Opportunities From: United Way of Kaw Valley

Join us in making a difference in our community.

You can help by :

Your support can bring joy and nourishment to those in need. Contact us today to get involved!

When you see a show at Topeka Civic Theatre, you are seeing the result of countless volunteer hours. From the people who take you to your seat to those who paint the sets, the actors on our stage to the stage managers running the show; volunteers make Topeka Civic Theatre a place where theatre thrives. 

Topeka Civic Theatre's Behind-the-Scenes volunteers may never be in the spotlight, but their work behind-the-scenes ensures Topeka Civic Theatre continues to produce the best and most innovative theatre possible. With Backstage Crew, Painters, Builders, Properties Coordinators and Strike Force Crew, there is a behind the scenes volunteer opportunity to fit your talents.

Behind-the-Scenes Volunteers include: Backstage Crew, Set Construction, Scene Painting, Properties Coordinator and Strike Force Crew.

Backstage Crew: Volunteers will join us for our technical rehearsals through the run of out show to be back stage helping move sets, setting props, working flys and helping actors with costume changes.  This is a great way to see a show from another perspective by helping it run smooth, look good, and have a blast along the way! 

Set Construction: Volunteers build, cover and repair the scenery. Set construction includes a wide variety of construction techniques and materials such as wood, metal, foam, plastic and fabric. Projects in the scene shop depend on the degree of experience of the volunteer. 

Scene Painting: Painting techniques such as rag rolling, dry brushing and sponging are used for certain effects including but not limited to brick, stone, marble, plaster, stucco, foliage, wallpaper or a variety of wood grains. 

Properties Coordinator: The properties, or "Props" are the variety of set dressings used in a production. Examples include, books, housewares and/or food and beverage items. The properties coordinator collects or constructs props during a shows rehearsal period and attends tech week rehearsals to ensure all the props are ready for the performance fun. 

Strike Force Crew: Volunteers work to deconstruct the set on the Sunday following the final performance of each production. Ranging between two to four hours, some volunteers will use power tools, while others will support the clearing of props and furniture. Tidying the backstage wings is also a part of the process.  

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Jason Smith at Jason@TopekaCivicTheatre.com.

When you see a show at Topeka Civic Theatre, you are seeing the result of countless volunteer hours. From the people who take you to your seat to those who paint the sets, the actors on our stage to the stage managers running the show; volunteers make Topeka Civic Theatre a place where theatre thrives. 

Topeka Civic Theatre's Front of House volunteers greet the public, assist with will-call, verify tickets, help patrons find their seats, hand out playbills and assist with buffet tickets. This is wonderful way to meet new people, this volunteer experience is also a wonderful way to learn more about Topeka Civic Theatre.

Front of House volunteers include: Box Office, House Managers, Hosts, Buffet Wing and Ambassadors. 

Box Office: Distribute pre-paid tickets at the will call window, greet patrons and members, and answer questions about performance times. Commitment of time is one to two hours, and includes evenings and Sunday matinee performances.

House Manager: Topeka Civic Theatre's first representative for many of our patrons, our House Manager supervises the entryway and lobby, collects and tracks ticket stubs, offers general information to our patrons and members, and manages the Hosts. A friendly smile, neat appearance and a desire to provide a positive experience to all is a must. Commitment of time is one to two hours, and includes evenings and Sunday matinee performances.

Hosts:  Greeting and escorting our patrons and members to their seats, Hosts also distribute playbills, and answer general questions regarding the theatre. Similar to our House Manager role, Hosts must exhibit a desire to promote a positive customer service experience, have a neat appearance and a helpful attitude. Commitment of time is one to two hours, and includes evenings and Sunday matinee performances.

Buffet Wing: Located next to the buffet line entrance, our Buffet Wing volunteers collect dinner and brunch tickets. A positive attitude, smile and neat appearance are a must. Commitment of time is one to two hours, and includes evenings and Sunday matinee performances.  

Ambassadors: Serving groups who attend productions at Topeka Civic Theatre, volunteer Ambassadors greet groups at the door and remain with them throughout the performance to ensure the patron's experience is enjoyable. A positive-helpful attitude and neat appearance are a must. Commitment of time is two to four hours, and includes evenings and Sunday matinee performances.

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Jason Smith at Jason@TopekaCivicTheatre.com.

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 & Saturdays, 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.

At Arts Connect we are filling our schedule with exciting opportunities for area artists and the community. As such we have a growing need for support volunteers! If you enjoy the arts and are looking for a meaningful way to help support our local arts community please consider volunteering with Arts Connect. Ongoing needs include:

We appreciate our volunteers and are looking for individuals willing to give a bit of their time & energy to offer support to our arts community!

We invite you to contact us to discuss our complete and current needs. Thank you!

Care Cupboard Volunteers will provide excellent and compassionate customer service for shoppers in our food pantry located on the north side of Heartland Community Health Center.  Service duties include: greeting shoppers, data entry, assisting shoppers, sacking groceries; as well as some light cleaning and stocking of the pantry. 

Volunteers will serve independently in support of our mission to help those in need of care. Comfort with computer entry is important and experience serving a diverse population (some with potentially special needs) is crucial. 

The Care Cupboard at Heartland Community Health Center is a satellite of Just Food.

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

From 9am-12pm we are needing someone who is willing to come in our office and help sort donations.

This could be any day during the weekdays.

There is options to volunteer in the mornings in Topeka or Lawrence office has more flexibility on when to attend as well. 

KVC host events for foster homes as well as attends many community events. The dates vary from month to month. If interested you can reach out and see if the events work for you. This option is mostly when it's nice out, winter doesn't have as many community events but there are several foster family parties we need assistance with.

