Opportunities From: United Way for Southeastern Michigan

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 1:00 PM-4:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 1:00 PM-4:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS IS AN IN/OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY LOCATED AT THE BACK OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest is looking for volunteers to help get the Community Choice Mobile Trailer ready for clients. Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Mobile Trailer will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

This opportunity will occur from Monday-Friday from 2-5:pm. Volunteers must be 16 years or older. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.

VOLUNTEERS WILL MEET IN THE MAIN LOBBY FOR A BRIEF ORIENTATION PRIOR TO THE START OF THE SHIFT.

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Are you someone who enjoys working outdoors and takes pride in creating beautiful, welcoming spaces? As a Landscape and Grounds Volunteer, you will help maintain and enhance our outdoor environment so it remains safe, inviting, and inspiring for children and families. Your work directly supports daily play, outdoor learning, and family engagement by ensuring children have access to clean, well-cared-for spaces where they can explore, grow, and thrive.

This hands-on support is an important part of advancing our broader mission. For over 90 years, Foundations Preschool of Washtenaw County has worked to ensure equitable access to high-quality early childhood care and education for underserved and historically marginalized families. We provide free and reduced-cost childcare so that every family has access to a strong start.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Pull weeds and manage shrubbery

Rake leaves and clear twigs

Maintain flower beds and outdoor play areas

Support seasonal outdoor clean-up projects

Assist with additional grounds-related tasks as needed

This is a meaningful opportunity to directly support children and families by helping create a safe, welcoming, and well-cared-for environment

Focus: HOPE provides food to over 42,000 limited-income seniors in and around Detroit. Each month, every one of those seniors receives a box of food which contains healthy groupings of nonperishable foods. We rely on volunteers to pack the vast majority of this food, so both individuals and volunteer groups are always welcome! 

Volunteers work together in groups of up to 50 per assembly line, cutting stock and then placing canned foods into Focus: HOPE boxes as they roll by. Volunteers may also unwrap and unbox pallets of food, collapse boxes for recycling and dispose of plastic waste. These tasks require moderate levels of activity, bending and lifting.  

A full line of volunteers is usually able to pack over 500 boxes of food for our seniors! 

Comfortable attire and shoes are welcome. The warehouse temperature may fluctuate with the seasons, so layers are encouraged. Volunteers are prohibited from wearing open-toed shoes, sleeveless shirts, short shorts or exposing midriff. Please keep valuables at home, in your car or on your person.  

We recommend you bring work gloves.  

For everyone’s safety, if you are not feeling well or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, please stay home.  

Focus: HOPE strongly encourages all volunteers, guests and colleagues to wear a mask while in the building, regardless of vaccination status.  

Handwashing and sanitizer stations are available throughout the building.  

If you have already completed a digital waiver this calendar year, scroll to the bottom of the page to register for an open time slot. Otherwise, click “Respond” at the top or bottom of the page, log in, complete the waiver qualification, and then return to this page to see the available volunteer shifts.  

Minors may not complete waivers digitally, so the system will not allow a minor to sign up to volunteer. Minors may not volunteer without a guardian present. Once on-site for the selected volunteer event, guardians may register their minors by signing a printed waiver on their behalf. For packing you must be age 13 or older to participate.  

To register a large team or organization, please contact volunteer@focushope.edu for options.  

If you have court mandated community service hours, you must attend a separate, court-specific orientation. This orientation only takes place on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. at 1400 Oakman Boulevard, 48238. After the brief orientation, you may choose to stay and begin volunteering, or return another day.  

Bring a photo ID and know the name of your court and/or officer. If you have an official document which states your hours, bring it with you.  

If you do not attend a Friday orientation prior to volunteering, your hours will not be recorded for the court. No exceptions will be made.  

You do not need to register to participate. More information at: https://focushope.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=601721  

Focus: HOPE has permanently relocated all volunteer activities to 1400 Oakman Boulevard, Detroit MI 48238. Parking is directly across the street within the gated black fence. The lot entrance is on La Salle Boulevard by where it intersects with Oakman Boulevard. Please do not park in the Early Learning Center lot or between buildings.  

Volunteer & Community Outreach  

Focus: HOPE  

volunteer@focushope.edu  

313-494-4270  

Volunteer at the Pizza Party & Seedling Giveaway!

Growing Hope Urban Farm is hosting a Pizza Party & Seedling Giveaway on Friday, July 17 at 5 PM, and we need volunteers to help make it a success.

Where volunteers are needed:

Pizza making – Help guests learn to make wood fired pizza and keep the pizza line moving
Parking management – Guide cars and keep things safe and organized
Dishwashing – Help keep the kitchen clean and running smoothly

What you'll get:
A free meal Hands-on experience making fire oven pizza
As many free plants as you can carry home
Time outdoors at the farm with your community

Details: Date: Friday, July 17 Time: 4:15PM
Location: 922 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS IS AN OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY

Forgotten Harvest’s Client Choice Mobile Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS IS AN OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY

Forgotten Harvest’s Client Choice Mobile Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and the Marshall St. Neighbors for a volunteer workday at Pilgrim Park, a neighborhood park with a playground in need of some love! To keep the play area safe, we’ll be spreading a fresh layer of play-safe woodchips under and around the equipment using wheelbarrows, pitchforks, and rakes. This task makes a big difference in safety and helps the playground look well cared for.

Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
- Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
- Meeting Location: Please meet at the Pilgrim Park Playground.
- Parking: There is street parking in the neighborhood around the park on Verle Ave

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants and closed-toe shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothes that can get dusty or dirty and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide tools and instruction

Please note:
- This is a physical task involving lifting and moving mulch with shovels and wheelbarrows
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- Volunteers may encounter uneven ground, thorns, poison ivy, and insects like mosquitoes or ticks
- Minors must be accompanied by a guardian OR have their waiver signed 24 hours in advance to the workday

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love for Woodbury Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday! Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members of all ages to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Specific projects will be determined based on park needs at the time, but may include activities like litter pickup, garden care, mulching, or invasive removal.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Location: Woodbury Park
- Meeting Spot: Woodbury Park Playground (Map Link)

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love to Frisinger Park at our Love a Park Day event! Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program at Frisinger Park for an afternoon of stewardship at a beloved park.

We'll be focusing on cleaning up the garden beds to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Volunteers will weed the garden beds and pull unwanted plants to help clean up the beds for the whole community to enjoy.

Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: Meet at the playground
- Parking: There is street parking along Woodbury Drive on the west edge of the park.

What to wear and bring:
- Dress for the weather (sun protection recommended)
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

Help preserve and maintain this beautiful park!

We'll be focusing on light restoration tasks to help keep this park looking great for all who visit. Volunteers will pull invasive plants and cut invasive shrubs to help take back this greenspace and help native species thrive. This event is part of a monthly Tuesday evening series this summer.

Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
- Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: In the paved parking lot at the Buhr Park ice arena/pool entrance.
- Parking: Plan to park in the lot where we're meeting. There is a dirt overflow lot to the north if needed.

What to wear and bring: 

- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Layers for the weather and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide gloves, tools, and instructions

Please note:
- Work may include kneeling, bending, or light lifting
- Natural hazards like uneven terrain, thorns, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes
- All minors should be accompanied by a guardian

More information: How to prepare for a shrub cutting workday

This event is open to the public—bring a friend or neighbor!

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to Arbor Oaks Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday! Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members of all ages to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Specific projects will be determined based on park needs at the time, but may include activities like litter pickup, garden care, mulching, or invasive removal.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, July 30, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Arbor Oaks Park, Champagne Drive near the playground (Map Link)
- There is plentiful street parking

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

As caretakers of Ann Arbor’s Natural Areas, volunteers with the Ann Arbor Parks Department serve the greater community by:
- Restoring local ecosystems
- Expanding access to quality experiences in nature
- Strengthening bonds through service

At this event, you’ll help protect Ann Arbor’s biodiversity and public lands by cutting and removing invasive shrubs with hand saws and loppers. This work creates more space for native plants to thrive, providing food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.

Event Details
- Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Location: Marshall Nature Area
- Meeting Point: Meet at the Marshall Nature Area parking lot on Dixboro Rd.
- Parking: Marshall Nature Area has a small gravel parking lot and will likely not be able to accommodate all of the vehicles coming to this volunteer event. We encourage carpooling with other volunteers, if possible.
- Alternative Parking: There is street parking on Church Rd (neighborhood off of Dixboro Rd, across from the nature area entrance) Please use caution when crossing the road, and cross at the Plymouth Rd & Dixboro Rd intersection as there are no other crosswalks.

What You’ll Be Doing
- Using hand saws and loppers to cut invasive shrubs
- Hauling brush and working off-trail
- Supporting the long-term health of this natural area

Hazards & Safety Notes
This work involves the usual hazards of being in nature, including:
- Off-trail walking on uneven surfaces and difficult footing
- Exposure to plants with thorns and poison ivy
- Muddy and hot conditions, depending on weather
- Expect to get dirty while working outdoors
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

What to Bring
- Thick, long pants to protect against ticks and thorny plants
- Closed-toe shoes (sturdy boots recommended)
- Dress for the weather, likely hot and sunny, sun protection recommended
- Filled water bottle

We Provide
- Tools (hand saws, loppers), gloves, and training
- Guidance from experienced staff
- A chance to enjoy time in nature while giving back to your community

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program for a volunteer workday at Creal Park, a neighborhood park with a playground in need of some love! To keep the play area safe, we’ll be spreading a fresh layer of play-safe woodchips under and around the equipment using wheelbarrows, pitchforks, and rakes. This task makes a big difference in safety and helps the playground look well cared for.

Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026
- Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m.
- Meeting location: Creal Park Playground
- Parking: There is street parking in the neighborhood around the park

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants and closed-toe shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothes that can get dusty or dirty and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide tools and instruction

Please note:
- This is a physical task involving lifting and moving mulch with shovels and wheelbarrows
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- Volunteers may encounter uneven ground, thorns, poison ivy, and insects like mosquitoes or ticks
- Minors must be accompanied by a guardian OR be 14 year or older and have their waiver signed by a guardian 24 hours in advance

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to Hunt Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday! Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members of all ages to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Specific projects will be determined based on park needs at the time, but may include activities like litter pickup, garden care, mulching, or invasive removal.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Please meet at the Hunt Park Playground.
- Parking: There is street parking on Spring Street, Sunset Road, and Daniel Street surrounding the park.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather, likely hot and sunny (please bring sun protection)
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian OR have their waiver signed 24 hours prior to the workday

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Join us for this planting workday where we will be adding native plants to the bioswale in Dolph Park. We plan to plant along the shoreline and within the bottom of the bioswale. We’ll use a new, fun way of planting aquatic plants where we wrap the roots of the plant with a biodegradable sack holding a rock and then toss the plant into the water. The rock will let the roots sink down where it will take root. Bring sturdy boots or tall rubber boots, if you have them, but we will be able to plant by standing on dry land.

Event Details
- Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
- Time: 10am-12pm
- Location: Dolph Park
- Meeting Point: We'll meet near the Dolph Bioswale at Parklake and Lakeview Drive.

What You’ll Be Doing
- Wrap roots of native plants
- Standing on land or in the water and planting or tossing the plants into the water
- Supporting the long-term health of this bioswale

Hazards & Safety Notes
- This work involves the usual hazards of being in nature, including:
- Off-trail walking on uneven surfaces and difficult footing
- Muddy conditions depending on weather
- Expect to get dirty, and possibly wet, while working outdoors

What to Bring
- Sturdy boots or tall rubber boots, if you have them
- Layers to dress for the weather
- Filled water bottle

We Provide
- Plants and materials needed for planting
- Guidance from experienced staff, including Catie Wytychak from the Water Resources Commissioner's Office
- A chance to enjoy time in nature while giving back to your community

Funding is provided by the Systems Planning Unit of the City of Ann Arbor.

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

As caretakers of Ann Arbor’s Natural Areas, volunteers with the Ann Arbor Parks Department serve the greater community by:
Restoring local ecosystems
Expanding access to quality experiences in nature
Strengthening bonds through service

At this event, you’ll help protect Ann Arbor’s biodiversity and public lands by cutting and removing invasive shrubs with hand saws and loppers. This work creates more space for native plants to thrive, providing food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.

Event Details
- Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Location: Stapp Nature Area
- Meeting Point: Please meet at Stapp Nature Area entrance on Traverwood Dr. (south of the library)
- Parking: There is limited street parking along Huron Parkway and Traverwood Drive in front of the AADL Traverwood Branch. There is also street parking on Traver Boulevard, which is a short walk from the park.

What You’ll Be Doing
- Using hand saws and loppers to cut invasive shrubs
- Hauling brush and working off-trail
- Supporting the long-term health of this natural area

Hazards & Safety Notes
- This work involves the usual hazards of being in nature, including:
- Off-trail walking on uneven surfaces and difficult footing
- Exposure to plants with thorns and poison ivy
- Muddy and hot conditions, depending on weather
- Expect to get dirty while working outdoors
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

What to Bring
- Thick, long pants to protect against ticks and thorny plants
- Closed-toe shoes (sturdy boots recommended)
- Dress for the weather, likely hot and sunny, sun protection recommended
- Filled water bottle

We Provide
- Tools (hand saws, loppers), gloves, and training
- Guidance from experienced staff
- A chance to enjoy time in nature while giving back to your community

More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Join us for this planting workday where we will be adding native plants to the pond in West Park. We plan to plant along the shoreline and within the bottom of the pond. We’ll use a new, fun way of planting aquatic plants where we wrap the roots of the plant with a biodegradable sack holding a rock and then toss the plant into the water. The rock will let the roots sink down where it will take root. Bring sturdy boots or tall rubber boots, if you have them, but we will be able to plant by standing on dry land.

Event Details
- Date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Time: 10am-12pm
- Location: West Park
- Meeting Point: We'll meet near the Chapin St. parking lot at West Park

What You’ll Be Doing
- Wrap roots of native plants
- Standing on land or in the water and planting or tossing the plants into the water
- Supporting the long-term health of this pond

Hazards & Safety Notes
- This work involves the usual hazards of being in nature, including:
- Off-trail walking on uneven surfaces and difficult footing
- Muddy conditions depending on weather
- Expect to get dirty, and possibly wet, while working outdoors

What to Bring
- Sturdy boots or tall rubber boots, if you have them
- Layers to dress for the weather
- Filled water bottle

We Provide
- Plants and materials needed for planting
- Guidance from experienced staff
- A chance to enjoy time in nature while giving back to your community

Funding is provided by the Systems Planning Unit of the City of Ann Arbor.

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to Garden Homes Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday! Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members of all ages to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

To keep the play area safe, we’ll be spreading a fresh layer of play-safe woodchips under and around the equipment using wheelbarrows, pitchforks, and rakes. This task makes a big difference in safety and helps the playground look well cared for.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Garden Homes Park Playground
- Parking: There is street parking around the park on Franklin Street. We recommend carpooling when possible.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothes that can get dusty or dirty and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- This is a physical task involving lifting and moving mulch with shovels and wheelbarrows 

- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
 -All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to Cranbrook Park at our upcoming Love a Park volunteer workday! Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and Ann Arbor Target for a morning of stewardship at this beloved neighborhood park.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Specific projects will be determined based on park needs at the time, but may include activities like litter pickup or playground and trail maintenance.

Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: Meet at the Cranbrook Park playground
- Parking: There is no parking at Cranbrook Park. If you are planning on driving, please do not park directly behind Wholefoods (this is Wholefoods Employee Parking). Please park in the lot on the northeast side of the store as seen here. It is about a 7 minute walk to the park from there.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle 

- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Volunteers may encounter uneven ground, thorns, poison ivy, and insects like mosquitoes or ticks
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to the Rotary Club Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden at Gallup Park during our monthly Adopt-a-Park volunteer workday! Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor North for a day of stewardship at a beloved pollinator in at Ann Arbor's most popular park.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep this garden looking great for all who visit. We'll weed garden beds, deadhead flowers, plant new flora, transplant as needed, mulch the beds, rake the garden, and remove or trim invasive shrubs to help get this park ready for pollinator season.

Event Details:
- Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Gallup Park Butterfly Garden - there is a parking lot right next to it!

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
- Layers for the weather and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide gloves and tools

Please note:
- Work may include kneeling, bending, or light lifting
- Garden areas may have uneven terrain, weeds with thorns, or poison ivy
- All minors should be accompanied by a guardian

This event is open to the public—bring a friend or neighbor!

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Show some love to Sculpture Plaza Park during our monthly Adopt-a-Park volunteer workday! Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and the People's Food Co-Op for a morning of stewardship at a beloved downtown park where downtown meets Kerrytown.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep this park looking great for all who visit. We'll weed and mulch garden beds and street trees, pick up litter, clean around umbrella tables and benches, and weed and sweep the plaza and adjacent sidewalks.

Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Meet in the brick paved plaza at the intersection of Catherine St and N 4th Ave
- Parking: There is paid metered parking at two lots directly across N 4th Ave and on several nearby streets

What to wear and bring:
- Clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
- Layers for the weather and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide gloves and tools

Please note:
- Work may include kneeling, bending, or light lifting
- Garden areas may have uneven terrain, weeds with thorns, or poison ivy
- All minors should be accompanied by a guardian

This event is open to the public—bring a friend or neighbor!

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Help bring the fun back to West Park! The free Party in the Parks series continues this summer with an afternoon filled with music, games, creativity and community connection — and volunteers help make it all possible.

Volunteers will help support activity areas and create a positive experience for guests. During this event, volunteers will assist with a craft station and help monitor inflatables and the game area so children and families can safely enjoy the activities throughout the afternoon.

This is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with neighbors and help bring free summer fun to the Ann Arbor community.

No prior experience is necessary — staff will provide instructions, supplies and guidance on site.

Come lend a hand and help us wrap up Party in the Parks at West Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
- Time: 11:45 a.m.–3:15 p.m.
- Location: West Park, Ann Arbor

Volunteer tasks may include:
- Helping guests with a hands-on craft activity
- Monitoring an inflatable or game area
- Supporting a safe and welcoming activity space
- Answering basic questions and directing guests to staff as needed

What to wear and bring:
- Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor summer weather
- Comfortable shoes for standing and walking
- A reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen or sun protection is recommended
- Volunteers will receive a t-shirt to wear during the event

Please note:
- Volunteers may be standing for much of the event
- Work areas may be outdoors in full sun
- Please park in the West Park parking lot off Chapin Street and check in with us at the Blue Parks and Rec tent when you arrive

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Questions? Email volunteer@a2gov.org

Help preserve and maintain this beautiful park!

We'll be focusing on light restoration tasks to help keep this park looking great for all who visit. Volunteers will pull invasive plants and cut invasive shrubs to help take back this greenspace and help native species thrive. This event is part of a monthly Tuesday evening series this summer.

Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026
- Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: In the paved parking lot at the Buhr Park ice arena/pool entrance.
- Parking: Plan to park in the lot where we're meeting. There is a dirt overflow lot to the north if needed.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Layers for the weather and sun protection
- A reusable water bottle
- We’ll provide gloves, tools, and instructions

Please note:
- Work may include kneeling, bending, or light lifting
- Natural hazards like uneven terrain, thorns, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes
-All minors should be accompanied by a guardian

More information: How to prepare for a shrub cutting workday

This event is open to the public—bring a friend or neighbor

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS OPPORTUNITY LOCATED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest is looking for volunteers to help get the Community Choice Mobile Market ready for clients. Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

This opportunity will occur from  8:00-11:00 and 12:30-3:30 Monday-Friday . Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Volunteers will perform one or more of the following general farm chores depending on the time of year:

·        Spring cleanup

·        Drip irrigation installation

·        Plastic mulch installation assistance

·        Weeding

·        Planting

·        Harvest container cleaning

·        Harvesting

·        Bagging produce for transportation/distribution

·        Field cleanup

·        Rock removal

·        Remove irrigation and plastic mulch

*Volunteers who are 14-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult chaperone*

DRESS CODE

Our top priority is the safety and comfort of our volunteers. While we recommend long pants and long sleeves to help prevent skin irritation from plants and grasses, we understand that weather conditions vary. Some days can be hot and humid with limited shade, and we have never turned anyone away for wearing shorts. That said, please be aware that poison ivy is present throughout the farm property. Volunteers typically work inside the fenced areas, while poison ivy is most commonly found along the tree lines.

