Opportunities From: Connect2Community

Unity Adventure Foundation (Michigan-registered 501(c)(3)) is seeking University of Michigan student volunteers to support ethical community fundraising efforts that raise donations for Michigan families in need.

Volunteers will engage respectfully with community members at approved locations and events, share Unity’s mission, explain how donations directly support food and housing assistance programs, and invite optional contributions through secure donation methods (QR codes, kiosks, and online platforms).

This role emphasizes transparency, professionalism, and dignity. No pressure tactics, no commission-based solicitation, and no misrepresentation. Training, scripts, and supervision are provided to ensure all fundraising follows charitable compliance standards and best practices.

Volunteers gain hands-on experience in nonprofit development, public communication, and community engagement while making a real measurable impact in Michigan.

Time commitment is flexible (2–6 hours per week or one-time events).
Ideal for students interested in business, public policy, communications, social work, public health, psychology, or nonprofit leadership.

Volunteers are needed to protect the Great Lakes and other waterways. The Coast Guard is the primary federal response organization for marine pollution, and it receives more reports of pollution than it can respond to. As a volunteer environmental response investigator, you will be trained in the marine science of pollution and environmental protection law. Your job is to initially document a spill, assess its magnitude, forecast the consequences, recommend a cleanup strategy, identify who is responsible, and monitor the situation. (Note: environmental response investigators do not clean up pollution themselves.) Environmental response investigators may also participate in the response to natural disasters, mass casualties, and ship collisions. Environmental response investigators may choose to be on call for emergencies, or they may focus on simulations and trainings which have a predictable schedule. This job does not usually involve interacting with the public.

Benefits

This opportunity provides professional training relevant to maritime careers, environmental science, and/or boating, and will provide a boating license (in Michigan, called a boater education card). Working at a federal agency can be helpful for future government careers. You can achieve certifications in many areas, including leadership, that can be used on your resume. Successful participants are eligible for internships that offer course credit. You will receive insurance coverage and liability protection while volunteering. You will receive base exchange shopping privileges in Detroit and online. Training will be provided at no cost.

Qualifications

No prior experience is necessary. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is a uniformed service – you must be willing to acquire and wear a uniform in a professional manner. It is not necessary to serve on a boat: this job includes important work in a variety of settings. Because of this, your physical ability usually does not limit participation. If you incur expenses to volunteer (such as travel, uniforms, or meals if necessary) these are not usually reimbursed by the Coast Guard. US citizenship is required. 

Timing

Your hours and locations are varied and can be flexible, except for check-in/training meetings usually held Wednesdays at 7pm (these meetings can be done via Zoom). 

Process

Due to the training provided, this is a long-term opportunity. Initial training generally takes at least six months and includes a background check. If you express an interest you will be invited to visit a meeting as a guest and to discuss your interests and availability.

Join us Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 at Ypsilanti's historic Freighthouse. Help with minor restoration and maintenance to keep the legendary Freighthouse operational and beautiful.

Please wear closed-toe shoes.

No martial arts experience necessary. Team GUTS is looking for volunteers for our martial arts class to assist participants and encourage them. No martial arts experience is necessary, just a big heart. You will assist with not only being positive, but partnering up at times while holding pads and doing drills together. Our class is challenging, fun and so badly needed for those that don't have the same opportunities as others. No commitment as we will take you when you are available.

Our classes run on Saturdays.

todd@teamgutsmichigan.com

Join us Saturday, June 27th at Frog Island for a park cleanup! Help pick up litter and do a little maintenance of the park.   Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, as well as weather-appropriate gear such as drinking water or a rain jacket; the event may be cancelled in the case of severe weather. On-street parking is available on Roosevelt, we'll meet up at the tennis courts.  Registration is welcomed but not required.

Join us Saturday, July 25th in Recreation Park off Congress Street for a park cleanup!  Help pick up litter and do a little maintenance of the park.   Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, as well as weather-appropriate gear such as drinking water or a rain jacket. Off-street parking is available off Congress at Oakwood, we'll meet up at the pavilion. Registration is welcomed but not required

Join us Saturday, September 12, 2026 in Riverside Park off Cross Street for a park cleanup!  Help pick up litter and do a little maintenance of the park.   Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.

United Way works to ensure that families have the resources to help their children start school ready to learn and graduate prepared for success in life. We know that to ensure the future success of our region, we need to support our community’s children now.

Access to books is one of the strongest predictors of early literacy and future academic success. Children who grow up surrounded by books have stronger vocabularies, develop reading skills earlier, and perform better throughout their school years. Yet far too many families in our community lack access to age‑appropriate, engaging books at home.

To help increase access to reading materials in our community, United Way for Southeastern Michigan manages several Little Free Libraries across our region. These libraries are stocked with books that families and children can take and enjoy, helping foster an early love of reading. We also distribute books through community events and to our community partners throughout the region.

Click here to purchase books from our Amazon wishlist.

Do you like traveling with a dog companion?

Dog Transport Drivers use Leader Dog vehicles to provide safe, timely, efficient travel for Leader Dog dogs in training, breeding stock dogs, or puppies to and from the Leader Dog campus. This includes local or regional transportation, as well as in-state and out-of-state travel for dogs coming in for training, including dogs raised at correctional facilities. Transport drivers will also pick up puppies and breeding stock that have been donated to Leader Dog. Some drives require overnight travel.

Volunteers may choose the drives they wish to pick up but at least one drive per quarter is required, several times per month is desirable.  Volunteers in this role provide a vital service and save valuable time and money for Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Qualifications:

TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS POSITION, please use the following link: https://www.volgistics.com/od/25879/assignment/68/profile

At Avalon, housing is a human right. Our mission is to build healthy, safe and inclusive supportive housing communities as a long-term solution to homelessness. Avalon Housing is a non-profit supportive housing provider. Supportive housing is a combination of affordable housing paired with services, such as case management. We don’t just help people find housing, we help people stay and thrive in their homes.

If you are passionate about creating more diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities where all people are welcome, Avalon may be a good fit for you.

Avalon operates food pantries at a number of our properties. Avalon’s Food Pantry Volunteers will work with both our Community Building team and our tenant group on all aspects of running the food pantry.

Volunteers may need to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.

Job Title: Food Pantry Volunteer

Reports To:

Location: On-site at one or more of our Food Pantry locations:

Compensation: This is an unpaid and voluntary role. However, any direct and approved expenses related to the role will be reimbursed.

Please apply to this position on our volunteer application site here: avalonhousingvolunteers.applicantpro.com/jobs.

Avalon Housing is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants including applicants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as historically marginalized groups. This includes but is not limited to underrepresented gender identities, sexual/romantic orientations and/or relationship structures, people living with disabilities or mental health conditions, and with lived experience with homelessness or recovery from a substance use disorder, and people with underrepresented religious and/or socio-economic backgrounds. Avalon also encourages those with criminal histories to apply. Avalon doesn't request information about criminal histories until an offer of employment is extended. Avalon will not exclude someone based on criminal history unless it is determined the criminal history is related to or directly conflicts with the responsibilities of the position. We are committed to transparency about our decision making process, and will seek clarifying information from an applicant to help us make a determination in this regard.

At Avalon, housing is a human right. Our mission is to build healthy, safe and inclusive supportive housing communities as a long-term solution to homelessness. Avalon Housing is a non-profit supportive housing provider. Supportive housing is a combination of affordable housing paired with services, such as case management. We don’t just help people find housing, we help people stay and thrive in their homes.

If you are passionate about creating more diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities where all people are welcome, Avalon may be a good fit for you.

Avalon Housing’s main office has a front desk that serves our tenants, staff, and members of the community. Our Front Desk Volunteers provide coverage and help assist with questions and needs throughout the day.

Volunteers may need to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds.

Job Title: Front Desk Volunteer

Reports To: Aleah Pisarz, Volunteer Program Coordinator

Location: On-site at our main office: 1327 Jones Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Compensation: This is an unpaid and voluntary role. However, any direct and approved expenses related to the role will be reimbursed.

Please apply to this position on our volunteer application site here: avalonhousingvolunteers.applicantpro.com/jobs.

