Opportunities From: United Way of Kaw Valley

The Fall Carnival is a much-anticipated annual tradition for Cordley Elementary School students and their families! It is a totally free event with games, prizes, activities and food. In order to make it run smoothly, we rely on volunteers to work the games, help at the prize table and manage the food and beverage station. That means, WE NEED YOU!

Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL) empowers families in housing crisis to achieve stabilization through community connections. Our Operations Volunteers play a vital behind-the-scenes role in making that mission possible—by keeping our spaces safe, functional, and welcoming.

Join Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL) in creating moments of comfort and connection for families working toward stable housing.

Every night of the year, FPL hosts families with children at the Mount Hope shelter—and every night, Hospitality Volunteers help make it feel like home by preparing or picking up dinner and sharing conversation around the table.

Care in Action: Volunteer to Repair and Refresh

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.

Share a Meal, Build a Community

Every night of the year, Family Promise of Lawrence (FPL) welcomes families with children to the Mount Hope shelter as they work toward stable housing. And every night, volunteers help make that space feel like home—with warm meals, friendly faces, and shared conversation.

Right now, we’re looking for three new Anchor Groups to join our incredible team of 33 volunteer groups (over 200 volunteers strong!) who make this mission possible.

We need your help to keep great books accessible to communities 24/7. As a volunteer, you will visit this Little Free Library in Topeka to distribute books once a month. This book-sharing box needs diverse books.

We're looking for a volunteer who can commit to distributing books to this Little Free Library for 3 months. We can suggest free or low-cost sources of books - or, if you're a bookworm yourself, you can distribute your own.  Approximately 20 books are needed each month, so whatever amount you can contribute would be appreciated! 

Register on our website to get started. After you register, we will send tips and resources. Little Free Library staff and the Little Free Library caretaker (the steward) can answer your questions along the way. 

The flexibility can't be beat: visit the Little Free Library whenever it fits in your schedule, as long as it’s being restocked monthly. 

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

Responsibilities:

Time Required: You set your own schedule. We're asking you to commit to just a few hours of collecting and distributing books each month. 

Resources Available: We will help you get started with some tips for book sources and using our Little Free Library app. 

Qualifications:

Benefits: Experience the satisfaction of getting books into the hands of more readers. You’ll get a free Little Free Library t-shirt after you record your impact in the Team LFL online hub!

Supervision & Support: You can connect with the Little Free Library steward or Brianna, the Community Engagement Manager, to ask questions. 

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. 

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

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

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

Call 785-232-2044x1487 or email Amy at abarter@midlandcc.org or visit our website at www.midlandcareconnection.org for an application. 

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. 

The Meals on Wheels is a busy hub of logistics and connections. The Office Support Volunteer helps in many ways, from printing, stuffing and labeling envelopes, to reviewing route sheets and prepping boxes for the next day. The office staff will train you on specific tasks. Flexible schedule. 

Looking our best makes us feel better, even at our most vulnerable times. We are looking for a few hair stylists and barbers to help our hospice patients feel their best. Whether your specialty is simple cuts, men's cuts, full service, or braids, your talents will be greatly appreciated. Patient care training will be provided. This is a service that has an incredibly powerful impact for our patients. Volunteer to brighten someone's day! 

A compassionate ear can make such a difference to a grieving family or individual. 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. 

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!

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.

Seeking volunteers to help out in the sensory garden.  We have regular garden shared work times on Thursdays (March to October) from 9:30 to 11:30.  Once a volunteer completes the application https://reader.ku.edu/volunteer-application as well as out orientation, volunteers can select hours that work for them to weed, water, sweep, trim and enjoying.  Hours are flexible, folks with some gardening background helpful; tasks include physical labor and exposure to the outdoors while weeding, planting, sweeping, trimming and enjoying the garden.  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. Take a moment to sit on one of the garden benches and enjoy the distinctive sounds of the garden.

Volunteer Advocates work closely with the Victim Advocate and staff advocates to provide after-hours direct service to primary and secondary victim-survivors of sexual trauma & abuse. Volunteer Advocates provide confidential, trauma-informed advocacy and support to victim-survivors of all ages and genders within Douglas, Franklin, and Jefferson Counties.

Training is 40 hours (usually over the course of 5-6 weeks) and is full of valuable information on sexual assault, counseling skills, and crisis support.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdrbosKeefLjfK1_HH--kfcWjn9DOEAN_8Ti1fVKu0vEog7Uw/viewform?c=0&w=1

*The CARE Center is committed to making sure our Advocates are diverse and representative of the community. We encourage men, Spanish language speakers, people with disabilities, Indigenous peoples & people of color, LGBTQIA+ people & survivors of sexual trauma to apply.

