Volunteer: Family Fall FestivalHelp us put on our Family Fall Festival at our Burt Club!This will be a fun, carnival style event with games, crafts, and fun for the whole family! We need help with setup, tear down, and most importantly, running the game and craft stations. We hope to have your help, it’s set to be a great time! Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa Help us put on our Family Fall Festival at our Burt Club!This will be a fun, carnival style event with games, crafts, and fun for the whole family! We need help with setup, tear down, and most importantly, running the game and craft stations. We hope to have your help, it’s set to be a great time! Organization: Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 21, 2025 Zip Code: 50311 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Help Families "Shop" for Holiday GiftsVolunteers are needed to help families "shop" for gifts provided through our Wish List. (Everything is free for the families.) Then, help the families wrap their presents. Volunteers are needed between December 9th through December 18th. Shifts vary. This is a great project for individuals or a small group. Questions: 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 Volunteers are needed to help families "shop" for gifts provided through our Wish List. (Everything is free for the families.) Then, help the families wrap their presents. Volunteers are needed between December 9th through December 18th. Shifts vary. This is a great project for individuals or a small group. Questions: 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: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Dinners for the Shelter during the HolidaysThank 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: November December Wednesdays - 3, 10, 17, 24 (Xmas Eve), 31 (NY's Eve)Saturdays - 20, 27Sunday - 7Thursdays - 25 (Xmas Day)January Thursday - 1st (NY's Day)Wednesdays - 7, 14, 21, 28Saturdays - 10, 17, 24, 31Sundays - 4, 11, 28, 25This 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: November December Wednesdays - 3, 10, 17, 24 (Xmas Eve), 31 (NY's Eve)Saturdays - 20, 27Sunday - 7Thursdays - 25 (Xmas Day)January Thursday - 1st (NY's Day)Wednesdays - 7, 14, 21, 28Saturdays - 10, 17, 24, 31Sundays - 4, 11, 28, 25This 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: Help Give Thanksgiving Meals AwayYou can make a difference and impact food insecurity right here in our community. Be a welcoming face to a family in need. Help us get food home with those that are struggling for the Thanksgiving holiday. How volunteers will help -- Food Pantry Grocery Guides: Volunteers will "guide" families through the building, showing them all of the food options available. Then, volunteers push the grocery cart out to the families car in the parking lot and bring the grocery cart back inside. Questions: For questions, 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 an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. 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 You can make a difference and impact food insecurity right here in our community. Be a welcoming face to a family in need. Help us get food home with those that are struggling for the Thanksgiving holiday. How volunteers will help -- Food Pantry Grocery Guides: Volunteers will "guide" families through the building, showing them all of the food options available. Then, volunteers push the grocery cart out to the families car in the parking lot and bring the grocery cart back inside. Questions: For questions, 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 an overview about poverty in the Des Moines metro. We provide a unique cultural and economically diverse volunteer experience. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Help Give Toys Away at Families Forward Bidwell Toy PantryVolunteers are needed to help families shop for toys and stocking stuffers for each of their children. Click here to sign up. Help us make sure that every child's Christmas is special by volunteering in Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry! Helping over 1,000 children last year, we are so excited to get brand new toys out to children in need. Parents will "shop" through the free toy pantry to get a new toy, stocking-stuffer, book, and a stuffed animal for each child. Volunteers are needed to welcome families and help them shop! Questions: For questions, 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. 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 Volunteers are needed to help families shop for toys and stocking stuffers for each of their children. Click here to sign up. Help us make sure that every child's Christmas is special by volunteering in Families Forward Holiday Toy Pantry! Helping over 1,000 children last year, we are so excited to get brand new toys out to children in need. Parents will "shop" through the free toy pantry to get a new toy, stocking-stuffer, book, and a stuffed animal for each child. Volunteers are needed to welcome families and help them shop! Questions: For questions, 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. 