Avalon Housing is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants including applicants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as historically marginalized groups. This includes but is not limited to underrepresented gender identities, sexual/romantic orientations and/or relationship structures, people living with disabilities or mental health conditions, and with lived experience with homelessness or recovery from a substance use disorder, and people with underrepresented religious and/or socio-economic backgrounds. Avalon also encourages those with criminal histories to apply. Avalon doesn't request information about criminal histories until an offer of employment is extended. Avalon will not exclude someone based on criminal history unless it is determined the criminal history is related to or directly conflicts with the responsibilities of the position. We are committed to transparency about our decision making process, and will seek clarifying information from an applicant to help us make a determination in this regard

REGIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS - DETROIT MEMBERSHIP DESCRIPTION

In order to further the Read to a Child mission, regional board members generously volunteer their time, funds, ideas, and expertise to the organization. Specifically, members work to raise the profile and reach of the organization by engaging other corporate leaders and donors to support the organization’s work. The regional board is comprised of 12 members and includes a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. Members serve two-year, renewable terms. The regional board is an advisory entity, while the National Board of Directors holds legal responsibility for fiduciary oversight.

Organizational Overview

Read to a Child is a centralized national nonprofit organization, headquartered in Boston, MA and operating programs in five locations: Boston, Hartford, Detroit/Pontiac, Los Angeles, and Miami. The organization is governed by a national Board of Directors comprised of business and education leaders from across the country. The organization is led by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who is joined by staff members at headquarters and in all field locations. Detroit's team is lead by a Regional Director, Program Manager and a part-time staff member (the Program Coordinator) works on-site at every school where Read to a Child operates its Read Aloud Mentoring Program (formerly known and the Lunchtime Reading Program).

Read Aloud Mentoring Program

Read to a Child’s flagship Read Aloud Mentoring Program matches a caring adult with a schoolchild for a rewarding, read aloud experience, often during the child’s lunch break. The program provides a straightforward mechanism for citizens to become engaged in educational outcomes for students, increasing children’s prospects for becoming healthy, productive members of society.

Regional board members will:

Read to a Child is a national literacy and mentoring non-profit that fosters a love of reading, improves literacy skills, and empowers underserved children by inspiring adults to read aloud to them regularly. Research shows that reading aloud to children is the single most important activity for eventual success in reading, a key factor for success in school, work, and life.  When an adult reads aloud to a child, both parties have a joyful, rewarding experience that instills a love of reading, improves literacy skills, and enhances a child’s self-confidence. 

WHAT IS NEEDED? Volunteers are needed to serve as reading mentors for Kindergarten through fourth graders at local schools during their lunchtime. The goal is to instill a love of reading and provide social-emotional support.

WHEN DOES THE PROGRAM TAKE PLACE? WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT? Mentors attend 30 minute reading sessions with their student once a week or every other week through the end of the school year.

WHERE DOES THE PROGRAM TAKE PLACE? Volunteers participate in sessions at one of partner schools (https://readtoachild.org/locations/detroit/participating-schools-detroit/).

HOW ARE THE CHILDREN SELECTED FOR THE PROGRAM? Teachers select specific students to participate in the Read Aloud Mentoring Program because they are 1) behind their age group in reading proficiency; 2) would benefit from the attention of a caring adult; 3) and/or English is their second language.

I’VE NEVER BEEN A READING MENTOR. WILL I RECEIVE ANY TRAINING? Yes. All volunteers will attend an information and training session prior to beginning the program.

ONCE I JOIN THE PROGRAM, WHAT DO I DO IF I HAVE A QUESTION OR CAN’T MAKE IT TO MY SCHEDULED READING SESSION FOR THE WEEK? The Read Aloud Mentoring Program is well-managed by a Program Coordinator staffed at each site. If you have questions, or cannot make it to your reading session you can call the Program Coordinator to notify them and reschedule where possible.

At Avalon, housing is a human right. Our mission is to build healthy, safe and inclusive supportive housing communities as a long-term solution to homelessness. Avalon Housing is a non-profit supportive housing provider. Supportive housing is a combination of affordable housing paired with services, such as case management. We don’t just help people find housing, we help people stay and thrive in their homes.

If you are passionate about creating more diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities where all people are welcome, Avalon may be a good fit for you.

Avalon Housing’s main office has a front desk that serves our tenants, staff, and members of the community. Our Front Desk Volunteers provide coverage and help assist with questions and needs throughout the day.

Volunteers may need to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds.

Job Title: Front Desk Volunteer

Reports To: Aleah Pisarz, Volunteer Program Coordinator

Location: On-site at our main office: 1327 Jones Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Compensation: This is an unpaid and voluntary role. However, any direct and approved expenses related to the role will be reimbursed.

Avalon Housing is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants including applicants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as historically marginalized groups. This includes but is not limited to underrepresented gender identities, sexual/romantic orientations and/or relationship structures, people living with disabilities or mental health conditions, and with lived experience with homelessness or recovery from a substance use disorder, and people with underrepresented religious and/or socio-economic backgrounds. Avalon also encourages those with criminal histories to apply. Avalon doesn't request information about criminal histories until an offer of employment is extended. Avalon will not exclude someone based on criminal history unless it is determined the criminal history is related to or directly conflicts with the responsibilities of the position. We are committed to transparency about our decision making process, and will seek clarifying information from an applicant to help us make a determination in this regar

At Avalon, housing is a human right. Our mission is to build healthy, safe and inclusive supportive housing communities as a long-term solution to homelessness. Avalon Housing is a non-profit supportive housing provider. Supportive housing is a combination of affordable housing paired with services, such as case management. We don’t just help people find housing, we help people stay and thrive in their homes.

If you are passionate about creating more diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities where all people are welcome, Avalon may be a good fit for you.

Avalon operates food pantries at a number of our properties. Avalon’s Food Pantry Volunteers will work with both our Community Building team and our tenant group on all aspects of running the food pantry.

Volunteers may need to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.

Job Title: Food Pantry Volunteer

Reports To:

Location: On-site at one or more of our Food Pantry locations:

Compensation: This is an unpaid and voluntary role. However, any direct and approved expenses related to the role will be reimbursed.

Avalon Housing is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all applicants including applicants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as historically marginalized groups. This includes but is not limited to underrepresented gender identities, sexual/romantic orientations and/or relationship structures, people living with disabilities or mental health conditions, and with lived experience with homelessness or recovery from a substance use disorder, and people with underrepresented religious and/or socio-economic backgrounds. Avalon also encourages those with criminal histories to apply. Avalon doesn't request information about criminal histories until an offer of employment is extended. Avalon will not exclude someone based on criminal history unless it is determined the criminal history is related to or directly conflicts with the responsibilities of the position. We are committed to transparency about our decision making process, and will seek clarifying information from an applicant to help us make a determination in this regard

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is seeking volunteers to provide general office and programs support. This is a volunteer (unpaid) role. EFCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, located in Macomb County, Michigan. 

We service youth, families and individuals in the Macomb/Wayne counties and the surrounding community. We aim continuously to provide services, resources and support that will enable under-represented families, individuals and youth to overcome social, economic, educational and other barriers in which they face by gaining and sustaining successful outcomes in life. We do this through our support services, programs and community projects.

Role: Office & Programs Support

This role will support EFCS's general office and programs activities.

Commitment: Successful candidates must be available to volunteer approximately 4-8 hours/month.

Please visit our website at elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org to learn more about us.

Are you handy and have some time? Help us cross out building and maintenance items off our to-do list! Things include, minor painting, furniture building, fixing minor breaks, cleaning, putting up signs, moving furniture, organizing supplies, checking on various building systems operations.

Tasks are ongoing, and could be anywhere from 4-10 hours per week. Please contact me (VIcky) for questions or setting up a schedule that works for you! :)

Now more than ever, we’re reminded of the importance of helping others. With the recent changes to SNAP benefits during the government shutdown, many families in our neighboring communities are facing food insecurity. To help meet this growing need, community member and friend of Brilliant Detroit, Lisa Garatoni, is launching the Brilliant SNAP Campaign to provide extra support to families during this time.

As we approach the holiday season, we are calling on our community partners to help organize food drives to collect non-perishable items and essential household goods. These contributions will help stock the community pantries located throughout our Detroit neighborhoods.

Thanks to our wonderful partners at The Wave Project, most Brilliant community hubs now feature 24/7 food pantries just outside their doors. Families can access these pantries whenever they need, with no barriers and no questions asked. Together, we can make sure every family has what they need this holiday season.

How can you help?

