Opportunities From: United Way of Kaw Valley

Volunteer Advocates support staff advocates in providing direct support to survivors of sexual trauma.

Volunteer Advocates provide free, confidential, and trauma-informed services to hotline callers under supervision of staff advocates, connecting survivors to resources within our organization such as therapy referrals, peer support groups, court advocacy, Title IX support, and general counseling, as well as outside community resources which best suit their needs. 

Training consists of 40 hours spread over the course of 5-6 weeks with weekly in-person sessions to provide valuable information about sexual trauma, counseling skills, and crisis intervention.

The STA Care Center is proud to support survivors of all backgrounds through a volunteer base critical to our history operating in Lawrence. Our services extend past Douglas County and into Franklin and Jefferson Counties with offices in Ottawa and Oskaloosa to meet the needs of survivors located in each of these communities.

In an effort to more closely represent our community in our advocacy team, we encourage men, Spanish language speakers, people with disabilities, Indigenous peoples & people of color, LGBTQIA+ people, and survivors of sexual trauma to apply.

Please submit your interest through the Google Form found here: https://forms.gle/WFQrqFrA1zeyWmxw9

Or on our website: https://www.stacarecenter.org/volunteer

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator Cade Dennis at volunteercoordinator@stacarecenter.org.

English Outreach Tutors provide English learning opportunities to refugee adults who are unable to attend traditional English classes due to work schedules, transportation barriers, or other life commitments. This volunteer role offers flexible scheduling and can take place in a variety of agreed-upon locations. Tutors are supported through training and resources to help create a simple and effective learning plan for their student.

Commitment is 2-3 hours per week for 3-6 months. 

Basic knowledge of computers and other electronics is critical to life in the U.S. From scheduling appointments online to accessing school and bank websites, maintaining basic computer skills is necessary for completing daily life tasks. However, most refugees have extremely limited digital awareness.  Commitment is 2-hours per week for 6 months.
Volunteers help remotely as 'one-to-one' tutors, for example, assisting from their home to conduct a pre-determined lesson on the computer using the 'Quick Assist' program to guide clients from their own computer virtually using the client’s computer.

Front Desk: Volunteers at the front desk will be tasked with answering phone calls, assisting with check in, and entering guest information into the Apricot database. Training will be provided.

Volunteers in the Family Support Centers help with daily operations such as keeping
the pantry clean and shelves well stocked. Volunteers also walk guests through the pantry
ensuring that they select the designated amount of food or to help them make healthy food
choices.

Join us for Downtown Topeka Clean-Up Day and be part of a positive change in our community, connect with others, and help create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming downtown for everyone. Volunteers will support litter pick-up and beautification efforts throughout the district. Your time will make a visible difference. We’ll provide all supplies and simple directions when you arrive — just show up ready to roll up your sleeves and make an impact! 

Claire's Community will be participating in Lawrence Pride on June 6 from 8 AM–6 PM, and we’re looking for volunteers to support throughout the day. There are a variety of shift options available within that timeframe, so individuals can sign up based on their skills and availability.

Please sign up through our SignUp Genius link:

Volunteer Registration:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C044EADA729A6FBC16-63455149-lawrence#/

Volunteer will be helping distribute food/clothing to patrons during our regular distribution. Tasks can include building food boxes, loading food into cars, folding/sorting clothes, and assisting shoppers in our clothing closet.

Assist with data entry

Client assistance applications

Organizing client folders

Client follow-up calls

Client eligibility 

On the second Saturday of May, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) hosts the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive—the largest single‑day food drive in the nation. Locally, this effort is planned and executed by NALC Branch 10: Capital City Letter Carriers.

In the week leading up to the drive, postal customers receive a folded grocery bag in their mailbox inviting them to place non‑perishable food items by their mailbox on the day of the food drive. Last year, this drive collected more than 35,000 pounds of food in one weekend, providing critical support to the Topeka community.    

About This Role: Route Volunteer  

Click here for more information or to sign up on Harvesters website

This role is most fun and effective when done with a partner and is a great opportunity for parent‑and‑child teams. One person can drive and navigate while the other collects food by getting in and out of the vehicle. All volunteers will report to the post office and check in with the Volunteer Station Captain before beginning their route.    

Key Responsibilities  

Qualifications  

Click here to sign up on the Harvesters website!

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

Sort and box donated books by category for the quarterly book sales. Position requires one day a week for a 2–3-hour shift. Time of day can be flexible. Training provided

Sort donations on the loading dock for the Friends of the Library book sales, booktique, and online sales.

