Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

Volunteer: Day of the Dead at the Art Center

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

Organization: Des Moines Art Center

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

Organization: Des Moines Art Center

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Nov 2, 2025

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Assemble and donate "lunch kits" to refugees!

The IRC in Iowa is currently in need of donations of "lunch kits" for our newly employed refugees! 

These kits would include:

Insulated lunch boxWater bottle or thermosSmall set of tupperware containersSmall ice pack

Your company, organization/club, family, or you as an individual can make a difference by purchasing these items for those new to our state and workforce. These items will continue to provide for them longer than the holiday season!

For more information please contact IRC in Iowa Community Engagement Coordinator, Kate Brockmeyer at 641-200-1985 or email Iowa@rescue.org

Organization: International Rescue Committee - Iowa

The IRC in Iowa is currently in need of donations of "lunch kits" for our newly employed refugees! 

These kits would include:

Insulated lunch boxWater bottle or thermosSmall set of tupperware containersSmall ice pack

Your company, organization/club, family, or you as an individual can make a difference by purchasing these items for those new to our state and workforce. These items will continue to provide for them longer than the holiday season!

For more information please contact IRC in Iowa Community Engagement Coordinator, Kate Brockmeyer at 641-200-1985 or email Iowa@rescue.org

Organization: International Rescue Committee - Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50309

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Community Fridge Donation Items (Des Moines)

Community Youth Concepts (CYC) hosts a Community Fridge at our building at 1446 MLK Jr. Parkway (Corner of MLK and Clark) to provide food and toiletries for those in need and to reduce food waste in our community.  With the refrigerator and freezer we are able to accept both fresh and shelf stable items.   In addition, prepared food can also be left as long as it is in either individual or family size containers (could be zip lock bags, sealable takout containers, etc. (please, no large buffet or other serving size containers)) and labled with what it is and the date prepared. 

Food can be left directly in the fridge or shelves as appropriate and there is access 24/7.  Fridge shed is located in parking lot behind building - entrance to parking lot is off of Clark St.  For large deliveries, please contact CYC during regular business hours  for staff support.  (515 -243 4292).   Popular items that move quickly are: 

Dairy and non-dairy substitutesFresh Producemeats or meat substitutesPrepared snacks, meals (fruit, sandwiches, wraps, etc.)yogurtprepared mealsdessertscheese beans - canned or dried canned or dried fruits cereal protein and/or granola barsmacaroni and cheese and/or ramen canned soups or meals crackers or snack foods paper towels/napkins soap/hand sanitizer feminine products cleaning supplies

To drop off items please contact CYC during business hours at 515-243-4292 or email julie@cyconcepts.org. 

Organization: Community Youth Concepts

Community Youth Concepts (CYC) hosts a Community Fridge at our building at 1446 MLK Jr. Parkway (Corner of MLK and Clark) to provide food and toiletries for those in need and to reduce food waste in our community.  With the refrigerator and freezer we are able to accept both fresh and shelf stable items.   In addition, prepared food can also be left as long as it is in either individual or family size containers (could be zip lock bags, sealable takout containers, etc. (please, no large buffet or other serving size containers)) and labled with what it is and the date prepared. 

Food can be left directly in the fridge or shelves as appropriate and there is access 24/7.  Fridge shed is located in parking lot behind building - entrance to parking lot is off of Clark St.  For large deliveries, please contact CYC during regular business hours  for staff support.  (515 -243 4292).   Popular items that move quickly are: 

Dairy and non-dairy substitutesFresh Producemeats or meat substitutesPrepared snacks, meals (fruit, sandwiches, wraps, etc.)yogurtprepared mealsdessertscheese beans - canned or dried canned or dried fruits cereal protein and/or granola barsmacaroni and cheese and/or ramen canned soups or meals crackers or snack foods paper towels/napkins soap/hand sanitizer feminine products cleaning supplies

To drop off items please contact CYC during business hours at 515-243-4292 or email julie@cyconcepts.org. 

Organization: Community Youth Concepts

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50314

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Food Donations

Our food pantry is very busy all year but especially during the holidays as families struggle to provide basic necessities along with holiday gifts. 

Organization: The Salvation Army - Des Moines

Our food pantry is very busy all year but especially during the holidays as families struggle to provide basic necessities along with holiday gifts. 

Organization: The Salvation Army - Des Moines

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50325

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Volunteer Drivers - Warren County

Would you like to help your neighbor access their essential medical appointments?

We are seeking volunteers to provide transportation to community members who need help gaining access to medical appointments and the pharmacy. Volunteers use their personal vehicles.

Trips are based on your availability and comfort level. If you are only available certain days of the week or have a changing schedule, we will work with your schedule. Do you only want to provide transportation in your town? We have community members who could use your help! Are you willing to drive to Des Moines? We have community members who could use your help!

Volunteer benefits
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Supplemental and liability insurance

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please contact Mildred Chihak, volunteer coordinator, at volunteer@ridehirta.com or 1.877.686.0029. 

If you are ready to apply, please go create a profile on our website HIRTAHelps.org. 

Organization: HIRTA

Would you like to help your neighbor access their essential medical appointments?

We are seeking volunteers to provide transportation to community members who need help gaining access to medical appointments and the pharmacy. Volunteers use their personal vehicles.