Please review the following required and suggested items before coming to the farm:

REQUIRED

·        Closed-toe shoes (no open-toe shoes)

·        Secure footwear (no slip-on shoes)

·        No tank tops

SUGGESTED

·        Hat

·        Lightweight long-sleeve shirt or light jacket

·        Rain gear

·        Boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet or muddy

Weather can change quickly—it may be 30°F in the morning and 80°F by the end of the day. Dressing in layers is always a great way to be prepared.

*All tools, gloves, ice water, bug spray, and sunscreen are provided. If you’d like to contribute, donations of water, gloves, sunscreen, or tools are always welcome.*

**If you have allergies to anything you may encounter on the farm (such as bees) and require an EpiPen, please bring it with you and notify farm staff upon arrival.**

Between August 17th and August 29th, our hubs will transition from daily summer programming to our after-school fall schedule. During this time, we'll be refreshing our spaces to prepare for the return of our Brilliant families.

This is the perfect opportunity for volunteer teams to make a meaningful, hands-on impact by helping us paint, organize, and complete light facility improvements that create welcoming, vibrant environments for the new season. If you're part of a company, community organization, or other group looking for a rewarding team volunteer experience, we'd love to welcome you to Brilliant and partner with you to help get our hubs ready for fall!

Additional details:

THIS OPPORTUNITY LOCATED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Focus: HOPE provides food to over 40,000 limited-income seniors in and around Detroit. Each month, every one of those seniors receives a box of food which contains healthy groupings of nonperishable foods. While most of our seniors come to one of the three Focus: HOPE centers to pick up their food, over 10,000 are homebound. Homebound seniors are unable to pick up the food themselves, so volunteers and agency partners such as yourself deliver it directly to them. You may deliver to individual homes or to buildings where many senior participants live at the same address. Teams and individuals are welcome!! 

We have an extremely high need for delivery volunteers. Please share with your friends.

If you have not delivered food with us before, this is the opportunity for you! An orientation kicks off each shift on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday at 10:00am & 2:00pm, and on Saturday at 10:00am. After you have successfully signed up for one of these shifts (you may register at the bottom of this page), you can deliver same day. The orientation itself only takes about ten minutes. 

To make food deliveries, volunteers use their own vehicles to transport pre-packed boxes of food to individual homes or apartment buildings. Based on the room in your car(s) and time available to you, you may choose the number of boxes to take and the areas to go to.  

Your first time delivering you will receive detailed instructions from a Volunteer Coordinator. Here is a shortened process overview: 

We recommend you bring a dolly, cart or wagon if you intend to make a large quantity of deliveries at once. 

Teams may work together to deliver to one location where many senior participants live at the same address. These buildings may have anywhere from 10-100 seniors who receive food from Focus: HOPE. Teams work together to transport the boxes in their vehicles and then distribute those boxes door-to-door within the building.

You will be awarded one volunteer hour per box delivered. Hours can be tracked in your account on this website. If you need a special sheet signed, bring it with you to volunteer or email volunteer@focushope.edu. For court mandated hours scroll down for more information. 

Comfortable attire and shoes are welcome. The warehouse temperature may fluctuate with the seasons, so layers are encouraged. Volunteers are prohibited from wearing open-toed shoes, sleeveless shirts, short shorts or exposing midriff. Please keep valuables at home, in your car or on your person. 

We recommend you bring work gloves. 

For everyone’s safety, if you are not feeling well or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, please stay home. 

Focus: HOPE strongly encourages all volunteers, guests and colleagues to wear a mask while in the building, regardless of vaccination status. 

Handwashing and sanitizer stations are available throughout the building. 

If you have already completed a digital waiver this calendar year, scroll to the bottom of the page to register for an open time slot. Otherwise, click “Respond” at the top or bottom of the page, log in, complete the waiver qualification, and then return to this page to see the available volunteer shifts. 

Minors may not complete waivers digitally, so the system will not allow a minor to sign up to volunteer. Minors may not volunteer without a guardian present. Once on-site for the selected volunteer event, guardians may register their minors by signing a printed waiver on their behalf. For deliveries there is no age minimum to participate. 

To register a large team or organization, please contact volunteer@focushope.edu for options. 

If you have court mandated community service hours, you must attend a separate, court-specific orientation. This orientation only takes place on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. at 1400 Oakman Boulevard, 48238. After the brief orientation, you may choose to stay and begin volunteering, or return another day. 

Bring a photo ID and know the name of your court and/or officer. If you have an official document which states your hours, bring it with you. 

If you do not attend a Friday orientation prior to volunteering, your hours will not be recorded for the court. No exceptions will be made. 

You do not need to register to participate. More information at: https://focushope.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=601721 

Focus: HOPE has permanently relocated all volunteer activities to 1400 Oakman Boulevard, Detroit MI 48238. Parking is directly across the street within the gated black fence. The lot entrance is on La Salle Boulevard by where it intersects with Oakman Boulevard. Please do not park in the Early Learning Center lot or between buildings. 

Volunteer & Community Outreach 

Focus: HOPE 

volunteer@focushope.edu 

313-494-4270 

We’re currently looking for volunteers who enjoy connecting with others and want to help strengthen neighbor-to-neighbor relationships across our Brilliant Detroit community! This role centers on friendly, informal conversations, sharing what Brilliant offers, and helping neighbors learn about our free programs and resources.

As a volunteer, you’ll support our Community Engagement team by distributing items like free books and literacy program calendars, and sharing information about accessing essentials such as food, diapers, clothing, and more. By connecting with residents, you’ll help keep our community informed, supported, and connected while expanding our reach and impact.

Our Brightmoor, Central, and Russell Woods hubs are currently seeking volunteers to help assist with weekly outreach efforts. This opportunity offers flexible scheduling; please inquire. Volunteer groups are welcome!

Each year, the Brilliant Detroit team, along with participants and volunteers, gathers at our 18 operating neighborhood hubs to enhance our landscaping and cultivate flower and harvest gardens. These efforts reflect a season of renewal and growth, helping to beautify shared spaces while fostering community pride and environmental stewardship. It’s also an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to creating thriving neighborhoods where kids and families can succeed.

Tasks will vary depending on the site and time of the season; however, volunteers can expect to assist with weeding, planting flowers, collecting sticks and leaves, trimming overgrowth, mulching, and preparing garden beds. Materials will be provided, though we always appreciate volunteers who are interested in donating tools or bringing their own gloves.

If your group is interested in organizing a beautification project or hosting a collection drive, we would love the opportunity to partner with you in supporting and beautifying our Brilliant community! Please respond using this opportunity link, and a member of our Volunteer Team will reach out shortly to begin planning your project or coordinating your donation.

Volunteers are needed to help pack emergency food boxes, re-pack or sort fresh nutritious food that will be distributed through Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This opportunity is located at the Oak Park warehouse - 15000 Eight Mile, Oak Park, MI 48237. 

This opportunity will occur from 1:00 PM-4:00 PM at the Oak Park Warehouse. Volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

Must wear closed toe shoes. Long pants are suggested.

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION:  The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

Mealtime creates a sense of community for our guests and an opportunity for fellowship. Our communal dining and nutritional menu provide very real health benefits. Without the support of our committed volunteers, preparing and serving meals for 200+ individuals would not be possible.

Volunteer Meal Teams assist Chef in the preparation of meals for Bridge Housing residents and guests of the Day Center. Meal Teams will also serve meals to residents, and assist with clean-up at the end of service. 

As this opportunity takes place in an industrial kitchen setting, all volunteers must wear close toed shoes and long pants. 

No prior kitchen experience is necessary; all training will be provided on-site at the beginning of your shift. 

Corporate, parish, community, and college groups are welcome to volunteer together by clicking "Respond as a Team" for the date you'd like to join us!

*Click here to learn more about PFC: The Pope Francis Center

Mealtime creates a sense of community for our guests and an opportunity for fellowship. Our communal dining and nutritional menu provide very real health benefits. Without the support of our committed volunteers, preparing and serving meals for 200+ individuals would not be possible.

Volunteer Meal Teams assist Chef in the preparation of meals for Bridge Housing residents and guests of the Day Center. Meal Teams will also serve meals to residents, and assist with clean-up at the end of service. 

As this opportunity takes place in an industrial kitchen setting, all volunteers must wear close toed shoes and long pants. 

No prior kitchen experience is necessary; all training will be provided on-site at the beginning of your shift. 

Corporate, parish, community, and college groups are welcome to volunteer together by clicking "Respond as a Team" for the date you'd like to join us!

*Click here to learn more about PFC: The Pope Francis Center

Brilliant Detroit is hosting summer programming for kids in grades K-3, designed to support literacy development, promote health and wellness, and provide engaging enrichment experiences that help young learners thrive.

Our McDougall-Hunt hub is currently looking for a dedicated volunteer to support their weekly programming! We're seeking a teacher, parent, education student, or experienced reading tutor who enjoys working with elementary-aged children. The ideal volunteer has a strong understanding of phonics and early literacy instruction and is comfortable leading a small group of students through engaging reading, writing, and conversation activities.

Your support will help prevent the "summer slide" and ensure students return to school in August feeling confident and prepared. We're looking for someone who can commit to at least one day per week during our summer programming, from July 6th through August 13th.

