Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

Volunteer: Greater Des Moines Soap Box Turkey Race

The Greater Des Moines Soap Box Derby will be hosting its 3rd Annual Turkey Run Race on November 1st and 2nd. We are in need of volunteers to help lift the race cars onto the trailer for the kids to they can be sent back up to the top of the race track. The cars can be a bit heavy, especially for our younger racers so we do recommend having a strong/healthy back. The more volunteers we have the more the workload can be spread out. Our kids enjoy racing down the track to see who will be the champion. Volunteers will be provided lunch ,if applicable, and may race down the track in one of our adult cars as well, time permitting. 

Organization: Greater Des Moines Soap Box Derby

The Greater Des Moines Soap Box Derby will be hosting its 3rd Annual Turkey Run Race on November 1st and 2nd. We are in need of volunteers to help lift the race cars onto the trailer for the kids to they can be sent back up to the top of the race track. The cars can be a bit heavy, especially for our younger racers so we do recommend having a strong/healthy back. The more volunteers we have the more the workload can be spread out. Our kids enjoy racing down the track to see who will be the champion. Volunteers will be provided lunch ,if applicable, and may race down the track in one of our adult cars as well, time permitting. 

Organization: Greater Des Moines Soap Box Derby

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 50320

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Holiday Wish List for Families Forward New Directions Shelter & The Home Connection

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.
Office: 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 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.
Office: 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: Runs Until Dec 8, 2025

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Holiday Essential Needs Baskets for Families Forward The Home Connection

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.
Office: 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 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.
Office: 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: 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 boots

Drop 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 boots

Drop 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 Drive

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 50315

For 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 50315

For 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: Create Holiday Cheer!

As we want Elf Day, our Holiday themed Community Event, to be a highlight of our residents year, we we need volunteer support. Let us know if one stands out to you; or, if you have any other ideas! These could either be done on or off site. We just ask that you provide the supplies as we do not have a budget to do so. (Must be 18 years or older to volunteer on site)

- Creating 150 Christmas cards for resident’s to receive on Christmas morning – filled with uplifting notes and well wishes
- Baked goods (150 servings) – who doesn’t love cookies and sugar loaded items during the holidays?!
- 150 Stocking stuffer kindness bags – along with a gift, we would love to extend the Christmas spirit with small goodie bags
- 150 Hot cocoa kits – a hot chocolate packet with mini marshmallows and a candy cane taped to the outside (feel free to add a handwritten note).

If interested please register for a task below. Donations can be dropped off before December 19th anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Learn more and take a virtual tour of our campus here: youtube.com/watch?v=YTshFDMScsM&t

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

As we want Elf Day, our Holiday themed Community Event, to be a highlight of our residents year, we we need volunteer support. Let us know if one stands out to you; or, if you have any other ideas! These could either be done on or off site. We just ask that you provide the supplies as we do not have a budget to do so. (Must be 18 years or older to volunteer on site)

- Creating 150 Christmas cards for resident’s to receive on Christmas morning – filled with uplifting notes and well wishes
- Baked goods (150 servings) – who doesn’t love cookies and sugar loaded items during the holidays?!
- 150 Stocking stuffer kindness bags – along with a gift, we would love to extend the Christmas spirit with small goodie bags
- 150 Hot cocoa kits – a hot chocolate packet with mini marshmallows and a candy cane taped to the outside (feel free to add a handwritten note).

If interested please register for a task below. Donations can be dropped off before December 19th anytime Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Learn more and take a virtual tour of our campus here: youtube.com/watch?v=YTshFDMScsM&t

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Dec 19, 2025

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No


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: Christmas Presents

This Holiday season, we would like to help our participants who attend the Wesley on Grand Adult Day Center to be able to have a present that is given during our yearly Christmas party. We are primarily looking for every day, personal essentials like socks, lotions, soaps, lip balm, and hair accessories (like barrettes and headbands.) Contact Hannah for more specifics. Please drop off items before December 2nd. 

Organization: WesleyLife

This Holiday season, we would like to help our participants who attend the Wesley on Grand Adult Day Center to be able to have a present that is given during our yearly Christmas party. We are primarily looking for every day, personal essentials like socks, lotions, soaps, lip balm, and hair accessories (like barrettes and headbands.) Contact Hannah for more specifics. Please drop off items before December 2nd. 

Organization: WesleyLife

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Dec 9, 2025

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Adopt a Family program - SPONSORS needed

The holiday season is quickly approaching and everyone involved with Mentor Iowa is excited about our upcoming adopt-a-family program.  Our adopt-a-family program may be the only opportunity for our children to receive any gifts this holiday season, so it is important that we do everything possible to make them feel special during this festive time. 