This would include setting up parties, attending a booth at community events both indoors and outdoors. As well as talking to people about KVC which will be discussed prior to each event.

An AscEnd of Life Doula is an intensively trained hospice volunteer who provides non-medical holistic support and comfort to the patient and their family, which may include education and guidance as well as emotional and spiritual care.  Doulas receive continual education and mentoring through online courses and our mentoring program.  

Doulas at Ascend will establish trust and build relationships with patients and families, focusing on what is most important and being an advocate of their wishes.  Doulas can provide companionship and support with deep listening and care.  Doulas do not replace our professional, medical hospice staff.  

Every Thursday and Friday 1-6 volunteers are welcome to help maintain the farm with weeding, mulching, planting, transplanting and odd jobs on the farm.

There will be additional opportunities on the following dates for 1 volunteer to assist with educational workshop setup and tear down:

May 5 from 12-1pm and 3-4pm

June 2 from 12-1pm and 2:30-3:30pm

Sept 15 from 12-1pm and 2:30-3:30pm.

1 volunteer to help with Third Friday Farmers Markets in Baldwin (June thru Sept) to help set up and tear down.

October 19 and 20: 2 volunteers for The Maple Leaf Festival in Baldwin City to help work the vendor booth all day both days.

Contact Lori Trojan for scheduling: lbtrojan@gmail.com

The Garden is managed by the Baldwin City Business and Professional Women's organization and is open to all Baldwin City residents. We would greatly appreciate help with some maintenance tasks at the garden, such as adding wood mulch to certain areas and some preparation tasks with garden plots.

Students, email akretzschmer@bakeru.edu for an email introduction to get involved!

Every 3 years Community Action conducts a needs assessment to assist with program development and to determine the underlying causes and conditions of poverty within the community we serve to identify the available resources and address the unmet needs of the community’s most vulnerable residents. 

Seeking individuals to

- host focus groups

- compile/analyze focus group responses

- assist with writing narratives for needs assessment

- promote and recruit focus group participants

HOURS OF OPERATION (Beginning August 27th, 2024)

Sign up to volunteer here: https://senttopeka.churchcenter.com/people/forms/763140

Provide companionship to hospice patients and/or a break (respite) for their caregivers by providing volunteer visits in the client's home or a care facility.  Volunteer support requested once a week for a couple hours. There are breaks between new patient placements. You will not volunteer continuously for a year.

As a hospice patient companion volunteer, you would agree to volunteer a full year (or one full school year).

Hospice Volunteers can be called on to serve as patient companion in-home settings or local nursing facilities.

·         In a home setting volunteers provide respite to caregiver and/or patient companionship 2 hours, once a week. Respite for caregivers allows them time to get things done around the house or complete errands/appointments outside the home. You will often be left alone for up to 2 hours with in-home patients and will be given information on patient needs.  Volunteers will not be expected to provide skills-based/hands-on care.

·            

·         Hospice training provided/required.

·         Once you are placed with a patient/family you will provide regular, once weekly respites until the patient passes or your service is no longer needed. Placements can last only day/s or several months depending on the progression of the illness.

·           If you volunteer in a nursing facility you will visit one (or more) of our VNA hospice patients s in need of a companionship. These visits are generally shorter and typically include patients of advanced age with some dementias or patients who are sleeping more, in decline and families requesting calm presence.

·         There is no ‘Hospice House’ located in Lawrence, KS so volunteer visits occur in patient homes or facilities.                *You will need to have a car/transportation.

It’s best if you have availability that would allow you to:

·         Make visits during the weekday, once weekly for approximately 2 hours (until patient passes or service no longer needed. These placement timelines differ from weeks to months.)

·         Make visits during the late morning or early afternoon. (common examples: 10am – noon or 2-4pm )

·         Only available weekends? Placements are available during weekend hours as a friendly visitor for hospice patients in facility care. However, In-Home volunteer requests for regular volunteer support on weekends is less common. Please consider these limitations regarding volunteer requests if you are only available weekends.

·         One time or short-term requests happen on occasion for caregivers needing to attend appointments or in need of support for short period of time.

·         We also need volunteers willing to sit ‘vigil’ for patients who are actively dying.  You will sit with patients who will mostly be unresponsive or in need of reassurance/presence.  If you are also interested in late night vigil opportunities, please let me know.

Referrals for Hospice volunteers are requested of me by the patient’s Hospice social worker. Since volunteer placements are variable depending on referrals and volunteer availability, I’m not able to guarantee you will volunteer regularly every month. It just depends on the number of referrals and your ability to accept those placement requests. The longer you are able to volunteer, the more experiences and opportunities you will have to serve a variety of patients/families.

If you can be flexible regarding these changing commitments but still have availability, we can call on that would be best. Of course, a compassionate heart, ability to listen as well as a sense of humor and open mind will be of great benefit in this work.

To learn more about our Hospice volunteer program you are welcome to view the Hospice Volunteer Orientation Video:

         Hospice Volunteer Orientation Video Link:  http://youtu.be/7aATvGDpMk8

Volunteer Lead is needed for new respite program in Topeka.  Working with early to moderate stage dementia. We play games, serve lunch and have fun with our dementia friends. 

Volunteers act as a liaison between family members and surgery/recovery room staff by escorting family members to consultation rooms to talk with doctors and answering the telephone.

SENT and our community partners are working hard on moving the Fremont Hill project forward and we are looking for volunteers to help keep the hill clean until we break ground. 

