion and enthusiasm for assisting individuals and families in crisis. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while under pressure. Ability to bend, squat and frequently lift items up to 35 pounds. Sign up on our volunteer portal! We look forward to working with you! Organization: Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Help a Family Help their PetNo family should have to give up their pet because they can’t afford its food. You can help these families and their pets by lending a hand in our pet pantry on Saturdays. Be there to greet clients and fill their monthly food order at our warehouse or assist with packing Animeals – our partnership with Meals on Wheels. Consider dedicating three hours on an upcoming Saturday between 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Children under 14 are allowed to volunteer with a parent. Contact us today! Organization: The Pet Project Midwest No family should have to give up their pet because they can’t afford its food. You can help these families and their pets by lending a hand in our pet pantry on Saturdays. Be there to greet clients and fill their monthly food order at our warehouse or assist with packing Animeals – our partnership with Meals on Wheels. Consider dedicating three hours on an upcoming Saturday between 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Children under 14 are allowed to volunteer with a parent. Contact us today! Organization: The Pet Project Midwest Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Monthly Community Pantry VolunteersWe are looking for dedicated volunteers to assist in our monthly community pantry held every 4th Thursday of the month. The pantry is open from 4-5:30pm, but volunteers would be needed from 3-6pm. Our pantry primarily serves refugees and immigrants from the Burma community, in which we focus on providing culturally-appropriate food items that are not found in other pantries. Tasks include: Set-up/Clean-upFood distributionLine controlQualifications: Must pass a background checkHave a passion to give back to immigrant and refugee communitiesFluent in English required; Fluent in a Burma language/dialect is highly preferredBe comfortable in lifting up to 20lbsTo apply: Please follow the link below to fill out our application link:https://forms.gle/dFqt657DiPKBpJJW7Organization: EMBARC: Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center of Iowa We are looking for dedicated volunteers to assist in our monthly community pantry held every 4th Thursday of the month. The pantry is open from 4-5:30pm, but volunteers would be needed from 3-6pm. Our pantry primarily serves refugees and immigrants from the Burma community, in which we focus on providing culturally-appropriate food items that are not found in other pantries. Tasks include: Set-up/Clean-upFood distributionLine controlQualifications: Must pass a background checkHave a passion to give back to immigrant and refugee communitiesFluent in English required; Fluent in a Burma language/dialect is highly preferredBe comfortable in lifting up to 20lbsTo apply: Please follow the link below to fill out our application link:https://forms.gle/dFqt657DiPKBpJJW7Organization: EMBARC: Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center of Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50310-1960 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Recipes for ResidentsDo you like to cook? Our on-site pantry offers residents various food options to cook throughout the week and cooking inspiration is always helpful! You are able to come in to our home, look through our pantry, and then write up a recipe card that uses at least one item from our pantry. Ingredients should include affordable items found at any grocery store and the meal should be able to be made using a pot/pan or a small toaster oven as we have efficiency apartments. Recipe cards can be made on or off campus – our residents will be thrilled to have new cooking ideas! To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/27 Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Do you like to cook? Our on-site pantry offers residents various food options to cook throughout the week and cooking inspiration is always helpful! You are able to come in to our home, look through our pantry, and then write up a recipe card that uses at least one item from our pantry. Ingredients should include affordable items found at any grocery store and the meal should be able to be made using a pot/pan or a small toaster oven as we have efficiency apartments. Recipe cards can be made on or off campus – our residents will be thrilled to have new cooking ideas! To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/27 Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Worker BeeWe have a variety of tasks throughout the week that need helping hands to complete. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to participate in a variety of activities to support and uplift those who call the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus their home. Some examples being....donation sorting, assisting with meal opportunities, organizing and cleaning projects, stocking our pantry and more! Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions!
To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/40 Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus We have a variety of tasks throughout the week that need helping hands to complete. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to participate in a variety of activities to support and uplift those who call the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus their home. Some examples being....donation sorting, assisting with meal opportunities, organizing and cleaning projects, stocking our pantry and more! Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions!
To register for this opportunity, visit our volunteer portal: https://dmymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/40 Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Donation DriveGet together with your friends, neighbors or co-workers to throw a pantry or hygiene drive for our 149 residents! For inspiration and ideas for as to what is needed most in our home, check out our amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3?ref_=wl_share Donations can be dropped off anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Get together with your friends, neighbors or co-workers to throw a pantry or hygiene drive for our 149 residents! For inspiration and ideas for as to what is needed most in our home, check out our amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2PP32L4CYOWD3?ref_=wl_share Donations can be dropped off anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Please Contact Nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you have any questions! Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50309 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Volunteer from Home: Turn T-Shirts into Tote Bags!T-Shirt Tote Bags are needed to serve families with a pre-packed sack of food at our mobile pantries. We need your help to turn donated T-Shirts into Tote Bags using our provided instructions (link below).
Instructions: https://www.foodbankiowa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DIY-TShirt-Tote.pdf Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines T-Shirt Tote Bags are needed to serve families with a pre-packed sack of food at our mobile pantries. We need your help to turn donated T-Shirts into Tote Bags using our provided instructions (link below).
Instructions: https://www.foodbankiowa.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DIY-TShirt-Tote.pdf Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50316 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Mobile Pantry Box Packers Needed* 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: Work in an assembly line Load equal numbers of food items into each bag or box provided Ensure all items are checked for safety before placing in bag for distribution
Qualifications: Volunteers must stay home if they or members of their family are not well Able to stand, move, bend, and lift 30 lbs. Willing and able to commit to a monthly shift
Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift.
Location(s): Food Bank of Iowa has two volunteer centers 2220 E. 17th St. Des Moines, IA 50316 705 W Main St, Ottumwa, IA 52501For 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*
Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines * 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: Work in an assembly line Load equal numbers of food items into each bag or box provided Ensure all items are checked for safety before placing in bag for distribution
Qualifications: Volunteers must stay home if they or members of their family are not well Able to stand, move, bend, and lift 30 lbs. Willing and able to commit to a monthly shift
Support/Training: Instructions will be provided on-site at the beginning of the shift.
Location(s): Food Bank of Iowa has two volunteer centers 2220 E. 17th St. Des Moines, IA 50316 705 W Main St, Ottumwa, IA 52501For 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*
Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Is Ongoing Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: No |