We’re inviting our community partners to:

Here’s a sample listing of items that are most appreciated:

• Any shelf-stable foods
• Peanut Butter / Jelly / Honey
• Cooking oil (like olive or canola)
• Salt / pepper, and other spices
• Proteins: Canned chicken, tuna, and beans
• Soups: Canned soups and chilis
• Vegetables: Canned vegetables (preferably low-sodium)
and canned tomatoes / sauces
• Fruits: Canned fruit (in juice, not syrup)
• Meats: Canned beef stew, chili, shelf-stable meats
• Meal Kits: Macaroni and cheese, pastas, potatoes,
boxed dinners
• Rice (brown rice is often preferred)
• Whole-grain pasta
• Whole-grain and low-sugar cereals
• Rolled oats and instant oatmeal
• Shelf-stable milk and milk substitutes
• Whole-grain breads and crackers
• Barbeque Sauce Hot Sauce
• Flour and Corn Meal
• Salad Dressings
• Healthy Juices
• Shelf-stable, low-sugar snacks like granola bars,
dried fruit, apple sauce
• Non-food items like personal hygiene products
(soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine
hygiene products
• Household Supplies: toilet paper, paper towels,
and laundry detergent

If you’d like to contribute items for holiday meals, please see the suggested list below:

• 10-12 lb Turkey
• Poultry Seasoning
• Chicken Broth
• Stuffing Mix
• Milk
• Gravy
• Cranberry Sauce
• Potatoes
• Jiffy Mix
• Cans of Corn
• Green Beans
• Diced Tomatoes
• Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Sweet Potatoes
• Cookies
• Brownie Mix
• Roasting Pan
• Turkey Baster
• Pumpkin Pie
• Cola or Sodas

Overview: Learn about the benefits of plant-based diets for the environment and environmental justice. Then, brainstorm a campaign aligned with Switch4Good’s mission and branding to push for a more dairy-free world, focusing on environmental motivators. Generate the outline of your proposed campaign and create sample assets. 

Overview: Learn about the benefits of plant-based diets for environmental and social justice. Choose popular meals from on-campus eateries and learn how they can be made plant-based. Research emissions saved from making the recipe plant-based rather than animal-product-inclusive. Communicate and propose the resources and your recipes to dining staff at your university.

Overview: Learn about the relationship between food and the environment, focusing on the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet. Plan and execute an Earth Day event on campus that highlights the accessibility of plant-based foods, communicates environmental issues through the lens of our food system, and brings the campus community together.

Position Summary
The Volunteer Coordinator is a volunteer role. 

This role builds positive relationships with volunteers, strengthens community engagement, and ensures that all volunteer activities align with the organization’s mission and goals.

Develop and implement strategies to attract a diverse pool of volunteers.

Maintain up-to-date volunteer postings on relevant platforms.

Deliver training materials, resources, and ongoing support to an already in place volunteer system.

Maintain the volunteer calendar and schedule individuals and groups for events and programs.

Communicate with volunteers regarding upcoming opportunities and needs via sign up genius platform.

Coordinate facilitators and provide guidance and problem-solving for their volunteer shifts.

Foster a positive, inclusive, and appreciative environment for volunteers.

Gather feedback to continually enhance the volunteer experience.

Track volunteer hours and participation in the volunteer management system.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Proficiency with email platforms, spreadsheets, and volunteer management software (or willingness to learn).

Time Commitment: 3-hour shift
Location: Underserved school or community site

Free Book Fair Facilitators help bring the joy of reading directly to students by setting up and running a free book fair at an underserved school. Volunteers create a welcoming, positive experience where every child gets to select free books to take home and keep. This is a hands-on, high-impact role that supports literacy, choice, and excitement around reading.

Set Up the Book Fair:
Arrange books on tables by grade level or category; help create an inviting and organized display.

Guide Students Through Book Selection:
Welcome each class, explain how the fair works, assist children in browsing, and ensure every student receives their allotted number of free books.

Engage Positively With Students and Staff:
Offer encouragement, answer questions, and create a fun atmosphere that celebrates reading and book ownership.

Maintain Flow & Organization:
Keep tables stocked, tidy, and easy to browse as classes rotate through.

Support Fair Operations:
Help manage lines, keep count of books distributed if needed, and assist teachers or staff during class transitions.

Pack Up Afterward:
Help consolidate leftover books, break down tables or displays, and load materials for transport.

Enjoy working with children and creating joyful experiences.

Comfortable in busy school environments.

Able to lift and carry boxes of books (typically 20–30 lbs).

Friendly, patient, and enthusiastic about literacy and equity.

Punctual and dependable for the full 3-hour shift.

By helping run a free book fair, volunteers directly support reading access and help students build their own home libraries—often for the first time. Your presence ensures a smooth and meaningful experience for hundreds of children.

Elms Family and Community Services is seeking mentors for its 2025 - 26 Youth Programs.  Mentors will assist in guiding middle and high school youth.  The mentor will serve as lead support to youth involved in EFCS programs, assist in facilitating group workshops and coordinating experiential learning opportunities for program participants.

This position would require 2 hours for weekly program meetings with participants and 4 hours monthly for engagement with mentees.

All volunteers must complete a background check and must be cleared as a school volunteer with participating schools.  Click RESPOND in the upper right corner of the screen and you will be prompted to complete the background check questionnaire. This may open a second window.

The Sterling Volunteer background check will come at no cost to the volunteer. Once the background check is complete (average 1-2 business days), you will receive an email notifying you that you may complete your registration. There is a School Volunteer background check required, which will also come at no cost to the volunteer.

Please visit our website at elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org, to learn more about us!

The Ypsilanti Thrift Shop, a local all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit, is in need of volunteers to help in our Marking room.  In this position you would be responsible for receiving, sorting, marking/pricing, and displaying donations for sale. You may also assist with bi-annual changeover and other duties as needed. You would also enjoy first dibs to purchase donated items! This is a very sociable and fun way to give back to the community as all of our net proceeds are donated to local charities and people in need. Schedule based on your availability within our hours of operation.

The City of Detroit is partnering with several food distribution locations throughout the city to support those in need.

Click here to view all available volunteer opportunities.

Food drives are a great way to engage your group and support food-insecure neighbors. At Hope Clinic, our choice-based pantry lets clients select the items for themselves—promoting dignity and empowering them to make decisions based on their needs and tastes.

We accept unexpired, shelf-stable items, including:

We encourage donations of the same quality you'd buy for your own family—brand-name or organic items show our clients we believe they should get the very best.

For ideas and more information, visit our website https://thehopeclinic.org/projects/2020/11/12/how-to-host-a-food-drive

Our amazing care team at Hope Clinic is looking for volunteer Clinicians available to help at our Westland and Ypsilanti free clinic locations. (Alternatively, we are also looking for clinicians who are willing to offer pro-bono services to Hope Clinic patients at their own offices.)

This is a wonderful opportunity to give of your time and talents to help your neighbors in need. If you are a licensed clinician, we hope you’ll consider volunteering and helping in our effort to make lives better!

If interested, please either respond to this posting or email volunteer@thehopeclinic.org. We will get back to you with more information!

Or, fill out a volunteer application on our website: https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer

*If you know of other clinicians who might be interested, please help us get the word out!

Food drives are a great way to engage your group and support food-insecure neighbors. At Hope Clinic, our choice-based pantry lets clients select the items for themselves—promoting dignity and empowering them to make decisions based on their needs and tastes.

We accept unexpired, shelf-stable items, including:

We encourage donations of the same quality you'd buy for your own family—brand-name or organic items show our clients we believe they should get the very best.

For ideas and more information, visit our website https://thehopeclinic.org/projects/2020/11/12/how-to-host-a-food-drive

Hosting a food or personal care drive is a meaningful way to bring your group together while directly supporting survivors and families rebuilding their lives. At First Step, we promote dignity and choice—allowing families to select the items that best meet their needs and preferences.

With recent and future funding cuts, we have an urgent need for support as families face the holidays. Your donations can help ensure survivors and their children have nourishing meals, personal care items and other critical supplies during this time.

Unexpired, shelf-stable items needed, such as:
Canned goods: fruits, vegetables, soups, proteins, coffee
Dry goods: cereals, pasta, rice, baking items, snacks
Condiments & spreads: sauces, spices, nut butters
Personal care & household essentials: hygiene products, paper products, diapers, cleaning supplies

Please check expiration dates on all items before dropping them off.

For more information, visit our website https://www.firststep-mi.org/donate/mostneeded/ or contact Barb Davis at bdavis@firststep-mi.org. A more detailed Donation Guide can be provided.

**Please use this link to sign up: https://pointapp.org/orgs/7540**

Hospitality House serves over 900 households each month through its client-choice food pantry, allowing families and individuals experiencing food insecurity to choose the items that best meet their needs. In 2024, Hospitality House distributed more than 1.2 million pounds of food and supported over 5,000 community members.

Volunteers are needed to help the pantry run smoothly. There are two primary roles:

Shopper Assistant:

Stocker:

Available Shifts (multiple dates):

Mondays: 11:45 AM – 4:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Tuesdays: 12:15 PM – 4:30 PM

Thursdays: 9:45 AM – 2:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM

2nd and 4th Saturdays: 9:45 AM – 2:00 PM

To sign up for your preferred shift, please use the link above.