Available days include: 

Monday & Thursday - Lit Lab from 2:45-4 p.m.

Tuesday - Book Club & Lit Lab - 12:50-4 p.m.

Additional opportunity: 

Wednesday - Martial Arts - from 12:50-2 p.m.

We're also seeking volunteers to assist with our Wednesday martial arts program. If you're passionate about keeping kids active, engaged, and having fun while providing positive encouragement, we'd love to have you join us!

Join us and our partner, 360 Detroit, for the annual Virginia Park Block Party! Together, we'll celebrate community, strengthen neighbor-to-neighbor connections, and foster a spirit of mutual support.

This family-friendly event will feature games and activities, music, delicious food, community resources, and exciting giveaways for attendees of all ages.

Volunteers will assist with event setup, attendee check-in, vendor support, Brilliant Detroit resource distribution and cleanup throughout the day while helping to create a welcoming and engaging experience for all participants. Volunteer shifts are available; please inquire for more information. 

THIS IS AN OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY

Forgotten Harvest’s Client Choice Mobile Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS IS AN OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY

Forgotten Harvest’s Client Choice Mobile Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS OPPORTUNITY LOCATED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

*Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift at least 25+ pounds*

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

GROUP REGISTRATION - please email the volunteer department (click here) with the following information:

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS OPPORTUNITY LOCATED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest is looking for volunteers to help get the Community Choice Mobile Market ready for clients. Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Market will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

This opportunity will occur from  8:00-11:00 and 12:30-3:30 Monday-Friday . Volunteers should be 18 years or older. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

THIS IS AN IN/OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITY LOCATED AT THE BACK OF OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTER 

Forgotten Harvest is looking for volunteers to help get the Community Choice Mobile Trailer ready for clients. Forgotten Harvest’s Community Choice Mobile Trailer will allow those in need to select their own food instead of receiving a prepacked or standard bag of groceries. With this method, those in need do not have to take items they already have, do not like, or cannot eat for health or personal reasons.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the following:

This opportunity will occur from Monday-Friday from 2-5:pm. Volunteers must be 16 years or older. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.

VOLUNTEERS WILL MEET IN THE MAIN LOBBY FOR A BRIEF ORIENTATION PRIOR TO THE START OF THE SHIFT.

MANDATORY DRESS CODE

HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: The safety and well-being of our community, staff and volunteers are important to Forgotten Harvest.

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and Ann Arbor Ashtanga Yoga for a volunteer workday at Creal Park, a well-loved neighborhood park! Together, we’ll weed thistle and other unwanted plants from around the playground area. This effort will make the space safer for children and families while keeping the park looking its best.

Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: Creal Park Playground
- Parking: There is street parking in the neighborhood around the park

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather, likely hot and sunny!
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Volunteers may encounter uneven ground, thorns, poison ivy, and insects like mosquitoes or ticks
Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian OR have their waiver signed 24-hours in advance to the workday

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love to Mixtwood Pomona Park! Join the Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations and the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program for a volunteer workday focused on caring for the playground area at this small neighborhood park.

Mixtwood Pomona Park is less than a half acre in size and features a playground with a play structure, swings, benches, and a sandbox tucked under a grouping of oaks and hickories. The park is also home to one of Ann Arbor’s Champion Trees, a pignut hickory.

During this event, volunteers will focus on weeding under and around the playground equipment. This kind of hands-on maintenance helps keep playground spaces cleaner, safer, and more inviting for the children, families, and neighbors who use the park throughout the season.

Whether you’re a longtime volunteer or joining us for the first time, this is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with community members, and make a visible impact in a beloved neighborhood park.

No prior experience is necessary—staff will provide all tools, supplies, training, and guidance throughout the event.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for Mixtwood Pomona Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Friday, July 17, 2026
- Time: 8:15 – 10:00 a.m.
- Meeting Location: Mixtwood Pomona Park
- Parking: There is street parking surrounding the park.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - We may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love to The Ponds Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday! Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members of all ages to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

We'll be focusing on light maintenance and general beautification tasks to help keep the park looking great for all who visit. Specific projects will be determined based on park needs at the time, but may include activities like litter pickup, garden care, mulching, or invasive removal.

Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Location: The Ponds Park Playground
- Parking: There is street parking along Emerald Avenue.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love to Baxter Park! Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program for a volunteer workday at Baxter Park, which contains a play area, half basketball court, a picnic table, benches, and a long sloping lawn with a set of soccer goals. Together, we’ll weed thistle and other unwanted plants from around the playground area. This effort will make the space safer for children and families while keeping the park looking its best.

Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
- Time: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Please meet us at the Baxter Park playground
- Parking: There is no parking at the park. Street parking is available across Green Road in the neighborhood along Frederick Drive, about a three-minute walk from the park.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Clothes that can get dirty (you’ll be weeding around mulch and sand)
- A reusable water bottle
- Dress for the weather—layers and sun protection recommended
- We’ll provide gloves and tools

Please note:
- Volunteers may be kneeling or bending for long periods
- Surfaces may be uneven or sandy
- There may be some thorny plants like thistle
- All minors should be accompanied by a guardian OR have their waiver signed 24 hours in advance to the workday

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Help bring the fun to Bicentennial Park! Join Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation for a special community celebration in honor of the grand opening of Bicentennial Park’s new splash pad.

This exciting park improvement will provide a fun, refreshing place for children and families to gather, play and enjoy the park during the warmer months. Volunteers will help make the grand opening welcoming, organized and fun for everyone who attends.

During this shift, volunteers may help set up chairs and tents, support the craft area, monitor an inflatable/game area and help initiate or monitor Olympic-style mini games for kids.

No prior experience is necessary — staff will provide instructions, supplies and guidance on site. Volunteers will receive a t-shirt to wear during the event.

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for both back-to-back shifts if they would like to help for the full event. We have built in transition time between shifts to allow for a smooth handoff.

Come lend a hand and help us celebrate the splash pad grand opening at Bicentennial Park!

Event Details:
Date: July 11, 2026

First volunteer shift: 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Second volunteer shift: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Location: Bicentennial Park, Ann Arbor

Volunteer tasks may include:
Setting up chairs and tents before the event
Helping monitor and facilitate the craft area
Monitoring an inflatable/game area for appropriate use and number of participants
Helping initiate and monitor Olympic-style mini games for kids
Answering basic questions and directing guests to staff as needed

Parking and check-in:
Volunteers should park in the parking lot
Please check in at the blue Parks & Recreation information tent when you arrive

What to wear and bring:
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor summer weather
Comfortable shoes for standing and walking
A reusable water bottle
Sunscreen or sun protection is recommended
Volunteers will receive a t-shirt to wear during the event

Please note:
Volunteers may be standing, walking or helping with activities for much of the shift
Some tasks may involve lifting, carrying or setting up event materials
Work areas may be outdoors in full sun
All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Show some love to Evergreen Park! Wrap up our Park Spotlight week at this beloved neighborhood park by giving back during our Love a Park Volunteer Workday. Throughout the week, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation is highlighting this park with engaging programs for children and families. Whether you’ve attended events earlier in the week or are joining us for the first time, we invite community members to help care for the park while connecting with neighbors and supporting the spaces we all enjoy.

We'll be using handsaws and loppers to open up the trail through the natural area. Come lend a hand, meet your community, and show your love for a local Park!

Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Meeting Location: Evergreen Park Playground
- Parking: There is street parking near the south entrance off Valley Dr., within view of the playground.

What to wear and bring:
- Long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes
- Dress for the weather
- A reusable water bottle
- We provide all necessary tools and supplies

Please note:
- Some tasks may involve bending, lifting, or being in full sun
- Work areas may have uneven terrain or minor tripping hazards
- All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website.

View and register for all Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program events here.

Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program for a special community volunteer event as we help welcome the park’s new splash pad with the creation of a colorful outdoor mural.

As part of the recent park renovations, volunteers will assist with painting a pre-designed mural on the exterior wall of the restroom and changing building. This project is designed to be fun and accessible for all skill levels—think of it as a community paint-by-number experience! No artistic experience is necessary.

This volunteer event is a great opportunity to help add creativity, color, and community pride to one of Ann Arbor’s updated park spaces while celebrating a major improvement for neighborhood families and visitors.

Staff will provide all supplies, materials, and guidance throughout the event.

Come help bring this mural to life and leave a lasting mark on Bicentennial Park!

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Meeting location: Meet in the paved parking lot at the entrance of Bicentennial Park.

What to wear and bring:
Comfortable clothing appropriate for warm weather
Clothes and shoes that can get paint or dirt on them
A reusable water bottle
We provide all painting supplies and materials

Please note:
Some activities may involve standing for extended periods or reaching overhead
Work areas may have uneven surfaces or minor tripping hazards
All minors must be accompanied by a guardian

Brilliant invites skilled professionals to share their unique talents in support of our vision to create thriving Detroit neighborhoods. There are many meaningful ways to get involved across our community!

We welcome skilled volunteers from a variety of backgrounds. Opportunities may include:

If you have a special skill or talent you’d like to volunteer, we’d love to connect and explore how we can make brilliant things happen together at one of our Brilliant hubs!

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT THIS LINK - we may not see responses on this website

View and register for all Ann Arbor parks volunteer events here at vhub.at/A2parks

Join the Ann Arbor Parks Volunteer Program and Xperi for a volunteer workday at Esch Park, a neighborhood park with a well-loved playground. During this volunteer event, we’ll focus on weeding and spreading play-safe woodchips on the playground. This effort will make the space safer for children and families while keeping the park looking its best. 

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, July 8, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Meeting Location: Please meet us at the Esch Park playground

What to wear and bring:

Closed-toe shoes

Weather-appropriate clothes that can get dusty or dirty

A reusable water bottle

We’ll provide tools and instruction

Please note:

Volunteers may be kneeling or bending for long periods

Surfaces may be uneven or sandy

There may be some thorny plants like thistle

All minors should be accompanied by a guardian

We need a couple of volunteers to help with parking lot flow for our summer camp parents as they drop off their kids.  

