Opportunities From: United Way for Southeastern Michigan

¡La Casa Amiga está buscando voluntarios apasionados y comprometidos para apoyar nuestro Programa de Educación para Adultos!

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

Monthly every second Saturday

Distribution Shifts: 

9-11 AM: Distribution Sorting

11 AM - 1 PM: Distribution

Preparation Shifts:

Inspectors

1st Monday & Wednesday monthly: 11 AM - 1PM 

1st Friday monthly: 10 AM - 12 PM 

Time Commitment

2 hours per shift

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

We are excited to share a unique long-term volunteer opportunity right in your community! We are seeking dedicated volunteers to help support our Home Delivery Program at one of our extended locations with Citizens Changing Communities, operating every Tuesday morning from the Romulus High School parking lot.

Volunteer time on-site ranges from 1 to 2 hours each week, and your commitment would make a significant impact in serving neighbors in need. Our Food Programming team will reach out to provide more details.

Thanks to the support of volunteers like you, we can expand our reach and help even more individuals in our community. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you’re interested in learning more or want to get involved, please contact - Marguerite Kaiser, Food Programming Manager at mkaiser@forgottenharvest.org

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 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.

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.

PURPOSE OF JOB: Plan party theme and purchase party supplies for children living at an emergency shelter. Able to raise or provide their own funds to purchase party supplies.

If you are interested in creating a Party Planner, please fill out our Volunteer Interest form, and someone will be in contact with you. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at volunteers@waynemetro.org

TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED: 2 HOURS, including:

+ watch short informational video about Wayne Metro, which can be accessed at: https://youtu.be/Yhqy_kTenKI

+ 1.5 hours estimated for doing volunteer job duties below

DUTIES

PURPOSE OF JOB: Plan and purchase home health and hygiene supplies for families moving into a new home after experiencing homelessness. Able to raise or provide own funds to purchase supplies.

If you are interested in creating a basket, please fill out our Volunteer Interest form, and someone will be in contact with you. If you have any questions please feel free to email us at volunteers@waynemetro.org

TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:  2.5 HOURS including:

+ 15 minute virtual Wayne Metro Volunteer Orientation, which can be scheduled any weekday

+ 2 hours estimated to complete job duties

DUTIES

QUALIFICATIONS

LOCATION: REMOTE -You may do this volunteer job anywhere!

BENEFITS

Help keep our babies healthy and dry! Join our monthly diaper distribution and ensure that babies are cared for! Join us on the fourth Wednesday of every month and help distribute diapers and wipes to our Wayne Metro families in need! This is an outdoor distribution, so please dress for the weather.

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our Registration Form, and someone will be in contact with you with details. If you have any questions please feel free to email us at volunteers@waynemetro.org

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)

Brilliant Detroit's McDougall-Hunt location is partnering with Bailey Park NDC for a community resource event focused on empowering individuals with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to take charge of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 'Know Your Health Day' aims to raise health awareness, promote early detection and prevention, and foster a culture of wellness, equipping participants to live healthier and more informed lives.

Volunteers will assist with event set-up, attendee and vendor registration, monitoring kids’ activity and mural stations, supporting the food tent, and helping with event breakdown. This event will be taking place from 1-5 p.m. at Bailey Park NDC. Volunteers interested in helping set-up should arrive at 11 a.m.

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

To date, Brilliant Cities has reached more than 24,000 children and caregivers, raising reading levels by an average of three grade levels per child. Since 2016, the model has expanded to 24 neighborhoods in Detroit, launched a hub in Pontiac, and is currently expanding to Philadelphia.

We’re inviting volunteers to join us in turning our mission into action. Whether reading one-on-one or with a group, painting a room, organizing our book library, or sorting in-kind donations, our hubs have meaningful volunteer opportunities that arise throughout the year, and we would love to welcome you!

Current volunteer opportunities

Brilliant Clothing Closet Organization 

Each Brilliant hub offers free clothing to families in need, helping build confidence and a sense of belonging by ensuring they have appropriate attire, which can be especially important for school success and positive social interactions. Clothing Closet volunteers impact our communities by helping to create an organized and welcoming space that supports smoother operations and makes clothing easily accessible for Brilliant participants. With support from hub staff, volunteers will review donated items for quality, condition, and seasonal fit, categorize them by type and size, and help create a department store style shopping experience for our community. This role involves standing, bending, reaching and moving around for most of the shift. Multiple locations and flexible scheduling available, please inquire.