This position requires working with donated items, bending, standing, and working on the loading dock (temperatures vary).

Volunteers need to commit to one day a week (ongoing) for a 2-3 hour shift.

Training provided.

**Saturday and Sunday shifts needed (Join with a friend)!

Papan’s Landing Senior Center is seeking a reliable and friendly Office Volunteer to support our day-to-day operations. This role helps keep our center running smoothly so that we can continue serving seniors in our community.

Responsibilities

Time Commitment

Qualifications

Why Volunteer With Us?
As an office volunteer, you play an important behind-the-scenes role in supporting programs that provide meals, connection, and services to local seniors. Your time helps ensure everything runs smoothly and makes a real difference in our community.

Are you passionate about creating a safe, fun, and engaging space for children to explore and learn? Join the Play Crew at the Kansas Children's Discovery Center!

As a nonprofit children's museum, the Discovery Center is dedicated to inspiring a lifelong love of learning for every child. Volunteers play a key role in bringing this mission to life by helping create memorable experiences for every family that visits.

As a Play Crew volunteer, you'll:

This position is perfect for those who:

Play Crew volunteers should be comfortable standing, bending, and working at kid-level to ensure our visitors have an unforgettable experience. Join us in making the Kansas Children's Discovery Center a magical place for children and families!

Apply on our website at: https://kansasdiscovery.org/support/volunteer/

Pull weeds and do other basic yard work around our transitional housing facility!

The Community Health Facility is home to Bert Nash, the Health Department, and the Visiting Nurses Association.

Due to our high levels of certification, it is important for us to keep certain communal areas tidy. Kitchens, breakrooms, and other spaces need to be cleaned regularly. Recycling needs to be taken out, counters need to be wiped down, and floors need to be swept. None of the spaces get very dirty, but the cleaning needs to be frequent, so this is a volunteer opportunity that would involve doing a quick tidying throughout our spaces on a weekly basis.

Because we provide confidential services a volunteer would need to take a virtual HIPAA training and fill out some paperwork.

The Growing Together Community Garden located on the south end of our building at 200 Maine street needs periodic care. Watering, weeding, and plant identification are all necessary. If you're interested in helping out, let us know, and we'll put you in contact with our garden overseer to get you set up to become a part of Growing Together.

Host a food & fund drive in your neighborhood, place of business, school or community organization. Food & fund drives are great fun, especially when friendly competition between participants is encouraged! Contact us at fighthunger@harvesters.org.

Don’t have room for a food drive barrel or have time to make a special trip to the grocery store? Host a virtual food drive for your workplace or organization! It’s a convenient, hassle-free, 24/7 way to help Harvesters with the click of a mouse! Go to www.harvesters.org and click on "Give Food" to download our step-by-step guides and "how to" kits. 

Healthy Family Meal Kits provide all the necessary ingredients for an easy, complete nutritious meal for children and families in need in our community. Each box includes enough ingredients to make 8 servings, as well as a recipe card.  

How It Works: 
The Family Meal Box program has two components:  a food or fund drive followed by a volunteer activity. 

Food/Fund Drive: 
Each box needs to include all of the items for one recipe listed below for the box to be complete. Collecting items in bulk or asking several volunteers to purchase food in bulk after collecting monetary donations works very well for this drive.    

Volunteer Activity: 
At the end of your food drive, coordinate with Harvesters to receive boxes, recipe cards, stickers.   Then, your volunteers will spend a few hours packing the individual boxes so they can be easily transported back to our facility for distribution.  

Need community service hours?
For every complete meal kit donated, you will receive 1 volunteer hour!*

Each month, Harvesters distributes nearly 5,000 CSFP food boxes to food-insecure seniors. These boxes include shelf-stable items like cereal, pasta, canned vegetables, and juice.

We need your help to make these deliveries extra special! Create a cheerful, handmade card with an upbeat message to include in each box. This is an all-ages activity, and handwriting from kids is absolutely welcome—just make sure it’s legible and take time to make each card unique.

Your Mission

Getting Started

Quantity & Service Hours

Any number of cards is welcome! Great for individuals or groups—office teams, schools, service organizations, and more. Service Credit: 1 hour for every 10 handmade cards completed, limited to 4 hours (40 cards) per month. Please note:

Where to Send Completed Cards

Mail or drop off Monday–Friday, 8 AM–3:30 PM:

Harvesters Kansas Distribution Center

Attn: Community Engagement Team

1220 Timberedge Road

Lawrence, KS 66049

Include your first & last name, email, and phone number so we can log your service hours.