We need a couple of volunteers to help with parking lot flow for our summer camp parents as they pick up their kids in the afternoon.  

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: Dei McCarty, Support Coordinator

Location: On-site at State Crossing (1525 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103) - 2nd/4th Tuesdays 9 AM - 12 PM

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.

To help address food insecurities in our community with compassion and dignity, PFC has partnered with Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan to open a Food Pantry onsite at the Bridge Housing Campus. As a Client Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting individuals and families as they access nutritious food through a shopping experience in the Pantry.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Warmly welcome clients to the pantry

Guide clients in selecting pantry items based on the USDA Balanced Plate Model

Help clients schedule future appointments.

Assist with stocking shelves and maintaining a clean and orderly site.

Qualifications:

Helpful and cooperative with a calm demeanor.

Able to walk and stand for up to 3 hours (with breaks and lift approximately 20 pounds at a time.

Must be 18 years or older.

Benefits:

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

Gain valuable experience in community service and nonprofit work.

Meet new people.

Receive training and support from experienced staff.

*Click here to learn more about PFC: The Pope Francis Center

Connect Your Neighbors With Local Volunteering Options – Right from Home!

When we know more, we can do more. 

Community Compass is a crowdsourced platform that connects volunteers with their community and each other. We’re building a national directory of nonprofit organizations, mutual aid and grassroots networks, service clubs, and more. Because volunteer groups come in all shapes and sizes, our Community Pages include smaller, less formal organizations alongside established nonprofits.

We’re looking for enthusiastic contributors (like you!) to help us update and enrich Community Pages and Organization Pages on Community Compass. With some research and your curiosity, you can help your neighbors quickly find nearby nonprofits, mutual aid groups, service clubs and more – making it simpler than ever for everyone to make a local impact.

Community Compass contributors have already helped us identify over 3,600 ways to volunteer in more than 380 communities in the US!

What You'll Do:

Be a Contributor: Conduct quick, simple online research to identify active service clubs, mutual aid groups, and upcoming volunteer events in your community.

Be a Fact Checker: Enhance your community's page on Ways to Connect by ensuring the information is current, accurate, and inviting for potential volunteers.

Be an Organizational Profile Builder: Create Community Compass pages for nonprofit organizations.

Be an Ambassador: Coming soon

Why Volunteer with Community Compass?

Easy and accessible: Volunteer remotely at your convenience.

Immediate community impact: Help your neighbors discover meaningful ways to contribute.

Flexible commitment: Volunteer for as little as 2 hours, or as much as you'd like.

Growth opportunities: Volunteers can explore deeper involvement through our Ambassador program.

Ready to help your community thrive? Join us today and make volunteering easier for everyone.

Sunday Kitchen Prep and Serve is a volunteer program dedicated to combating hunger by preparing nutritious, heartwarming meals to those in need. In this program, every volunteer plays a crucial role as they prepare and serve meals. The Sunday meal is about love, food, and you!

Please note: If your preferred date is not showing, there are no volunteer opportunities available for that day. Please select another day.

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: Dei McCarty, Support Coordinator

Location: On-site at State Crossing (1525 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103) - 2nd/4th Tuesdays 9 AM - 12 PM

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.

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 Coordinator

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

Hours: Shifts available Monday through Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM with shifts starting at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM

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 determinationin this regard.

Join our team as we sell books at Eastern Market during the largest book fesitval in Michigan, The Detroit Book Fest! This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and allows us to raise money for our free programs. We are a book access group and get thousands of books out to the community each year.

Join us for Slice of Summer, a fun-filled day dedicated to bringing our community together and supporting The Village Neighborhood. There are many ways to contribute: from backpack distribution, table/tent maintenance, food distribution, etc. 
Join The Village Neighborhood in making an impact. 

Volunteers will perform one or more of the following general farm chores depending on the time of year:

·        Spring cleanup

·        Drip irrigation installation

·        Plastic mulch installation assistance

·        Weeding

·        Planting

·        Harvest container cleaning

·        Harvesting

·        Bagging produce for transportation/distribution

·        Field cleanup

·        Rock removal

·        Remove irrigation and plastic mulch

*Volunteers who are 14-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult chaperone*

DRESS CODE

Our top priority is the safety and comfort of our volunteers. While we recommend long pants and long sleeves to help prevent skin irritation from plants and grasses, we understand that weather conditions vary. Some days can be hot and humid with limited shade, and we have never turned anyone away for wearing shorts. That said, please be aware that poison ivy is present throughout the farm property. Volunteers typically work inside the fenced areas, while poison ivy is most commonly found along the tree lines.

Please review the following required and suggested items before coming to the farm:

REQUIRED

·        Closed-toe shoes (no open-toe shoes)

·        Secure footwear (no slip-on shoes)

·        No tank tops

SUGGESTED

·        Hat

·        Lightweight long-sleeve shirt or light jacket

·        Rain gear

·        Boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet or muddy

Weather can change quickly—it may be 30°F in the morning and 80°F by the end of the day. Dressing in layers is always a great way to be prepared.

*All tools, gloves, ice water, bug spray, and sunscreen are provided. If you’d like to contribute, donations of water, gloves, sunscreen, or tools are always welcome.*

**If you have allergies to anything you may encounter on the farm (such as bees) and require an EpiPen, please bring it with you and notify farm staff upon arrival.**

Helpful volunteers will assist older adults with both selecting and shopping for their monthly commodities, as well as loading prepacked food boxes and additional food commodities into vehicles. Volunteers will also replenish the supplies/commodities for distribution.

Friendly and patient volunteers are all welcome for this opportunity. Individuals or small groups (up to 5) are ideal. This is a moderately physical activity. Long periods of active moving and standing may occur.

Tasks:

Attire: We suggest volunteers dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes. No open toe shoes, leggings, shorts, tank tops/sleeveless shirts. 

Additional Information: There is limited storage space, please leave personal items in a secure place. 

Parking & Entering the building: Parking is located directly next to the building at 1300 Oakman Blvd. Use caution when parking and when crossing the lot - this is the same parking lot where participants will be picking up their food. Enter through the automatic doors at the front of the building on Oakman Blvd.
 
If you get lost or need to speak with someone, please call the main volunteer line at 313-494-4270. For an immediate response, please call ‪(313) 494-4714.

Volunteer Department
Phone: 313-494-4270 
E-mail: volunteer@focushope.edu 

***COURT ORDERED COMMUNITY SERVICE participants must complete orientation and be approved for this assignment*** Orientation is held only on Friday's at 10:30 am At Main Campus 1400 Oakman Blvd. Detroit, MI 48238 (No appointment required)

Volunteers will perform one or more of the following general farm chores depending on the time of year:

·        Spring cleanup

·        Drip irrigation installation

·        Plastic mulch installation assistance

·        Weeding

·        Planting

·        Harvest container cleaning

·        Harvesting

·        Bagging produce for transportation/distribution

·        Field cleanup

·        Rock removal

·        Remove irrigation and plastic mulch

*Volunteers who are 14-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult chaperone*

DRESS CODE

Our top priority is the safety and comfort of our volunteers. While we recommend long pants and long sleeves to help prevent skin irritation from plants and grasses, we understand that weather conditions vary. Some days can be hot and humid with limited shade, and we have never turned anyone away for wearing shorts. That said, please be aware that poison ivy is present throughout the farm property. Volunteers typically work inside the fenced areas, while poison ivy is most commonly found along the tree lines.

Please review the following required and suggested items before coming to the farm:

REQUIRED

·        Closed-toe shoes (no open-toe shoes)

·        Secure footwear (no slip-on shoes)

·        No tank tops

SUGGESTED

·        Hat

·        Lightweight long-sleeve shirt or light jacket

·        Rain gear

·        Boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet or muddy

Weather can change quickly—it may be 30°F in the morning and 80°F by the end of the day. Dressing in layers is always a great way to be prepared.

*All tools, gloves, ice water, bug spray, and sunscreen are provided. If you’d like to contribute, donations of water, gloves, sunscreen, or tools are always welcome.*

**If you have allergies to anything you may encounter on the farm (such as bees) and require an EpiPen, please bring it with you and notify farm staff upon arrival.**

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is seeking to fill its Board of Directors Treasurer role. This is a volunteer (unpaid) treasury role that serves as a member of the organization’s Board.

EFCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, located in Macomb County, Michigan.  We service youth, families and individuals in Wayne/Macomb Counties and the surrounding community.  EFCS strives to improve the quality of life for youth, adults, and families in low-income and ALICE households through equitable access to services, resources, and supportive programs.

Summary of Role: The Board of Directors Treasurer provides financial support to the organization.

The Treasurer:

Duties and Responsibilities:

Commitment:

The successful candidate must be available to attend Board of Directors meetings monthly, quarterly or as needed and a monthly commitment of approximately 5-10 hours.

Term: This appointment is for the remainder of the current term 3-year appointment (July 1 - June 30, 2029).

All volunteer and Board members must complete a background check. 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. 

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

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.

Support Avalon Housing through a Property Beautification Day! Join our grounds team on a clean up day at one of our many supportive, affordable housing properties. You can participate with your friends, family, community group, or co-workers, helping beautify our properties with seasonal clean up, planting, and weeding.

Want to double your impact from a Property Beautification Day? Consider purchasing native plants or making a restricted gift to support beautifying our properties! To donate or learn which native plants are needed, please contact John Slowey, Avalon Senior Groundskeeper, at jslowey@avalonhousing.org.

Job Title: Service Day Volunteer

Reports To: Aleah Pisarz, Volunteer Coordinator

Location: On-site at one of our properties located around Washtenaw County

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.

