Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

Volunteer: Essential Items Donation Drive

Can't volunteer? You can still make a difference!

Support local youth and young women by hosting a donation drive for essential items from our wish list.

Most needed items:

Full-size deodorant, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, lotionLip balm/chapstickBaby and toddler diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6), Toddler Pull-Ups, unscented baby wipesMenstrual pads with wingsBaby wash and lotionDiaper cream

If you’re interested in hosting a donation drive contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information.

Organization: Young Women's Resource Center

Can't volunteer? You can still make a difference!

Support local youth and young women by hosting a donation drive for essential items from our wish list.

Most needed items:

Full-size deodorant, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, lotionLip balm/chapstickBaby and toddler diapers (sizes 4, 5, 6), Toddler Pull-Ups, unscented baby wipesMenstrual pads with wingsBaby wash and lotionDiaper cream

If you’re interested in hosting a donation drive contact Feleecia, Community Outreach Manager, at (515) 244-4901 or at fwatkins@ywrc.org for more information.

Organization: Young Women's Resource Center

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Create Kindness Bags!

Create joyful bags full of fun/delicious goodies! Treats, soaps, lotions, chap stick, pens, socks etc. Get creative and decorate the bags or even include a handwritten note on or in the bag to let our folks know that you are wishing them well! If you would like to ensure that all residents receive a kindness bag - please plan on making 140 bags. 

Donations can be dropped off anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday though Friday.! Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions


The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

Create joyful bags full of fun/delicious goodies! Treats, soaps, lotions, chap stick, pens, socks etc. Get creative and decorate the bags or even include a handwritten note on or in the bag to let our folks know that you are wishing them well! If you would like to ensure that all residents receive a kindness bag - please plan on making 140 bags. 

Donations can be dropped off anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday though Friday.! Please contact Nick at nicholas.drahozal@dmymca.org if you are interested in participating or have any questions


The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donation Drive

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.


Many of our residents are in need of a hand up as they work towards housing and financial stability.


Check out the following ways you can offer a Hand Up to our folks by providing the essential need items listed below:


Create Change with Clean Clothing:


Clean clothing is a basic human need. While we have on-site laundry, many residents can’t afford the quarters needed for a wash and dry. One load costs 12 quarters. Our goal is for every resident to have access to a laundry kit (12 quarters, a pod, and a dryer sheet) when needed. Consider hosting a spare change drive at work, with friends, or through a school or sports team.


Fill Our Pantry:


Gather friends, neighbors, or coworkers to host a food, clothing, or hygiene drive for our 140 residents. For current needs, visit our Amazon wish list.


Set a New Resident Up for Success:


When residents move in, they receive a welcome basket with essential household items. We’re currently running low and would appreciate donations of basic kitchen, bathroom, and cleaning supplies to help make their first day feel like home.


Drop-off Hours:


Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.


Thank you for your support!


The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

Contact Nicholas.Drahozal@Dmymca.org to coordinate a volunteer shift! If you are volunteering with Des Moines Corporate Games please include that in the message.


Many of our residents are in need of a hand up as they work towards housing and financial stability.


Check out the following ways you can offer a Hand Up to our folks by providing the essential need items listed below:


Create Change with Clean Clothing:


Clean clothing is a basic human need. While we have on-site laundry, many residents can’t afford the quarters needed for a wash and dry. One load costs 12 quarters. Our goal is for every resident to have access to a laundry kit (12 quarters, a pod, and a dryer sheet) when needed. Consider hosting a spare change drive at work, with friends, or through a school or sports team.


Fill Our Pantry:


Gather friends, neighbors, or coworkers to host a food, clothing, or hygiene drive for our 140 residents. For current needs, visit our Amazon wish list.


Set a New Resident Up for Success:


When residents move in, they receive a welcome basket with essential household items. We’re currently running low and would appreciate donations of basic kitchen, bathroom, and cleaning supplies to help make their first day feel like home.


Drop-off Hours:


Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.


Thank you for your support!


The YMCA Supportive Housing Campus provides permanent supportive housing rooted in hope, dignity, and community. Guided by a housing-first approach, we create a safe, stable place where residents can feel at home and connected to those around them. Together, staff and volunteers work to ensure everyone has a place to call home while supporting personal growth beyond basic needs. Learn more about our campus and our Annual Campaign here: youtu.be/Q40WAdgJg7M?si=wH3cuI4aLs5oECV0

Organization: YMCA of Greater Des Moines - Supportive Housing Campus

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donate to support Black women survivors and co-survivors

We'd love to tell you that it isn't harder for Black women dealing with and recovering after domestic violence (DV); unfortunately, it is. The biggest, most expensive needs we've identified are as follows: 