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.

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

Volunteer bell ringers are crucial to the Salvation Army's holiday fund raising efforts. When you ring bells at the iconic Red Kettles, you help provide food, shelter, and other essentials to your neighbors in need.

You can help us make a difference by volunteering to RING BELLS this Christmas season...

www.registertoring.com

God Bless You and Merry Christmas

We are looking for Volunteers to assist students in learning life budgeting skills.  The volunteers will work a table that provides options for students to learn how a monthly budget works.  We will have several tables/booth for communications, shopping, mortgage, health insurance, child care,  etc.  We the host provide feedback and guidance to the students as they make their financial decisions.  This is an in-person only event

We are looking for Volunteers to assist students in learning life budgeting skills.  The volunteers will work a table that provides options for students to learn how a monthly budget works.  We will have several tables/booth for communications, shopping, mortgage, health insurance, child care,  etc.  We the host provide feedback and guidance to the students as they make their financial decisions.  This is an in-person only event

We are looking for Volunteers to assist students in learning life budgeting skills.  The volunteers will work a table that provides options for students to learn how a monthly budget works.  We will have several tables/booth for communications, shopping, mortgage, health insurance, child care,  etc.  We the host provide feedback and guidance to the students as they make their financial decisions.  This is an in-person only event

The CCC Clothing Closet seeks consistent and creative volunteers to sort donations and design outfits and displays. When you join our team, you have a direct, meaningful, and early impact on the lives of children and families in your community.

Each year, the closet serves hundreds of families and redistributes thousands (over 20,000 in 2024!) of early childhood items from diapers and maternity wear to books and blankets.

An ideal clothing closet designer supports the closet team weekly or biweekly with 2-hour sorting sessions and is committed to the CCC's mission of bridging the gap in available, affordable, and accessible early childhood care in Douglas County. The closet and sorting spaces are relaxed and welcoming spaces.

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:

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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…

Volunteers are  needed to share their interests and talents with our guests or children. Do you like to play an instrument, make bead bracelets or crafts or put puzzles together? Do you have a hobby or interest that you enjoy speaking to others about.  We are looking for volunteers willing to come share their hobby or  teach a skill to our guests. This could be a one time share of information or once a month. Volunteers would be required to have a background check completed. This opportunity would be on a Friday from 1:00pm to 2:00pm starting in September. 

This could be a fun option for student groups to interact with our guests and children. Any minor under 18 must have adult(s) with the person/group.

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

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

This opportunity will take place outside in the shade. Weather permitting, will be moved inside.

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

Volunteers will refresh Winter Wonderland displays.

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

This opportunity will take place outside in the shade. Weather permitting, will be moved inside.

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

Front desk volunteers are often the first face clients see when they walk in. This role includes answering phones, checking in clients, helping with intake forms if needed, making copies of IDs and Social Security cards, sharing information about other community resources, and communicating with our Emergency Services Coordinator. Some general admin tasks may also come up.

Front desk volunteers are often the first face clients see when they walk in. This role includes answering phones, checking in clients, helping with intake forms if needed, making copies of IDs and Social Security cards, sharing information about other community resources, and communicating with our Emergency Services Coordinator. Some general admin tasks may also come up.

A hands-on, physical role that involves sorting donations, making food boxes, and weighing grocery recovery donations. Must be able to lift over 40 lbs and be comfortable with a fast pace.

Volunteers distribute food boxes, hygiene kits, refrigerated items, and pet food to clients. This role requires some lifting (around 25 lbs) and regular client interaction.

Volunteers distribute food boxes, hygiene kits, refrigerated items, and pet food to clients. This role requires some lifting (around 25 lbs) and regular client interaction.

Custodial Support
Volunteers help clean bathrooms, sweep, mop, vacuum, take out trash/recycling, wipe windows, and assist with basic upkeep throughout the facility.

When you sign up, please indicate your planned start and end time in the "Response Notes" section. The shifts listed here default to 8 am, but you can come in during any 2 hour period between 8 am-3 pm Monday through Thursday, or 8 am-1 pm on Friday. 

A behind-the-scenes role sorting, sanitizing, and preparing donated items for the clothing bank. Volunteers take in donations, sort them, and hang items for backstock.

A behind-the-scenes role sorting, sanitizing, and preparing donated items for the clothing bank. Volunteers take in donations, sort them, and hang items for backstock.

