Opportunities From: United Way of Kaw Valley

Help improve the neighborhood by clearing brush, hauling tree debris, and removing trash from two cleanup sites. Volunteers will work together to gather and load brush, limbs, and litter into trailers or trucks for disposal. This project will make a visible impact by creating cleaner, safer community spaces.

Time Commitment: 4 hours

Volunteers Needed: Up to 25 volunteers

Skills Needed: No experience is required. Volunteers should be comfortable performing moderate to strenuous outdoor work, including lifting, carrying, bending, and using basic yard tools. Work gloves and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Duties include supporting our Facilities Maintenance tech with property and building maintenance, such as: working on faucets, doors, toilets, changing filters, weeding, etc. Must be able to lift 25+ pounds, stand for long periods at a time, and understand general maintenance. 

Friday, September 18, 9:30 am-12:30 pm at Community Action, Inc Hancock Center, 1000 SE Hancock, Topeka KS 66607.

This project involves weed-eating, power-washing and exterior beautification at Community Action. 

Volunteer tasks include: Gathering refuse/tree limbs from the lot, using power-washing equipment, and using a weed-wacker. 

Volunteers should bring gardening/work gloves, and dress appropriately for outside work. Preferably volunteers should have experience with yard work. Community Action will provide trash bags and disposable gloves. 

In the event of severe weather, this project will be cancelled. 

Water and snacks are provided.

Friday, September 18, 9:30 am - 3 pm at Community Action Head Start, 2400 SE Highland, Topeka KS 66605. There are 2 shifts: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm and 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

This project involves assisting our families with the Community Action Head Start Swap & Shop on Friday. Swap & Shop is a bi-annual event where donated items are redistributed to our community. 

Volunteer tasks include: Gathering items, ensuring items are clean and in usable condition (attention to detail regarding stains, tears, or other quality concerns), tidying clothing donations, strollers, small items and setting items up/displaying items in preparation for Swap & Shop. 

Volunteers should be prepared to carry small household items such as hampers, dining chairs, car seats, strollers, and boxes of clothing. 

Water, lunch, and snacks are provided. Lunch will be available between 11:30 am-12:30 pm. 

Thursday, September 17, 9 am-12 pm and 12-3 pm at Community Action Head Start, 2400 SE Highland, Topeka KS 66605.

This project involves sorting donated items at Community Action Head Start in preparation for Swap & Shop on Friday. Swap & Shop is a bi-annual event where donated items are redistributed to our community. 

Volunteer tasks include: Gathering items from basement, ensuring items are clean and in usable condition (attention to detail regarding stains, tears, or other quality concerns), sorting clothing donations by size and type, setting items up/displaying items in preparation for Swap & Shop. 

Volunteers should be prepared to carry small household items such as hampers, dining chairs, car seats, strollers, and boxes of clothing up 1 flight of stairs. 

Water, lunch, and snacks are provided. Lunch will be available between 11:30 am-12:30 pm. 

We are planning to spruce up our Jackson Towers property. This will involve landscaping work, trimming bushes, plantings, mulch, power washing and window cleaning and many more opportunities. 

Here at the Kansas Children's Discovery Center, we have 30,000 sq. ft. of indoor activities available for our guests! Join us to help spot clean, deep clean, and paint during Nancy Perry Day of Caring. Additional indoor tasks may be included.

Also, our 4.5 acre outdoor classroom is a major attraction and educational resource for our guests! Join us to help clean and maintain our outdoor space during Nancy Perry Day of Caring. Tasks may include trimming overgrowth, pulling weeds, working on our pond, and more!

*Accommodations can be made for light duty tasks, please let us know before your group arrives*

Volunteers should wear paint clothes or clothes they don't mind getting dirty. Volunteers may choose to bring work gloves, garden shears, hedge trimmers, battery-powered drills, loose clothing, headwear, and/or safety glasses. These are not required. Kansas Children's Discovery Center will provide indoor and outdoor tools, cleaning wipes and supplies, nitrile gloves, and trash bags. Water and snacks will be provided.

It’s a fun, festive Friday as teams help wrap tunnels in lights as we prepare for the sixth year of Zoo Lights! Join us at the Topeka Zoo for 2026 Nancy Perry Day of Caring through the United Way of Kaw Valley. This project takes place on Friday, September 18 from 9:30 am-3:30 pm. 

Help us by support the set-up for this great event! Volunteers will be wrapping tunnels and frames, as well as working on rope lights and the interior of Camp Cowabunga. 

Dress appropriately for a day at the Zoo. This is a full-day project. Lunch will be provided. Volunteers should consider bringing: gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, wire cutters for zip ties, step stools and short ladders. The Zoo will provide some wire cutters, step stools, and ladders, but additional supplies will be appreciated for a large group. 

Contact Fawn Moser at fmoser@topekazoo.org with any questions about this project. 

The Lawrence SERTOMA Club (established in 1929) is a philanthropic organization that has served Lawrence and Douglas County for nearly 100 years.  While SERTOMA International focuses on hearing loss and hearing health, our local Lawrence club also focuses on children with communication disorders, national heritage, and supporting other Lawrence not-for-profit organizations. 

Lawrence Lights, Lawrence SERTOMA Club’s annual fundraiser, is a drive-thru holiday light display at Lawrence’s Youth Sports Complex (4911 West 27th Street) that runs from late November to late December.  All proceeds go back to Lawrence/local organizations in the form of Lawrence SERTOMA Club Community Grants.  Past recipients of the Lawrence SERTOMA Club Community Grants include the Schiefelbusch Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic at KU, Just Food, The Ballard Center, Heartland Community Health Center, Douglas County Children’s Advocacy Center, to name a few.

The Lawrence Lights Setup event will take place at the Youth Sports Complex.  Volunteers will help install holiday lighting along fences, poles, trees, and shrubbery throughout the Lawrence Youth Sports Complex. Work will also include securing lights and cords with zip ties and attaching lighting to display structures. Ground-level assignments will be available, and ladder work will be optional and restricted to adults. While not required, we encourage volunteers to bring work gloves, as well as wear closed-toe shoes and attire that is suitable for outside work on the day(s) of the event. We will provide water and snacks.

In remembrance of September 11 and in honor of the firefighters and law enforcement officers who dedicate their lives to protecting Shawnee County, volunteers are invited to participate in the Thank Our Service Heroes Card Project.

Help assemble hygiene kits that will be distributed by the Christmas Bureau during client intake. Volunteers will sort, organize, and pack essential personal care items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant.

This hands-on project supports local individuals and families by providing everyday necessities and helping create a positive, welcoming experience for those receiving assistance during the holiday season.

Volunteer teams and individuals are encouraged to collect hygiene items prior to 9/18 and bring the items to this project to be packed into kits. This is optional but helps us provide hygiene kits for even more people!

Activities:

No experience is necessary. Volunteers should be comfortable standing for portions of the shift and performing light packing activities. Your time and effort will directly support families in our community through the Nancy Perry Day of Caring.

Kit supplies can be provided to your team to pack at your location, or a team can come to the UWKV Topeka office conference room to pack hygiene supply kits.