At this time, Mentor Iowa asks you to consider becoming a sponsor for a family that is involved in our program.  Adopt a family sponsor’s work with the Mentor Iowa office to purchase needed items for the family.  Mentor Iowa distributes a wish list to mentors, and then the mentor discusses with their mentee’s family what they need and want for the holiday season.  Items needed typically include:  clothing, household items, shoes, books, games and whatever else is on the child’s wish list.  The average amount spent on each child is approximately $100, but you can choose the amount you want to spend on the child(ren).

This opportunity is looking for SPONSORS only at this time.  The adopt-a-family program is designed to help the children referred to Mentor Iowa and partnering agencies.  Last year we were able to support 453 children and foresee that number rising this year.  Due to limited adopt-a-family sponsors, children outside of our referral sources are not being accepted at this time.   

Mentor Iowa is a non-profit, volunteer organization that was started in 1974 by citizens of the community, a Juvenile Court Judge, and court personnel, all of whom were concerned about the growing number of children served by the court.  The mission of the organization is to provide trained volunteer mentors to at-risk children in need of a positive adult role model.  We do this by working in partnership with the children, their families, and the community.  Community volunteers present a solution by providing the mentor services to the ever-increasing number of Children in Need of Assistance and delinquent youth in central Iowa

Our creed is “Every Child Deserves a Future.”  By fulfilling this request, we can continue to achieve our mission and better the community.  Please contact the Mentor Iowa office by Friday, November 21st if you are interested in becoming an adopt a family sponsor and how many children you would like to purchase gifts for.  If you do participate, we will have your needs list sent to you by the latest Wednesday, November 26th.  We would like the gifts back to our offices by Monday, December 8th so we can start the distribution process to our mentors and partnering agencies.  This year, we are asking our sponsors to wrap their purchased gifts.  If you can create a list that has the items purchased, we will present to the parent so they know what their child(ren) are receiving.

We hope this information assists you in making a decision to become a part of Mentor Iowa’s adopt-a-family program this holiday season.  THANK YOU for your time to consider being a sponsor in our adopt-a-family program.  If you have any questions regarding Mentor Iowa's adopt-a-family program, please feel free to contact Marty Lester at 515-277-9797. 

Organization: Mentor Iowa

The holiday season is quickly approaching and everyone involved with Mentor Iowa is excited about our upcoming adopt-a-family program.  Our adopt-a-family program may be the only opportunity for our children to receive any gifts this holiday season, so it is important that we do everything possible to make them feel special during this festive time. 

At this time, Mentor Iowa asks you to consider becoming a sponsor for a family that is involved in our program.  Adopt a family sponsor’s work with the Mentor Iowa office to purchase needed items for the family.  Mentor Iowa distributes a wish list to mentors, and then the mentor discusses with their mentee’s family what they need and want for the holiday season.  Items needed typically include:  clothing, household items, shoes, books, games and whatever else is on the child’s wish list.  The average amount spent on each child is approximately $100, but you can choose the amount you want to spend on the child(ren).

This opportunity is looking for SPONSORS only at this time.  The adopt-a-family program is designed to help the children referred to Mentor Iowa and partnering agencies.  Last year we were able to support 453 children and foresee that number rising this year.  Due to limited adopt-a-family sponsors, children outside of our referral sources are not being accepted at this time.   

Mentor Iowa is a non-profit, volunteer organization that was started in 1974 by citizens of the community, a Juvenile Court Judge, and court personnel, all of whom were concerned about the growing number of children served by the court.  The mission of the organization is to provide trained volunteer mentors to at-risk children in need of a positive adult role model.  We do this by working in partnership with the children, their families, and the community.  Community volunteers present a solution by providing the mentor services to the ever-increasing number of Children in Need of Assistance and delinquent youth in central Iowa

Our creed is “Every Child Deserves a Future.”  By fulfilling this request, we can continue to achieve our mission and better the community.  Please contact the Mentor Iowa office by Friday, November 21st if you are interested in becoming an adopt a family sponsor and how many children you would like to purchase gifts for.  If you do participate, we will have your needs list sent to you by the latest Wednesday, November 26th.  We would like the gifts back to our offices by Monday, December 8th so we can start the distribution process to our mentors and partnering agencies.  This year, we are asking our sponsors to wrap their purchased gifts.  If you can create a list that has the items purchased, we will present to the parent so they know what their child(ren) are receiving.

We hope this information assists you in making a decision to become a part of Mentor Iowa’s adopt-a-family program this holiday season.  THANK YOU for your time to consider being a sponsor in our adopt-a-family program.  If you have any questions regarding Mentor Iowa's adopt-a-family program, please feel free to contact Marty Lester at 515-277-9797. 