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: Runs Until Dec 19, 2025 Zip Code: 50315 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Holiday Help at Families Forward New Directions ShelterVolunteers are needed to help fill the shelter with holiday spirit. Sign up individually or come as a group. Volunteers will help in the following ways: Prepping for the Holidays (Organizing & Cleaning) - Volunteers are needed help organize our space. This would include organizing, cleaning and preparing spaces in the shelter for the holidays. Sorting and Organizing Holiday Donations (Gift Sorting & Organizing) - Volunteers will help organize and sort donations coming in for our Essential Needs Baskets and the Holiday Wish List (items used in our Holiday Gift Room). Everything is free to the families staying with us.)Wrapping up the Holidays (Clean Up) – As the holidays wind down, volunteers are needed to help us organize items and decorations, and then put them away.Please Note: You may help with all 3 items above or only one while volunteering based on our needs for that day.Questions: Contact Missy Reams by email at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help. 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. 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 fill the shelter with holiday spirit. Sign up individually or come as a group. Volunteers will help in the following ways: Prepping for the Holidays (Organizing & Cleaning) - Volunteers are needed help organize our space. This would include organizing, cleaning and preparing spaces in the shelter for the holidays. Sorting and Organizing Holiday Donations (Gift Sorting & Organizing) - Volunteers will help organize and sort donations coming in for our Essential Needs Baskets and the Holiday Wish List (items used in our Holiday Gift Room). Everything is free to the families staying with us.)Wrapping up the Holidays (Clean Up) – As the holidays wind down, volunteers are needed to help us organize items and decorations, and then put them away.Please Note: You may help with all 3 items above or only one while volunteering based on our needs for that day.Questions: Contact Missy Reams by email at missy@familiesforward.org or by phone at 515-989-8404. About volunteering: A volunteer orientation is provided when you first arrive to help. 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. About Families Forward: Families Forward (previously Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill) has four main programs: Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter (emergency housing), and The Home Connection (long-term housing). For over 100 years, our mission has been to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency. Organization: Families Forward Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Multiple Shifts Available Zip Code: 50312 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Children's Hat and Glove Donation DriveEvery year, at our Holiday Toy Pantry, we provide hats and gloves for the 1,000 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 hats and gloves are also used for the children at our child development center and our family shelter. Items are needed by Friday, December 12th. Drop Off Location: Families Forward Child Development Center 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315 Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue: Pull up by the back door of the yellow Child Development Center. Open the gate behind the Child Development Center and go to the very last door. The door is up 5 steps, and the glass window says “Administrative Office”. Ring the doorbell and someone will accept your donations. Questions: 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 1,000 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 hats and gloves are also used for the children at our child development center and our family shelter. Items are needed by Friday, December 12th. Drop Off Location: Families Forward Child Development Center 1203 Hartford Avenue, Des Moines Iowa 50315 Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30am - 4:30pm Donation Drop Off at Hartford Avenue: Pull up by the back door of the yellow Child Development Center. Open the gate behind the Child Development Center and go to the very last door. The door is up 5 steps, and the glass window says “Administrative Office”. Ring the doorbell and someone will accept your donations. Questions: 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: Holiday Wish List for Families Forward New Directions Shelter & 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 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: Make Tie Blankets (for Holiday Toy Pantry)You can make the difference in a child's life by coordinating an event to make tie (no-sew) blankets for our Holiday Toy Pantry. We'd love for each child to receive a warm blankie with their new toy. Last year, we served over 1,000 children at our event. Blankets are needed by Friday December 12th, but we can accept them later than this. This a great opportunity for groups, organizations, and employees that can't leave the office to volunteer or would like to do a service project. A team of two volunteers should be able to complete one blanket in an hour. For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please note: Companies/Volunteers will need to purchase the materials to make the blankets. You will need 2 pieces of fleece fabric per blanket 2 yards of fabric for each piece Sharp Scissors Ruler or tape measure optionalAbout 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 You can make the difference in a child's life by coordinating an event to make tie (no-sew) blankets for our Holiday Toy Pantry. We'd love for each child to receive a warm blankie with their new toy. Last year, we served over 1,000 children at our event. Blankets are needed by Friday December 12th, but we can accept them later than this. This a great opportunity for groups, organizations, and employees that can't leave the office to volunteer or would like to do a service project. A team of two volunteers should be able to complete one blanket in an hour. For questions, contact Missy Reams at missy@familiesforward.org or call 515-989-8404. Please note: Companies/Volunteers will need to purchase the materials to make the blankets. You will need 2 pieces of fleece fabric per blanket 2 yards of fabric for each piece Sharp Scissors Ruler or tape measure optionalAbout 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: HOPE for the Holidays Donation Drive 2025Bring joy to families in our community by donating to United Way of Central Iowa's HOPE for the Holidays.