Volunteers will perform one or more of the following general farm chores depending on the time of year:

·        Spring cleanup

·        Drip irrigation installation

·        Plastic mulch installation assistance

·        Weeding

·        Planting

·        Harvest container cleaning

·        Harvesting

·        Bagging produce for transportation/distribution

·        Field cleanup

·        Rock removal

·        Remove irrigation and plastic mulch

*Volunteers who are 14-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult chaperone*

DRESS CODE

Our top priority is the safety and comfort of our volunteers. While we recommend long pants and long sleeves to help prevent skin irritation from plants and grasses, we understand that weather conditions vary. Some days can be hot and humid with limited shade, and we have never turned anyone away for wearing shorts. That said, please be aware that poison ivy is present throughout the farm property. Volunteers typically work inside the fenced areas, while poison ivy is most commonly found along the tree lines.

Please review the following required and suggested items before coming to the farm:

REQUIRED

·        Closed-toe shoes (no open-toe shoes)

·        Secure footwear (no slip-on shoes)

·        No tank tops

SUGGESTED

·        Hat

·        Lightweight long-sleeve shirt or light jacket

·        Rain gear

·        Boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet or muddy

Weather can change quickly—it may be 30°F in the morning and 80°F by the end of the day. Dressing in layers is always a great way to be prepared.

*All tools, gloves, ice water, bug spray, and sunscreen are provided. If you’d like to contribute, donations of water, gloves, sunscreen, or tools are always welcome.*

**If you have allergies to anything you may encounter on the farm (such as bees) and require an EpiPen, please bring it with you and notify farm staff upon arrival.**

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is seeking to fill its Board of Directors Secretary role. This is a volunteer (unpaid) treasury role that serves as a member of the organization’s Board.

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.  EFCS strives to improve the quality of life for youth, adults, and families in low-income and ALICE households through equitable access to services, resources, and supportive programs.

Summary of Role: The Board Secretary provides administrative support to the organization's Board of Directors.

Duties & Responsibilities

Skills Required:

Preferred Skills:

Prior experience as a Board of Director or Board Advisor is preferred.

Commitment: 5-8 Hours monthly; Must attend board meetings every 2nd Monday monthly.

Education/Experience:

Associate degree or higher in Business Administration, Human Services or similar coursework or combined education and experience.

Learn more about Elms Family and Community Services by visiting elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org.

FRESH! by Gleaners in Warren. is a new free produce and dairy market located at 4401 E. 8 Mile Road, Warren, MI.  Currently, It is an online (curbside and refrigerated locker) and in market shopping experience. Fresh! offers our Guests the freedom to choose the healthy foods they need, when they need them, and in the way they experience at most grocery stores or markets.

This project is geared more to individuals and small groups. We have 3 volunteer roles (order picker, QA, Greeter) that require volunteers to attend a training in advance. Trainings are held on Wednesdays and 4 volunteer roles (check-out, stocking, Bagger, and Curbside) that don’t require a training in advance. We can schedule a training for an Order Picker or QA volunteer 30 minutes before a first shift on Thursday, Fridays or Saturdays if scheduled in advance. Each role needs about 2-3 volunteers per shift. Volunteers can register for a training at https://vhub.at/VML65F

Order Picker Volunteers – they will be provided with a tablet and cart to gather items in an order. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays and Fridays 12:30pm-3:30pm and 3:30pm-6:30pm, Saturday 8:30am- 11:30am and 11am-2pm. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 18 must volunteer with a parent/guardian. Must be trained in advance.

QA (Quality Assurance) Volunteers – these volunteers will be checking to confirm that the order is correct, bagging & labeling the order and recording the number of pounds in the system. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays and Fridays 12:30pm-3:30pm and 3:30pm-6:30pm, Saturday 8:30am- 11:30am and 11am-2pm. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 18 must volunteer with a parent/guardian. Must be trained in advance.

Greeter Volunteers – volunteers will be welcoming the guests, confirming the guest has registered in advance, and instructing the guest of how the program works. Volunteers must be at least 18 and have attended a training in advance. This training is on Wednesdays from 12pm-12:45pm. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays from 12:45pm-4:15pm and 4pm-7:30pm (starting July 2), Fridays from 8:45am-12:15pm and Noon-3:30pm and Saturdays from 8:45am-11:15am and 11am-1:30pm. 2 volunteers needed per shift.


Check-out Volunteer – volunteers will be checking in the guest and recording the egg, milk and pounds of produce that the guest receives during this visit using a computer. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. A background check is required. No advance training needed. Volunteers will need to be able to stand for several hours and lift up to 20 pounds. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays from 12:45pm-4:15pm and 4pm-7:30pm, Fridays from 8:45am-12:15pm and Noon-3:30pm and Saturdays from 8:45am-11:15am and 11am-1:30pm. 2 volunteers needed per shift. Please register at https://vhub.at/FJXWDQ



Bagger Volunteer – volunteers will be bagging guest’s items, assisting to carry item to guest’s car as needed, and assisting with making sure that the carts stay in the building. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 18 must volunteer with a parent/guardian. Volunteers will need to be able to stand for several hours and lift up to 20 pounds. No advance training needed. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays from 12:45pm-4:15pm and 4pm-7:30pm, Fridays from 8:45am-12:15pm and Noon-3:30pm and Saturdays from 8:45am-11:15am and 11am-1:30pm. 2 volunteers needed per shift. Please register at https://vhub.at/LBV0X0

Stocking Volunteer- Volunteers assist with restocking produce, milk, eggs, and frozen foods. Volunteer may also need to assist with small cleaning tasks. Volunteer must be 16 years old. Volunteers will need to be able to stand for several hours and lift up to 25 pounds. No advance training needed. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays from 10am-noon and 2:30pm-6pm (starting July 2), Fridays from 8:30am-11am and 11:30pm-2:30pm and Saturdays from 8:30am -10:30am, 10:30am-1pm. 3 volunteers needed per shift, except for Thursday shift from 2:30pm-6pm 4 volunteers needed. Please register at https://vhub.at/W9T47N

Starting Wednesday, July 1st - Picking Orders & QA Locker Orders – Volunteers needed to pick orders and QA orders for online locker orders. Volunteer will also assist with loading orders into lockers. No advance training required for this shift on Wednesdays from 2:30pm-5:30pm. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. 2 volunteers per shift.  Please register at  https://vhub.at/1V5A295

Curbside Volunteers – These volunteers will be managing the orders for curbside pick-up. They will be tracking when someone comes to pick-up an order, taking the order outside, confirming the order goes to the correct person. Volunteers must be 18 years old. Volunteer shifts are Thursdays and Fridays 12:30pm-3:30pm and 3:30pm-6:30pm, Saturday 10am-12:30pm and Noon-2:30pm. Please register at https://vhub.at/139EXX2

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is recruiting for its Advisory Board seats: Development/Fundraising, Finance, Grants & Contract, Education, Health, Legal, Marketing, Retail, Social Services and Technology. These are volunteer (unpaid) roles that serve as advisors to the organization.

EFCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, located in Macomb County, Michigan. We service youth, families and individuals in Macomb/Wayne Counties and surrounding areas. EFCS strives to improve the quality of life for youth, adults, and families in low-income and ALICE households through equitable access to services, resources, and supportive programs.

Summary of Board Advisor Role:

Assist in steering the organization to success. Represents the organization in public matters and provides helpful perspectives and solid ideas. Support the organization’s goals and objectives. Provides guidance, expertise and serves as a mentor to the organization’s Board of Directors.

Duties & Responsibilities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

Education/Experience

Time Commitment

Successful candidates must be available to attend monthly or quarterly Board of Directors meetings and 1:1 meetings with the chief executive officer as needed. 

Total monthly commitment of approximately 2-5 hours.

Term: This is a 1-2 year term position.

All volunteer and Board members must complete a background check. 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. 

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

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community-based organization that has served Wayne and Macomb County communities since 2018.  EFCS strives to improve the quality of life for youth, adults, and families in low-income and ALICE households through equitable access to services, resources, and supportive programs.

The organization is actively recruiting for the organizations 2026 - 2029 board terms, to begin effective July 1, 2026 and end June 2029.  The organization seeks servant leaders with backgrounds in board governance, strategic planning, budgeting, innovation, and social impact.  This is an unpaid volunteer opportunity with the option of two (2) term renewals.

Interested applicants may begin the background check process by responding to this opportunity and email their letter of interest and/or resume to info@elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org with "Board of Directors Interest" in the subject line.

To learn more about Elms Family and Community Services, please visit our website at www.elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org.

Elms Family and Community Services' Thanksgiving Support community distribution event.  Group volunteer opportunity for school, bank, and corporate partners.

Date: Friday, November 20th

Time:  1- 4 PM

Location:  Elms Family and Community Services Main site

Elms Family and Community Services "Families for the Holiday", Christmas Support community distribution event.  Group volunteer opportunity for school, bank, and corporate partners.

Date: Friday, December 18, 2026

Time:  1- 4 PM

Location:  Elms Family and Community Services Main site

We are seeking dedicated Registered Dental Assistants to join our volunteer team and support our dental program at Hope Clinic.

Schedule

Responsibilities

Preferred Qualifications

How to Apply
If you are interested, please fill out an application at https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer or email our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@thehopeclinic.org.

Hope Clinic offers free medical care to those without insurance, and we need folks to help in the Pharmacy!

We are looking for Pharmacists/Pharmacy Techs or RNs who can come on a regular basis to help in the Pharmacy/Dispensary This is more of a physician’s supply closet and an RN can legally dispense meds under clinicians’ orders. We do not fill prescriptions that come from outside Hope Clinic.

Requirements:

Able to commit to a regular shift for at least a few months

Compassionate

Friendly and personable

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

Hope Clinic is an amazing non-profit where the efforts of volunteers are effectively multiplied to help make lives better for those in need. Our dedicated volunteer care-providers truly provide a haven of help + healing.

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

Hope Clinic offers free, whole-person healthcare to those without insurance, and we need folks to be there for them when they walk in the door!