Clothing Bank Distribution
Volunteers assist clients with shopping in the Men’s, Women’s, Household, and Children’s Rooms. Tasks include restocking, organizing, bagging items, and helping monitor shopping areas.

Clothing Bank Distribution
Volunteers assist clients with shopping in the Men’s, Women’s, Household, and Children’s Rooms. Tasks include restocking, organizing, bagging items, and helping monitor shopping areas.

Volunteers help serve hot meals, beverages, desserts, silverware, and t-shirt bags and assist with counting how many individuals are served.

Hot Lunch Prep/Cooking Groups
Groups help prep meals, cook, wash dishes, and clean up afterward. The kitchen manager works with each group to plan the meal. Food is provided, but groups may bring donations if they want.

Hot Lunch Prep/Cooking Groups
Groups help prep meals, cook, wash dishes, and clean up afterward. The kitchen manager works with each group to plan the meal. Food is provided, but groups may bring donations if they want.

Hot Lunch Prep/Cooking Groups
Groups help prep meals, cook, wash dishes, and clean up afterward. The kitchen manager works with each group to plan the meal. Food is provided, but groups may bring donations if they want.

Front desk volunteers are often the first face clients see when they walk in. This role includes answering phones, checking in clients, helping with intake forms if needed, making copies of IDs and Social Security cards, sharing information about other community resources, and communicating with our Emergency Services Coordinator. Some general admin tasks may also come up.

Become a Self-Help Legal Resource Volunteer and make a significant impact in our community by supporting residents in accessing legal information and resources. This role is designed to be both rewarding and enriching, offering a supportive environment where your contributions are valued and your well-being is prioritized. 

What You’ll Do

Assist Residents: Guide clients in finding the correct legal forms and understanding court procedures, helping them navigate the self-help process effectively. 

Manage Data: Accurately record and track client interactions and requests, contributing to the enhancement of our services and resource management. 

Collaborate and Learn: Participate in training sessions and collaborate with a dedicated team, gaining valuable experience and developing your skills. 

Please Note:  Volunteers cannot provide legal advice or representation. Your role focuses on helping clients access the right resources and understand the self-help process. 

What We Offer

Valued Experience: Engage in meaningful work that provides hands-on experience in client support and office operations. 

Skill Development: Build essential skills in communication, organization, and data management in a practical setting. 

Supportive Environment: Work in a trauma-informed, supportive space where your well-being is important to us. We are committed to ensuring a fulfilling and balanced volunteer experience. 

Mutual Benefit: Enjoy a rewarding experience where your contributions make a real difference, and where both you and the community benefit from your involvement. 

Volunteers work directly with guests in the pantry by guiding them through the process and assist with bagging their items. Pantry volunteers may also be asked to restock shelves and help with overall organization.

Our pantries also need front desk volunteers. At the front desk volunteers will be asked to answer phone calls, check in guests, and input data into our Apricot database. Training will be provided for this position.

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.

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.

Summer 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 150+ 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.

Other Volunteer Opportunities:
 

Emergency Volunteers help people prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies. Douglas County Emergency Management (DCEM) offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. So whether you love the weather, are an amateur radio operator, or just want to be better prepared and help before, during and after disasters DCEM has four distinct ways to serve your community.

If you are interested in volunteering with Emergency Management, please visit our website to download an application. https://dgcoks.gov/em/volunteer

Center for Supportive Communities (CSC), a 501(c)3 nonprofit in Lawrence, KS, is now accepting applications for our 2025-26 Academic Tutor position. Are you retired? Are you an undergraduate or graduate student seeking real-world experiences that qualify for course credit or fulfill a service-learning or practicum/internship requirement? Are you looking to make a real difference in your community? As an Academic Tutor, you will play a critical role in supporting the academic success of K-12 students by providing one-on-one or small group tutoring sessions. Your guidance and mentorship will help students strengthen their understanding of core subjects, boost their confidence, and develop essential learning skills. This position is ideal for individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young learners.  

CSC encourages individuals and students from all backgrounds to apply.

Position Contact 

Behavior Health Mentor

Center for Supportive Communities

August 2025 – May 2026

Are you a college student seeking real-world experience for academic credit or a retired professional looking to stay active and give back to your community?

Considering a career change into education, social work, mental health, or advocacy?

Join the SupportEd program at the Center for Supportive Communities (CSC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to using behavior science to create meaningful change for youth, families, and the community.