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

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.

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.

On the second Saturday of May, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) hosts the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive—the largest single‑day food drive in the nation. Locally, this effort is planned and executed by NALC Branch 10: Capital City Letter Carriers.

In the week leading up to the drive, postal customers receive a folded grocery bag in their mailbox inviting them to place non‑perishable food items by their mailbox on the day of the food drive. Last year, this drive collected more than 35,000 pounds of food in one weekend, providing critical support to the Topeka community.    

About This Role: Route Volunteer

This role is most fun and effective when done with a partner and is a great opportunity for parent‑and‑child teams. One person can drive and navigate while the other collects food by getting in and out of the vehicle. All volunteers will report to the post office and check in with the Volunteer Station Captain before beginning their route.

Click here to sign up on our website: Stamp Out Hunger Route Volunteers

Key Responsibilities

Qualifications

We are looking for a person to stock our clothing room in the morning. We need someone Monday through Friday but you can come one day or multiple days, up to you!

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Assist in the Booktique along with staff and volunteers regarding sales and merchandising.  Position requires customer service and cash register experience and a background check.

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.

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. 

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!

At Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL), we believe that every family deserves a safe, welcoming space to land while working toward housing stability. That’s why we’re inviting volunteers to join our Repair and Renew team—a hands-on opportunity to make a lasting impact on the spaces where families heal, grow, and rebuild.

Goal: To help staff provide a safe, organized, and welcoming environment to all who visit our offices.

Outcome: By supporting the upkeep and organization of shared spaces—both indoors and outdoors—volunteers will directly reduce the time staff spend on logistical tasks, allowing them to focus more fully on serving families in crisis. This support is especially impactful for the case management team, whose work is often emotionally and administratively demanding. A well-maintained environment not only improves efficiency but also communicates dignity and care to every family who walks through our doors.

Responsibilities/Duties:

Qualifications/Education/Skills:

Required:

Preferred but not required:

Physical and Emotional Demands:

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.

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.

CLICK TO SIGN UP NOW TO VOLUNTEER!

Join us on Monday, May 25 for the 5K Home Run supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. This event brings our community together for a morning of energy, encouragement, and hands‑on service. Volunteers can jump in across a wide range of roles—from early‑morning setup and participant check‑in to course marshals, kids’ activities, water stations, and post‑race cleanup. Whether you love cheering on runners, organizing behind the scenes, or helping families enjoy the day, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact. Learn more and sign up to today. Register early to be included in a drawing for a prize pack!

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

Choose one:

A)     Take Down and Clean Up Volunteers- Volunteers will break down all tables and chairs and return them to their place under the gazebo. They will also remove all signs and banners, collect the remaining T-shirts, and bag any overflow garbage bags for disposal.

B)     Collecting Volunteers- These volunteers will help collect all cones, barricades, and mile marker signs on the course.

C)    Recycling Volunteers- These volunteers will collect all water bottles and other recyclable items. Then the volunteers will take the recyclables to the appropriate recycling bins after the event.

5K Home Run Event - General Set-up Volunteer 

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

Help set up for the 5K Home Run: Set up tables, chairs, water and ice, food tables, T-shirts, volunteer check-in locations, hang banners, and post signs etc.  

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

Help pass out T-Shirts to participants. Help those who have pre-registered to check in. Help those who haven't pre-registered to sign up & check in.

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

This volunteer position will take place at the bouncy house(s) where volunteers will need to monitor the entrances and exits to let kids in and out. Volunteers will also help coordinate the “Fun Run” for little kids who are too young to run the 5K. It's short and… FUN!

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

Often, we will have race day gaps. If you sign up here, you are willing to be deployed wherever needed on the day of the race!

5K Home Run – Water Stop Volunteer

The annual 5K Home Run event is a staple fundraising event supporting Family Promise of Lawrence. Join us in the fight to prevent families from being unhoused in Douglas County, Kansas, by supporting this event as a volunteer, a participant, or both!

Choose one:

A) Mid-Race Water Stop Volunteer – The Mid-Race Water Stop will be located at Burrough's Creek Trail Roundabout at 15th Street, where Water Stop Volunteers will set up water cups for runners and collect discarded cups for disposal.

B) Finish Line Water Stop Volunteer- The Finish Line Water Stop Volunteers will be stationed at the race Finish Line where they will ice water bottles and pass them out to participants as they finish the race.

Having good Course Marshals to support participants is the most important part of the 5K Home Run event!

