Volunteer Appreciation Month
It's that time of year again! April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and we are so excited to share with you the wonderful impact volunteers in our communities can make!
Topeka Blood Drive
Monday, April 13, 9 am-3 pm
United Way of Kaw Valley, Topeka KS
On April 13, we'll roll up our sleeves and help save lives! United Way of Kaw Valley (UWKV) will proudly partner with the American Red Cross to hold a spring blood drive. The Red Cross has over 135 years of experience providing humanitarian aid - including more than 75 years of supplying blood to those in need. Each pint of blood we collect can help save up to three lives and will touch the lives of so many more. What a great way to pay it forward and make an impact on people in our community and across the country.
You can sign up here using the sponsor code TopekaUW. Additional information and instructions are here. For questions, email Audrey Mott at amott@uwkawvalley.org.
Shawnee County Volunteer Expo
Thursday, April 16, 10 am-2 pm
Fairlawn Plaza, Topeka KS
Come meet with over 50 local nonprofit and community organizations in person at the annual 2026 Shawnee County Volunteer Expo, hosted by the United Way of Kaw Valley (UWKV). This event is a celebration of local volunteering, and a fantastic place to find your next volunteer adventure! Representatives from local organizations will be excited to share their stories with you.
You can help us continue to create a lively and welcoming event environment! Volunteer shifts are listed here on KawValleyVolunteers.org. Email Monroe Hanson at volunteer@uwkawvalley.org with any questions.
This event is made possible by our sponsors: Washburn University Aleshire Center for Leadership & Community Engagement; BlueCross BlueShield of Kansas; Kansas Gas Service, A Division of ONE Gas; and Chavez Inc.
Lawrence/Douglas County Helping Hands Volunteer Fair
Monday, April 27, 12-2 pm
Lawrence Public Library Auditorium, Lawrence KS
Want to make a difference in your community, but not sure where to start? Join us for our first-ever Helping Hands Fair, presented in partnership by the Lawrence Public Library and the United Way of Kaw Valley (UWKV). Discover how your participation can spark a change! Meet representatives from 20 local nonprofits and community organizations, and learn about volunteer opportunities that match your schedule and align with your passions.
Senior Volunteers Open House Reception
Wednesday, April 29, 4-6 pm
Senior Resource Center for Douglas County, Lawrence KS
The Senior Resource Center (SRC) for Douglas County is hosting a reception to thank and celebrate senior volunteers at organizations across Douglas County! Your time is greatly appreciated and your impact is deeply felt. To RSVP or ask questions, email srccontact@dgcoks.gov or call 785-842-0543.
Ad Astra Volunteer Honors
Nominations open!
Volunteerism is woven into the fabric of our community and of United Way of Kaw Valley. It brings strength, color and texture to everything we do. When you and those around you serve, the impact goes beyond the agencies and individuals in our community, but it makes a better place for all to live when we work together. Ad Astra Honors recognize community members who continually go above and beyond the call to support our neighbors in need.
You can nominate exceptional volunteers in three categories here. Nominations are due by Monday, August 17, 2026. Award winners will be recognized in Topeka or Lawrence, depending on the award. If you have any questions, email volunteer@uwkawvalley.org or call 785-273-4804.
Thank you!
We are so excited to celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month with you!