Lobby Runners help with a variety of tasks at our Ypsilanti location, including: Helping provide lobby access/check-in for volunteers; Helping receive/organize drop-off donations and deliveries that flow in to us throughout the day from generous donors; Helping the Front Desk team with varied tasks/projects as needed.

Lobby Runner volunteers should have ability to lift up to 30 pounds and to work on your feet for extended periods. However, there will also be down times when you might be able to read or do homework. Lobby Runner volunteer shifts are available Monday - Saturday. You will be provided access to an online scheduler system so you can simply sign up when it works for you - no recurring schedule commitment is necessary.

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

It is getting to be a busy time for our lobby operations, and we'd love to see the Lobby Runner shifts filled to better provide much-needed help in all we do each day!

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

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. Many families can’t stretch their budgets to afford the increasing costs of essential household and personal care items.

Building a DIY Supporting Our Neighbors Kit is a great way to provide essential items for families in need. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Please note that one that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased, which items are selected and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $10-$30.

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag and a minimum of five items from the supplies list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or unopened.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location where the online purchases should be shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together.

Delivery Information:
Once you sign up by selecting RESPOND, we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies.

Share Your Progress:
Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer, #LiveUnited, and tag us with @UnitedWaySEM.

Download this flyer and share with your friends and family!

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. The percentage of families without access to critical resources is rising. That includes the ability to provide learning tools at home that boost childrens’ performance in school and bring families together for educational activities.

Building a DIY Children and Family Enrichment Kit is a great way to ensure all families have essential items to fuel educational experiences at home and spend quality time together. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).
Items (Please include a minimum of five items per kit at any age/grade level.):
• Crayons
• Coloring books
• Puzzles
• Family games/cards
• Educational workbooks
• Children’s books

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $10 to $30.

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag and a minimum of five items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened/used.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
• Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location where online purchases should be shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together.

Delivery Information:
Once you sign up by selecting RESPOND, we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies. We will also send you tips and tricks for where to purchase items and keeping costs down.

Sharing Your Progress:
• Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer and #LiveUnited and tag us with @UnitedWaySEM.

Download this flyer and share with your friends and families!

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. Many parents in our neighborhoods cannot afford the increasing costs of essential infant care items.

Building a DIY Infant Care Kit is a great way to provide essential items that will help families keep their children healthy. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).

Items to Package Together in the Kit:
•Baby wipes
•Diaper rash ointment
•Baby wash
Items to Keep Outside Kit:
•Diapers
•Formula

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $15 to $30.

How to Build Your Kit:

• Select your box/bin/bag and a minimum of five items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened/used.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
•Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location where the online purchases should be shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together.

Delivery Information:
Once you sign up by selecting RESPOND, we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies. We will also send you tips and tricks for where to purchase items and keeping costs down.

Sharing Your Progress:
•Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer and #LiveUnited and tag us with @UnitedWaySEM.

Download this flyer and share with your friends and families!

Overview/The Need:

Most seniors who live in group residences spend long stretches of time alone – even those who are able to socialize regularly. And many seniors are still recovering from the additional isolation brought on by the pandemic.

Building a DIY Senior Care Kit is a great way to lift the spirits of seniors while providing resources to counter the effects of loneliness. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).
• Items (Please include a minimum of three items per kit plus a greeting card.):
• Letter/greeting card with generic salutations
• Playing cards and/or small game sets (checkers, dominoes, cribbage, etc.)
• Activity books (crossword, word search, sudoku)
• Jigsaw puzzles
• Basic craft kits
• Large-print books
• Artwork by children and families (drawings/colorings)

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased, which items are selected and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $7 to $25. 

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag and a minimum of three items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened/used.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
• Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location where online purchases should be shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together.

Delivery Information:
Once you sign up by selecting RESPOND, we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies.

Sharing Your Progress:
• Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer and #LiveUnited and tag us with @UnitedWaySEM.

Download this flyer and share with your friends and families!

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. The percentage of families without access to critical resources is rising, and that includes the ability to provide learning tools at home that boost childrens’ performance in school.

Building a DIY Learning at Home Kit is a great way to ensure families have important educational items to fuel learning from home. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).
• Please include a minimum of three flash card sets and two other items from the list below.

FLASH CARDS (age/grade indicated on box)
• Letters
• Sight words
• Phonics
• Addition
• Subtraction
• Time/money
• Any flash cards that are math/literacy focused

WORKBOOKS
• Coloring books focused on animals, shapes, colors, letters, etc.
• Workbooks with games, learning exercises, letter tracing

BOOKS
• Children’s books focused on activities, vocabulary, friendship and learning

LEARNING GAMES
• Go Fish, matching games
• Blocks, puzzles
• Stringing beads, glue sticks, play dough

OTHER LITERACY TOOLS/MISC.
• Mini dry erase board with marker
• Small plastic bin to store items in
• Sketch/drawing pad
• Crayons

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $10-$30. Please note that some items may be available at dollar or discount stores. 

Considerations for Buying Materials:
• When you shop for materials, please keep in mind that children who receive kits come from a variety of backgrounds and demographics. It’s important to pick materials that celebrate and showcase a variety of races, ethnicities, genders, abilities, statuses, and family makeups to ensure children can see themselves and their peers represented in the materials.
• Provide materials in multiple languages. You could create a kit completely in another language or mix two languages into one kit.
• Languages most needed: English, Spanish, Arabic. (If you create kits in languages other than English, please let United Way staff know so that they can match you with an appropriate agency.)

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag plus a minimum of three flash card sets and two additional items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
• Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location to have online purchases shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together!

Delivery Information:
• Once you sign up (select RESPOND), we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local
nonprofit agencies.

Share Your Progress:
Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer or #LiveUnited and tag us @UnitedWaySEM.

Download DIY Project Guide to share with friends and family!

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. The percentage of families without access to critical resources is rising, and that includes the ability to provide learning tools at home that boost childrens’ performance in school.

Building a DIY Learning at Home Kit is a great way to ensure families have important educational items to fuel learning from home. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).
• Please include a minimum of three flash card sets and two other items from the list below.

FLASH CARDS (age/grade indicated on box)
• Letters
• Sight words
• Phonics
• Addition
• Subtraction
• Time/money
• Any flash cards that are math/literacy focused

WORKBOOKS
• Reading readiness, sentence structure, reading comprehension
• Math skills, math focus

BOOKS WITH COMMUNITY AND FRIENDSHIP THEME
• Learn to read, beginner chapter books

LEARNING GAMES
• Uno, Mad Libs

OTHER LITERACY TOOLS/MISC.
• Mini dry erase board with marker
• Small plastic bin to store items in
• Sketch/drawing pad
• Pencils/pencil sharpener
• Crayons

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $10-$30.  Please note that some items may be available at dollar or discount stores. 

Considerations for Buying Materials:
• When you shop for materials, please keep in mind that children who receive kits come from a variety of backgrounds and demographics. It’s important to pick materials that celebrate and showcase a variety of races, ethnicities, genders, abilities, statuses, and family makeups to ensure children can see themselves and their peers represented in the materials.
• Provide materials in multiple languages. You could create a kit completely in another language or mix two languages into one kit.
• Languages most needed: English, Spanish, Arabic (If you create kits in languages other than English, please let United Way staff know so that they can match you with an appropriate agency.)

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag plus a minimum of three flash card sets and two additional items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
• Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location to have online purchases shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together!

Delivery Information:
• Once you sign up (Select RESPOND), we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies. 

Share Your Progress:

Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer or #LiveUnited and tag us @UnitedWaySEM.

Download DIY Kit Project Guide

Overview/The Need:
In our region, nearly 40% of families struggle to afford their basic needs. The percentage of families without access to critical resources is rising, and that includes the ability to provide learning tools at home that boost childrens’ performance in school.

Building a DIY Learning at Home Kit is a great way to ensure families have important educational items to fuel learning from home. We encourage you to get your friends and neighbors involved in building these kits!

Supplies Needed:
• Sturdy container such as a cardboard box, plastic bin, or drawstring bag (one per kit).
• Please include a minimum of three flash card sets and two other items from the list below.

FLASH CARDS (age/grade indicated on box)
• Sentence structure
• Punctuation
• Adjectives
• Nouns and verbs
• Multiplication
• Division
• Fractions
• Any flash cards that are math/literacy focused

WORKBOOKS
• Vocabulary, reading comprehension, grammar
• Multiplication/division, fractions, measurements

BOOKS
• Novels, poetry, short stories

LEARNING GAMES
• Riddles, trivia, Brain Quest

OTHER LITERACY TOOLS/MISC.
• Mini dry erase board with marker
• Pencils or colored pencils
• Sketch/drawing pad
• Pencil sharpener
• Supply/pencil bag/box to store items in

Please note that one kit can range greatly in price depending on where the items are purchased and in what quantity. The average range in cost per kit is $10-30. Please note that some items may be available at dollar or discount stores. 

Considerations for Buying Materials:
• When you shop for materials, please keep in mind that children who receive kits come from a variety of backgrounds and demographics. It’s important to pick materials that celebrate and showcase a variety of races, ethnicities, genders, abilities, statuses, and family makeups to ensure children can see themselves and their peers represented in the materials.
• Provide materials in multiple languages. You could create a kit completely in another language or mix two languages into one kit.
• Languages most needed: English, Spanish, Arabic. (If you create kits in languages other than English, please let United Way staff know so that they can match you with an appropriate agency.)

How to Build Your Kit:
• Select your box/bin/bag plus a minimum of three flash card sets and two additional items from the above list to put in the kit.
• Collect or purchase the items. They must be new or never opened.
• Build a minimum of five kits.

Host a Drive:
• Involve your friends, family and neighbors in your volunteer efforts! Instead of purchasing items alone, host a virtual or in-person item drive. Coordinate a time and place to have the items dropped off or one location to have online purchases shipped. Be sure to set a goal of how many kits you want to complete together!

Delivery Information:
• Once you sign up (Select RESPOND), we will share delivery information with you within a few days. All kits will go to local nonprofit agencies. 