This is a great opportunity to serve with family, friends, and associates because we need a lot of Course Marshals! In fact, we need about 50 Course Marshals to make the event a success.

The purpose of this volunteer role is to encourage participants to finish the race -AND- to be on hand in case of an emergency. By serving in this role, along a street with cars, you may have to stop cars to allow the safety of runners as they pass.

This volunteer role is a ton of fun! You are there to cheer on the runners, and we encourage you to make signs and bring noise makers!

We need TWO volunteer Course Marshals at every intersection on the racecourse (at least one volunteer must be an adult, and kids should be 12 and over). Each volunteer will be given a bright T-shirt to help participants identify them, and every Course Marshal volunteer who is stationed at posts on a street will be required to wear reflective vests (NOTE: volunteers can keep the T-shirts, but the reflective vests must be returned at the end of the event).

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

Readers are needed for United Way of Kaw Valley’s Junior
Leader Reader program (JLR)! Through JLR, volunteers get to read to classrooms,
then distribute a copy of the book to every student in the class! The reader
will pick up books at the front desk of the school.
Each reader will be given 15 min per classroom which makes
up the total reading time (i.e. if reading time is 12:00-12:45pm that equals 3
classrooms to read to). Readers will check in at the main office of the school
then be directed to the classrooms they are assigned to. After reading they
will distribute books to students and give other materials to the teacher to
send home with the kids.

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. 

If you are looking for a fun and easy volunteer opportunity look no further!

Arts Connect is seeking a special individual or small team to assist around the gallery during the First Friday Art Walk and other open hours.

This role would include greeting visitors to the gallery, overseeing the gallery when open to the public, do some set up and clean up when needed and answer general questions. For the "regular" hours of Noon-3p on Fridays, you would be holding the gallery open so that visitors can see the artwork on display. On First Friday, we are usually quite busy and so on those nights, you'd serve as an extra set of hands.

This same volunteer(s) may be called upon when needed to assist in hanging and arranging for exhibits being installed into the gallery space. Ability to lift, reach and climb a step ladder is often needed for this task. However, please do not hesitate to inquire if you have physical limitations, we encourage all to participate and will be accepting multiple inquiries for all opportunities.

Volunteer(s) for this position must be:

Reliable

Friendly

Trustworthy

Flexible

Able to work independently and as part of a team

Interested in the Arts

Ability to sit/stand/move around the gallery for extended period.

This is a fun and helpful way to help support the arts in Topeka and Shawnee Co.! If you think this sounds like a good fit for you we invite you to contact us for more information.

Behavioral Health Mentor

Center for Supportive Communities

August 2026 – May 2027

The Center for Supportive Communities (CSC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Lawrence, Kansas, is accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year.

The Behavioral Health Mentor position is focused on providing direct one-on-one support to K-12 students and their families. Members will gain supervised experience working with children, families, and schools; develop valuable professional skills; and build meaningful connections with community leaders.

Note. Applicants may explore options for earning course credit for their service by consulting a faculty member or enrolling in relevant coursework.

Position Contact

info@supportivecommunities.org

Position Title

Behavioral Health Mentor

Position Dates

August 2026 – May 2027

Time Requirements

5, 10, 15, or 20 hours each week Position Location Douglas County, KS (Lawrence, Eudora, Baldwin City, and Perry)

Position Responsibilities

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Application Process

Seeking volunteers who would enjoy sorting K-5 Clothing donations and making 'outfits' to be hung for clients who use our community Clothing Closet.  There are several ways to be of support to the Donation Center from laundry, sorting, organizing, as well as making 'outfits' from our clothing donations. (Usually everyone's favorite role!).

Donations never end so volunteer support is ALWAYS needed!

We would prefer a regular commitment once a week, twice a month or once a month.1.5 hours is a good volunteer time commitment. You can come solo but also encourage groups of 2-4 volunteers. 

Small groups VERY much welcome!

However, if you enjoy working solo in a pretty quiet Donation Center area this may be a perfect fit.

There will be other opportunities to serve which include helping serve clients in the Clothing Closet or helping with other events and activities as our offerings grow. 

Front Desk: Volunteers at the front desk will be tasked with answering phone calls, assisting with check in, and entering guest information into the Apricot database. Training will be provided.

Volunteers in the Family Support Centers help with daily operations such as keeping
the pantry clean and shelves well stocked. Volunteers also walk guests through the pantry
ensuring that they select the designated amount of food or to help them make healthy food
choices.