Eudora GROW The Giving Garden's Nancy Perry Day of Caring project will take place on Thursday, 9/17 at 9 am-12:30 pm. Our project involves mulching, weeding, moving equipment, and more! We strongly recommend wearing clothes suitable for gardening and outdoor activities. You can bring your own garden gloves & sun hat. Other tools will be provided. 

Water bottles will be provided. Bring sunscreen. 

Help prepare the community garden for a productive growing season by tackling a variety of outdoor projects. Volunteers will work together to pull weeds in and around the garden, clean out raised garden beds, move compost into the compost bin, and assist with building a new compost bin using 2" x 12" lumber. This is a great opportunity for individuals or families who enjoy working outdoors and don't mind getting their hands dirty.

Time Commitment: Approximately 3 hours (individual tasks range from 1–3 hours)

Volunteers Needed: Up to 10 volunteers

Tasks Include:

Skills Needed: No experience necessary. Volunteers should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity, including bending, lifting, and working outdoors.

Help prepare the community garden for a productive growing season by tackling a variety of outdoor projects. Volunteers will work together to pull weeds in and around the garden, clean out raised garden beds, move compost into the compost bin, and assist with building a new compost bin using 2" x 12" lumber. This is a great opportunity for individuals or families who enjoy working outdoors and don't mind getting their hands dirty.

Time Commitment: Approximately 4 hours (individual tasks range from 1–3 hours)

Volunteers Needed: Up to 20 volunteers

Tasks Include:

Skills Needed: No experience necessary. Volunteers should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity, including bending, lifting, and working outdoors.

Harvesters mobilizes the power of our community to create equitable access to nutritious food and address the root causes and impact of hunger.

This Behind the Barrels volunteer opportunity takes place at Harvesters’ Kansas Distribution Center. Volunteers will begin with a facility tour to learn about the behind-the-scenes processes that help get food to those who need it most. Following the tour, volunteers will help sort and repackage food, supporting Harvesters and its network of pantry partners in serving more than 250,000 people each month.

Volunteer projects vary based on product availability, operational priorities, and the number of volunteers participating. Projects in the Volunteer Engagement Center may include:

Every project plays a vital role in helping Harvesters provide nutritious food to individuals and families throughout the region.

Help families in our community by donating food and time to prepare Healthy Family Meal Kits! These easy-to-make, nutritious meal kits are distributed through Harvesters’ network of pantries, providing neighbors facing food insecurity with the ingredients and a simple recipe card needed to prepare a quick, healthy family meal.

How This Project Works

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Step 2: Get Packing

Step 3: Deliver and Distribute

This fun, hands-on volunteer project is a simple way to nourish families, support food security, and make a meaningful impact in our community. Let's get packing!

Help families in our community by donating food and time to prepare Holiday Boxes. These boxes are distributed through Harvesters’ network of pantry partners, providing neighbors facing food insecurity with traditional holiday meal staples to help complete their holiday celebrations.

How This Project Works

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Step 2: Get Packing

Step 3: Deliver and Distribute

This fun, hands-on volunteer project is a simple way to help families enjoy a holiday meal, support food security, and make a meaningful difference in our community. Let's get packing!

Assemble homemade activities to be used by the Parent Educators at home visits. The purpose of the activities is to increase developmental skills of infants and toddlers ages 0-5 years. 

Specific Skills Required: Scissors, paper, laminating, paper cutting, die cutting machine- All materials provided 

Under 18 needs to be accompanied by an Adult

Assemble homemade activities to be used by the Parent Educators at home visits. The purpose of the activities is to increase developmental skills of infants and toddlers ages 0-5 years. 

Specific Skills Required: Scissors, paper, laminating, paper cutting, die cutting machine- All materials provided 

Under 18 needs to be accompanied by an Adult

Assemble homemade activities to be used by the Parent Educators at home visits. The purpose of the activities is to increase developmental skills of infants and toddlers ages 0-5 years.  Specific Skills Required: Scissors, paper, laminating, paper cutting, die cutting machine- All materials provided 

Under 18 needs to be accompanied by an Adult

The Lawrence SERTOMA Club (established in 1929) is a philanthropic organization that has served Lawrence and Douglas County for nearly 100 years.  While SERTOMA International focuses on hearing loss and hearing health, our local Lawrence club also focuses on children with communication disorders, national heritage, and supporting other Lawrence not-for-profit organizations.  Lawrence Lights, Lawrence SERTOMA Club’s annual fundraiser, is a drive-thru holiday light display at Lawrence’s Youth Sports Complex (4911 West 27th Street) that runs from late November to late December.  All proceeds go back to Lawrence/local organizations in the form of Lawrence SERTOMA Club Community Grants.  Past recipients of the Lawrence SERTOMA Club Community Grants include the Schiefelbusch Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic at KU, Just Food, The Ballard Center, Heartland Community Health Center, Douglas County Children’s Advocacy Center, to name a few. 

The Lawrence Lights Setup event will take place at the Youth Sports Complex.  Volunteers will help install holiday lighting along fences, poles, trees, and shrubbery throughout the Lawrence Youth Sports Complex. Work will also include securing lights and cords with zip ties and attaching lighting to display structures. Ground-level assignments will be available, and ladder work will be optional and restricted to adults. While not required, we encourage volunteers to bring work gloves, as well as wear closed-toe shoes and attire that is suitable for outside work on the day(s) of the event. We will provide water and snacks.

Making a kit, which includes coloring books, crowns, word, search, book, all helps, stimulate recovery, and wellness

Volunteers will work alongside SLI staff to complete two outdoor improvement projects at one of SLI's community living homes located at 1235 SW 31st Street, Topeka KS.  The Nancy Perry Day of Caring project will include staining a privacy fence and repainting the parking lot striping. These improvements will enhance the safety, appearance, and functionality of the property, helping create a welcoming well-maintained home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who live there.

Need a minimum of 10 volunteers to meet 9-11 Day of Service grant requirements.

Help us celebrate our guests when they have completed the Life skills and Trauma Education classes offered at TRM. Volunteers will create certificates for the guests that complete each 8 week session of classes.

Help keep our Trucks and Vans clean! Our Vehicles are out and about  with food and furniture pick up. Volunteers are needed to sweep the inside of our box trucks, wipe down interiors of our vans and spray wash the outside of the vehicles.  

A fresh coat of paint on the shelves is needed in our dry goods area of the kitchen. If you like to paint and organize this would be a great spot for you to volunteer. 

Help get our Hope Center playground and outside areas looking good for the Fall! Volunteers will wipe down the outside play area, toys and tables, sweep sidewalks and wipe down windows and doors. Fall is a great time to freshen up the outside so kiddos, families and women have a safe place to hang out and move forward in their lives. 

Volunteers will clear and organize the designated area, spreading mulch throughout the outdoor classroom space, and assist with basic construction tasks, such as seating and building an outdoor cabinet. They will also plant a tree and set a plaque in honor of 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. The Villages will provide a snack, lunch and water. Volunteers can bring their water bottle to be refilled if they would like to. We will have water available. We encourage volunteers to bring gardening/work gloves, wear closed toed shoes, and long pants. There will also be a portable bathroom. 