The Front Desk Greeter plays a critical role in creating a welcoming volunteers, agency partners, and vendors to the Kansas Distribution Center. The volunteer in this role will be responsible for providing friendly and eff0icient customer service, handling inquiries, and facilitating communication within the organization.

Responsibilities:

Greet and welcome visitors, volunteers, and partners in a friendly and professional manner.

Answer general inquiries from visitors directing them to the appropriate staff or resources.

Support administrative tasks such as data entry, answering phone calls, and accepting deliveries.

Other tasks as needed.

Commitment:

This is an onsite position at Harvesters Kansas Distribution Center

Requires a weekly commitment of 10 hours, with flexible scheduling available.

Must be able to commit to a regular volunteer schedule.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to interact with diverse groups of people.

Basic knowledge of computer skills for data entry and email communication.

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

Additional Requirements:

Candidates must successfully complete an interview and a background check.

Training and Support: Volunteers will be provided with comprehensive training and ongoing support from the Kansas Distribution Center team, ensuring they are fully equipped for their responsibilities.

This is an active role in the hospital. Volunteers in our SPD department deliver supplies and stock linens on the nursing floors.

Requirements

This is an active role in the hospital. Volunteers in our SPD department deliver supplies and stock linens on the nursing floors.

Requirements

This is an active role in the hospital. Volunteers in our SPD department deliver supplies and stock linens on the nursing floors.

Requirements

This is an active role in the hospital. Volunteers in our SPD department deliver supplies and stock linens on the nursing floors.

Requirements

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)

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)

Volunteers assist customers in our Gift Shop. 

Requirements

*2 out of 5 shoes (Some walking)

*Must complete application found on website 

Volunteer | The University of Kansas St. Francis Campus (kutopeka.com)

Volunteers assist customers in our Gift Shop. 

Requirements

*2 out of 5 shoes (Some walking)

*Must complete application found on website 

Volunteer | The University of Kansas St. Francis Campus (kutopeka.com)

Volunteers assist customers in our Gift Shop. 

Requirements

*2 out of 5 shoes (Some walking)

*Must complete application found on website 

Volunteer | The University of Kansas St. Francis Campus (kutopeka.com)

In this key position, volunteers escort patients being admitted to the hospital, run errands and help with light clerical work. (Includes pushing wheelchairs)

Requirements

*5 out of 5 shoes (lots of walking)

In this key position, volunteers escort patients being admitted to the hospital, run errands and help with light clerical work. (Includes pushing wheelchairs)

Requirements

*5 out of 5 shoes (lots of walking)

A Eucharistic Minister is a parishioner, selected by the Pastor and mandated by the Bishop. Brings communion to patients in the hospital identifying as catholic . 

Requirements

*Must be catholic

* Must be 18+ years

*Requires a lot of Walking 5 out of 5 shoes

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

You will never be bored in this busy and popular volunteer assignment as you act as liaison between family members and surgery/recovery room staff. Volunteers log information as each patient moves from Pre-op, surgery, recovery and to their room. Volunteers also inform family members at each stage, answer the phone and take family members to consultation rooms to talk with doctors. A ready smile, flexible nature and good organizational skills are key in this area

Requirements

* Requires some walking 3 out of 5 shoes 

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

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 juices. Please help us share an upbeat messages in each one of these boxes. You can scrapbook or decorate a card and include a handwritten, up-beat message.

Any quantity of cards will gladly be accepted. This is a great project for individuals or groups (faith-based, schools, service organization, etc.). One hour of service will be given for every 10 handmade cards completed. Please note if cards are purchased and not handmade, volunteer hours will be credited at the discretion of Harvesters' staff.

Service hours are only credited for non-legal purposes and limited to 8 hours (80 cards) per month. 

In order to receive service hours, cards must meet the following guidelines.

Once cards are completed they can be mailed or drop off at: 

Harvesters Kansas Distribution Center

Attn: Community Engagement Team

1220 Timberedge Road

Lawrence, KS 66049

Make sure to include your contact informaiton so that we can log your service hours: first & last name, email address, and phone number. 

Harvesters appreciates the opportunity to participate as a receiving organization for individuals who need to complete court-ordered community service hours. Harvesters maintains an orderly, safe and productive environment that will benefit the organization and those needing to complete service hours.

Harvesters utilizes court-ordered Community Service Workers (CSWs) to perform a variety of tasks in its warehouse operations. By doing so, Harvesters is able to increase the efficiency of employees and other volunteers throughout the organization. The following guidelines are designed to provide structure, organization and security for the program.

Community Service Workers need to be willing and able to lift up to 50 pounds. Jobs will vary; from emptying trash in various departments into a trash dumpster, crushing cardboard into a compactor, sweeping, and other cleaning projects, etc. There are no light-duty community service opportunities.

Please note: No persons are allowed whose offense involves violence and/or sexual misconduct. No persons are allowed whose offense is theft or shoplifting. 

For additional questions please contact the community engagement team at fighthunger@harvesters.org or 785-861-7700 and ask for Mary. 

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 Topeka Community Engagement 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. 

Seeking individuals to help develop a resilience program for youth based on the social emotional learning standards. Team members will conduct research on the 7 C's of Resilience developed by Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg (Competence, Coping, Character, Connection, Confidence, Contribution, and Control) and develop a framework for integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) with character development so youth will learn, practice and apply life skills that contribute to emotional health, academic, and social growth.

The curriculum will follow the Positive Youth Development framework. We will identify core principles that guide the curriculum, followed with age-appropriate activities and skills. This team will also assist with building a rubric to measure progress. 

Let's Help is looking for someone to assist in grant writing, preparation and submission process. Please inquire for more information. 