We organize monthly Support Groups on the 4th Monday of every month from 6:00-8:00 PM in Topeka. These Support Groups include childcare. Our childcare team needs many dedicated hands to maintain a low volunteer-to-child ratio.

You can volunteer for one day or multiple, whichever works for you!

We organize monthly Support Groups on the 3rd Monday of every month from 6:00-8:00 PM in Topeka. These Support Groups include childcare. Our childcare team needs many dedicated hands to maintain a low volunteer-to-child ratio.

You can volunteer for one day or multiple, whichever works for you!

We organize monthly Support Groups on the 2nd Monday of every month from 6:00-8:00 PM in Lawrence. These Support Groups include childcare. Our childcare team needs many dedicated hands to maintain a low volunteer-to-child ratio.

You can volunteer for one day or multiple, whichever works for you!

We organize monthly Caregiver Nights Out on the 2nd Friday of every month from 5:30-8:00 PM. This event includes childcare. Our childcare team needs many dedicated hands to maintain a low volunteer-to-child ratio.

You can volunteer for one day or multiple, whichever works for you!

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 1 hour and 30 mins 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.

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 3:00 pm and usually takes about 2 hours. 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.

When we reach out with follow-up, please be sure to indicate which date(s) you are available to volunteer as this is a reoccurring event. 

Each Thursday we serve a free vegan meal from 11:30 - 1:30. We need volunteers between 9:30am 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.

Need volunteers to assist in preparing activities or even just coming once a month for a craft or music

1-800-Children phone counselor which answers the 24-hour helpline by listening carefully, offering problem-solving ideas and referring callers to community resources that are best suited for their needs.  Phone line is transferred to your phone during your shift. Flexible shifts and training provided.  You must be 21+ for this opportunity.

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

Must be able to lift 30 lbs. Be responsible for set up of the program including tables, merchandise, information, perches, sandbags, kennels & program tubs. Follow protocol for safety, handling and care of our public education birds. Learn the programs & educate people about OWL during those programs. Clean up and restocking after the program. Be available for a variety of times both on weekdays and weekends - times vary depending on programs booked. Prerequisites for this position include volunteering as a public education assistant & working at the facility for 1 year and completing our bird handling course. Special consideration may be given to applicants that have experience at other facilities.

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!

Animal lovers needed!!! Provide rehab assistance in your home in KANSAS. Volunteers are responsible for rearing orphaned wild babies utilizing OWL principals and manuals. Babies are returned to the main facility when they are weaned for hack out and further training (hunting, foraging skills, etc.). Work is busiest April through September. Training is provided. Per state regulations: 2 year apprenticeship at our main facility in Linwood KS. Minimum Time Requirement: Daily in your home Fnd out more and fill out an application at: http://www.owl-online.org/volunteerapp.html

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.

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…

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

Road To Recovery is an American Cancer Society program designed to help improve the quality of life and reduce barriers to care for cancer patients undergoing active treatment by transporting them to and from cancer-related treatment appointments.

The Road To Recovery Volunteer driver can help provide people with transportation to and from their cancer-related treatment appointments. Drivers donate their time and the use of their personal vehicles to help ensure that people with cancer get the treatments they need. Volunteer drivers are also there to show support and provide information and resource referrals coordinated through the American Cancer Society.

Responsibilities include:

Volunteer Driver Qualifications:

LINK is always looking for volunteer groups to help serve lunch at LINK. If you have a group of 10-12 people who would like to volunteer for a meal service, we'd love to have you sign up for one of our "OPEN" days which you can find on our calendar here:  https://www.linklawrence.org/serving-calendar_quicklook/

If you are looking for individual volunteer opportunities, please email us at linksince1985@gmail.com

Schedule:  Daily M-F 9-2

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Responsibilities:

The Food Pantry Assistant supports the daily operations of the food pantry by assisting with inventory management, food distribution, client service, and maintaining a clean and organized environment. This role is essential to ensuring clients receive food assistance in a respectful, efficient, and compassionate manner.

Responsibilities:

Assist with receiving, inspecting, and organizing food donations and deliveries

Stock and rotate pantry shelves to ensure product freshness and accessibility

Prepare food boxes or bags for distribution based on client needs and guidelines

Greet and assist clients, providing courteous and respectful service

Maintain cleanliness and organization of pantry areas, including storage and public spaces

Follow food safety guidelines and organizational procedures

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

Volunteers are needed.  Please give us a call if you can help! 

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 160+ meals. This enormous task would not be possible without our number one resource – Volunteers. Over 125 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:
 

SparkWheel at Prairie Park Elementary is looking for volunteers to serve as lunch buddy/mentors.