In preparation for our HOPE for the Holiday event in early December, United Way of Central Iowa is collecting cleaning products and gift cards for HOPE for Stable Families. This United Way of Central Iowa program works with families to set goals, remove barriers, and use available community resources to create long-term financial stability for them and their children. Click here to sign-up to donate household cleaning supplies. Click here to purchase household items from Amazon that can be shipped directly to United Way. Drop off donations at United Way:You can drop donations off at United Way of Central Iowa, 1111 9th St, Ste 100, Des Moines, IA 50314 on the following dates between 8am and 5pm: Monday, December 1st through Wednesday, December 3rdBy appointment on Thursday, December 4thIf these dates do not work for you, please contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager, to arrange a time to drop off your donations to United Way of Central Iowa. Contact Sarah Underwood at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org or 515-246-2504. Organization: United Way of Central Iowa Bring joy to families in our community by donating to United Way of Central Iowa's HOPE for the Holidays.
In preparation for our HOPE for the Holiday event in early December, United Way of Central Iowa is collecting cleaning products and gift cards for HOPE for Stable Families. This United Way of Central Iowa program works with families to set goals, remove barriers, and use available community resources to create long-term financial stability for them and their children. Click here to sign-up to donate household cleaning supplies. Click here to purchase household items from Amazon that can be shipped directly to United Way. Drop off donations at United Way:You can drop donations off at United Way of Central Iowa, 1111 9th St, Ste 100, Des Moines, IA 50314 on the following dates between 8am and 5pm: Monday, December 1st through Wednesday, December 3rdBy appointment on Thursday, December 4thIf these dates do not work for you, please contact Sarah Underwood, Volunteer Engagement Manager, to arrange a time to drop off your donations to United Way of Central Iowa. Contact Sarah Underwood at sarah.underwood@unitedwaydm.org or 515-246-2504. Organization: United Way of Central Iowa Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Dec 3, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Free Thanksgiving MealsHope Ministries wants to bless you this Thanksgiving! On Thursday, November 27, Hope Ministries will be delivering Thanksgiving Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration opens on October 6 and meal order reservations open on November 3. Volunteer Need To make Thanksgiving meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer opportunities will open on Monday, October 6. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Meal Reservation Thanksgiving meal reservations will open on Monday, November 4. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, November 19 at 4:00PM. Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, November 27, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed. Organization: Hope Ministries Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Thanksgiving! On Thursday, November 27, Hope Ministries will be delivering Thanksgiving Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration opens on October 6 and meal order reservations open on November 3. Volunteer Need To make Thanksgiving meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer opportunities will open on Monday, October 6. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Meal Reservation Thanksgiving meal reservations will open on Monday, November 4. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, November 19 at 4:00PM. Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, November 27, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed. Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 27, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Mission: ChristmasMake this Christmas special for the men, women, and children at Hope Ministries! Help us bless the individuals staying in our shelter and recovery centers with practical and personal gifts. When you register to be a part of Mission: Christmas, we can ensure that the guests in our care receive a gift on Christmas day. Registration to fill Mission: Christmas gift bags will open on Monday, October 7. To fill one or more bags, register online before Wednesday, November 27, at hopeiowa.org/events/mission-christmas/ Organization: Hope Ministries Make this Christmas special for the men, women, and children at Hope Ministries! Help us bless the individuals staying in our shelter and recovery centers with practical and personal gifts. When you register to be a part of Mission: Christmas, we can ensure that the guests in our care receive a gift on Christmas day. Registration to fill Mission: Christmas gift bags will open on Monday, October 7. To fill one or more bags, register online before Wednesday, November 27, at