If a blank wall calls your name to create, we have a need for some artwork on our walls. Inspirational quotes, paintings of flowers or nature all bring a calm feel to a space.

TRM can provide watercolor paint sets.

All other art materials, including paper, canvas, frame, or other mediums, must be provided by volunteers. Volunteers are welcome to create as many pieces of art as they like. 

The location of this opportunity will be at the Rescue Mission. Room location will be forthcoming. 

Help clear out the attic in our distribution center and organize the items for better access and use. Volunteers will carry down tools and hardware from our distribution center attic. Then organize like items so they can be stored and ready to use in our warehouse. 

KVC is needing help taking old cubical parts to the dumpster so we can have more room to organize children and youth belongings that may need to be stored at the office for short periods of transition for the youth to be able to move their stuff with them when possible. Some work will be located near the boiler room. Volunteers should be 18+. 

KVC needs help organizing our donations for our clothing closet. We will be going through donations, and organizing our space as needed. Volunteers should be 13+. 

We will also be folding green bags that are needed for our holiday hero season for wish list for children. 

As part of our Day of Service project, we're looking for a team of volunteers to help us brighten up our Early Learning Center and promote civic engagement with our students. We'll paint American Flag banners with the children, and complete some facility projects including pressure washing our playground structures, planting a tree, replacing a sandbox, installing an outdoor art station, and similar projects. We'll hear from First Responders to learn about their service and remember those lost on 9/11. There will also be opportunities to share with the children why you volunteer, and help them think of ways they can be involved in their community. 

Community Children's Center is seeking Day of Caring volunteers interested in helping us give the walls in our office area a new coat of paint! We will tape the edges to prepare the walls. We could use 4-6 people to help paint. A minimum of 4 volunteers are required for the project; 6 would make it go pretty fast! Volunteers should have experience painting with rollers and paint brushes. This project is scheduled for Thursday 9/17 from 12-4 pm. 

Volunteers under 18 should be accompanied by an adult. 

New Hope Pantry is seeking volunteers to help with several general maintenance needs at our facility. These projects will help us keep our space safe, welcoming, and functional for the families we serve.

Current Needs:

1. *Mailbox Installation* – We need a new mailbox installed at our location to ensure reliable mail service for pantry operations.

2. *Vine & Brush Removal* – Thick vines are overrunning the perimeter of the building and trash area. We need help cutting back and clearing the overgrowth to maintain a clean and safe exterior.

3. *Power Washing* – The exterior of the building is in need of power washing to remove dirt, mildew, and buildup.

*Details:*

These are one-time projects that can be completed by a small group of skilled individuals. We’ll provide access to water/electricity as needed. Volunteers should be comfortable with outdoor work and bring basic tools if possible. Gloves, trash bags, and disposal can be arranged. Required tools will be provided. Water, lunch, and snacks will be provided for this full day project on Friday, September 18, 9:30 am-4 pm, as part of Nancy Perry Day of Caring 2026. 

Your help will directly support our mission to serve families in need by keeping our pantry safe and presentable.

Housing Beautification Volunteer: Painting Project

Help us create safe, welcoming homes for families working toward housing stability! Join Family Promise of Lawrence for a hands-on painting project at one of our housing units.

Volunteers will primarily be painting an exterior porch/deck to help protect the structure from the elements while improving the home's appearance. This project takes place outdoors, so volunteers should dress for the weather and wear clothing that can get paint on it.

If weather conditions prevent outdoor painting or if the porch/deck project is completed ahead of schedule, volunteers may have the opportunity to assist with interior painting at a nearby Family Promise housing unit.

No painting experience is required. We will provide paint, brushes, rollers, and other necessary supplies. Staff will be on-site to provide instructions and answer questions throughout the project.

Why it matters: A well-maintained home helps create a sense of pride, dignity, and stability for families rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness. Your time and effort will directly improve the spaces where children and parents live, making them feel more welcoming, comfortable, and cared for.

What to wear:

Thank you for helping us maintain safe, welcoming homes for the families we serve. Every brushstroke makes a difference!

Come be creative with the participants in our Adult Day Services Program! We will spend the morning working on fun art projects that will help participants express creativity and build confidence. Join the fun!

Join us for a morning of making Capper Foundation beautiful! We will be working on both indoor and outdoor areas. Jobs to be done may include light landscaping and general clean up.

Volunteers will help with general cleaning, basic maintenance, assembling furniture/items, and touch-up painting at the Homeless Resource Center (HRC).

HRC will supply all cleaning, maintenance, and painting supplies needed for the project. Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can work and paint in. No skills required, but volunteers with handyman or painting experience are welcome.

Homeless Resource Center offers rest and resources to those experiencing homelessness in Lawrence, Kansas. Our mission is to provide immediate critical needs and foster long-term community-wide solutions for people experiencing homelessness.

Join us, Friday, September 18th, 2026 at Topeka Civic Theatre as we tackle some great indoor and outdoor tasks! Depending on the task, there will be light lifting/moving, stairs, and potentially use of a ladder.  

BEAUTIFICATION - Work with us to ensure all of our volunteer, patron and employee spaces are pleasant with painting and cleaning projects.  We may also have some projects located at our sister theatre, Helen Hocker that day.  We will have more information day-of!  The Topeka Civic Theatre staff member on-site during the project will Jason Smith, Director of Volunteer Engagement and Events, (785) 478-5015.

Join us, Thursday, September 18th, 2026 at Topeka Civic Theatre as we tackle some great indoor and outdoor tasks! Depending on the task, there will be light lifting/moving, stairs, and potentially use of a ladder.  

BEAUTIFICATION - Work with us to ensure all of our volunteer, patron and employee spaces are pleasant with painting and cleaning projects.  We may also have some projects located at our sister theatre, Helen Hocker that day.  We will have more information day-of!  The Topeka Civic Theatre staff member on-site during the project will Jason Smith, Director of Volunteer Engagement and Events, (785) 478-5015.

Volunteers will help with general cleaning, basic maintenance, assembling furniture/items, and touch-up painting at LINK. LINK will supply all cleaning, maintenance, and painting supplies needed for the project.

Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can work and paint in. No skills required, but volunteers with handyman or painting experience are welcome.

Lawrence Interdenominational Nutrition Kitchen (LINK) is now part of the Homeless Resource Center (HRC). LINK has been serving community meals since 1985. Together with our network of volunteers and community, L.I.N.K provides healthy and nutritious meals to all who come through our doors.  We are committed to improving the quality of life and honoring the dignity of those we serve when serving a hot meal to any member of our community who wants one.

Cleanup the grounds around the Jayhawk Area Council office. This project is outdoors and includes raking, trimming, gardening, exterior painting of building and parking bumpers, and some patching of parking lot.

Some tools will be provided but bringing own tools is permissible, such as gardening/work gloves, hedge trimmers, rakes, garden equipment, paint brushes/sprayers, and ladders.