Volunteers must pass a background check and commit to coming in each week during the semester outside of KU breaks.

This is a WEEKLY commitment - ONE day each week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. 

Time periods are:

For more information and to apply for this volunteer opportunity please contact Stacie Jackson at stacie.jackson@sparkwheel.org.

Applications to volunteer for the 2025-2026 school year will be accepted through March 1, 2026.

SparkWheel at Prairie Park Elementary is looking for volunteers to tutor elementary-aged students weekly.

Volunteers must pass a background check and commit to coming in each week during the semester outside of KU breaks.

This is a WEEKLY commitment - ONE day each week on Tuesday or Wednesday. Tuesday sessions are from 3:05-4:00 and Wednesday sessions are from 1:35-2:30. Spaces are limited and new inquiries will be accepted until March 1, 2026.

For more information and to apply for this volunteer opportunity please contact Stacie Jackson at stacie.jackson@sparkwheel.org.

Why Volunteer With Us?

By joining our team, you will help residents access critical legal resources, contributing to a more informed and empowered community. We deeply value your dedication and strive to provide a supportive environment that fosters both personal growth and community impact.

Self-Help Center (SHC)

The SHC’s mission is to provide free information, tools, and resources to pro se litigants (those individuals who represent themselves and handle their legal issues without an attorney to represent them; also called “self-represented litigants” or “SRLs”).

Self-Help Center volunteers commit to at least two hours per week in the center. Onboarding as a SHC volunteer is done through a combination of online training and on-the-job immersion assisting SRLs. Volunteers provide neutral, accurate and reliable information through professional conduct. Volunteers do not provide legal advice but provide resource information to customers needing elevated legal support. Volunteering in the SHC is great for individuals who enjoy taking a proactive, engaged approach to helping people during potentially high-stress encounters.

Volunteers will be located in the SHC within the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center, with frequent contact and interaction with members of the public and court staff.

Volunteering at the SHC is perfect for those interested in the law generally, are considering a profession in the law, or are otherwise committed to access to justice.

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.

Help direct patients and family members to the correct location they need to go.  This includes helping look up patient room numbers for family members

Requirements

* Minimal walking 1 out of 5 shoes

* Some computer/phone knowledge

* Must complete application found on website Volunteer | The University of Kansas St. Francis Campus (kutopeka.com)

Assists the priest in administering the elements of Holy Communion, the consecrated bread and wine. 

Are you looking for a volunteer position that is responsible and rewarding? Do you like learning new things?

Provide free, unbiased and confidential Medicare counseling for Medicare beneficiaries. The goal is to educate and assist the public in making informed decisions about their health care options. Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) counselors are trained to assist with Medicare coverage explanation, enrollment assistance and questions.

Our volunteers work as little as 2 hours a week up to 6 hours. You can join our other SHICK Medicare counseling volunteers and we'll provide your training and always provide support!

Volunteer applications can be submitted from our website at www.dgcoks.gov/src

The Lawrence St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee runs Lawrence's largest and most fun parade. But the committee is about so much more than just the parade. We hold 10+/- events each year, crown an annual queen or king, and work with businesses from across the area to raise money for annually chosen beneficiaries.

The 2026 Beneficiaries are: Lawrence Farmer's Market and Lawrence Youth Football.

Of course, all of that is true, but no committee has more fun working hard to raise nearly than $100,000 yearly. Our events, everything from Irish Road Bowling to our 5K/10K race, are well attended and surrounded with the energy of Lawrence.

We need people with so many skill sets and abilities. We need those who can volunteer a little or a lot. We love help from those who both want to help broadly and those who see that they can help us fulfill a singular need. Join us and make some new friends knowing that your fun will also be supporting one of Lawrence's amazing children's charities. 

We have so many volunteer opportunities from donation acquisitions and tracking, live and silent item webpage development, party planning, registration at the event, to setup and breakdown! This is our biggest and funnest fundraiser of the year! And we do it all for the kids!

This year's Charity Auction is the evening of Friday, February 20, at Maceli's Banquet Hall in downtown Lawrence, Kansas. The 3 months leading up to the auction is a busy time of gathering, organizing, and prepping for the big night! It takes a large group to make it a magical night and raise much needed funds for local children's charities. We need you!

For more info on how you can get involved, email info@lawrencestpatricksdayparade.com or visit our website: https://lawrencestpatricksdayparade.com/

All proceeds go to our 2026 Beneficiaries: Lawrence Farmer's Market and Lawrence Youth Football.