This opportunity is ideal for:

✔ Undergraduate or graduate students completing course credit, practicums, or internships

✔ Retired individuals who want to remain engaged and make a difference

✔ Career changers seeking meaningful experience in the human services field experience

CSC’s Behavioral Health Mentor position offers you an innovative and comprehensive learning customized to meet your interests or educational requirements. CSC encourages students from all backgrounds to apply. Ask a faculty member to sponsor your hours with CSC for course credit

Position Contact

info@supportivecommunities.org

Position Title

Behavior Health Mentor

Position Dates

August 2025 – May 2026

Time Requirements

You must dedicate 5, 10, 15, or 20 hours each week. Many of your weekly responsibilities (other
than meetings with students) can be completed remotely and on your own time.

Position Location

Douglas County, KS (Lawrence, Eudora, Baldwin City, and Perry)

Position Responsibilities

·      Maintain a caseload of 1- 5 students 

·      Assist with intake and assessments 

·      Facilitate weekly 1.5 hour meetings per student

·      Implement individualized evidence-based interventions

·      Teach skills, provide academic support, and assist with problem-solving and goal setting

·      Serve as a liaison between families, schools, and community partners

·   Coordinate with mental health providers, child protective service workers, assistant district attorneys, and other allied health professionals.

       Collaborate weekly with families and schools

·      Attend weekly and as-needed supervisory meetings

·      Complete weekly documentation and progress reports

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Benefits & Perks

·      Opportunities for skill-building, career exploration, and educational growth

·      Flexible schedule to accommodate academic and personal commitments

·      Professional development and networking opportunities

·      Training in evidence-based practices

·      Direct clinical experience with children, youth, and families

·      Professional references upon successful completion of service

·      Mileage reimbursement for approved travel

·      Research opportunities (upon request)

Application Process

1.    Complete the online application: https://form.jotform.com/250154644351148.

2.    Participate in an interview with CSC.

3.    If selected, complete onboarding paperwork, health assessment, TB test, and background check.

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

This position is Fill in as needed when volunteers are off. Normal hours would be 9:00am - 2pm.  This area can be worked in half days as well.  You would assist clients in finding items, fold and sack their items, pull requested items from the back room, ie: sheets, towels, dishes.  When not assisting clients you can straighten up, and put away new donations in the room.  Mondays do not have clients, just straightening and replenishing the room with donations.

Braided Haven Mentor Program recruits and trains  a diverse group of individuals who are open and affirming, patient, kind, willing to give of themselves, and their time. Mentors engage with mentees to strengthen the relationship, but more importantly help build confidence and offer motivation.  We desire people who are open to fostering an environment for creativity, peace, hope, growth, and sense of family and ongoing support.

All mentoring provided is curated based on the needs of the mentee. One on One mentoring is offered for those who are interested and will participate in the Mentor/Mentee Matching process to assure the needs of the mentee for the greatest outcome, Youth entering the Braided Haven mentoring program will have access to a team of individuals to create a continuum of care for the mentee. 

Mentor/Mentee time should consist of the following but not limited to career development, academic support, and socialization. Whether it is a team or one on one session Mentors are encouraged to set goals within relationships to measure progress and to measure outcomes.

Mentees should expect to learn how to have healthy interactions and relationships. Participants should anticipate weekly visits, engage in goal setting and planning on how Mentor/Mentee time is spent. 

Mentors are expected to prepare youth for adulthood and young adults acclimatize into society with as much support as possible by providing practical tools and guidance to help achieve their individual dreams and goals.

Mentors are expected to support youth and young adults to cognitively process what it is to be LGBTQIA+ and how they're viewed in the society in which they live and empower them to engage their communities in a healthy and responsible way. 

Mentors will also be on-call for emergencies such as suicide prevention, or in response to a police call as a result of a violent incident.

Judges appoint CASA volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court and other settings. Responsibilities may include:

*Gather information: Review documents and records, interview the children, family members, and professionals in their lives.

* Document findings and appear in court: Provide written reports at court hearings. Advocate for the child’s best interests and provide testimony when
necessary.

* Help the child understand the court proceedings.

* Seek cooperative solutions among individuals and organizations involved in the children’s lives.

* Ensure that the children and their family are receiving appropriate services and advocate for those that are not immediately available.

* Bring concerns about the child’s health, education, mental health, etc. to the appropriate professionals.

Requirements:

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.

Currently we have a check-in desk for clothing room appts with one
opening as Fill In As Needed. You would answer the phones, greet
clients, fill out client intakes for services or clothing slips. You will work directly with the staff
with the hours being 9:00am - 2:00pm. Some previous office experience, and an ease in
working with clients helpful in this position.