Trips are based on your availability and comfort level. If you are only available certain days of the week or have a changing schedule, we will work with your schedule. Do you only want to provide transportation in your town? We have community members who could use your help! Are you willing to drive to Des Moines? We have community members who could use your help!

Volunteer benefits
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Supplemental and liability insurance

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please contact Mildred Chihak, volunteer coordinator, at volunteer@ridehirta.com or 1.877.686.0029. 

If you are ready to apply, please go create a profile on our website HIRTAHelps.org. 

Organization: HIRTA

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50125

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Volunteer Driver - Dallas County

Would you like to help your neighbors access their essential medical appointments?

We are seeking volunteers to provide transportation to community members who need help gaining access to medical appointments and the pharmacy. Volunteers use their personal vehicles.

Trips are based on your availability and comfort level. If you are only available certain days of the week or have a changing schedule, we will work with your schedule. Do you only want to provide transportation in your town? We have community members who could use your help! Are you willing to drive to Des Moines? We have community members who could use your help!


Volunteer benefits
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Supplemental and liability insurance

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please contact Mildred Chihak, volunteer coordinator, at volunteer@ridehirta.com or 1.877.686.0029.

If you're ready to apply, please create a profile on our website HIRTAHelps.org.

 

 

  

Organization: HIRTA

Would you like to help your neighbors access their essential medical appointments?

We are seeking volunteers to provide transportation to community members who need help gaining access to medical appointments and the pharmacy. Volunteers use their personal vehicles.

Trips are based on your availability and comfort level. If you are only available certain days of the week or have a changing schedule, we will work with your schedule. Do you only want to provide transportation in your town? We have community members who could use your help! Are you willing to drive to Des Moines? We have community members who could use your help!


Volunteer benefits
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Supplemental and liability insurance

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please contact Mildred Chihak, volunteer coordinator, at volunteer@ridehirta.com or 1.877.686.0029.

If you're ready to apply, please create a profile on our website HIRTAHelps.org.

 

 

  

Organization: HIRTA

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50003

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: Hope Lodge Supply Drive

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge is a home away from home for cancer patients and a caregiver when their cancer treatment takes them far from home. There are over 30 lodges nationwide with the closest lodges to Central Iowa located in Iowa City, Iowa, Omaha, Nebraska and Rochester, Minnesota.  Our lodges provide lodging to patients who have to travel over 40 miles for treatment and come fully furnished thanks to the support of many generous donors. We are always looking for additional support through financial donations, or supplies including non-perishable items, paper products, and many other items that help to provide comfortable and clean home away from home.  If you or your company is interested in supporting our Hope Lodges, please reach out to us for our current "wish list" or supply needs.


There are also other opportunities to volunteer including doing activities with the guests, preparing meals or general housekeeping.  We would be happy to talk to you on how you and your team can give back and make an impact in the fight against cancer.

Organization: American Cancer Society Iowa

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge is a home away from home for cancer patients and a caregiver when their cancer treatment takes them far from home. There are over 30 lodges nationwide with the closest lodges to Central Iowa located in Iowa City, Iowa, Omaha, Nebraska and Rochester, Minnesota.  Our lodges provide lodging to patients who have to travel over 40 miles for treatment and come fully furnished thanks to the support of many generous donors. We are always looking for additional support through financial donations, or supplies including non-perishable items, paper products, and many other items that help to provide comfortable and clean home away from home.  If you or your company is interested in supporting our Hope Lodges, please reach out to us for our current "wish list" or supply needs.


There are also other opportunities to volunteer including doing activities with the guests, preparing meals or general housekeeping.  We would be happy to talk to you on how you and your team can give back and make an impact in the fight against cancer.

Organization: American Cancer Society Iowa

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50304

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Drive for the Food Bank of Iowa!

Volunteers will take the Food Bank of Iowa's van and drop off boxes, signs and/or bins for the collection of food in the Des Moines metro. Addresses and training provided on site. Valid driver's license required.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in loading donation supplies (boxes, pallets, bins, etc) into the van for use at pickup Use the Food Bank of Iowa van to drop-off collection items at assigned businesses/organizations Return the van to the Food Bank of Iowa to be unloaded Assist in unloading food items (if needed)

Qualifications:

Able to stand, move, bend, and lift 30 lbs. Valid drivers license and clean driving record 18 years of age or older

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

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18

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

Location: Food Bank of Iowa; Donation locations   Questions? Contact Michaela B. Devaney  

Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines

Volunteers will take the Food Bank of Iowa's van and drop off boxes, signs and/or bins for the collection of food in the Des Moines metro. Addresses and training provided on site. Valid driver's license required.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in loading donation supplies (boxes, pallets, bins, etc) into the van for use at pickup Use the Food Bank of Iowa van to drop-off collection items at assigned businesses/organizations Return the van to the Food Bank of Iowa to be unloaded Assist in unloading food items (if needed)

Qualifications:

Able to stand, move, bend, and lift 30 lbs. Valid drivers license and clean driving record 18 years of age or older

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

Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18

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

Location: Food Bank of Iowa; Donation locations   Questions? Contact Michaela B. Devaney  

Organization: Food Bank Of Iowa - Des Moines

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 50312

Allow Groups: Yes