This project will be Friday, September 18 from 9:30 am-1 pm at 1020 SE Monroe Street, Topeka, KS. Water and snacks will be provided. Dress appropriately for working outdoors. A minimum of 5 volunteers are required for this project to be viable. 

Help get Falley Scout Reservation ready for our fall programming by doing some beautification projects around the camp! Falley Scout Reservation is located at 8602 S Kingman Road in Oskaloosa, Kansas. 

Projects will include brush clearing, trail clearing, painting projects, general landscaping/gardening work and tree trimming.  Lots of opportunities for many different skill levels. If a volunteer has chainsaw skills, they must be level 1 sawyer-trained to operate a chainsaw on camp property. Indicate if this applies to you in the Response Notes. 

All materials and equipment will be provided but if a volunteer has outdoor equipment, (tree trimmers, loppers, paint sprayers, etc.) they want to bring out, feel free!

Shifts include full and half day options on Friday, September 18. A minimum of 8 volunteers for a shift are required for this project to be viable. 

Water and snacks will be provided for the half day shifts. Lunch, water, and snacks will be provided for the full-day shift. Dress appropriately for working outdoors at a campsite. Bring a water bottle, bug spray, and sunscreen. 

Join us in crafting unique thank you gifts for our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers using repurposed Winter Wonderland light bulbs! This creative project aims to show appreciation while giving new life to old decorations.

Job Description
Crafting: Use Winter Wonderland light bulbs to create personalized thank you gifts. Specific art project details will be provided on the day of volunteering.
Decorating:  Assemble the bulbs into attractive gift items.
What to Wear:
Please wear casual clothing suitable for an art project, including attire that may get glue on it.

Water and light snacks will be provided.  Minimum age for volunteers is 16.

Join us in crafting unique thank you gifts for our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers using repurposed Winter Wonderland light bulbs! This creative project aims to show appreciation while giving new life to old decorations.

Job Description
Crafting: Use Winter Wonderland light bulbs to create personalized thank you gifts. Specific art project details will be provided on the day of volunteering.
Decorating:  Assemble the bulbs into attractive gift items.
What to Wear:
Please wear casual clothing suitable for an art project, including attire that may get glue on it.

Water and light snacks will be provided.  Minimum age for volunteers is 16.

Ecumenical Campus Ministries will be participating in both days of Nancy Perry Day of Caring with half-days focusing on a variety of tasks to revitalize our historic building. In order to complete these tasks, we are interested in hosting volunteers to work on three main areas –

·       Cleaning & Clearing

o   One of our main areas of focus will involve cleaning some of our most used rental spaces (i.e., Kitchen, Main Floor, Upstairs Floor, and Basement)

o   We will also be asking for help in decluttering and reorganizing some of our storage space such as our garage and tool rooms as well as our archival materials

o   These tasks will involve the more familiar asks such as sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, throwing out trash, sorting, etc.

o   We will also have some beautification projects that may include painting certain areas in the building as well

·       Solidarity Library

o   We are also in the process of reorganizing our library and books/media collection and will be asking for help in this process through assistance in cataloging

o   We will also be shifting categories and moving books, board games, movies to more easily used and accessible spaces

o   We will also be doing a deep clean of the bookshelves and marking books for donation/repurposing to make room for new items

·       Monarch Garden

o   We will also be requesting help from volunteers to work on our landscaping

o   We have a patio garden on the side of our building called the Monarch Garden that needs maintenance and preparation for the fall semester

o   Tasks here will include weeding, planting, mowing, etc.

o   We will also be clearing out the surrounding landscape around our building of trash and weeds to clear pathways and provide more accessibility to visitors

·       Food Access

o   Working with our Veggie Lunch Coordinator to help prepare a community meal on Thursday (9/17) morning

o   Preparing food distribution kits to pass out to people experiencing food insecurity

Ecumenical Campus Ministries will be participating in both days of Nancy Perry Day of Caring with half-days focusing on a variety of tasks to revitalize our historic building. In order to complete these tasks, we are interested in hosting volunteers to work on three main areas –

·       Cleaning & Clearing

o   One of our main areas of focus will involve cleaning some of our most used rental spaces (i.e., Kitchen, Main Floor, Upstairs Floor, and Basement)

o   We will also be asking for help in decluttering and reorganizing some of our storage space such as our garage and tool rooms as well as our archival materials

o   These tasks will involve the more familiar asks such as sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, throwing out trash, sorting, etc.

o   We will also have some beautification projects that may include painting certain areas in the building as well

·       Solidarity Library

o   We are also in the process of reorganizing our library and books/media collection and will be asking for help in this process through assistance in cataloging

o   We will also be shifting categories and moving books, board games, movies to more easily used and accessible spaces

o   We will also be doing a deep clean of the bookshelves and marking books for donation/repurposing to make room for new items

·       Monarch Garden

o   We will also be requesting help from volunteers to work on our landscaping

o   We have a patio garden on the side of our building called the Monarch Garden that needs maintenance and preparation for the fall semester

o   Tasks here will include weeding, planting, mowing, etc.

o   We will also be clearing out the surrounding landscape around our building of trash and weeds to clear pathways and provide more accessibility to visitors

·       Food Access

o   Preparing food distribution kits to pass out to people experiencing food insecurity

We will be clearing the garden beds to get them ready for the winter, pulling weeds, and laying mulch around the beds for walk ways.

Pet therapy is one of the most requested services for our Hospice patients and families. Pets are able to connect with people when sometimes other people can't, and can be particularly beneficial to dementia patients. Teams may visit at the Hospice House, in facilities, and in homes. Pet Therapy certification required; additional hospice training provided. 

Welcome new books, CDs and DVDs to the library!

What you'll do:

When we need help:

Why this helps:

This ISN'T the right volunteer spot for you if:

This IS the right spot for you if:

Have a truck, van, or SUV? Like working with your hands? Or just enjoy being the person who can say, “Sure, I can help get that there”?

Family Promise of Lawrence receives generous donations of furniture, household items, and other essentials that can make a huge difference for families moving into or stabilizing in their homes. We’re looking for dependable volunteers who can help get those items from where they are donated to where they are needed.

Whether you’re able to drive, help move furniture, or do both, your help can turn a donated couch, table, bed, or household item into part of a family’s new home.

Volunteers may help with:

Picking up donated furniture, household goods, and other large items from community donors

Loading and securing items for transport

Delivering donations to Family Promise families or program sites

Unloading and helping place items where they are needed

Communicating with Family Promise staff, donors, and families in a friendly and respectful manner

Treating every donation—and every family—with care and dignity

You’ll typically serve alongside a Family Promise staff member and may work independently or with a small team, depending on the size of the donation.

The SRC is seeking a volunteer to help with SRC’s V.I.P. (Visually Impaired Persons) Coffee group for the month of September!  This group meets Tuesday mornings, September 1 & 15.  Join Fran Hopkins, a local yoga instructor who is also legally blind, to discuss navigating the world as a blind senior, with a focus on assistive technology.  This supportive group is a place to exchange ideas and share discoveries about using technology and other strategies to help accomplish tasks and stay active in the community, as well as share camaraderie and friendship. 