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.

Volunteers needed to help at our well-loved community book sales!

What you'll do:

When we need help:

Why this helps:

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

This IS the right spot for you if:

Volunteers are needed to research and price new donations.

What you'll do:

When we need help:

Why this helps:

This ISN'T the volunteer spot for you if:

This IS the spot for you if:

Welcome new donations to the library!

What you'll do:

When we need help:

Why this helps:

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

This IS the right spot for you if:

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.

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)!

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

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

This volunteer position includes someone that can do basic clerical needs such as typing, filing organizing, and anything requiring me by the executive Director to help her with her paperwork. The grant researching part of this volunteer Position includes looking for grants to help nonprofits and any grants available.

Provide daycare during parent groups!

Tentatively we have the following needs at a variety of locations in Topeka: Mondays 5:30-8:00PM, and the 3rd Tuesday of every month 5:30-8:00PM, and other days/times as needed. 

To apply please visit:  https://www.kcsl.org/how_options.aspx and click 'Apply Now.'

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.

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.

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.

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/

Come join our caring and dedicated team as an Office Administrative Volunteer.  We are seeking individuals to assist with office support by performing the following administrative tasks: filing, data entry, copying, mail-outs, organizing the supplies, and making patient informational packets.  Additionally, fun seasonal and special projects as needed! 

This is a great opportunity for any teens 16+ who require community service hours for school or just want to gain experience for their résumés. We are a fun professional group of individuals committed to providing the best care to our patients!  Training and guided onboarding will be provided by Ascend and must be completed before volunteering! 

Each year, Successful Connections distributes over 500 cuddle blankets to new mothers and their babies in Shawnee County. These blankets serve as a heartfelt gift during their first interaction, offering warmth and comfort at a crucial moment. For some moms, this may be the only new item they receive for their baby. Beyond providing comfort, cuddle blankets help foster trust and open conversations. Many new mothers struggle to express their needs, and this small gesture serves as an icebreaker—creating a welcoming space to discuss available resources and support.

Get Involved!
Making cuddle blankets is a simple yet impactful way to volunteer from home. It’s also a great team-building activity for workplaces, volunteer groups, family gatherings, and community events. These no-sew blankets are easy to make, and all materials are provided.

To learn more or organize an event, email info@east.ks.childcareaware.org or call 785-357-5171.

Join us in making a meaningful impact by volunteering for the food distribution at Robinson Middle School. Your time and effort will help ensure that families in our community have access to the essential nourishment they need. Together, we can make a difference--sign up today and be a part of this vital cause.

Types of drivers are needed:
 

What happens when I decide to volunteer?

Each day, Lawrence Meals On Wheels delivers approximately 150+ 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.

Other Volunteer Opportunities:
 

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 3:00-4:00 and Wednesday sessions are from 1:30-2:30. Spaces are limited and new inquiries will be accepted until March 10, 2025.

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

LINK (Lawrence Interdenominational Nutrition Kitchen) is looking to fill its Weekday Coordinator position. The Weekday Coordinator is responsible for helping LINK's volunteer serving groups serve free meals at LINK on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. (and other weekday holidays when the Salvation Army is not serving a meal) to anyone in the Lawrence community. While the meal is served during those times, the Weekday Coordinator is on site at LINK from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m to help prepare the kitchen, assist the serving group with getting the meal read to serve, greet and interact with LINK's guests, clean up the dining room and kitchen after the meal with the assistance of volunteers, and other duties that arise. The Weekday Coordinator also is responsible for preparing the meal on days when no volunteer serving group has signed up to volunteer. This is a perfect opportunity for a retired person, someone looking to get experience working with marginalized populations, someone who wants to learn about working in and running a kitchen, or someone looking for an opportunity that really matters and makes a different in people's lives.  If you are interested in learning more about this position, please contact Amy Carlson at 785-691-7940. 

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

Seeking someone to help create marketing materials for social media, website, and outreach. 

Help unload one of our weekly food deliveries from harvesters. Heavy lifting may be required.

Be a park hero! Volunteer at Central Park and make a difference in our community! By joining us, you'll help keep our green spaces clean, safe and a stunning place to enjoy and have fun! Plus, you'll be part of a movement that boosts civic pride, community spirit, and quality of life. Sign up now and lend a hand to help keep Central Park amazing! 