THIS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY RUNS ALL YEAR, THERE IS NO END DATE

Organization: YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment (CSE)

Position Title: Text-to-Chat Hotline Support Volunteer

Opportunity Overview:

The Text-to-Chat Hotline was created to increase our outreach to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking. This hotline provides accessibility to those who may face communication challenges, ensuring they receive the support they need. As a Text-to-Chat Hotline Support Volunteer, you will play a crucial role in offering information, crisis counseling, and referrals to those who utilize the text-to-chat hotline for assistance.

Key Responsibilities: 

Qualifications: 

Benefits:

This volunteer opportunity is ideal for students in the Psychology, Social Work, and Human Service fields! Not only will you gain volunteer hours, but you will also contribute to making a meaningful impact within the community while gaining valuable experience in the social services industry. As a volunteer, you will receive about 40 hours of training, providing you with the opportunity to volunteer in other areas of the organization as well.

Why Volunteer with YWCA CSE: 

Join our team of compassionate volunteers and help us extend a lifeline to those in need through our Text-to-Chat Hotline. Your dedication will make a real difference in the lives of victims and survivors, providing support and empowerment during their challenging times.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Your commitment will help us expand our reach and provide crucial services to those who need them most.

The Heartland Area Chapter for AFS is looking for a volunteer Treasurer. This person would keep track of expenses on a simple word or excel document.  Collect receipts and reimburse expenses for student events such as orientations , group events and activities out of our chapter funds. Two or three times within the year these expenses will be submitted to the AFS office in New York... Support is available at all times and the work load is minimal, we are a small Chapter with few expenses... Anyone interested would need to register as an AFS Volunteer with a background check..  No prior experience is needed. People looking to meet new faces from different countries or has a finance background would find this low key position enjoyable..  please contact audralou3@yahoo.com 

Our Front Desk Volunteer Receptionist is the first stop for all visitors to Topeka Civic Theatre. This important role will align with our mission to bring our diverse community together to learn about, experience and celebrate the joys of live Theatre.

The Front Desk Volunteer Receptionist will greet guests as they visit our administrative office, answer phones, direct visitors to their desired locations and answer questions as they arise.  There is also an important component of clerical work in this position such as proofreading, copying, scanning, stuffing envelopes and other essential tasks to keep our organization running smooth.  This position is broken up in segments of three-hour shifts, Monday through Friday between 9am and 6pm.

This is a great opportunity for anyone that is looking to help a not-for-profit institution that may have an appreciation for the arts, theatre and the Topeka community!  Get to know and be a part of the team that cultivates and creates live theatre for audiences young and old.   If you are interested in chatting about this opening, please email Jason Smith at Jason@TopekaCivicTheatre.com

This group will help maintain the native plant gardens at Hidden Valley Camp. There are six of these, the Entrance Garden, Evelyn's Attic Garden, Memorial Butterfly Garden (and others around the brick cabin), Redbud Sidewalk Gardens, Wetland Garden on the wetland berm, and the Bioswale Garden in Dogwood Forest. We can provide tools; we recommend you bring your own gardening gloves. Thank you for assisting us in promoting native plants at the Camp!

This opportunity is provided by Durand Reiber. Please contact her at durandi@sunflower.com

Job Overview:

The Fight 4 Light Foundation is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic student volunteer/intern to assist with the reorganization efforts of our nonprofit organization. As a Personal Assistant, you will work closely with the founder, Meagan, to pivot our organizational strategy, streamline operations, and enhance our impact on the lives of stalking victims and survivors. This volunteer opportunity offers valuable hands-on experience in nonprofit/business management, strategic planning, and program development, while making a meaningful difference in our community.

Key Job Responsibilities:

Requirements:

What You Can Expect to Gain:

Overall, the Volunteer Personal Assistant role for Nonprofit Reorganization at The Fight 4 Light provides interns with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in nonprofit/business management, strategic planning, and program development, while also offering valuable mentorship, community engagement opportunities, and entrepreneurial skills development. It's an excellent opportunity for students to make a meaningful impact while furthering their professional and personal growth.

Join us in our fight against stalking and help us create a safer, more supportive community for all. Apply now to become a Volunteer Personal Assistant for Nonprofit Reorganization at The Fight 4 Light!

Help love our neighbors through the curb appeal program. 

Assist teacher in English as a Second Language class for Hispanic students at the Topeka Public Library. 

English classes are currently held on Monday and Thursday nights 6:30 to 8 pm at the Topeka Public Library.

Assistants will take roll, handout assignments, work with students on assignments, assist teacher in teaching and managing classroom. Textbook, classroom assignments and curriculum guidance is provided.

Fluency in Spanish is recommended but is not required.

English classes are currently held on Monday and Thursday nights 6:30 to 8 pm at the Topeka Public Library.

Duties: Work with Hispanic students teaching the basics of English usage, grammar, and conversation. Textbook and curriculum guidance provided.

Fluency in Spanish is NOT required.

Thank you for donating a meal for our guests at the Lawrence Community Shelter! All meal donations must be scheduled and approved in advance. Meal donations must be prepared in a safe-certified or similarly regulated kitchen for quality assurance. Homemade donations are NOT accepted. However, you can volunteer to cook in the shelter kitchen instead.

Please reach out to schedule your meal donation. You will receive instructions for preparing meals, the number of servings, and noting common allergens.

THIS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY RUNS ALL YEAR, THERE IS NO END DATE

Welcome to the first point of contact for all visitors at the YWCA! Join us in making connections, utilizing your experience, and making a positive impact in your community. As a Front Desk Reception Volunteer, you will play a vital role in embodying our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Key Responsibilities:

Opportunities for Utilizing Your Skills and Experience:

Volunteer Shifts:

Join our team of volunteers and make a significant impact by creating a welcoming and supportive environment at the YWCA. Your expertise and dedication will contribute to improving the lives of women, families, and the community.