hopeiowa.org/events/mission-christmas/ Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Nov 27, 2025 Zip Code: 50327 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Food Donation DayThis Thanksgiving we will be serving and delivering over 3,000 meals. To make this possible, we will be hosting a Food Donation Day on Wednesday, November 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Food Donations will be accepted at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines). Donations can be dropped off inside the facility and individuals are invited to tour Bethel Mission. Needed food donation items include: Case of bottled water Ground beef, pork loin, bacon, ham Milk, cheese, eggs, butter #10 cans of green beans or mixed veggies Condiments and salad dressing, ketchup, mustard Organization: Hope Ministries This Thanksgiving we will be serving and delivering over 3,000 meals. To make this possible, we will be hosting a Food Donation Day on Wednesday, November 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Food Donations will be accepted at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines). Donations can be dropped off inside the facility and individuals are invited to tour Bethel Mission. Needed food donation items include: Case of bottled water Ground beef, pork loin, bacon, ham Milk, cheese, eggs, butter #10 cans of green beans or mixed veggies Condiments and salad dressing, ketchup, mustard Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Nov 26, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hope Ministries Free Christmas MealsHope Ministries wants to bless you this Christmas! On Thursday, December 25, Hope Ministries will be delivering Christmas Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on Monday, November 3 and meal order reservations will be available on Monday, December 1. Volunteer Needs To make Christmas meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer registration opens on Monday, November 3. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Meal Reservation Christmas meal reservations will be open on Monday, December 2. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, December 17, at 4:00 p.m. Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, December 25, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed. Organization: Hope Ministries Hope Ministries wants to bless you this Christmas! On Thursday, December 25, Hope Ministries will be delivering Christmas Meals to families and individuals in need around the Des Moines area. Volunteer registration will open on Monday, November 3 and meal order reservations will be available on Monday, December 1. Volunteer Needs To make Christmas meal deliveries possible, we are in need of on-site meal assembly volunteers and driver delivery teams to deliver meals in and around the Des Moines Metro. We do ask that all on-site volunteers are above age 13 and recommend driver delivery teams for groups with younger children. Volunteer registration opens on Monday, November 3. To register visit our website at https://www.hopeiowa.org/get-involved/holiday-volunteer-opportunities/ Meal Reservation Christmas meal reservations will be open on Monday, December 2. Meal reservations may be made online at www.hopeiowa.org or by calling 515-265-4277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Meals must be reserved by Wednesday, December 17, at 4:00 p.m. Hope Ministries will also be providing free meals at Hope Café (1310 6th Ave, Des Moines) on Thursday, December 25, between noon and 1:00 p.m. No reservation needed. Organization: Hope Ministries Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Dec 25, 2025 Zip Code: 50314 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Staff Holiday Party Venue NeededDorothy's House is looking for a venue (and/or sponsor) for our 20 person staff to celebrate during the holiday season. Last year we had a pizza party with games and white elephant gift exchange. Do you have a venue and/or group that would like to celebrate the season with us? Organization: Dorothy's House Dorothy's House is looking for a venue (and/or sponsor) for our 20 person staff to celebrate during the holiday season. Last year we had a pizza party with games and white elephant gift exchange. Do you have a venue and/or group that would like to celebrate the season with us? Organization: Dorothy's House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Dec 24, 2025 Zip Code: 50317 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Christmas Gifts and Stockings for ParticipantsWe are looking for donations of Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers in groups of 4, 8 or 12. These gifts are for participants in our programs - survivors of trafficking at Recovery House, Pathways and Front Porch. For more information, please email our volunteer coordinator, Kathy Bernreuter at kathy@dorothyshouse.org. Thank you so much for making the holidays happy for our participants! Following are a list of suggested items compiled by our staff: Stocking (3 groups of 4) Fuzzy socks (stocking) x 4 Face mask (stocking) x 4 Gloves (stocking) x 4 Scarf (stocking) x 4 Set of pens/markers (stocking) x 4 Eye shadow palette (stocking) x 4 Mascara (stocking) x 4 Motivational books/posters/desk top calendars (stocking) x 4 Sunglasses (stocking) x 4 Gifts (3 groups of 4) Positive/affirming books (gift) x 4 K Cups (gift) x 4 Journal - no spiral (gift) x 4 Essential oil kit (gift) x 4 Diamond dots (gift) x 4 Activity Kit i.e. jewelry making (gift) x 4 Blanket (gift) x 4 Robe (gift) x 4 Organizing/Storage baskets (gift) x 4 Makeup brush sets (gift) x 4 Organization: Dorothy's House We are looking for