Volunteer will arrive at 8:30am, 1/2 hour before the group starts, and make coffee and set up the room. When group members arrive at SRC, meet them in the lobby to help staff to escort them to the room. During the group, stay nearby to help with any needs that come up during the group (examples include escorting a member to the bathroom, getting water for a member, etc.). When the group ends, help to escort members back to the lobby to meet their transportation. Lastly, ensure the room is cleaned up and ready for SRC’s next activity.

The team in our kitchen in Topeka make meals fresh daily for over 1000 people in Shawnee, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. This is a fast-paced task working with a fun team, filling food trays quickly, sending them through the sealer machine, and loading them into the coolers for delivery. You'll be on your feet for 2 hours. Closed toed shoes, limited rings and bracelets, and hair nets are required. 

It's so much more than only a meal! Connect with neighbors in your community when you deliver a hot, nutritious meal, daily safety check, and warm smile to homebound seniors every weekday, Monday-Friday between 10:30-12:00. Routes are available in Shawnee, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. Choose your schedule-deliver every week or once or twice a month-whatever works for you. Hundreds of homebound neighbors are eager to get to know you, call today! 

Opportunities available for corporate, club, or faith groups to deliver as a team. 

Connect with your neighbors and make a visible difference in the lives of homebound seniors. If you can just give (1) one hour a month or a week during the lunch hour, you will support the safety and independence of the elderly by delivering a hot, nutritious meal and a friendly smile! 

This is a great activity for families teaching children respect and the joy of service, for your employees to return to work recharged and inspired, or a fun project with your friends before lunch. 

For more information, call our office at (785) 430-2186, email Amanda at adouglas@midlandcc.org or visit our website at www.midlandcc.org. 

Midland Care Meals on Wheels serves seniors and homebound in Shawnee, Jefferson and Douglas counties.

Pick up meals at the location nearest you and deliver in the neighborhood you prefer. 

Meal delivery bags are picked up between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Routes take up to an hour to deliver to an average of 12-15 clients per route. We'll work with your schedule and interests to find the best schedule and area for you. 

Substitute Drivers
Even the most dedicated delivery volunteers need a day off now and then. Substitutes keep the wheels turning. Substitutes can view a sign up weekly for open routes and sign up for those that fit your schedule and preferred part of the city. This is- a great option if you travel frequently or if your work schedule has busier seasons and you don't feel like you can make a regular commitment. Fill in when you can-you've no idea how helpful substitutes are! 

Training is provided before you hit the road with your first meal delivery. 

Our Tuck in Call team members reach out to our hospice patients mid-week over the phone to check in, ensuring they have all the supplies, meds, and items they need to get through the weekend. Our patients enjoy hearing kind voices, and our care team appreciates the help to avoid running out of anything or needing to make extra trips to provide supplies. These volunteers have good phone skills, great listening skills, and wise and compassionate hearts. Team members can work a weekly schedule or fill in as needed. When you set your account/log in, someone will contact you to discuss your interests. Training provided

Our Center for Hope and Healing offers support for those who've experienced a recent loss, and volunteers are vital part of that team. Deliver a white rose to services, check in with the grieving through phone calls, write condolence cards, or work at our Healing Hearts Camp for Children-there are many ways to support those who've suffered a loss. Training provided. In particular, we are looking for help in making calls to families.

Whatever gifts you have to offer, there is a senior in need of you. Patient Care volunteers mobilize their compassion through companion visits, respite for caregivers, check-in phone calls, and Sacred Vigil. Time spent playing cards, watching a sporting event together, chatting about the birds at the feeder outside their window, or just being there, our patient care volunteers are an integral part of the outstanding care our patients expect from Midland Care. Training is provided. 

It's critically important to look our best when we're at our most vulnerable. Your skills will help a hospice patient look their best as they greet visitors during this challenging time. Hair cuts, styles, braids, nail care, it's all so deeply comforting and appreciated. 

Retiring from a busy career? Let us help you maintain your license when you volunteer to serve hospice patients! 

Support the Midland Care staff behind the scenes by taking care of some administrative tasks so staff can focus on providing outstanding compassionate care to our patients. Fill in at our front desk reception, care for plants in our buildings, maintain orderly files, build educational binders, support the Volunteer Services team as we support the organization. It takes a lot of admin to keep things running smoothly-your talents will be put to work!

Each Thursday we serve a free vegan meal from 11:30 - 1:30. We need volunteers between 10:00am and 2:00pm to help get the food ready, serve the food, and help with clean up after. Volunteers do not need to stay the whole time and can come in whenever it fits their schedule. Volunteers should plan to stay for at least 2 hours. They are also welcome to eat with us before or after their volunteer time is done.

After signing up on this site, a volunteer manager will reach out with a follow-up email.

Every Wednesday while KU is in session, we need volunteers to come help prepare a free veggie lunch, which we serve the following Thursday. Veggie Lunch prep begins every Wednesday at 3:30 pm and usually takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Volunteers are not required to stay the entire time - they can come in for however long they would like. 

Volunteers will help with food prep - mostly cutting vegetables - and with storage and cleanup afterwards. All you need to do is show up! We will have someone onsite with a meal planned out and everything you will need is onsite.

Each Sunday, the ECM hosts Food Not Bombs' meal prep. Food Not Bombs provides free meals to the community each Sunday. Food prep consists of cutting and preparing foods as well as some clean up after. This typically takes about 2 hours and begins around 2:00 pm. Volunteers do not need to stay the entire time.

Volunteers just need to show up to the ECM. All equipment will be provided on site. No previous food prep experience necessary, we can show you all you need to know!

 This is a reoccurring event for every Sunday. After receiving a follow-up email from the ECM, please indicate which date you are looking to register for below.

ECM offers a number of programs and opportunities for students and community members, including our popular weekly Veggie Lunch, Tai Chi, Capoeira, Kickboxing classes, and our International Movie Nights.

Help us reach more people by spreading the word about our services and events! Grab some friends and get some exercise as you help distribute ECM flyers on the KU campus or Downtown Lawrence. 

ECM is always looking for compassionate volunteers to help promote and maintain our facility and programs.

ECM offers a number of programs and opportunities for students and community members, including our popular weekly Veggie Lunch, Tai Chi, Capoeira, Kickboxing classes, and our International Movie Nights.

Help us reach more people by spreading the word about our services and events! Grab some friends and get some exercise as you help distribute ECM flyers on the KU campus or Downtown Lawrence. 

ECM is always looking for compassionate volunteers to help promote and maintain our facility and programs.

Solidarity Library volunteer hours will include completing tasks to help us catalog our collections and get them ready to be checked-out. Examples of some of these tasks are listed below - 

Volunteers will be instructed on how to catalog items through our LibraryThing account as well as the categories we use to classify our collections.

Note: Volunteers have the option to sign up for both Monday and Wednesday or just one of the days

Solidarity Library volunteer hours will include completing tasks to help us catalog our collections and get them ready to be checked-out. Examples of some of these tasks are listed below - 

Volunteers will be instructed on how to catalog items through our LibraryThing account as well as the categories we use to classify our collections.