Organization: Mentor Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Nov 21, 2025

Organization Requirement: >21 years old

Zip Code: 50322

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Ronald McDonald House Meal Program


One of our greatest needs at Ronald McDonald House is for home-cooked meals for our families. After a long day at the hospital, families are truly grateful for a hot meal waiting for them. This is an ideal volunteer opportunity for groups of family, friends, corporate teams, or teens looking to fulfill community service or Silver Cord hours. We have two Houses where you can volunteer: our House near Blank Children’s Hospital and our House within MercyOne (located on the North Side, 4th Floor).

To choose a date, please visit http://www.rmhdesmoines.org, scroll down to click on "Meal Providers," then select "Sign Up Here" to access our meal provider schedule.

FAQ

How many people can participate in our group?
We limit groups to 10 people due to kitchen size. For groups larger than 10, we suggest splitting up: 10 people can cook, and the rest can assist with housekeeping.

What do we need to bring?
We provide all cooking tools and utensils. You’ll just need to bring the ingredients. You’re also welcome to use any canned or dry goods we have available. Feel free to call us to check what’s on hand. *Please keep in mind, Per RMH Global Guidelines, we cannot accept homemade food prepared outside a licensed kitchen.

How much food should we make?
Please prepare a meal for 35 people for each House. If you sign up to make a meal for both Houses we ask you make a meal for 70 people.
To keep a consistent schedule, we ask that meals be ready by 6 p.m.

What time should we arrive?
The volunteer kitchen is reserved from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. If you’d like to come earlier, please call ahead to confirm kitchen availability.

Can we stay and visit with families?
You’re welcome to stay and visit with families during the meal. However, many families return later in the evening, so we leave the meal out for an hour and then store it as leftovers.

What should we make?
Feel free to be creative and have fun with your meal! There’s no need to worry about dietary restrictions.

If you have any other questions or would like more information, please reach out to Caroline at volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call 515-243-2111.

Thank you for helping us support families in need!


Organization: Ronald McDonald House


One of our greatest needs at Ronald McDonald House is for home-cooked meals for our families. After a long day at the hospital, families are truly grateful for a hot meal waiting for them. This is an ideal volunteer opportunity for groups of family, friends, corporate teams, or teens looking to fulfill community service or Silver Cord hours. We have two Houses where you can volunteer: our House near Blank Children’s Hospital and our House within MercyOne (located on the North Side, 4th Floor).

To choose a date, please visit http://www.rmhdesmoines.org, scroll down to click on "Meal Providers," then select "Sign Up Here" to access our meal provider schedule.

FAQ

How many people can participate in our group?
We limit groups to 10 people due to kitchen size. For groups larger than 10, we suggest splitting up: 10 people can cook, and the rest can assist with housekeeping.

What do we need to bring?
We provide all cooking tools and utensils. You’ll just need to bring the ingredients. You’re also welcome to use any canned or dry goods we have available. Feel free to call us to check what’s on hand. *Please keep in mind, Per RMH Global Guidelines, we cannot accept homemade food prepared outside a licensed kitchen.

How much food should we make?
Please prepare a meal for 35 people for each House. If you sign up to make a meal for both Houses we ask you make a meal for 70 people.
To keep a consistent schedule, we ask that meals be ready by 6 p.m.

What time should we arrive?
The volunteer kitchen is reserved from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. If you’d like to come earlier, please call ahead to confirm kitchen availability.

Can we stay and visit with families?
You’re welcome to stay and visit with families during the meal. However, many families return later in the evening, so we leave the meal out for an hour and then store it as leftovers.

What should we make?
Feel free to be creative and have fun with your meal! There’s no need to worry about dietary restrictions.

If you have any other questions or would like more information, please reach out to Caroline at volunteer@rmhdesmoines.org or call 515-243-2111.

Thank you for helping us support families in need!


Organization: Ronald McDonald House

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Jan 31, 2026

Zip Code: 50314

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Ronald McDonald House Wish List Donations

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
Des Moines, IA 50314

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
Des Moines, IA 50314

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: Volunteer at Christkindlmarket Des Moines

Experience a German-inspired Christmas Market in December at Principal Park.  
Enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of the holidays as you participate in a 750 year old tradition.  
Shop regional vendors selling old-world, hand-crafted products from wooden vendor stalls; enjoy lively performances of polka music, traditional dance and choirs in Yuletide Hall; participate in children's activities; sip Glühwein (warm, mulled wine) and savor European-style Iowa craft beer.  
Sign up here: https://iowaeuropeanculturalconnection.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=104325