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 2025 Beneficiaries are: 100 Good Women, Ecumenical Campus Ministries, and Theatre Lawrence

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, March 7, 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 2025 Beneficiaries: 100 Good Women, Ecumenical Campus Ministries, and Theatre Lawrence

Silverbackks is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves the Topeka community and we are looking for passionate, decisive, innovative leaders to serve on our board of directors. Silverbackks is a grassroots volunteer organization formed in July 2011 and is run by volunteers. The organization does not own any property and does not currently have any employees.We are a troop of volunteers standing with those who need help standing on their own. The leadership of a strong board of directors is needed to make the policy decisions that will take Silverbackks into the future.

Silverbackks is as much about building community as it is about feeding and caring for those in need in Topeka. Encouraging community among those we serve is an important outcome of Silverbackks—many of those we serve often feel isolated and without hope. Building community among our volunteers and providing volunteers with opportunities to learn, serve, and grow enhances the effectiveness of our efforts.

Since its founding, an unpaid operations manager has overseen and handled all of the administrative responsibilities of the organization. This individual has a high-level full time career and has transitioned out of the role of operations manager. The current board is creating a plan to hire a part-time staff position to take on these responsibilities.

Current Programs:

More information on Silverbackks programs can be found at www. silverbackks.org.

Silverbackks receives goods and tangible items donated by the community. including hygiene products, food and food service items for our feeding programs, and warmth items such as hats and gloves. A full list of tangible items we accept on donation can be found at www.silverbackks.org/wish-lists/. In the event these items are not donated to the extent needed to serve our clients, monetary donations are used.

People are generally quite pleased to donate money to a 100% volunteer run organization. It feels good to have your money used for direct services, rather than paying for staff and buildings. Silverbackks has been fortunate to receive generous financial support from the community and all programs are currently well-funded. In the future the organization will need to engage in fundraising to support a part-time staff position to fulfill the administrative responsibilities necessary to operate Silverbackks programs.

Organizations that have supported Silverbackks through either monetary or in-kind donations include the Amazon Smiles reward program, the Kroger Foods reward program, FHLBank Topeka, UPS, Topeka Community Foundation (through the Topeka Gives matching program), Davita, Stormont Vail, Advisors Excel, and various other churches and organizations.

Effective board members need to be involved in our programs as volunteers themselves. Choosing to occasionally prepare meals, hand out hygiene products, and serve meals in the evening and Sundays keeps the board in tune with how our programs function and familiarizes board members with the people we serve. In addition to participating in board meetings, board members are expected to volunteer from two to five hours each quarter of the year.

Champions for Silverbackks – We’re looking for cheerleaders, speakers, and connectors who will enthusiastically represent the organization to attract volunteers, donations of goods, and funding. Our board members are “chief volunteer recruiters” –we want you to invite your friends and associates to volunteer!

Strategic Thinkers and Planners – Silverbackks needs thoughtful and experienced leadership to continue serving our community’s needs. We’re looking for people with non-profit board strengths including financial management skills, strategic thinking/planning, the ability to work as a team to advance the mission of Silverbackks, effective communicators, and a passion for serving those in need in our community.

Fundraising – The part-time administrative position will need to be funded and the board will be responsible for fundraising to cover these expenses on an annual basis.

We are looking for 7 to 10 board members. Board terms are three years and board meetings are held quarterly. Interested in joining us to LEAD. HELP. BUILD. PROTECT? Please contact Isabel Huckins at (785) 267-2963 with questions.

Overview:
Join us in bringing joy to children at Hillcrest Community Center by baking and donating individual treats for our meal service! Many kids look forward to a special treat with their meals, and your contributions can make a big difference.

What We Need:
We're looking for volunteers who can bake a variety of treats—cookies, brownies, bars, or any individually packaged goodies that kids will love! Your creativity and passion for baking can help brighten a child's day.

How It Works:

Why Volunteer?
This is a wonderful opportunity to use your baking skills to make a positive impact in the community. Not only will you be providing delicious treats, but you’ll also be helping to foster a sense of care and support for the children at Hillcrest.

Overview:
Join us in bringing joy to children at the Community Center by baking and donating individual treats for our meal service! Many kids look forward to a special treat with their meals, and your contributions can make a big difference.

What We Need:
We're looking for volunteers who can bake a variety of treats—cookies, brownies, bars, or any individually packaged goodies that kids will love! Your creativity and passion for baking can help brighten a child's day.

How It Works:

Why Volunteer?
This is a wonderful opportunity to use your baking skills to make a positive impact in the community. Not only will you be providing delicious treats, but you’ll also be helping to foster a sense of care and support for the children at Central Park Community Center.

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.