Note: Volunteers have the option to sign up for both Monday and Wednesday or just one of the days

Solidarity Library volunteer hours will include completing tasks to help us catalog our collections and get them ready to be checked-out. Examples of some of these tasks are listed below - 

Volunteers will be instructed on how to catalog items through our LibraryThing account as well as the categories we use to classify our collections.

Note: Volunteers have the option to sign up for both Monday and Wednesday or just one of the days

Help create a welcoming and engaging experience at Harvesters! As a Volunteer Engagement & Welcome Champion, you'll serve as a friendly first point of contact for volunteers, visitors, partners, and community groups. Depending on the shift, you'll support one of three key experience areas:

No matter the shift, you'll help ensure everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed, valued, and connected to Harvesters' mission. Training, resources, and ongoing support are provided. We don't expect you to have all the answers, just a positive attitude and a passion for helping others feel at home.

Click here to view available shift dates and times and sign up through the Harvesters website!

Help bring Lawrence Lights to life! Volunteers will assist with outdoor setup at the Youth Sports Complex, including wrapping trees with lights, assembling displays, securing decorations with zip ties, and completing other hands-on tasks. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. Some tasks may involve ladders or lifting.

The Celebrity Waiter Soirée 2026, on Saturday, October 3rd at the Townsite Ballroom, will bring together community members, local leaders, spirited competition, interactive games, and generous tipping for an unforgettable evening in support of Child Care Aware® of Eastern Kansas. This high-energy community event highlights the importance of quality child care and the families and businesses that depend on it.

Do you have a group that would like to assist us with refreshing Winter Wonderland displays?  We are currently working with businesses/organizations to do just that.  Contact us to discuss & schedule this opportunity.  Time and group sizes may vary based on availability. 

Duties include removing old lights and cord from displays, rewrapping displays with new cord, and adding new lightbulbs.

Recommended dress is casual as clothing may get dirty due to dust on displays. Wear closed-toed shoes. 

Purpose of Role: The Property Beautification Volunteer role directly supports the Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL) mission by helping maintain clean, safe, and welcoming outdoor spaces at FPL housing units. Through seasonal landscaping and exterior maintenance, volunteers help create environments where families feel proud to call home while enhancing the safety and appearance of our neighborhoods.

Outcome: Property Beautification Volunteers create inviting outdoor environments that foster pride, dignity, and a sense of home for families while improving the safety and appearance of FPL properties

Key Responsibilities:

Pull weeds from flower beds, landscaped areas, sidewalks, and fence lines.

Rake leaves and remove sticks and yard debris.

Spread mulch, compost, or soil as directed.

Water flowers, shrubs, trees, and newly planted landscaping.

Trim shrubs and deadhead flowers with staff guidance.

Sweep sidewalks, patios, and entryways.

Pick up litter and keep outdoor spaces clean.

Assist with seasonal planting and landscape projects.

Help prepare properties for spring and fall seasonal changes.

Report safety hazards or property concerns to staff.

Time Commitment, Frequency, and Expected Hours of Service:

This is a flexible, recurring volunteer commitment. Schedule and hours will be determined during the volunteer’s interview and onboarding. Typical volunteer shifts are 2–4 hours, with opportunities available throughout the growing season.

SLI empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. Through safe housing, community integration, employment supports, transportation, health services, and individualized care, SLI creates opportunities for people to build meaningful relationships, develop life skills, and actively participate in their communities. This work strengthens not only the lives of those we serve, but also the families, employers, and communities that benefit from a more inclusive and connected society.

For more than 50 years, SLI has been committed to expanding opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across northeast Kansas. Our person-centered approach focuses on each individual's strengths, goals, and aspirations, helping people achieve greater independence while fostering belonging, confidence, and lifelong growth. By investing in people and removing barriers to opportunity, SLI is building stronger communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.

SLI is seeking passionate community leaders to join our Board of Directors. This is an opportunity to use your experience, perspective, and leadership to help empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and shape the future of an organization that has served our community for more than 50 years. As a Board member, you will help strengthen SLI's mission, expand community partnerships, and ensure that every person we serve has the opportunity to live a life of dignity, independence, and purpose. Together, we can continue empowering lives and building a more inclusive community for all.

Minimum time requirement: 3 hours/week/same day includes holidays

Age Requirement: 12 – 15 years old with parent  16 + years old can work independently

Help care for the mice and rats that feed our wildlife!  As a part of our Rat Pack, you’ll get hands-on experience caring for the “live” animals that are vital to rehabilitating foxes, coyotes, birds of prey, and more.   This task can be done in the morning, afternoon or after school.

Duties will include:  refilling food & water, cleaning cages, tracking key data like new births, reporting any injuries or illness.

Training provided – no prior experience required!

As a rodent helper, you’ll gain animal husbandry skills while playing a key role in our rehabilitation work.

We need a weekly volunteer with a lawn mower to mow the community garden property. You can choose what time and day you come, as long as it is a day between Thursday and Saturday the week you volunteer. You are welcome to sign up for one week or several. If you have questions or concerns you can text 785-267-2963 or email ihuckins@parstopeka.org

Volunteer Musicians Wanted!

We're looking for volunteer musicians to share live instrumental music with babies, toddlers, and their families during our Saturday Open Play (10:00 AM–12:00 PM).

This isn't a performance—it's a relaxed 15-minute "Music Corner" where children can wander over, listen, watch, and engage naturally. Young children are often fascinated by live music, and it's wonderful to see their curiosity and joy as they experience an instrument up close. After the music, children can explore a variety of child-sized instruments provided by our center.

We're especially interested in solo instrumentalists, as a single musician and instrument helps children focus and explore the experience. Some singing is welcome, but the emphasis is on introducing children to live music rather than entertainment.

Volunteers can choose the dates that fit their schedule—even one hour of your time can make a meaningful difference.

We welcome many types of instruments, particularly those with a gentle sound, such as:

If you enjoy sharing music and believe every child should have the chance to experience it live, we'd love to have you join us.

Kansas Children's Service League works to create, repair, and restore healthy parent-child relationships which are the foundation of a strong family.  This work fosters long term positive impacts on all Kansans, not just those we serve directly.  Our work with children and families improves school readiness now so that graduation rates improve in the future.  We help families succeed now to be better parents and better employees.  We are creating a stronger, more resilient and educated workforce for the future of Kansas.  The progress made now reduces future crime and incarceration, breaking a destructive cycle.  This improves prosperity and success for all Kansas communities.  

KCSL's evidence based programming works with children and families in the areas of health, safety, and education to succeed and break cycles of neglect, abuse and trauma.  Our programs help both children and parents develop skills for success in their families, schools, and work places. 

Volunteer board members support Atlas Travel Foundation by meeting monthly to guide the organization through decisions toward its goals of supporting Shawnee County KS youth in international travel. The board meets remotely once a month and will sometimes do in-person outreach events in the community. 

Positive Bright Start is seeking community leaders who are passionate about ensuring every young child has access to high-quality early childhood education and therapeutic services, especially those whose needs are not met elsewhere.