Join a community of mentors helping students grow through patient, one‑on‑one support and joyful, well‑designed learning experiences.

Looking to put your coding skills to work for real impact? Join VolunQueer, a groundbreaking global platform connecting LGBTQIA+ folks and allies with safe, affirming volunteer opportunities. We’re building a community-driven app from the ground up—and we need creative developers like you.

As a Full Stack Developer, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with modern technologies (AWS, Django, Python, JavaScript, React), collaborating with a team, and shaping features that will directly empower organizations and volunteers. Think profile systems, event tools, group features, and more. Your code will literally build community.

This is more than a project, it’s a chance to learn, experiment, and leave your mark on something meaningful. Whether you’re polishing your portfolio, expanding your skillset, or just want to geek out while making a difference, this is for you.

Join us to code change, spark connection, and help create a platform where everyone belongs.

Looking to put your coding skills to work for real impact? Join VolunQueer, a groundbreaking platform connecting LGBTQIA+ folks and allies with safe, affirming volunteer opportunities. We’re building a community-driven app from the ground up—and we need creative developers like you.

As a Full Stack Developer, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with modern technologies (AWS, Django, Python, JavaScript, React), collaborating with a team, and shaping features that will directly empower organizations and volunteers. Think profile systems, event tools, group features, and more, your code will literally build community.

This is more than a project, it’s a chance to learn, experiment, and leave your mark on something meaningful. Whether you’re polishing your portfolio, expanding your skillset, or just want to geek out while making a difference, this is for you.

Role Overview
We’re seeking passionate Volunteer Developers to support the design and build of our platform. This is a collaborative role where you’ll contribute directly to the development of features that connect people to meaningful service. You’ll work with our team of organizers, designers, and fellow developers to bring ideas to life.

Responsibilities

Contribute to development of our React frontend and AWS backend (Amplify, Lambda, RDS, S3).

Write clean, maintainable code in JavaScript/TypeScript and Python.

Assist with API integrations, data modeling, and automation.

Collaborate with UX designers to create intuitive user experiences.

Participate in code reviews and brainstorming sessions.

Document processes and share knowledge with the team.

Qualifications

Familiarity with React and/or AWS (helpful but not required).

Python skills a plus.

Interest in social impact, LGBTQIA+ community, and technology for good.

Willingness to learn, collaborate, and contribute to a startup-style project.

What You’ll Gain

Hands-on experience with full-stack development and cloud infrastructure.

Opportunity to build portfolio-worthy projects with real-world impact.

Networking with technologists, nonprofits, and queer leaders.

The chance to be part of an inclusive, mission-driven community.

Time Commitment
Flexible, 5–10 hours per week. Remote contribution with optional team calls.

Join the VolunQueer development team and help us shape the future of LGBTQIA+ volunteer engagement. We are seeking UX Designers and Full Stack Developers with experience in Python, JavaScript, and React to design intuitive user experiences, build dynamic front-end components, and support our back-end systems. Volunteers will collaborate with our core team in an agile, supportive environment where your work directly impacts community connection and inclusion. This is a flexible, project-based opportunity—ideal for those who want to contribute their skills to a meaningful mission while growing their portfolio and professional network.

Food Pantry Assistant manages the daily operations of a food pantry, including coordinating food acquisition, managing inventory, distributing food to clients, and ensuring compliance with food safety and program guidelines. This role involves direct client interaction, administrative tasks like data entry and reporting, and collaborating with donors and other organizations to support community members facing food insecurity.

With the colder weather here and the holiday season fast approaching, we need all the help we can get to serve those in need of food support in our community. Please consider giving an hour or two of your time to help run Inkster's only client choice food pantry! 

For more information please visit our website here: https://www.operationrefuge.org/mothers-pantry/

BCI helps homebound seniors receive their Focus: Hope grocery boxes. Each month, on the Friday after the 4th Thursday you can deliver between 6 to 8 Focus: Hope boxes of groceries. Choose to come every month? Then you're able to receive the same route and form a connection with the seniors. This is a wonderful way to make a huge impact every month or once in a while. 

Each box weighs around 30 lbs and typically can fit in the backseat of a sedan and trunk. Orientation required. 

ACC is a proud food distribution partner of Forgotten Harvest. Our location serves an estimated 200+ individuals weekly. Distribution takes place every Thursday morning from 8:30am - 12:30pm or until supplies last. 

Volunteers are needed to assist with unloading and organizing the food items into boxes inside our warehouse and distributing to clients in attendance. Currently we are operating as a drive-thru and walkup system, where the food is loaded directly into clients' cars or carts. 

Volunteers will work primarily outdoors unless sorting food in our warehouse; please dress according to the weather and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Close-toed shoes recommended. Lifting boxes of 25+ lbs is often involved, but there are frequently smaller/lighter items to be sorted as well. If accommodations are needed, please let us know.

Help us set up and execute our food pantry at Towner! The pantry is on the first Wednesday of each month. Food typically arrives from Food Gatherers at 1:00pm, it is unloaded and set up in the community room til the pantry opens at 2pm and goes til 4pm. We could use your help unloading, organizing the food that is received, displaying food, checking residents in, walking residents through the pantry, and walking food to the homes of the seniors at Towner.

We serve hot meals Mondays - Fridays that are delivered from a caterer.  We need someone to receive and temp the meals, keep them at the correct temp, serve and clean up. The volunteer could work one day a week or all 5 days.  

In a nutshell: Our Corner Store Volunteers help connect patrons to much-needed resources, including fresh food, hygiene and household items, and more! The Corner Store, located in the basement, is a free resource for both Corner patients and the community, at large. The Corner Store Volunteer will manage the overall functioning of the Corner Store during their shift.

Time Commitment:

At least 3 hrs/wk. This is a weekly shift – the same day and time each week – ideally with intention of staying for at least a few months. *We are not open on weekends.

Duties: Tasks may vary depending on which shift is being worked.

Qualifications:

Training:

We are committed to providing crucial resources to our clients, ensuring their basic needs are met during challenging times. Through this volunteer role, you have the opportunity to actively contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming environment in our various material aid areas. By assisting with stock management and organization in our food pantry, clothing room, and hygiene area, you play a vital role in supporting individuals facing crises and helping them gain stability.

Activating your care in this way will help serve more people and serve them better. Creating an environment that is looked after well, invested in, and welcoming, is also showing respect, investment, and care for those using it. 

We are seeking volunteers that can come in during a weekday. This role is ideally filled by someone who can come in on a recurring basis. This could be once per week, once biweekly, multiple times per week, etc.

We are seeking compassionate individuals who can bring their love, care, and cleanliness to create a clean and inviting kitchen space for our Soup Kitchen. By dedicating your time to deep and detailed cleaning, you will contribute to the smooth operation of our kitchen, enabling us to serve our community with even greater impact. Your efforts will directly benefit the hundreds of community members who rely on our Soup Kitchen every Sunday.

While this role may not be the most visible, it plays a vital part in ensuring that our Soup Kitchen can fulfill its mission of making meaningful impacts. Your commitment to maintaining a clean, polished, and organized kitchen will help us serve more people and enhance the quality of their experience.

We would ideally like for the same volunteer (or two) to come in once per week. This volunteer(s) could come in anytime Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

Our food pantries are open Monday through Friday to all community members facing food insecurity. We are looking for volunteers to help at our West (1915 Pauline Blvd) and Carpenter (2650 Carpenter Rd) locations. Volunteers will help process and organize food deliveries from our partner, Food Gatherers, as well as assist clients with shopping at the pantry.

We are looking for a minimum three month commitment.

A brief interview, photo ID, and proof of immunizations is required.  A background check will be conducted for all volunteer positions.

JFS has an urgent need for grocery delivery drivers to provide food assistance to our most vulnerable community members.

As a driver, your responsibilities extend beyond delivering essential nourishment; you also serve as an invaluable extension of JFS, ensuring the well-being of the individuals you serve.

Help us set up and execute our food pantry at Sauk Trail Pointe! The pantry is typically on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month. Food typically arrives from Food Gatherers at 9:30am, it is unloaded and set up in the community room til the pantry opens around 11am and runs til 2pm, or everything has been distributed. We could use your help unloading, organizing the food that is received, displaying food, checking residents in, walking residents through the pantry, and loading food into cars and delivering to nearby homes.

Every 1st & 2nd Friday of the month from 1pm-3pm

Every 1st & 2nd Saturday of the month from 10am-12:30pm. 

Are you looking for a meaningful way to contribute to your community? Redford Interfaith Relief invites you to join our dedicated team of volunteers at our Client Choice Food Pantry. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals and families in need.