SparkWheel is in need of volunteers to provide in-class tutoring for math, Mondays through Fridays at the following times:

3rd Grade – 1:55 pm to 2:55 pm

4th Grade – 11:20 am to 12:20 pm

5th Grade – 12:35 pm to 1:35 pm

Volunteers don't need to be available to provide assistance for all open sessions. However, each volunteer will need to commit to providing support to students within the hours identified on any of the school days.

For more information regarding this volunteer position, please contact Imelda Panuco, Student Support Coordinator at State Street Elementary School by email at imelda.panuco@sparkwheel.org. 

Many of the parents and caregivers served by Sparkwheel experience barriers to engaging in their student’s education (e.g., poverty, trauma, discrimination, etc.). Moreover, they may not feel welcome to take a more active approach in their student’s education. The purposes of this program are to provide support, validation, and a sense of community for parents and caregivers of students at Ross Elementary School. The intention of this adult-to-adult parent/caregiver mentor program is to empower parents and caregivers to advocate for their family’s needs and the educational needs of their students. 

Parents and caregivers who have been referred to the program will be paired with parent/caregiver mentors who have had experience navigating education and other systems on behalf of children in their care. The mentors will also be residents of southeast Topeka, and therefore, familiar with the community and neighborhoods surrounding Ross Elementary School.

SparkWheel is in need of volunteers to provide English language supports for students at State Street Elementary School, Mondays through Fridays, between the hours of 8:40 am and 3:30 pm in pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and first grade students. Volunteers don't need to be available to provide assistance for all hours in the school day. However, each volunteer will need to commit to providing support to students for 1 to 2 hours each week.

For more information regarding this volunteer position, please contact Imelda Panuco, Student Support Coordinator at State Street Elementary School by email at imelda.panuco@sparkwheel.org. 

THIS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY RUNS ALL YEAR, THERE IS NO END DATE

Organization: YWCA Northeast Kansas

Mission: Join us at YWCA and be part of our mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Position Title: Student Volunteer - Front Desk Reception

Opportunity Overview: 

Calling all student volunteers! Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on your community while gaining valuable skills and insights into the world of non-profit work? As a Student Volunteer in our Front Desk Reception role, you will play a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for our visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

Welcome and assist a diverse range of individuals, including:

Opportunities for Skill Development:

Volunteer Shifts:

Why Volunteer with YWCA: 

Join our team of Student Volunteers and embark on an exciting journey of personal growth, community engagement, and non-profit experience. Your dedication and enthusiasm will contribute to creating positive change and empowering individuals and families in our community.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact with YWCA. Your commitment will help us advance our mission and support individuals and families in need, fostering a more inclusive and just community for all.

THIS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY RUNS ALL YEAR, THERE IS NO END DATE

Organization: YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment (CSE)

Mission: Join the impactful mission of YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment (CSE), dedicated to providing vital support and confidential services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking in Shawnee, Jackson, and Wabaunsee Counties, Kansas. We strive to create a safer community through our comprehensive safety initiatives and empowering programs.

Position Title: Front Desk Volunteer

Opportunity Overview: As a Front Desk volunteer with YWCA CSE, you will play a crucial role in assisting survivors and furthering our mission.

Here's how you can make a difference:

In this position, you will have the unique opportunity to directly support survivors, making a profound difference in their lives. To ensure the highest level of care, completion of our Advocate Training Program and a background check are required.

Shifts Available:

Why Volunteer with YWCA CSE: 

Join our dedicated team of volunteers and become an advocate for change in your community. Together, we can create a safer, more empowered future for survivors of violence. 

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact with YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment. Your dedication will help us provide essential support and services to survivors, fostering a safer and more empowered community.

THIS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY RUNS ALL YEAR, THERE IS NO END DATE

Organization: YWCA Northeast Kansas Human Trafficking Day Center

Mission: Join the impactful mission of the YWCA Human Trafficking Day Center, where dedicated advocates like you make a profound difference in the lives of survivors. 

Position: Day Center Volunteer

Opportunity Overview: 

As a Day Center Volunteer, you will be an invaluable source of support for our guests, providing them with a compassionate presence during their journey to healing. Step into a vital space where we address our clients' most fundamental needs, offering a safe sanctuary to rest, rejuvenate, enjoy nourishing meals, access clean clothing, and receive unwavering support from our specialized staff and the community.

Key Responsibilities:

Volunteer Shifts: 

Requirements:

Why Volunteer with YWCA: 

Join our dedicated team of advocates at the YWCA Human Trafficking Day Center, where your contribution will shape a brighter future for survivors and foster a community rooted in compassion and empowerment. Together, we can create lasting change.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Your dedication will help us provide essential support and services to survivors, fostering a more compassionate and empowered community.

An ongoing tradition of the Lawrence St Patrick's Day Parade Committee is the request for volunteers to represent the parade as Queen or King Candidates. The job for these royals is two-fold: (1) to contact local and regional businesses and organizations to collect a variety of donations for the parade's 10+/- events; (2) to help as volunteers for the events leading up to parade day. 

Each year the parade committee selects one candidate to be its special representative in the pageantry of the St. Patrick's Day Parade, with the other candidates also participating as part of the Royal Court. Committee members vote for the Queen or King based upon efforts in obtaining charitable contributions, assisting with the parade activities, and overall congeniality. Choosing only one of these worthy people is a difficult task and in no way diminishes the efforts of any of the others or the pride that all we feel in their achievements.