Organization: Iowa European Cultural Connection

Experience a German-inspired Christmas Market in December at Principal Park.  
Enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of the holidays as you participate in a 750 year old tradition.  
Shop regional vendors selling old-world, hand-crafted products from wooden vendor stalls; enjoy lively performances of polka music, traditional dance and choirs in Yuletide Hall; participate in children's activities; sip Glühwein (warm, mulled wine) and savor European-style Iowa craft beer.  
Sign up here: https://iowaeuropeanculturalconnection.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=104325

Organization: Iowa European Cultural Connection

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Nov 29, 2025 through Dec 15, 2025

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Christmas Open House Set up - Clive

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our stores from 2:00 to 6:00 on the 14th.  I am looking to recruit about 20 - 25 volunteers per store!  Please let me know if you, or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the night.

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our stores from 2:00 to 6:00 on the 14th.  I am looking to recruit about 20 - 25 volunteers per store!  Please let me know if you, or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the night.

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 14, 2025

Zip Code: 50325

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Christmas Open House Set up - Grimes

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00 to 6:00 on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00 to 6:00 on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 14, 2025

Zip Code: 50111

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Christmas Open House Set up - Merle Hay

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00PM to 6:00PM on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00PM to 6:00PM on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 14, 2025

Zip Code: 50310

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Christmas Open House Set up - Indianola

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00PM to 6:00PM on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

On November 14th All of our Many Hands locations are going to be closing early to set up for our Christmas open house (on November 15th.)   We are in need of volunteers to help us set up the Christmas Wonderland at our store from 2:00PM to 6:00PM on the 14th!  I am looking to recruit about 20-25 volunteers per store. 
Do you know of individuals or a group that would be willing to lend their hands and become elves for the afternoon?   

Organization: Many Hands Thrift Market

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 14, 2025

Zip Code: 50125

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Volunteers Power SafeNetRx!

With the influx of medication donations and increasing need for medication assistance, we need your help. Our volunteers assist in logging incoming donations into our inventory.  Learn more about how you can make a difference in our community and sign up to volunteer at SafeNetRx today!

Organization: SafeNetRx

With the influx of medication donations and increasing need for medication assistance, we need your help. Our volunteers assist in logging incoming donations into our inventory.  Learn more about how you can make a difference in our community and sign up to volunteer at SafeNetRx today!

Organization: SafeNetRx

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50111-5282

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Levitt Club Trunk or Treat

Our annual Trunk or Treat is coming up at our Levitt Club, and we need your help to make it a festive night! 

We’re looking for volunteers to deck out their trunks in spooky themes and bring candy to hand out to our awesome club members.  

This is a fantastic opportunity for corporate teams to give back and show off their creative side at the same time! 

Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa

Our annual Trunk or Treat is coming up at our Levitt Club, and we need your help to make it a festive night! 

We’re looking for volunteers to deck out their trunks in spooky themes and bring candy to hand out to our awesome club members.  

This is a fantastic opportunity for corporate teams to give back and show off their creative side at the same time! 

Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 28, 2025

Zip Code: 50316

Allow Groups: Teams only


Volunteer: Ross Club Trunk or Treat

Our annual Trunk or Treat is coming up at our Ross Club, and we need your help to make it a festive night! 

We’re looking for volunteers to deck out their trunks in spooky themes and bring candy to hand out to our awesome club members.  

This is a fantastic opportunity for corporate teams to give back and show off their creative side at the same time! 

Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa

Our annual Trunk or Treat is coming up at our Ross Club, and we need your help to make it a festive night! 

We’re looking for volunteers to deck out their trunks in spooky themes and bring candy to hand out to our awesome club members.  

This is a fantastic opportunity for corporate teams to give back and show off their creative side at the same time! 

Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 30, 2025

Zip Code: 50310

Allow Groups: Teams only


Volunteer: Conmigo's 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat!

Calling All Creators, Hosts & Halloween Enthusiasts!

Organization: Conmigo Early Education Center

Calling All Creators, Hosts & Halloween Enthusiasts!

Organization: Conmigo Early Education Center

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 25, 2025

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Day of the Dead at the Art Center

Come and support the Des Moines Art Center's largest annual community event - now celebrating it's 25th year! Volunteers are crucial in this celebration, serving as greeters, aiding in hands-on art activities, and helping keep spaces tidy. 

Organization: Des Moines Art Center

Come and support the Des Moines Art Center's largest annual community event - now celebrating it's 25th year! Volunteers are crucial in this celebration, serving as greeters, aiding in hands-on art activities, and helping keep spaces tidy. 

Organization: Des Moines Art Center

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 2, 2025

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: Yes