Available Positions:

Receiving Associates: Responsible for handling incoming products and preparing them for storage or distribution. Wednesday 12:00PM-3:00PM.

Personal Shoppers: Assist clients in selecting food items based on their preferences and dietary needs. Volunteers for this role are needed Thursday and Friday 9:30AM to 2:30PM.

Stocking Associate: Help restock shelves with donated food items to ensure that our pantry is well-stocked and organized for clients. Volunteers for this role are needed Thursday and Friday 9:30AM to 2:30PM.

Loading Assistant: Aid clients in loading their selected food items into their vehicles, providing essential support as they prepare to take their groceries home. Volunteers for this role are needed Thursday and Friday 9:30AM to 2:30PM.

Requirements:

A commitment to serving the community with compassion and respect. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of volunteers and clients. Availability during the specified volunteer hours. Volunteering once per week is optimal.

Benefits:

Fulfillment in knowing that you are making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families facing food insecurity. A supportive and welcoming volunteer environment where your contributions are appreciated.

How to Apply:

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer with Redford Interfaith Relief, please email Kathy Wood at Volunteers@RedfordInterfaithRelief.org with your name, preferred position(s), and availability during the week. We look forward to welcoming you to our team and working together to support those in need in our community.

Thank you for considering this volunteer opportunity with Redford Interfaith Relief. Together, we can help alleviate hunger and promote dignity for all.

Zaman Culinary Arts Kitchen - Hope for Humanity Center: 26091 Trowbridge St., Inkster, MI 48141

The kitchen is looking for volunteers:  Tuesdays , 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 

Shifts are 2 - 4 hours

Fill out Zaman's volunteer application here or email volunteer@zamaninternational.org. We hope to see you soon!

The Community Resource Center offers an open-choice food pantry in Manchester, MI. The pantry is open for in-person shopping by appointment. Shoppers may also call in the grocery orders and schedule a time to pick up.  Volunteers are needed to assist shoppers in the pantry and fill phone orders.  Volunteers also maintain the food safety by stocking donated food and keeping the pantry clean.  Volunteers delivery groceries within our service area. 

Volunteers are also needed to work in the office, answering the phones and taking grocery orders.   Volunteers work a 3 hour shift, either 9am-noon or noon-3pm, Monday, Wednesday or Thursday, or 12-3pm or 4-7pm on Tuesdays.  Volunteers usually work once per week basis, though some split shifts with other volunteers. 

Volunteers are also needed to staff information tables at special community events.  

CRC is located in a school and background checks are required (the school does the background check). 

SOS Resource Center

Shampoo & conditioner                                     Razors/Shaving Cream

Soap                                                              **Deodorant

Toothbrush                                                     **Toothpaste

**Lotion                                                          Toilet paper

Combs & Brushes                                             Feminine Hygiene Products

Facial Tissue                                                    **African-American Hair Products

Food:

Cereal (dry or hot)                                            Canned Tuna or Salmon

Rice/Pasta/Other Grains                                  Beans (dry or canned)

Peanut Butter                                                    Nuts

Tomato Sauce                                                   Canned Vegetables

Canned Pasta Products                                   Macaroni & Cheese

Canned/Dried Fruit                                          Soup

Canned/Bottled 100% Juice                            Crackers

Boxed Dinners/Meal Helpers                          Hamburger/ Hot Dogs/Other Meats

Baby Formula & Food                                       Granola

Spices                                                                  Condiments

Other Items:

New Quart & Gallon-size Ziploc Bags

**Cooking oil            

Plastic/Paper Grocery Bags

First Aid Kits

Grocery Store Gift Cards

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New Bedroom Supplies:                                   Miscellaneous:

Twin-sized Sheets                                               Flashlights & Batteries

Blankets                                                                Trash Cans & Bags

Sleeping Bags/Comforters                                 Gift Card to Stores/DTE

Kitchen Supplies:                                               New Bath Supplies:

Dishes                                                                Towel Sets

Glasses                                                               Shower Curtains/Rings

Eating & Cooking Utensils                               Shower Caddies

Pots & Pans                                                       Toilet Paper

Can Opener                                                        Personal Care Items

Kitchen towels                                                   Toilet Brushes

Household Cleaning/Laundry Supplies:            Furniture:             

Cleaners                                                              Kitchen Tables/Chairs

Detergents                                                          Sofas

Cleaning Cloths                                                  Bed Frames

**Paper towels                                                   Mattresses (NEW)

Gloves                                                                   Dressers                          

Sponges                                                                Lamps

Whiteners                                                             Desks

Fabric Softeners                                                                                                               

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Children’s Items:

ITEMS MUST BE NEW:

Diapers and Pull Ups (**4t, 5t, 6t)             Lysol Wipes

Socks                                                      Underpants                    

Car Seats and Booster seats                      Diaper Wipes

Bottles                                                    Baby Washcloths

Blankets                                                  Gowns/Sleepers

Baby Formula & Food                                Diaper Cream

Pacifiers                                                   Burp Cloths

Baby Shampoo                                          Gas Cards

Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

ITEMS CAN BE GENTELY USED:

Elementary Academic Workbooks                  High Chairs

Pack-n-Play                                                 Strollers

Bouncer & Baby Carrier                                 Umbrella Strollers      

 *** WE CANNOT ACCEPT USED CAR SEATS

Help Macomb County seniors stay in their homes!  Everyday there are seniors who cannot drive to the grocery store or prepare their own food.  Meals on Wheels volunteers take to the streets to help! 

Looking for a service project for your business?  Meals on Wheels can work for you.  If your business can commit to one or two days per month we can come train all your potential drivers at your location.  This can be a great way to build team spirit and show your organization's dedication to the community!   

We are looking for volunteers who will grocery shop for a senior in the community. Some seniors may want a volunteer to shop for them and others may want someone to take them. The volunteer will have the choice of which they prefer or feel most comfortable with.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP!

Gleaners distribution centers process a tremendous volume of donated and purchased food to serve our neighbors in need. Volunteer tasks include packing food, sorting produce, working in the Clean Room, and more!

Shifts run every weekday from 9am-11:30am and from 1pm-3:30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Up to 40 volunteers needed per shift depending on the type of shift.

This project requires that you are able to stand for several hours, though accommodations may be made with advance notice. Volunteers must be in 8th grade or older. If you have food allergies, such as nuts, you are advised to exercise caution when determining whether or not to participate in warehouse activities. This event is not suitable for court-ordered community service.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP!

Hello! We are in need of help with our food distribution site. Food is delivered by our grantors, and our facility stores the food and gets it ready for distribution. Hours vary. Requires some flexibility with the schedule. 4 hours per week, and information on the distributions would be available the week prior. Will have to use a pallet-jack. Hi-Lo available if you're certified to use one.

Be a part of a team on a disaster relief operation to address hunger in an impacted community all while ensuring food safety and proper food service standards are met.

Works directly with clients to serve meals and snacks.

•       Enjoys working as a part of a team

•       Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills

•       Loves taking care of people through serving food

Some physical agility is needed (climbing in and out of ERVs, moderate lifting of food storage Cambros).

Hope Clinic offers free, whole-person healthcare to those without insurance, and we need folks to help in our Food & Basic Needs program!

Hope Clinic's Walk-up Groceries allow clients to get produce, flowers, and a few shelf-stable foods each week without a scheduled appointment. The first 30ish minutes of each shift is the busiest, but things quiet down significantly after that.

Our Monday shift is a great way to test the waters if you are a first-time volunteer at the Farm Stand, but our greatest needs are for volunteers on Thursdays and Saturdays.

If interested, please either respond to this posting or email volunteer@thehopeclinic.org. We will get back to you with more information!

Or, fill out a volunteer application on our website: https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer

NOTICE: Signing up for this opportunity does NOT automatically confirm your shift. All volunteers must complete a volunteer application on our website: https://soscs.org/volunteer/

"Signing up" on this listing notifies our volunteer coordinator of your interest, who will then contact you directly to discuss our intake process for volunteers. Questions should be directed to volunteer@soscs.org.

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Come join us in making grocery bags filled with items pre-ordered by clients, put together bags of produce, and stock shelves to get ready for the opening of our food pantry in the afternoon. Requires frequent movement and lifting, and is often fast paced. Shifts occur Tuesdays from 9 am - 12:30 pm, before the pantry opens.

NOTICE: Signing up for this opportunity does NOT automatically confirm your shift. All volunteers must complete a volunteer application on our website: https://soscs.org/volunteer/

"Signing up" on this listing notifies our volunteer coordinator of your interest, who will then contact you directly to discuss our intake process for volunteers. Questions should be directed to volunteer@soscs.org.