What these candidates accomplish each year is at the very least remarkable. This is the most fun volunteer opportunity in Lawrence, and it forevermore welcomes its participant into a long-standing Lawrence tradition. All ages are encouraged to participate.   

Share your leisure time passion with others.  Facilitate participants in learning new leisure time activities.  Encourage participants to believe they can learn new things and create exciting projects. Examples of activities could be Stain Glass, Scrapbooking and Card Making, Line Dancing, Air Dry Clay, or Sewing and Quilting. Let us know what you would be willing to teach us.

Welcoming face or voice for people coming in to or calling the center.  Light clerical. Low traffic environment with fun loving people.

The Surgery Waiting Volunteers act as a liaison between families waiting for loved ones in surgery and the Surgery staff and physicians. The Surgery Waiting Volunteers communicate with family members when they are ok to go visit the patient, updates from staff, and act as a general support for families as they wait. These volunteers work closely with the Surgery/Recovery Room nursing staff, physicians, and Admissions staff. 

General shifts are Monday through Friday, 8am-12pm and 12pm-4pm. Our biggest need right now is in the afternoons and general subs to fill in as needed.

For more information and to apply online, visit www.lmh.org/volunteer. 

The LMH Health Volunteer Wayfinders assist patients and guest as they enter the building, including assisting with wheelchairs, walking and wheeling patients to their destinations, and assisting with general questions. We have need for Wayfinders at both the main campus and West campus locations. 

For more information and to apply online, please visit our website: www.lmh.org/volunteer 

The LMH Health Gift Shop provides a welcoming space for patients and guests to shop while giving back to the organization.

Volunteers in the shop help at the register to ring up guest purchases, assist with organizing, labeling, and merchandising new stock, and answers questions as needed.

The shop is currently open Monday through Friday, 10am to 4pm. Volunteer shifts are 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm.

If you are interested in learning more or applying to volunteer at LMH Health, please visit our website: www.lmh.org/volunteer

Seeking Head Garden Volunteer for AR Sensory Garden to manage garden on an ongoing basis. Duties include oversight and coordination with staff and other garden volunteers to manage the sprinkler, mulching, weeding, planting, and planning for seasonal and annual changes.  Application required; complete a volunteer application at reader.ku.edu and you will get an email regarding volunteer orientation.

The concept of a sensory garden is unique: to provide an outdoor environment that stimulates a variety of senses, making the garden particularly accessible to individuals with visual impairments and other disabilities. Plantings include those that are very fragrant or have interesting textures. Plants are labeled with special markers that identify the plant in Braille and in print.

When you stroll through the Audio-Reader Sensory Garden, you are encouraged to explore the garden with your fingers, your nose, and your ears — to touch, feel, smell and listen. This is a hands-on garden and visitors are encouraged to use several of their senses in order to enjoy all of the delights that the garden has to offer.

Children, adults, and seniors — sighted and sight-impaired — revel in the opportunity to experience this unique garden. In order to activate the fragrance of a plant, you may need to gently rub the leaf between your fingers. This also allows you to experience the unique texture of each plant. Wind chimes, a bubbling rock fountain, song birds, the chiming of the nearby Campanile, and even the sound of the KU marching band wafting from the nearby football stadium provide wonderful sounds to enjoy. 

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

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.

Each Thursday we serve a free vegan meal from 11:30 - 1:30. We need volunteers between 9:30 am to 3:30 pm 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. Be sure to indicate which date(s) you are available to volunteer for. 

Every Wednesday while KU is in session, we need volunteers to come help prepare a free vegan lunch, which we serve the following Thursday. Veggie Lunch prep begins every Wednesday at 4:00 pm and usually takes about 3 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 Monday, the ECM hosts Food Not Bombs' meal prep. Food Not Bombs provides free meals to the community each Monday, which they serve outside of the Lawrence Public Library. Food prep consists of cutting and preparing foods as well as some clean up after. This typically takes about 3 hours and begins around 1:30 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! Volunteers can also help serve food in front of the Lawrence Public Library from 5:00 pm to sundown.

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

We are looking for someone to translate our testing and case management forms to Spanish.

Assist our professional cook with preparing 130 to 160 meals a day for our early education students! This position entails food preparation for the classrooms and assistance in cleaning the kitchen. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Training: 

Support: 

Commitment: 

Skills and Qualifications:  

STYLISTS/BARBERS need to provide SIMPLE HAIR CUTS to HOSPICE PATIENTS in their home.

What:

Hospice Hair Cut (CARECUT) Volunteers: Provide in-home or in-facility haircuts for our hospice patients (male and/or female). 

When:

Work around your availability: Once month or less. Patient visit is typically 1 hour. 

Commitment is light and you can accept/decline requests depending on your personal schedule.

Requirements:

Application/Interview

Cosmetology skills/training and basic supplies (scissors, trimmers etc.) Only provide simple haircuts/trims - no wash/styling or perms

When you look better, you feel better. Help our hospice patients feel better! 

We are seeking 3-5 individuals who will assist us with wrapping diapers for our Diaper Depot progam. This program provides up to 50 supplemental diapers monthly to families in need. Requirements - must be able to stand or sit for up to 2 hours. Volunteers will meet in one of our air-controlled warehouses. 

Help Director stay organized and organize files and light clerical duties. 

Please join us in building affordable rental housing for emerging adults aging out of foster care. 