Rent/mortgage  Deposits for rent/moving costs/emergency housing  Utilities Gas Childcare

We are a 501(c)3 so your donations are tax deductible; we always provide IRS-compliant receipts. We have 2 ways you can give as an individual, and monthly/annual giving available for organizations. To see more about the programs with which we have been able to assist over 50 families so far, click here

We thank you in advance for your support of this mission. Donate today by clicking here

Organization: Courageous Access

We'd love to tell you that it isn't harder for Black women dealing with and recovering after domestic violence (DV); unfortunately, it is. The biggest, most expensive needs we've identified are as follows: 

Rent/mortgage  Deposits for rent/moving costs/emergency housing  Utilities Gas Childcare

We are a 501(c)3 so your donations are tax deductible; we always provide IRS-compliant receipts. We have 2 ways you can give as an individual, and monthly/annual giving available for organizations. To see more about the programs with which we have been able to assist over 50 families so far, click here

We thank you in advance for your support of this mission. Donate today by clicking here

Organization: Courageous Access

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50317

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Children & Families of Iowa (Des Moines): In-kind Needs

Children & Families of Iowa is in need of the following items

Hand sanitizer, full or travel size Facial tissue, paper towels, cleaning products Lysol or similar disinfectant spray Bedding for twin size beds Pillows Suitcases, duffle bags New - coats, hats, mittens or gloves

At this time in-kind donations are accepted by appointment only. Monetary gifts can be made online or through the postal service. Please contact the Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa via email volunteer@CFIowa.org to make an appointment.

Mailing Address:
Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa
1111 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314

Organization: Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa

Children & Families of Iowa is in need of the following items

Hand sanitizer, full or travel size Facial tissue, paper towels, cleaning products Lysol or similar disinfectant spray Bedding for twin size beds Pillows Suitcases, duffle bags New - coats, hats, mittens or gloves

At this time in-kind donations are accepted by appointment only. Monetary gifts can be made online or through the postal service. Please contact the Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa via email volunteer@CFIowa.org to make an appointment.

Mailing Address:
Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa
1111 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314

Organization: Foundation for Children & Families of Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50314

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Run a Hygiene Drive for Des Moines Public Schools

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

 

Contact Jen Stadler at 515-242-8394 or jennifer.stalder@dmschools.org for more information or to plan your delivery. 

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

 

Contact Jen Stadler at 515-242-8394 or jennifer.stalder@dmschools.org for more information or to plan your delivery. 

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50315

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Run a Hygiene Drive for Carlisle Schools

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50047

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Run a Hygiene Drive for Perry Schools

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50220

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Run a Hygiene Drive for Saydel Schools

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Hygiene poverty can reduce student attendance

Hygiene Drive Guide

Every child deserves access to hygiene supplies. Hygiene poverty is defined as an inability to afford everyday hygiene products, such as shampoo, toilet paper, grooming products, dish soap, etc.  While the root of hygiene poverty is the lack of access to basic toiletries, its effects are made much worse by  “hygiene shaming”. If the shame a child feels because they can’t afford to be clean is not bad enough, the shame and distress piled on top by insensitive peers can have a terrible impact, not just on their ability to learn but on their entire mental wellbeing. Hardships can include:

Inability to take a shower with shampoo, conditioner, and soap Using an old toothbrush or not having toothpaste Cleaning clothes less often (or with water only) due to lack of laundry detergent Fear of leaving home during your period because your makeshift solutions leak and could embarrass you

 There is a never-ending need for these supplies, so set a goal that seems reasonable for your team.

Shampoo Conditioner Soap Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Laundry detergent Hair products Feminine hygiene products Floss Face wash/acne cream

Organization: United Way of Central Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50313

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: House of Mercy Child Development Center: Donations Needed

House of Mercy Child Care Center is in need of:

Hand Sanitizer Soft tissues for little noses and sneezes

If you have items to donate please email Andy Smith at ASmith2@mercydesmoines.org or call 515-643-6545.

Thank you for your support!

About House of Mercy Child Development Center:

John R. Grubb/House of Mercy Child Development Center is a licensed and nationally accredited (NAEYC) childcare facility, serving the children of House of Mercy’s residential clients. The Center serves children age six-weeks old through school age. 

Organization: House Of Mercy

House of Mercy Child Care Center is in need of:

Hand Sanitizer Soft tissues for little noses and sneezes

If you have items to donate please email Andy Smith at ASmith2@mercydesmoines.org or call 515-643-6545.

Thank you for your support!

About House of Mercy Child Development Center:

John R. Grubb/House of Mercy Child Development Center is a licensed and nationally accredited (NAEYC) childcare facility, serving the children of House of Mercy’s residential clients. The Center serves children age six-weeks old through school age. 

Organization: House Of Mercy

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50314

Allow Groups: No