Share Your Progress:
Don’t forget to take pictures of your progress and final products before delivery! Share on social media with #UWVolunteer and #LiveUnited and tag us @UnitedWaySEM.

Download DIY Kit project guide and share with your friends and families!

Brilliant Detroit is hosting Summer Discovery, a summer learning program for kids in grades K-3, designed to support literacy development, promote health and wellness, and provide engaging enrichment experiences that help young learners thrive. Throughout the day, kids will participate in literacy, STEAM, and arts & crafts activities, with opportunities for volunteers to support phonics development, read during book clubs, and facilitate one-on-one or small group conversations on a variety of topics.

Our westside location serves a large Arabic-speaking community, and we would love to welcome bilingual volunteers who enjoy working with kids to support literacy enrichment. This role will help our Brilliant kids strengthen their language skills and bridge communication gaps while learning in a supportive environment. 

Our summer programming begins the week of Monday, July 6th and concludes the week of Friday, August 14th. Programming generally runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday; literacy programming will take place in the morning between 10 a.m. and noon. Volunteers are welcome to join us for either a half day or a full day, however, we strongly prefer volunteers who can commit to a regular weekly schedule.

Voted Best Day Camp in the 2024 Detroit Community’s Choice Awards, Brilliant Detroit invites you to join us for a summer filled with fun, learning, and enrichment!

Brilliant Detroit is hosting summer programming for kids in grades K-3, designed to support literacy development, promote health and wellness, and provide engaging enrichment experiences that help young learners thrive.

Do you enjoy working with kids and making a positive impact in your community? We’re looking for enthusiastic, dependable volunteers who can commit to multiple dates throughout the summer to support our literacy programming and help create meaningful learning experiences for young readers.

How can you support summer programming? Examples of volunteer opportunities may include (but are not limited to): 

Our summer programming begins the week of Monday, July 6th and concludes the week of Friday, August 14th. Programming generally runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Whether you can volunteer for a full day or just a half day, we'd love to have your support!

We are gearing up to sort and organize school supplies for local students and military families- and many hands make light work!

Join us for a fun, fast-paced volunteer event where you'll help ensure children head back to school with the tools they need to succeed.  It's a great way to give back, meet new people, and make a direct impact in our community.  If you are interested, we'd love to have you on our team!  Let's turn pencils, notebooks, and crayons into confidence for the school year ahead!

Please contact Qiana Stovall at qstovall@guidance-center.org

Help provide support to seniors in Macomb County.  Distribution Associates will assist with set-up, distributing food boxes to senior participants and break-down following distributions.

Monthly every second Saturday

Distribution Shifts: 

Monthly every 2nd Saturday

Time: 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Distribution

Time Commitment

3hours per shift

Please visit our website at elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org to learn more about us.  Contact us at info@elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org or 313-398-9445.

Help provide support to individuals and families in need across Macomb County.  Distribution Associates will assist with organizing or delivering items for community distributions.

Monthly every third Friday Shifts:

Preparation
12-2 PM Drivers

3-5 PM Distribution Organizers

Monthly every third Saturday Shifts:

9:30 - 11:30 AM Prep Team

11 AM - 1:30 PM Distribution Team

2 hours per shift or both shifts

Please visit our website at elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org to learn more about us.  Contact us at info@elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org or 313-398-9445.

Our donation center has a direct and meaningful impact on the community. We provide support to vulnerable populations as well as essential resources to those we are in need. Without the support of our committed volunteers, providing services to over 225 people daily would not be possible.

Our donation warehouse supports this mission by providing essential hygiene items and appropriate clothing to meet basic needs and protect against harsh weather.

Working in the donation warehouse will consist of counting and recording inventory, sorting donations by category, organizing donations, and unboxing donations for our Day Center and Bridge Housing Campus.

Since this opportunity takes place in a warehouse setting, all volunteers must wear close toed shoes and long pants. 

*During the winter months, temperatures in the warehouse can vary significantly. We recommend dressing in layers to stay comfortable during temperature swings.

No prior warehouse experience is necessary; we will provide training at the beginning of the shift.

Corporate, parish, community, and college groups are welcome to volunteer together by clicking "Respond as a Team" for the date you'd like to join us!

Instructions - Getting to the Donation Center

*Click here to learn more about PFC: The Pope Francis Center

Hello Community Partners,

My name is Janice Banks and I'm the Founder/President of "Looking at the whole picture foundation" that Connects Veterans and their Families to Community Resources. I'm still trying to assist Andrea Mitcham and her daughter April in finding Wheel Chair Accessible Van. If you have any resources that may  assist a Veteran, any grants or Car Dealers with reasonable prices or special financing  for Veterans.

Andrea Mitcham is still  in need of Wheel Chair Accessible Van. If you have resources/ programs that would help her  ( Veteran) assist in purchasing a Van for a well needed for her daughter. The Van will also elevate the stress of getting her back and forth to school, doctor's appointment, competions and afterschool programs.

I'm trying to assist a Veteran ( Andrea Mitcham) whose daughter (April) is in need of a Wheel Chair Accessible Van. ( their Van was lost in a flood) This is where you and the community can help.

She has a big concerns because she is unable to transport her daughter to things outside of her doctors appointment ( afterschool programs, competitions-which she is very active, etc.

She would like to see if there is someone that can assist in a "Free" / "Donated"  or a low cost or someone that can work with her to direct her to programs that assist Veterans directly or a child with a disability.

If there are anyone with any resources that can donate the above item to the mother to make her life easier in caring for her daughter.

You can reach out to me directly/ or  ( she  gives permission to contact her as well -See information below). I also add her telephone number and email  to this request.( see below)

Janice Banks

313 320-4237 janb1128@gmail.com

***Please see the additional detail information below that will help you to  better understand her needs and a little more background information about mom( Andrea) and her daughter (April).****

Bio for Andrea Mitcham & April Shaw Andrea Mitcham is an Honorably Discharged United States Army Veteran and a widowed, low-income single mother devoted to raising her two daughters. After completing her military service, Andrea continued her commitment to public service by working 11 years with the 3rd Circuit Court. During her pregnancy with her youngest daughter, April, Andrea unexpectedly lost her job—an event that would both challenge and ultimately reshape her life. Andrea became a full-time caregiver when April was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2, a rare neuromuscular disease that causes profound muscle weakness and limits nearly every physical function. Doctors warned Andrea not to plan for milestones like college, but instead to prepare for the worst. Despite this devastating prognosis, Andrea remained steadfast in her love, advocacy, and determination to provide April with the fullest, happiest life possible. --- April Shaw, lovingly known as Princess April, is an exceptionally social, outgoing, and joyful 15-year-old 10th grader whose positivity shines despite the challenges of SMA Type 2. April has never been able to crawl, stand, or perform basic daily tasks independently—such as dressing, bathing, or using the restroom—and relies entirely on her wheelchair and her mother’s care. SMA also affects her breathing and swallowing, making even common illnesses dangerous and often requiring week-long hospital stays. Yet April refuses to let her condition limit her spirit or her dreams. A natural leader and compassionate role model, April has been a beacon of hope and inspiration from a very young age. She was crowned Little Miss Wheelchair Michigan in both 2017 and 2018, served as a 2018 Child Ambassador for Easter Seals, and played baseball with the Miracle League of Michigan, even throwing the opening pitch at a Detroit Tigers game in July 2019. She has been featured on WDIV Channel 7’s Ann Marie’s All-Stars and has proudly served as a Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Child Ambassador since 2019, marking six years of continued service. Her message is simple but powerful: she believes deeply in friendship, love, and harmony. --- For many years, a wheelchair-accessible minivan allowed April to attend school events, participate in activities, enjoy time with friends, and experience the world with independence. Sadly, when Michigan experienced devastating floods, the family’s only vehicle was destroyed. Without accessible transportation, April has lost far more than mobility—she has lost her independence and the opportunities other teenagers take for granted, such as going to the movies, visiting friends, attending study groups, or even learning to drive alongside her peers. A dependable, used wheelchair-accessible van can cost $25,000 to $75,000, often requiring a car payment that Andrea simply cannot afford. The family is seeking help—resources, leads, or donations—to secure a reliable accessible vehicle so April can regain the independence she deserves. --- Andrea Mitcham and April Shaw Thank you for taking the time to learn about our family. Your support, prayers, and kindness mean more than words can express. God bless you.   See here contact information below:

Andrea Mitcham

248-763-9992

neweditiondrea@yahoo.com

Hello Community Partners,

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSEM) connects youth ages 7–14 with caring adult mentors in communities across Wayne, Washtenaw, Oakland, and Macomb counties. Our matches meet regularly for friendship, fun, and the kind of consistent relationship that changes the trajectory of a child's life.

As a volunteer mentor ("Big"), you'll be matched one-to-one with a young person ("Little") based on shared interests, location, and availability. You decide where you go and what you do: grab lunch, visit a museum, shoot hoops, or just hang out. Our program staff support you every step of the way, from match to milestone.

What to expect:

Meet with your Little at least 2 times per month (minimum 4 hours/month)
Commitment of at least one year
Activities are volunteer-led and interest-based
Ongoing support from a dedicated Match Support Specialist

Who we're looking for:

Adults 18+ who are reliable, enthusiastic, and ready to show up consistently
Wayne, Washtenaw, Oakland, and Macomb county residents and workers of all backgrounds welcome
No prior mentoring experience needed, just a genuine interest in young people

How to get started:
Apply through BBBSEM's website or contact us directly. The enrollment process includes an application, interview, background check, and brief orientation training typically completed within 2–3 weeks.

We have opportunities for volunteers to work at blood drives and at our Farmington Hills Center, serving after donation snacks and drinks. This position is more of a customer service position, but also has the important role of monitoring the donors to insure there are no negative reactions. 

Volunteers help clients with basic computing skills and other entry-level tasks in our computer lab. Advanced skills are not necessary

Client Impact Associate