Flexible, interesting volunteer opportunities (Let us know when you want a change)

Leadership that values you and your work (Share your story with us)

Opportunity to bring your friends who share your interests (We love groups)

Ability to choose a time that works for you  (Make your own schedule)

Experience - You will be  one of many  individuals, corporations, and philanthropic foundations committed to launching an effective, high impact solution for the growing numbers of emerging adults aging out of foster care.  

Lasting impact that you will be able to point to whenever you drive down Chieftain Road.

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 coordinator works with local drivers to ensure rides are picked-up, help answer questions, help recruit additional drivers as needed.

Responsibilities include:

Hot meals are being served to those without a home or in need. Mon-Wed-Fri 10 am-2 pm.

We need helpers to cook & prep.

We also need helpers to ride along truck and serve.

Audio-Reader relies on volunteers to record a variety of publications including newspapers, magazines, and occasionally, books.  Volunteers must pass an audition consisting of a pronunciation test and a series of reading samples.  Most volunteers commit to a once-weekly reading assignment for a minimum of six months.

Orientation and auditions occur twice a year. Complete a volunteer application at reader.ku.edu and you will get an email when we announce the next round of volunteer onboarding.

Reading can be done at our Lawrence studios or at home.

Ballard has a fun opportunity to help serve the community as a volunteer in our clothing, food, and personal care pantry. We are looking for people who are passionate about serving the community, detail oriented, and who want to volunteer in an environment where there is always something to do...  

At the Ballard Pantry, volunteers help donors and clients have a good experience with the pantry. We organize the pantry, serve the public by appointment (one person, family or household at a time), and keep staff informed on any needs in the pantry that are not being met by current donations. In 2022 we served 7,000 unique clients through our pantry services and are slated to serve more this year! We would love to talk with you about joining the Ballard's Pantry team and help us meet the high demand for our services!

Help Make Our Gardens Grow!

Become part of the volunteer Ted Ensley Gardens Friend Group. The purpose of this group in partnership with Shawnee County Parks + Rec is to raise funds for the Ted Ensley Gardens.

Meetings occur on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 8:00am.

Help Make Our Gardens Grow!

Become part of the volunteer Ted Ensley Gardens Friend Group. The purpose of this group in partnership with Shawnee County Parks + Rec is to raise funds for the Ted Ensley Gardens.

Meetings occur on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 8:00am.

Wish Granters are volunteers that meet with a wish kid and their family in pairs to help them determine their one true wish. Wish Granters get to know the wish child by asking them their favorite things, playing games and interacting with them to really understand the most important parts of their wish. Wish Granters are trained by Make-A-Wish staff to ensure they are comfortable and have everything they need to help make the child's wish come true.  The Wish Granters work with the Make-A-Wish staff to make the wish come true.  It is a very rewarding volunteer opportunity which will bring hope, strength and joy to these amazing kids. 

People experiencing homelessness typically do not have access to fresh, organic produce or productive green spaces. However, at LCS, volunteers help maintain a thriving vegetable garden and bring fresh harvests to the people we serve. Guests will sometimes participate in gardening activities alongside volunteers to reduce stress and learn more about growing food. All experience levels welcome!

May volunteer as an individual or as a group.

Volunteers are indispensable to the work we do at LCS. We are happy to partner with community members of all abilities and talents in support of people experiencing homelessness in our shelter. Volunteers at LCS promote awareness about homelessness, organize donation drives, maintain a community garden, and help with day-to-day operations at the shelter. Volunteers are added to a scheduling app where they can view the LCS Volunteer Calendar, request shifts, and track their hours.

Visit our website to get involved, https://www.lawrenceshelter.org/volunteer/

Front Desk Volunteers contribute to the welcoming environment of the shelter by greeting visitors, answering phone calls, and providing information about services and local resources for people experiencing homelessness in Douglas County. Training is provided. Sign up to make sure community members who want to learn more about Lawrence Community Shelter or receive services get a caring person to answer their questions!

A scheduling app is used to view open shifts and request shifts. 

To sign up, please complete sign-up form  at: https://www.lawrenceshelter.org/volunteer/.

Office Volunteers enhance and promote the efficiency of LCS operations by providing valuable office support to staff. Responsibilities may include: answering phone calls, scanning documents, preparing mail, sorting digital files, and data entry. Qualified volunteers have the option to work on writing or graphic design projects. All office assistant volunteers must complete two training shifts to get started. Shifts are flexible.

To sign up, please complete sign-up form at: https://www.lawrenceshelter.org/volunteer/.

Anyone can experience homelessness and lose everything. Our guests depend on donations to receive clothing, toiletries, and other items.  Volunteers are responsible for greeting donors, providing donation receipts, logging new donations, and sorting those donations into the main inventory. Sign up and be the person who makes sure our donations are well-stocked and quality-assured. YOU can be the one to make sure our guests have their basic necessities met so they stay focused on finding housing.

A scheduling app is used to view open shifts and request shifts. 

To sign up, please submit sign-up form at: https://www.lawrenceshelter.org/volunteer/.

Servers are ESSENTIAL to keeping Lawrence Community Shelter guests fed while they are staying at the shelter! Servers will serve meals to guests through a cafeteria window during regular meal times. Servers are expected to help wash dishes. All guests at Lawrence Community Shelter are preparing to be housed from the moment they arrive. We need caring community members like YOU to make sure our guests see a friendly face while they are in a challenging moment of their lives.

Shifts may include 1-2 servers. A scheduling app is used to view open shifts and request shifts. Please arrive FIVE MINUTES EARLY for your shift. Lunch begins at noon. Dinner begins at 6pm.

To sign up, please complete the sign-up form  at: https://www.lawrenceshelter.org/volunteer/.