As our organization implements its strategic plan, we are looking for board members who are committed to helping strengthen the long-term sustainability of our mission. Ideal candidates bring a combination of leadership, strategic thinking, community connections, governance experience, financial stewardship, fundraising, advocacy, or professional expertise that can help advance the organization.

Positive Bright Start serves a unique and essential role in our community by:

Providing free therapy services for children under age five.

Serving children who have been expelled from other early childhood settings.

Offering intentionally lower classroom ratios for children with significant behavioral needs.

Administering important community programs, including scholarships and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

As a board member, you will help safeguard these mission-critical services by supporting strategic planning, financial sustainability, community engagement, and organizational governance.

We welcome individuals who:

Believe in Positive Bright Start's mission and values.

Are willing to actively participate in board meetings and committee work.

Can contribute expertise, leadership, advocacy, or philanthropic support.

Are committed to helping diversify and strengthen the organization's financial future while protecting the essential services our community depends on.

If you are interested in serving or would like to learn more about board service, we encourage you to complete the Board Interest Form.

Board Members of Papan’s Landing Senior Center provide leadership, governance, and strategic direction to support the organization’s mission of serving seniors in our community. Board Members act as ambassadors, advocates, and stewards, ensuring the long-term sustainability and impact of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Expectations

Preferred Qualifications

Time Commitment

Atlas Travel Foundation is seeking communications interns for the 2026/2027 academic year. Interns will support the foundation by preparing marketing messages for social media and email newsletters, supporting outreach events, and promoting the foundation's scholarship opportunities and success stories. 

The Atlas Travel Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2024 in Topeka, Kansas. Our mission is to award scholarships to Shawnee County youth and young adults participating in international travel programs in order to inspire intellectual curiosity, cultivate global awareness, build respect for other cultures, and support learning another language.

This internship provides a hands-on opportunity to participate in community outreach to impact the success of the Atlas Travel Foundation. The intern will help with our social media presence and identify opportunities for increasing community awareness of the Foundation’s mission and initiatives.

This internship position is designed to support academic requirements. Please work with your advisor or program of study to ensure this will be a good fit.

We prefer a commitment of 5-10 hours per week. Hours can be modified as needed to support academic credit requirements.

Send a cover letter and resume to hello@atlastravelfoundation.org

Join our board and help us achieve our mission of serving expectant families through prenatal education, continuous labor support, and sustained postpartum community connection. Our goals are to provide pregnancy and childbirth education that entrusts mothers to make informed decisions about their care, to empower moms to make healthy decisions for the well-being of themselves and their children, and to improve the mother’s birth experience by providing strategic oversight and guidance.

As a board member, you will play a vital role in shaping the direction of the Topeka Doula Project and supporting our commitment to strategically underserved communities.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning: Participate and contribute to developing and implementing the organization's strategic plan on long-term goals and organizational priorities.

Financial Oversight: Review and approve annual budgets and financial reports. Ensuring responsible financial management and fundraising efforts.

Fundraising and Development: Assist in fundraising initiatives and donor cultivation and actively participate in identifying and securing new funding sources.

Governance and Compliance: Review and update organizational policies and procedures.

Program Oversight: Provide feedback and guidance on program development.

Attendance and Participation: Attend every other month board meetings. Serve on at least one board committee and actively participate in board discussions and decision-making.

Community Advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the organization within the community and promote to potential supporters.

Essential Skills:

*Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

*Ability to think strategically and critically.

*Commitment to the organization's mission and values.

*Experience in Maternal health, finance, fundraising, program management, etc.

Preferred Skills:

*Knowledge of Maternal and infant health.

*Fundraising experience

*Legal or financial expertise.

Personal Attributes:

*Passionate about making a difference.

*Team player with a collaborative spirit.

*Integrity and ethical conduct.

Time Commitment: Approximately 3-6 hours per meeting per month, including board meetings and committee work. 6 regular board meetings a year.

Board meetings are held every other month from Jan.-Dec.

Summer Substitute and/or Weekly Delivery Volunteers at Lawrence Meals on Wheels

Volunteers are needed.  Please give us a call if you can help!   It takes less than an hour:)

Help us over your lunch hour:)

We need volunteers all year but we are very flexible and can work around seasonal schedules when possible.

Types of drivers are needed:
 

What happens when I decide to volunteer?

Each day, Lawrence Meals On Wheels delivers approximately 170-180 meals. This enormous task would not be possible without our number one resource – Volunteers. Over 135 volunteers each week are utilized to serve our clients.
 

Volunteers pick up meals between 10:30 – 11:30 at MOW, 2121 Kasold, and then deliver to between 4 -8 clients. The delivery bags are then returned to MOW. The entire process takes an hour or less and can easily be done over your lunch hour.  We can be very flexible if you need to run errands afterwards or return the bags the next morning - just let us know and we will work it out.
 

Volunteers initially train with a staff member and then ride along on a route prior to driving their own. We provide route sheets, with detailed maps and written directions. Staff is always available to answer any questions and assist as needed.  All of our routes take an hour or less.  We do our best to make sure that the delivery routes are as direct and concise as possible.
 

A valid driver’s license and proof of current insurance are required.
 

Our volunteers range in age from 5 to 90. We have parents who drive with their children, executives who drive on their lunch hour, as well as KU students and retired individuals who drive. We are flexible and can work with your schedule, i.e. if you are going to be out of town, can only help over the holidays and/or during the summer, etc.

We can not accept anyone under 18 as a volunteer driver unless they are accompanied by a parent or someone 21+.

Summer Substitute and/or Weekly Delivery Volunteers at Lawrence Meals on Wheels

Volunteers are needed.  Please give us a call if you can help!   It takes less than an hour:)

Help us during the lunch hour:)

We need volunteers all year but we are very flexible and can work around seasonal schedules when possible.

Types of drivers are needed:
 

What happens when I decide to volunteer?

Each day, Lawrence Meals On Wheels delivers approximately 170-180 meals. This enormous task would not be possible without our number one resource – Volunteers. Over 135 volunteers each week are utilized to serve our clients.
 

Volunteers pick up meals between 10:30 – 11:30 at MOW, 2121 Kasold, and then deliver to between 4 -8 clients. The delivery bags are then returned to MOW. The entire process takes an hour or less and can easily be done over your lunch hour.  We can be very flexible if you need to run errands afterwards or return the bags the next morning - just let us know and we will work it out.
 

Volunteers initially train with a staff member and then ride along on a route prior to driving their own. We provide route sheets, with detailed maps and written directions. Staff is always available to answer any questions and assist as needed.  All of our routes take an hour or less.  We do our best to make sure that the delivery routes are as direct and concise as possible.
 

A valid driver’s license and proof of current insurance are required.
 

Our volunteers range in age from 5 to 90. We have parents who drive with their children, executives who drive on their lunch hour, as well as KU students and retired individuals who drive. We are flexible and can work with your schedule, i.e. if you are going to be out of town, can only help over the holidays and/or during the summer, etc.

We can not accept anyone under 18 as a volunteer driver unless they are accompanied by a parent or someone 21+.