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Work with us to get food to others in our community that are in need. Assist shoppers as they make their way around the pantry, complete walk-up orders, and help keep the pantry stocked during distribution hours. This position interacts directly with clients, requires frequent movement and lifting, and is often fast paced.

NOTICE: Signing up for this opportunity does NOT automatically confirm your shift. All volunteers must complete a volunteer application on our website: https://soscs.org/volunteer/

"Signing up" on this listing notifies our volunteer coordinator of your interest, who will then contact you directly to discuss our intake process for volunteers. Questions should be directed to volunteer@soscs.org.

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The SOS Food Pantry needs strong and dependable volunteers to assist in unloading the Food Gatherers Delivery truck that arrives every Monday at 1pm. This shift involves heavy lifting and frequent movement carrying objects over 30lbs and is a fast paced task. We try our best to unload the truck within an hour or less so the Food Gatherers driver can move on to their next delivery quickly. Experience using dollies is preferred but not required.

Join us every Monday afternoon at our East location as we come together to make a positive impact on our community. As volunteers, you'll have the opportunity to be part of a meaningful experience where we distribute food from Forgotten Harvest to community members in need.

Your role will involve setting up and arranging tables and chairs, creating a warm and welcoming environment for our guests, distributing food, and cleanup.

With your help, we ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food while fostering a sense of belonging and care within our community. The volunteer shift typically runs from 12PM to 4PM.

The Lighthouse Distribution Center processes thousands of pounds of donated and purchased food each year to serve our neighbors in need. Volunteer tasks include sorting and packing food, loading food boxes into delivery driver vehicles, preparing toiletry bags, and more.   Packing food boxes typically takes place in the morning and loading food boxes into vehicles in the afternoon.   

*Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age.  Those 14 and 15 of age must be accompanied by parent or guardian.  

Click here https://cerv.is/0232x391 or contact gfagan@lighthousemi.org to sign up for this volunteer opportunity.

This is a hands-on volunteer role. Volunteers must be willing and able to work with people of different backgrounds and nationalities, exhibit compassion and sensitivity, maintain safe working conditions, and uphold strict confidentiality of all member and volunteer information.

Responsibilities will include some or all of the following: 

Physical Requirements:

This volunteer activity does require some heavy lifting, a minimum of 25 lbs. and regular movement.

Age Requirements:   Volunteers must be at least 13 years of age to volunteer or accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Click here https://cerv.is/0232x22 or contact gfagan@lighthousemi.org to sign up for this opportunity.

Step into the heart of compassion and lend a helping hand every Wednesday morning with Crossroads. Together, we create a powerful impact in our community by distributing food from Forgotten Harvest to those who need it most. As a volunteer, your genuine care and warmth are the cornerstones of these efforts.

Unpacking and setting up the food are more than just tasks; they're acts of love that ensure individuals and families facing challenges receive the nourishment they deserve. Your presence and support during the distribution process make a real difference, touching the lives of every person we serve.

This role involves helping with set up, distribution, and cleanup. Volunteers need to be able to carry boxes and lift tables and chairs. 

Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers strives to help seniors and disabled adults preserve their independence by providing volunteer services to help them fill the gaps they need to remain living in their own homes. One of the services we offer is assistance with getting groceries at the store and other essential errands. Clients request either having a volunteer come and pick up their grocery list and do the shopping for them (payment for groceries provided by client) or request for a volunteer to drive them to the store and help them while they shop in Macomb, Oakland, and St. Clair Counties. 

Opportunities are very flexible, volunteers indicate what cities they want to help in, how often they want to help, and the best days/times they are available to volunteer and IVC only calls to ask about requests that match the volunteer's preferences.

Whether you can help once a week, once a month, or once a year, any time you can dedicate is greatly appreciated!

Give us a call or email today to get started! 

Meals on Wheels volunteers are needed to deliver nutritious meals to homebound older adults in  the 34 communities of western Wayne County and Downriver. Volunteers sign up for 2 to 4-hour time slots between 8 AM and 1 PM, Monday through Friday. Call Wayne County Senior Services at 734-326-5202 or fill out this form to become a volunteer in your community today.

Our Bryant Market is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team to assist with food distribution on Mondays, June17th - August 26th.

Food distribution partners help with unloading the food truck, inspecting and organizing food, making bags of food, and distributing food to community members.

Berea Cares is a faith-based organization that has partnered with Food Gatherers to distribute food to Washtenaw County residents facing food insecurities on the 3rd Saturday of every month.  We have recently had an increase in the amount of food distributed and are looking for volunteers to help out 2 to 3 hours on that day. Volunteers simply place the food in the vehicles in the distribution line.  No actual up-close contact with residents. 

Developing K.I.D.S. receives food deliveries every Tuesday from Trader Joe's.

Food distribution is open weekly to the community from 10am -2 pm. No appointment, registration or sign up requiredl

(24230 W. McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48219)

Volunteers are needed during the following time slots:

Prep and set up (Fast paced, and involves some heavy lifting)
8:30am - 8:45am       Assist with set up of tables
9:00am - 9:30am       Unload food from delivery drivers
9:00am - 10:00am     Sort, organize, and present grocery items on tables for community food distribution

10:00am - 12:00pm    Distribute shopping bags to visitors, assist guests with carrying groceries to their vehicles, maintain clean and organized food presentation, break down empty tables, and carry them to appropriate storage space, etc.   

12pm -2:00pm (Very light duty)  Monitor food tables, greet visitors, distribute grocery bags, maintain, organize and consolidate food tables.    

Oakland HOPE’s Client Choice Food Pantry is able to provide FREE groceries to thousands of families each month. Families, seniors and veterans who have lost their paycheck and income now receive free groceries because of your support!   We have been able to share the love and hope of Jesus because of volunteers, donors, and supporters and Thrift Store shoppers like YOU!

Oakland HOPE's Food Pantry is dependent on the sales from our Thrift Store, and is the funding mechanism for our entire ministry.

Volunteers are needed Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00am to 4:00pm. First-time volunteers should arrive before 10:00 for orientation. Lunch is provided. 

Volunteers will split their time between the food pantry and the thrift store. BECAUSE OAKLAND HOPE'S FOOD PANTRY IS ALWAYS OUR #1 PRIORITY - VOLUNTEERS MAYBE MOVED TO EITHER THE THRIFT STORE OR TO FOOD PANTRY DEPENDING UPON OUR GREATEST NEED.  FLEXIBILITY IS KEY!

Food Pantry volunteers: enjoy being a shopper!  Help select items for families who visit the food pantry and other volunteers load the food boxes into their vehicles.  Work with other dedicated volunteers to sort through food items for quality assurance and help to pre-bag fresh produce! Volunteers do not make direct contact with clients in the food pantry.

Thrift Store volunteers: work in the thrift store by sorting and pricing items! Help keep shelves updated with new merchandise and beautify our store and improve our shopping experience. Volunteers help hang-clothes, display merchandise in the store and help with donations. They may also be need identify handyman/fix-it folks needed for small jobs and to test small appliances to verify that they work. Our Thrift Store is filled with previously loved, gently used items, clothing, jewelry, shoes, purses, electronics, household items, fabulous mid-century modern, antiques and shabby chic furniture finds.

Group Volunteers:  With advance notice we welcome groups of all ages and sizes (max 15-20) Corporate, Church, School, Groups of Friends and Families welcome!  Volunteering at Oakland HOPE is the perfect TEAM-Building activity or modeling social responsibility for youth and all ages.  Groups please email norma@oaklandhope.org

For those individually signing up please also do so here after signing up with us: Oakland HOPE Thrift Store & Food Pantry: Thrift Store & Food Pantry - 20 E Walton Blvd. Pontiac MI 48340

****We are still looking for volunteers****

***** You are not required to be an expert or having a teachers degree****

The Maurice A.C. Kirkwood Jr. Youth Foundation's commitment to providing tutors for reading and math in classrooms for elementary and middle school children is an impactful initiative. This program aims to enhance students' academic performance by offering personalized support and guidance in foundational subjects. Tutors can:

Boost Literacy Skills: Help students improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and overall literacy, which are critical for academic success.

Strengthen Math Foundations: Provide targeted assistance in math concepts, ensuring students grasp fundamental skills and build confidence.

Encourage Positive Role Models: Serve as mentors/tutors who inspire and motivate students, offering encouragement and demonstrating the value of education.

Enhance Classroom Learning: Work alongside teachers to create a more dynamic and supportive learning environment, addressing the diverse needs of students.

Promote Equity in Education: Offer additional resources to students who may benefit from individualized attention, fostering an equitable approach to learning.