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Brilliant Osborn Organization & Redesign 

Flexible scheduling; please inquire 

Our Osborn hub is preparing for a spring cleaning day to organize the free community clothing closet in the basement and sort and rearrange items stored in the garage. This effort will help ensure the hub’s spaces are accessible for regular programming, that our Brilliant families can easily navigate the clothing closet, and that everything is ready for our upcoming summer day camp. We're currently looking for a group of about 6-10 volunteers to join us, with half working in the garage and half in the basement. This project will involve moderate to heavy lifting.

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Brilliant Dexter-Linwood Basement Organization Project

Help create a welcoming and efficient space for our Brilliant participants! We're looking for volunteers to assist with organizing the basement of our Dexter-Linwood hub which is home to our free community clothing closet. Volunteers will assist with assembling shelving units, sorting totes, and organizing clothing by size. Your efforts will help us maintain a welcoming, clutter-free environment, making it easier for community members to access the resources they need. Flexible scheduling available; please inquire. (Volunteer groups welcome!)

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Brilliant Cody Rouge Hub Organization

We’re seeking volunteers to help organize our storage and programming areas. Tasks include assembling shelving units, and storing totes—some heavy lifting required. Your volunteer efforts will support smoother operations and ensure resources are accessible in a clutter-free environment. Flexible scheduling available; please inquire.

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Brilliant Brightmoor Organization & Redesign 

Our Brightmoor location is currently looking for volunteers to help organize basement rooms, assemble shelving units, and properly store totes to declutter and sort items. Volunteers will assist in creating storage solutions and ensuring our programming areas remain clean and functional. Tasks may include lifting and moving boxes, sorting supplies, and organizing materials. Volunteers are needed weekdays between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. (Volunteer groups welcome!)

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

To date, Brilliant Cities has reached more than 24,000 children and caregivers, raising reading levels by an average of three grade levels per child. Since 2016, the model has expanded to 24 neighborhoods in Detroit, launched a hub in Pontiac, and is currently expanding to Philadelphia.

We’re inviting volunteers to join us in turning our mission into action. Whether reading one-on-one or with a group, painting a room, organizing our book library, or sorting in-kind donations, our hubs have meaningful volunteer opportunities that arise throughout the year, and we would love to welcome you!

Below is a list of current volunteer opportunities available at our Pontiac location. To view our ongoing/flexible opportunities happening across all of our locations, please view our general opportunities page linked here. 

Current volunteer opportunities: 

Pontiac Community Baby Shower

Friday, May 1st, from 3:30-7 p.m.

Join us in celebrating the newest members of our Brilliant Pontiac Community! During this event, families will receive essential baby items and connect with valuable community resources designed to support them during this important transition. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where families can build connections, access trusted support systems, and learn more about Brilliant’s programs and services. By bringing the community together, we aim to reduce the stress new parents often experience, increase their sense of preparedness, and ensure every baby in our community is welcomed into the world brilliantly! Volunteers will play a key role in making this event a success by helping with event setup, managing activity stations, welcoming families and assisting with sign-in, distributing food, and supporting event breakdown. Volunteer groups are especially encouraged to sign-up, as we anticipate hosting many families throughout the event.

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Monthly community dinners:

Next date: TBD

Brilliant Pontiac’s monthly community dinners offer a welcoming space for neighbors to connect over a shared meal, meaningful conversation, and a sense of belonging. These dinners are designed to strengthen community ties in a warm, inclusive environment. We are looking for volunteers to help set up the dinner area, welcome community members to our Brilliant Pontiac home, plate and serve food, manage fun and interactive child enrichment activities, and assist with cleanup by returning event materials to their original spaces.

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Clothing closet organization:

Flexible timing; please inquire

Brilliant Pontiac hosts a community clothing closet that provides free clothing to those in need, helping to boost self-esteem by allowing individuals to feel confident and included with appropriate attire. This is especially crucial for families facing clothing insecurity, as it can positively impact academic performance and social interactions. Volunteers are needed to help assess and organize clothing donations; some heavy lifting is required for this role. 

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

Our Brilliant hubs are offering the Scholastic R.E.A.L. (Read, Excel, Achieve, Lead) Program, an 8-week, literacy-focused mentoring initiative that uses high-quality, diverse books and companion guides to support children’s academic success through interactive read-alouds and book discussions.

As a R.E.A.L. mentor, you will promote:

…all of which lead to literacy success!