Other Volunteer Opportunities:
 

Oakland Church of the Nazarene (OakNaz) serves as a mobile distribution site for Harvesters Food Pantry once a month, on the third Saturday. Volunteers are needed to assist with various aspects from setting up before the food drop begins through cleaning up once it concludes.

Join our Truck to Shelf Team and be part of the essential crew that keeps our pantry shelves stocked and our operations running smoothly!

As a member of this team, you’ll help with:

Unloading deliveries from the truck

Opening and sorting boxes of goods

Stocking shelves with care and accuracy

Organizing and storing excess inventory in our backroom or storage areas

This is a hands-on, active role that’s perfect for volunteers who enjoy working behind the scenes and don’t mind a bit of lifting, sorting, and teamwork. You’ll play a crucial role in making sure everything is ready and accessible for the people we serve.

Create a welcoming evening for families experiencing homelessness

Meal & Hospitality Volunteers help provide a warm, reliable dinner and a sense of community for families staying at our Mt. Hope shelter. Each evening includes up to 24 individuals, with at least half being children and teens, so volunteers play a meaningful role in creating a calm, friendly space at the end of the day.

This is a great opportunity for individuals, pairs, friend groups, families, and small service teams.

What You’ll Do

Meals do not need to be fancy — simple, kid‑friendly, and comforting is perfect.

When You’re Needed

Who Can Volunteer

Requirements

Why This Role Matters

Sharing a meal is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build community. Volunteers help families feel welcomed, supported, and seen — and often find that the conversations around the dinner table are the most meaningful part of the experience.

How to Sign Up

Help families feel welcomed—and keep shared spaces shining.
Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL) is looking for Clean and Prep Volunteers to help maintain safe, dignified environments for families in shelter. This hands-on role includes two key areas of impact:

Whether you're wiping down surfaces, restocking essentials, or deep cleaning, your care helps families feel seen and supported—and allows staff to focus on stabilization efforts.

Time Commitment:
Flexible! Volunteers can sign up for regular cleaning shifts or be contacted when turnover support is needed. Great for individuals or small groups who enjoy short-term, hands-on service.

Shift Schedule:

Shifts are typically 2-4 hours during regular business hours. Mon-Thur, 8:30 a.m.  - 5:00 pm, Friday from 8:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

Impact:
Your work helps create a sense of dignity and calm for families in crisis. Clean, organized spaces communicate care—and make a real difference in how families experience shelter.

Harvesters mobilizes the power of our community to create equitable access to nutritious food and address the root causes and impact of hunger. Volunteers serving in Harvesters’ Volunteer Engagement Center (VEC) sort and repack food, which assists Harvesters and its pantry partners in feeding more than 250,000 people each month.  

Volunteer tasks are assigned based on product availability and project prioritization. Volunteer Engagement Center opportunities include: 

Harvesters weekly volunteer schedule: 

Advance registration is required, click here to register and sign the volunteer waiver.

We need your help to keep great books accessible to communities 24/7. Visit Little Free Libraries in your community to distribute books! 

We can suggest where to look for free or inexpensive books, or if you already have some, you can share those too. You can find book-sharing boxes near you using our world map or free mobile app. Volunteers over 18 anywhere in the U.S. where there are Little Free Libraries can register for this opportunity. 

Register on our website to get started. If it's your first time signing up with Team LFL, you will be prompted to create an account in our volunteer hub. Once you sign up, you will get access to tips & resources that you review independently online. Our Little Free Library staff can answer your questions by email. You can share books whenever it works for you.  

This is a great opportunity for solo volunteers looking for something flexible to fit their schedule, or for parents looking for a volunteer activity they can do with kids. 

Purpose: By keeping Little Free Libraries full of books, you are helping to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access. 

Responsibilities:

Time required: You set your own schedule. It could be a one-time project or a regular book distribution schedule.

How we can support you: We'll help you start with some online training, and we will suggest sources for books.

Qualifications:

Questions: You can contact the Community Engagement Manager to ask questions. 

Maintenance/Groundskeeper.

We're looking for volunteers that like the outdoors, are handy and want to contribute to the upkeep of our pens, trails and grounds. The position will be ongoing and weekly. May include mowing, weed eating, trimming, repairing pens, clearing trails, etc

Please go to www.owl-online.org Click on Get Involved and go to volunteer to fill out an application. We're looking forward to meeting you!

Looking for a valuable asset for your resume? Many Biology and Zoology students have interned with us and gone on to great careers (vet school, zookeeping, marine biology/aviculture, etc.)! Under supervision, interns work directly with the wild animals that we rehabilitate. Interns are deeply involved in every aspect of our wildlife clinic, from providing information to callers to performing field and lab work, the experience is invaluable and unforgettable. Internship positions are unpaid, however college credit is an option if you find a an advisor or professor to sponsor you. For a full listing of our requirements call or email Diane Johnson to receive an intern program package. 1. Fill out an application 2. A willingness to learn 3. The ability to follow directions 4. A minimum of 480 hours for college credit. You must find an advisor or professor to sponsor you. 5. Flexibility (our patients don't make appointments) 6. An article for our fall newsletter depicting your experiences and what you learned Minimum Time Requirement: 480 hours over several months Visit our website for more information and to fill out an online application: www.owl-online.org

Responsibilities include answering phones and helping callers make the best possible choices with the animals that they’ve found. Requires studying and learning different species as well as the legalities involving wildlife in Kansas. Pleasant demeanor, patience & a willingness to help people are plusses for this position. Computer input, asking for donations & providing information about OWL to patrons, charting, filing, photocopying, shredding and triage involved at intake as well as housekeeping duties for the front office. The peak months are April through October. Training is provided.
Minimum Time Requirement: 8 hours/week/same day unless we can find someone to time share with you. We are open Monday through Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM , Saturday 8:30 AM - 3 PM Closed on Sundays.

This is a perfect position for those that want to help but can’t commit to an 8 hour shift. Animal support assistants will be paired with a Facility Animal Care volunteer and assist with set up of habitat, caging, laundry, dishes, food prep, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, etc. The goal is to work as a team to complete animal care in a timely manner and provide support for the myriad of animals we serve. Work is busiest April-October. We currently have 2 shifts available. Dayshift 9 AM- 2 PM Night shift 5 PM - 10 PM Minimum Time Requirement: 4-5 hours/week

Animals lovers needed!!! Provide rehab assistance at the Main Facility, located at 23375 Guthrie Road in Linwood. Volunteers are responsible for most of the hands-on care the animals receive after they are triaged, and care instructions written. Responsible for cage cleaning, diet preparation, physical therapy, medication administration, habitat setup and general housekeeping duties. This position is also responsible for re-homing and retrieval of specific species. The peak months are April through October. Training is provided. We currently have 3 shifts available. The most demanding is the dayshift 8 AM - 4 PM except during baby season when the shift may be longer because of animal feedings. Swing shift 1 PM - 9 PM, Night shift 4 PM - Close (depends on number of animals currently in our system).
Minimum Time Requirement: 8 hours/week/same day includes holidays…