As a volunteer, you will sign a waiver, listen to a 10 minute orientation and spend time sorting books and moving boxes (no more than 25lbs). Thank you!
Join us at our headquarters located in Farmington Hills to help us SORT, COUNT, and PACK books! Sign up Here

Put Your Professional Credentials to Work on a Red Cross Disaster Health Services or Disaster Mental Health Team

During large disasters, you can use your professional skills as a licensed healthcare provider to deliver hands-on care and education to disaster-affected clients. The work setting is generally in emergency shelters or on outreach teams in the community. (Keep in mind, you could be assigned to another work location once you arrive on scene depending on the needs of the operation.)

Learn more here - https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities/disaster-health-mental-health-volunteer.html

Requirements

Disaster Health: Current, active, and unencumbered licensure or certification for the healthcare professions, including RN, LPN, LVN, EMT, Paramedic, MD, DO, PA, NP, APRN.

View eligibility requirements for healthcare professionals

Disaster Mental Health: Currently licensed or recently retired mental health professionals, current school psychologists and school counselors, and current psychiatric nurses.

View complete eligibility requirements for mental health professionals     

Shift commitment    

If you are local to the disaster: multiple shifts (4-12 hours each) or

If you will need to travel: 10-14 consecutive days of 8-12 hour shifts (Travel, lodging and meals are provided for deployed workers.)

Comfortable interacting with people from diverse background whose lives have been disrupted 

Ability to work in a continuously changing environment in which work priorities may change frequently

Ability to follow safety protocols and directions consistently and thoroughly

Most of the 65,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are local, personal disasters like home fires. They may not make the news, but we know they are just as devastating to the families affected. Trained and available, Disaster Action Team volunteers are ready to respond to these emergencies, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. From offering a shoulder to cry on, to meeting any immediate needs for shelter or supplies, to connecting people with long term recovery services, our volunteers ensure that families don’t have to face tough times alone. 

Many disaster action team volunteers share these life experiences and skills:

Be a part of the local disaster response team by ensuring timely activation and monitoring of local and regional Disaster Action Team responses. 

Ensures that DAT responders are dispatched to the scene of local disasters and escalates larger incidents to regional leadership.

•       Interested in working independently as a part of a team

•       Tech savvy

•       Excellent communicator

•       Organized and detail oriented

•       Able to multi-task

Great opportunity for people who want to touch the mission but prefer to do so from their home. DDOs should be comfortable taking calls during their assigned shift times (day or night) across a wide geography (typically the region) and know that call volume may vary during their shift.

Support the day-to-day activities withing a shelter which can include working in reception, registration, feeding, dormitory, information or other areas. 

Provides direct, front-line customer service to clients and cares for basic needs in a group setting.

•       Enjoys working as a part of a team

•       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

•       Loves supporting clients’ needs

•       Able to work in a dynamic situation

Shelter shifts on larger DROs are typically 12-hour shifts and may include day or night shifts. Nationally deployable shelter workers should be comfortable working either days or nights depending on need.

Work with shelter residents to understand their resources and transition roadblocks to help households create an action plan so that they can transition from the shelter to long term housing solutions.    

Rewarding front-line position that helps clients move from a shelter situation to a more sustainable housing option post-disaster.

•       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

•       Tech-savvy

•       Loves supporting clients’ needs

•       Creative problem solver

•       Able to work in a dynamic situation

Great for social workers and non-licensed volunteers with case management experience or clinical skills due to complexity in client cases (but this background is not required). Knowledge of or prior experience working with housing programs would also be a great fit (but not required).

Work with external organizations to build capacity, coordinate activities, integrate expertise and provide channels to reach all disaster-affected communities, particularly traditionally underserved populations. 

Makes connections with community organizations who can benefit our clients during response and recovery

•       Respects and understands different cultures and perspectives

•       Able to articulate goals, needs, benefits of partnership

•       Values input and fosters a cooperation

•       Consistently follows through with commitment and responsibilities

Needs to be able to represent ARC to external organizations with professionalism and work within the established DRO chain of command to make commitments. Position is likely field-based visiting with other organizations and not at the DRO headquarters full time so some degree of working independently is needed.

Government Operations volunteers are responsible for ensuring Red Cross actions are aligned with, supportive of, and complementary to government. The role involves managing expectations, establishing and monitoring situational awareness, and seek, collect, evaluate and communicate critical information. This role is often situated in an Emergency Operations Center.

Supports clients behind the scenes without direct client contact to coordinate our services with government partners.

•       Excellent communication skills

•       Able to articulate goals, needs, benefits of partnership

•       Values input and fosters a cooperation

•       Consistently follows through with commitment and responsibilities

•       Able to work independently through complex communications procedures

•       Able to work in a fast paced and ever-changing environment

Needs to be able to represent ARC to partners with professionalism and work within the established DRO chain of command to make commitments. Position may be based at an EOC or at a DRO headquarters providing virtual/phone support to EOCs and partners. Some degree of working independently is needed.

Serves on a disaster relief operation assisting with the collection, evaluation, analysis and dissemination of information related to the incident. May create maps, dashboards, incident action plans, and other reports. 

Behind-the-scenes support to the disaster operation with no direct client contact but is still a key support to our field workers.

•       Organized and detail oriented

•       Committed to meeting deadlines

•       Interested in volunteering “behind the scenes”

•       Tech-savvy and able to navigate a variety of applications and data sources

Role is largely computer-based working from a DRO headquarters and is not a client-facing role. Tech-savvy is an absolute must.

We are the Metro Detroit Book Bank.  We are looking for someone to volunteer their time 2-3x a month to deliver books using our 5x8 enclosed trailer to schools that we are giving books away at in the Metro Detroit area. The books would be packed up already and we would have students at the school help unload the boxes of books at the school. There will be one delivery a month to the recycling center in Royal Oak. Again, the trailer will be packed up and your role will be unloading boxes of books into a large box (called a gaylord). A total of 4 times a month maximum will be needed! 

Supports congregate shelters during a disaster relief operation by resourcing and delivering materials via daily site visits. 

Directly contributes to the success of our client-facing shelter operation by delivering critical supplies to shelters. Supports our E3 vision of “Every Shelter, Every Need, Every Day”.

•       Enjoys independent volunteering

•       Comfortable driving required routes (freeway, long distance, high congestion areas, box truck-sized vehicle)

May have limited client interaction during a supply delivery but primary interaction will be with other Red Cross workers. Some physical agility is needed because lifting/unloading of supplies is required.

Track, inventory, maintain and service vehicles used on a disaster relief operation.

Ensures that other Red Cross workers have the vehicles they need in order to carry out client-facing service delivery and get to/from their worksites. 

•       Organized and detail oriented

•       Tech-savvy

•       Enjoys working independently

•       Comfortable driving required routes (freeway, long distance, high congestion areas)

Will usually be a computer-based position at DRO headquarters tracking vehicle assignments. May also require pickup or delivery of rental vehicles to/from worksites or headquarters. Sometimes Transportation workers are assigned to drive a designated shuttle route to transport other Red Cross workers or provide courier service between worksites.

This volunteer opportunity is to support in either or Activity Room or our Kitchen during evening programming from 5:30-8ish. We are specifically looking for volunteers for the Activity Room on Tuesday/Wednesday and for the Kitchen on Thursday.

Ele's Place is a warm and welcoming environment that serves as a community resource for children and their families to receive grief support. Children and families learn coping skills, process their grief, and receive peer support by being around others who really understand how they feel.

The children who participate in these groups range in age from 3 - 18. They come from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances, but all are grieving the death of a parent, sibling, or other loved one. Through the Ele's Place peer support group program, these children have the opportunity to grieve in a healthy manner and learn how to cope with the many challenges and changes in their lives following their loss.

Ele’s Place relies on volunteers to offer these services at no cost to families. We are seeking interested, kind and compassionate adults who want to make a difference in our community. We offer an in-depth and interactive training for all volunteers, so no prior experience is necessary. We welcome people from all backgrounds, and have a particular need for bilingual individuals and male volunteers.

To review more about our volunteer opportunities, please visit: https://www.elesplace.org/branch-locations/ann-arbor/volunteer

If you have questions, please contact Aysia Rodriguez, LLMSW 734-929-6640 x2207 or arodriguez@elesplace.org. 

You can also complete a volunteer application on our website: https://www.elesplace.org/about/get-involved/sign

What Is Ele's Place?

Ele's Place is a healing center for grieving children, teens, young adults, and their families. Each week, peer-to-peer bereavement support groups help hundreds learn to cope and begin to heal after the death of a parent, sibling, or someone close to them. 

What Do Support Groups Look Like?