donations of Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers in groups of 4, 8 or 12. These gifts are for participants in our programs - survivors of trafficking at Recovery House, Pathways and Front Porch. For more information, please email our volunteer coordinator, Kathy Bernreuter at kathy@dorothyshouse.org. Thank you so much for making the holidays happy for our participants! Following are a list of suggested items compiled by our staff: Stocking (3 groups of 4) Fuzzy socks (stocking) x 4 Face mask (stocking) x 4 Gloves (stocking) x 4 Scarf (stocking) x 4 Set of pens/markers (stocking) x 4 Eye shadow palette (stocking) x 4 Mascara (stocking) x 4 Motivational books/posters/desk top calendars (stocking) x 4 Sunglasses (stocking) x 4 Gifts (3 groups of 4) Positive/affirming books (gift) x 4 K Cups (gift) x 4 Journal - no spiral (gift) x 4 Essential oil kit (gift) x 4 Diamond dots (gift) x 4 Activity Kit i.e. jewelry making (gift) x 4 Blanket (gift) x 4 Robe (gift) x 4 Organizing/Storage baskets (gift) x 4 Makeup brush sets (gift) x 4 Organization: Dorothy's House Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Dec 24, 2025 Zip Code: 50317 Allow Groups: Yes |
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: Santa's Artist Workshop Clean UpGather your fellow elves and join us at Momentum Art Studio for a merry day of making magic behind the scenes. With holiday tunes playing, you’ll help tidy the studio, organize supplies, and prep canvases with gesso, ensuring they're as white as the freshly fallen snow. Perfect for groups of 3–5 who love teamwork, laughter, and spreading cheer while making a real impact in the arts community. Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/ Organization: Community Support Advocates Gather your fellow elves and join us at Momentum Art Studio for a merry day of making magic behind the scenes. With holiday tunes playing, you’ll help tidy the studio, organize supplies, and prep canvases with gesso, ensuring they're as white as the freshly fallen snow. Perfect for groups of 3–5 who love teamwork, laughter, and spreading cheer while making a real impact in the arts community. Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/ Organization: Community Support Advocates Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Jan 30, 2026 Zip Code: 50313 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Lead a Holiday Art WorkshopAre you an artist who loves to share your gifts? This season, sprinkle a little holiday magic at Momentum Art Studio by leading a festive, hands-on workshop or art demonstration. Whether it’s painting winter wonderlands, crafting ornaments, or exploring cozy creative themes, your time and talent can bring joy and inspiration to artists living with disabilities and mental health conditions. Workshops can be one-time or recurring, typically lasting 2–3 hours—just enough time to spread some creative cheer and make spirits bright! Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/ Organization: Community Support Advocates Are you an artist who loves to share your gifts? This season, sprinkle a little holiday magic at Momentum Art Studio by leading a festive, hands-on workshop or art demonstration. Whether it’s painting winter wonderlands, crafting ornaments, or exploring cozy creative themes, your time and talent can bring joy and inspiration to artists living with disabilities and mental health conditions. Workshops can be one-time or recurring, typically lasting 2–3 hours—just enough time to spread some creative cheer and make spirits bright! Momentum Arts, a program of Community Support Advocates, was created in 2004 to support artists who identify as having a disability. In addition to an annual art showcase, the program offers free workshops, studio space, supplies, mentorship, and professional development. You can visit Momentum Arts in studio #109 at Mainframe Studios or online at: momentumartistcollective.org/ Organization: Community Support Advocates Opportunity Type: Volunteer Date: Runs Until Jan 5, 2026 Zip Code: 50313 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Greater Des Moines Soap Box Turkey RaceThe 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: 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: 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) 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) 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 PresentsThis 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 neededThe 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 ProgramOne 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? What do we need to bring? How much food should we make? What time should we arrive? Can we stay and visit with families? What should we make? 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? What do we need to bring? How much food should we make? What time should we arrive? Can we stay and visit with families? What should we make? 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 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: Volunteer at Christkindlmarket Des MoinesExperience 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 - CliveOn 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 - GrimesOn 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 HayOn 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 - IndianolaOn 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 TreatOur 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 TreatOur 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: Day of the Dead at the Art CenterCome 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 |