Position Overview: Assist in the organization and management of office supplies, library resources, and data entry. Able to answer the phone and connect people to Ballard staff as well as answer general questions about Ballard services. 

Key Responsibilities:  

Training:  

Support: 

Commitment:  

Skills and Qualifications:  

Update: Visiting Nurses requires Hospice Volunteers to provide proof of Covid vaccination prior to serving patients.

What:

Volunteer HOSPICE MASSAGE Therapists (or related touch therapy)

Provide volunteer massage for our hospice patients who will deeply benefit from this volunteer service.

When:

Once time, once a month or more often as your schedule allows.

Most hospice patients benefit from twice a month to once a week visits but volunteer around your schedule and availability.

Massages typically take place in the patient's home or nursing facility. Typical visit time is 30min-1hour.

Requirements:

Application/Interview

Training in modality and comfort working around patient's physical restrictions and understanding of contraindications.

Not needed: massage table or chair.

*Massage will take place in/on client surroundings: on couch, bed or chair/wheelchair.  Massages can be clothed or semi-clothed. Simple, light Swedish-style massage is most typically requested. Full body massages not requested. Site specific.

Find added purpose and fulfillment in your field through hospice massage.

On-boarding volunteers and getting them through the proper training as soon as they sign up. **Computer skills required. On-going position.

Assist in training of volunteers. **Computer skills required. On-going position.

We are looking for someone with good organizational and office skills to help out at our senior center.
The ideal candidate would be familiar with Microsoft Office, multi-phone systems, 

Do you like the idea of exercising outdoors, even in winter? Are you passionate about nature and the environment and want to do something to help improve wildlife habitat? Do you enjoy a good HOT campfire to warm up to?  Then the all-volunteer crew of Honeysuckle Warriors is right for you! We are a hard-working group of men and women that battle the highly invasive shrub honeysuckle, and we are always looking for more help!

Background: Shrub or bush honeysuckle was imported to the United States in the 50’s and touted as a great shrub for wildlife and erosion….evidently with very little research. It has become one of the most aggressive and destructive plants to invade our woodlands…and just about any open space it can find. It has changed the character and ecology of forests across the country, out-competing everything else, with drastic impacts on the food chain. Its shallow roots do not control erosion, and the plant does not provide the right food or shelter for out native wildlife. By the mid-1990s, the shrub had taken over almost the entire 40 acres of Hidden Valley Camp, closing up trails and drastically shrinking every campsite and open space. We have been working on taking out the mature shrubs ever since.

Volunteer Details: There is no time commitment to join the crew…you come when you can and stay for as long as you desire. We meet on weekdays from January through April or May, weather and schedules permitting, usually from 1-4 pm.  At the beginning of each week, after reviewing the forecast, an email is sent out to the group detailing the day, time frame, and location on the camp that we will be working.  A typical day begins with hauling water and tools and starting a fire in a fire ring, then cutting, hauling and burning of the wood down to biochar, which you can learn all about! We use loppers and hand saws (provided by the camp), and some volunteers bring their own chainsaws or reciprocal saws. Other tasks available to volunteers are cleaning fire rings and spreading of the biochar in trails, renovating and stocking woodpiles, picking up trash, checking saplings, spreading camp-collected native wildflower and grass seed, and more. When the weather is too wet or hot for fires (they do get REALLY HOT!), we work along trails or perimeter fence line.  We will only work when it is above freezing and there is not too much snow or ice on the ground.

New volunteers will be placed on a group contact list and be sent more details on how to prepare, what to expect, the scheduling process, and a map of the camp.

Requirements: Volunteers need to be able to maneuver over uneven and sometimes rough terrain, and provide their own work gloves, water bottle, durable shoes/boots, warm, layered clothing, and will be required to sign a Hold Harmless/Assumption of Risk waiver at each event. All other tools will be provided, although you may bring your own tools.

Age Requirements: this is primarily an adult activity, as it occurs during the weekday. However, teens 15 and over can join in with proper permission, or with an adult volunteer. Contact the Coordinator for more information.

Time Frame: weekly, January through May, weather permitting.  Always on weekday afternoons (day picked each week as per the forecast), generally 1-4pm.

Contact/more information: for more information or to be placed on the group email list, please contact Honeysuckle Warrior Coordinator Durand Reiber by email at durandi@sunflower.com

Capper Foundation is looking for individuals to assist with our weekly open swim. These volunteers will be responsible for making sure participants have appropriate paperwork on file, signing in and out swimmers and families, covering and uncovering the pool and monitoring and interacting with participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment.

Volunteers will assist youth, adolescents and adults swimming in our warm water therapy pool. Hours are every Wednesday from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with individuals with disabilities in a fun and enjoyable setting.

Great for students interested in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Teaching, or helping individuals with disabilities.

Help every week, every other week, once a month, or whatever works with your schedule.

With 40 acres of green space at Hidden Valley Camp, we have plenty of room to social distance in safe settings, with 90% of our volunteer needs being all outside!  We welcome individuals and families/groups, including businesses and school groups, to arrange for a service project through the Camp Manager. Weekdays are preferred, but weekend events for groups may be possible on occasion. Our needs are constantly changing, and assignments will be depend on current needs as well as the the individual or group abilities, ages, number of volunteers, and amount of time available.

Volunteer activity at the camp may include: 

 We try to match current needs with the group or individual; therefore the specific activity changes with time. We can handle groups up to 12 at this time. We can work with all ages with proper adult supervision. Minors under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. EVERYONE must sign two waivers when they arrive on site: a Hold Harmless/Assumption of Risk waiver, and a separate COVID-19 waiver. Those 15 and above may request  waivers ahead of time and bring the parent-signed form with them.