Groups vary from week to week depending on the needs and interests of group members. Volunteers choose from a database of activities, which include scripts and supplies provided by Ele's Place. Activities may include:

We're Currently Looking for Support with the Following Groups:

Volunteers Will:

2025 Winter Training Dates

Tuesday, January 13th 5:30pm-9pm (virtual)

Wednesday. January 14th 5:30pm-9pm (virtual)

Saturday, January 17th 9am-3pm (in-person)

Note: Participation in all training dates is mandatory

Submit a Volunteer Application

For questions, please reach out to Aysia Rodriguez, LLMSW at 734-929-6640 ext. 2207 or arodriguez@elesplace.org. 

Can't Make It to Our Winter Training? 

Sign-Up for Our Summer Training Waitlist

Check Out Other Volunteer Opportunities with Ele's Place!

Hospital gift shops provide an important service to patients, their families, and healthcare workers. All proceeds support Friends, which funds Michigan Medicine patient education programs, such as Gifts of Art, and other patient and family programs. In this fun, fast paced role, volunteers assist in the gift shop - cashier, stock supplies, help with displays and inventory, provide customer service to shoppers, and make deliveries to patients. Volunteer opportunities are available at the gift shops in University Hospital, Mott Children's Hospital, and to a lesser extent in the Frankel Cardiovascular Center. 

Because we invest heavily in our volunteers, we ask that you commit to serving at least one 2-4 hour shift per week for a minimum of one academic semester or 6 months. 

To apply, visit our New Volunteers webpage. After completing the onboarding requirements, you will be invited to attend a placement interview. At the interview, identify that you would like to volunteer in the gift shop.

Volunteers needed at the U-M Health Brighton Center for Specialty Care. We have two openings.

1. Medical Procedures Unit: Volunteers assist with turning over prep/recovery bays, cleaning stretchers, making beds, providing snacks and drinks to patients as directed and wheeling patients to car after discharged.

2. Neurology BCSC Sleep Lab: Review patient arrival process, scan patient documents and enter into an access database. Greet patient and family, escort to treatment area, restock areas i.e. patient supply cart and rooms, blanket warmer,  etc.

To apply, visit our New Volunteers webpage. After completing the onboarding requirements, you will be invited to attend a placement interview. At the interview, identify that you would like to volunteer in Brighton. 

Raise a puppy that can change two lives, yours and someone who is blind!

Puppy raisers take a puppy into their home and raise it for a specific period of time. While in the home, with the guidance of Leader Dog staff and specially trained volunteers, you will be training the puppy in basic house manners, commands and exposing it to new environments in a safe manner. Once the raising period is over, the puppy returns to Leader Dog to start its formal guide dog training. 

Puppy Raising Options

Since no two households are alike, we’ve created multiple puppy-raising opportunities to fit different lifestyles. Which option is right for you?

One Household

It’s the traditional way to puppy-raise and perfect for families, college students, active
singles, retired couples and empty nesters. Usually, the puppy is picked up at 8 weeks and is raised in the home for 12-14 months.

Co-Raising (Primary and Secondary Raiser)

This option is for someone who wants to share duties with a person from another household.

Pass-Along

One raiser has the puppy for the first six months, and a second raiser has the puppy for the next six months.

Corporate

Employees can raise puppies individually or in teams of up to three.

Campus Puppies

For college students raising on campuses approved by Leader Dog.

To learn more, we recommend you attend an in-person information session or, watch a pre-recorded session. Visit www.leaderdog.org.

*a full application, screening and criminal background check are required of all applicants

Do you love dogs? Looking for a way to give back while caring for a beautiful female and puppies? This might be the opportunity for you!

We breed Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, and Lab/Golden crosses to be guide dogs for people who are blind or low vision. We are looking for homes to host both female and male breeders for the duration of their breeding careers. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and will bear the legal responsibility for the host dog. However, families can have children participate in the care of the dog to share in this rewarding experience!

There are several new volunteer models including hosting a female when she is not whelping puppies, or you can host a female only when she is whelping. Or you can temporarily foster a breeding dog while they are waiting for their placement.

Hosting requires a significant time commitment, physical strength, and the ability to travel to our campus in Rochester Hills, MI several times a year. Dogs are 12-15 months of age when placed in a home. Females retired from our program by the time they are 4-5 years of age, but males can continue in the program until they are approximately 9 years old. Both are then adoptable by the host home when their breeding careers are over! Volunteers must live within 6 hours of our campus in Rochester Hills, MI, and have no more than 2 vaccinated, spay/neutered pet dogs in your home.

To learn more, visit our website and/or sign up to attend a virtual informational session.

Client Drivers provide more than just a ride. They are the first person and last person from Leader Dog that the client interacts with in person. They provide a reassuring presence and help make clients feel welcome and cared for. Volunteers fill a vital role in making the client’s experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Client Drivers use Leader Dog vehicles to provide safe transportation for Leader Dog clients to and from the Leader Dog campus in Rochester Hills, MI. In addition to providing transportation, volunteers also escort clients through airport security and to their gate, problem-solve if a flight is delayed or cancelled, and make clients feel at ease under stressful travel situations. Drives are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays, so weekend availability is required for this position.

Skills and Attributes:

Ideal candidates for this role will have the following attributes.

•Have an impeccable driving record

•Have the ability to drive a large passenger van

•Have a flexible schedule with weekend availability

•Be friendly, helpful, dependable, professional, compassionate, and a good problem-solver

•Be able to comprehend, follow, and retain both written and verbal directions

•Use discretion, sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality

•Ability to work closely with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) through airport security checkpoints

•Comfortable working with people who are blind and low vision, using Human Guide techniques (training provided)

•Comfortable around large dogs (Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers)

•Be commitment to our mission: “Our mission is empowering people who are blind or visually impaired with lifelong skills for safe and independent daily travel.

Requirements:

•Must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license

•Complete an online application, pre-screening phone call and in-person interview

• Pass a criminal background check

• Pass a Department of Motor Vehicles check (this is in addition to the regular background check performed on all on-campus volunteers)

• Complete onboarding documents and participate in all trainings

• Regularly record service hours in our online database

• Have a cell phone to use in case of emergencies

• Ability to bend at the waist, stoop at the knee, and walk with excellent balance

• Be able to assist clients with luggage and packages (up to 50 lbs)

*Be able to commit to at least 2 weekend drives per month

Are you handy? If so, come and help us with our list of things that we need done here at HAVEN! 

We are looking for volunteers to help with numerous tasks that we have. If you would like to come in weekly to help us chip away at the list please contact me directly!

kliepshutz@haven-oakland.org

Administrative Support volunteers will provide behind-the-scenes assistance at HAVEN while rarely interacting with clients. Volunteers will perform a range of duties, depending on their personal strengths and interests. Generally, duties will be administrative and/or clerical in nature.

DUTIES

The Administrative Support volunteer will perform the following duties:

·       Maintain program files and organization

·       Data entry

·       Document creation and editing

·       Preparation of training and other event materials

·       Provide planning and preparation support for large annual events

TIME COMMITMENT

·        Mandatory 24-hour Core Skills & Values training

·        Fulfill 8-16 volunteer hours monthly, as scheduled

SUMMARY

The Reception Volunteer will work side-by-side with the Office Manager to ensure things at HAVEN run smoothly for clients, community partners, and staff. Each day will look a little different, but volunteers will sit at the front desk, acting as the first point of contact for visitors to the building and business-related callers. Reception Volunteers will take responsibility for ensuring visitors to HAVEN are appropriately screened before entering. They will assist the Office Manager with a range of clerical and administrative tasks.

·        Be at least 18 years old

·        Have availability during regular business hours (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday)

·        Have excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills

·        Have a moderate proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and have general internet skills

·        Mandatory 24-hour Core Skills & Values training

·        Mandatory Front Desk training

·        Fulfill 8+ volunteer hours monthly, as scheduled

Do you love organizing? Come help us with our donations and donation closets!

We are looking for volunteers to come in a couple days a week to help us organize numerous areas of our donations. We have availability Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. 

We can use volunteers almost every day to help with tagging and hanging out clothes, sorting and putting out household items, folding linens, check in and check out.  Our main volunteer hours are Monday through Friday between 10 AM and 2 PM.  We ask that groups are no larger than 8 people.

Position Summary

As a Crisis & Support Line Specialist, you will serve as a compassionate first point of contact for survivors reaching out to HAVEN’s 24-hour Crisis & Support Line. Volunteers provide emotional support, crisis intervention, safety planning, and resource referrals to individuals impacted by intimate partner violence. This role is critical in ensuring that every caller feels heard, validated, and supported in a non-judgmental and empowering environment.

Key Responsibilities