R.E.A.L. mentors will receive all Scholastic training materials, including Mentor Success Guides that correspond with each read-aloud book, as well as an orientation with our literacy programming lead. As the program progresses, students will receive take-home activities, family guides, and celebration materials to further enhance their engagement with the readings.

While a love for literacy is a must, no prior teaching experience is required. If you’re interested in facilitating read-aloud sessions and working with our Brilliant kids, we would love for you to join us in our upcoming R.E.A.L. program!

Program Requirements:

*Once you submit an interest form via Galaxy, a member of our Volunteer Team will reach out to you via email to go over the next steps in our onboarding and placement process.

Join us as we gift new books to elementary school students to help them grow into strong readers!

United Way for Southeastern Michigan is partnering with Scholastic, Inc. to host several My Home Library Book Fairs at local elementary schools throughout the year. At these book fairs, students will get to pick out free books to take home with them to create a home library.

Volunteers are needed at Stevenson Elementary in Southfield to:

To register to volunteer, click Respond at the top of the page. Lunch will not be provided so please plan to bring snacks and a lunch (if you sign up for multiple shifts). There will also be a break if you prefer to go out and get your lunch.

Volunteers are required to complete a background check per the district policy. After registering, volunteers will receive the background check form to complete.

Sign up today to be a part of this impactful event!

The Newburg United Methodist Church Rummage Sale is one of our largest community outreach events of the year. Held twice annually, the sale features a huge selection of gently used housewares, electronics, clothing for all ages, shoes, linens, furniture, books, toys, baby gear, sporting goods, crafts, and more!

Proceeds from the sale support Newburg’s mission of building a community grounded in service, healing, hope, and hospitality. 

We rely on volunteers to help make this event possible.

Why Your Help Matters
This event not only raises funds—it also strengthens community connections and makes affordable goods accessible to families across Livonia and surrounding areas. By volunteering, you directly support Newburg’s mission to serve Christ, build community, and love all

The Newburg United Methodist Church Rummage Sale is one of our largest community outreach events of the year. Held twice annually, the sale features a huge selection of gently used housewares, electronics, clothing for all ages, shoes, linens, furniture, books, toys, baby gear, sporting goods, crafts, and more!

Proceeds from the sale support Newburg’s mission of building a community grounded in service, healing, hope, and hospitality. 

We rely on volunteers to help make this event possible.

Sale‑Day Support and Clean Up Click Here

Why Your Help Matters
This event not only raises funds—it also strengthens community connections and makes affordable goods accessible to families across Livonia and surrounding areas. By volunteering, you directly support Newburg’s mission to serve Christ, build community, and love all.

Elms Family and Community Services (EFCS) is seeking guest speakers and facilitators to support its events and program workshop (e.g. career, STEM, financial literacy, health/wellness, etc.) areas in the community.  This is a volunteer (unpaid) role. 

EFCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, located in Macomb County, Michigan.  We service youth, families and individuals in Wayne/Macomb County and the surrounding community. We aim continuously to provide services, resources and support that will enable under-represented families, individuals and youth to overcome social, economic, educational and other barriers in which they face by gaining and sustaining successful outcomes in life. We do this through our support services, programs and community projects.

Summary of Role: The Events & Workshops facilitator/guest speaker assists in facilitating program topics for health/wellness, financial literacy, educational and/or career activities at schools, libraries, and community centers in the  Wayne/Macomb County, and surrounding communities.

Skills Needed:

Commitment:

Successful candidates must be available to support 1-2 community events or workshops yearly for 2 hours.  Must arrive 30 minutes - 1 hour, prior to the start of the event or workshop.

All volunteers 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. There is no cost to you for this service.

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

Our wonderful Walter White Community Resource Center's Clothing Closet is in dire need of volunteers to manage donations. In addition to individual volunteers, we welcome corporate groups, church groups, book clubs and groups of all sizes. Please reach out to Qiana Stovall at 734-785-7705 ext. 6228 for more information. Thank you for your consideration!!!

This opportunity will consist of sorting/hanging/folding season appropriate clothing donations, and folding, packing/storing away off-season items. Also sorting home goods. 

Thank you!

The Guidance Center offers comprehensive services to thousands of children and families year-round. 

To support these families during this critical time, donations of diapers (all sizes) and formula (all types) are desperately needed. 

Select RESPOND in the upper right corner or reach out to Qiana Stovall at qstovall@guidance-center.org to schedule an in-person donation.

Donations may also be shipped (via Amazon or other suppliers) to: The Guidance Center, ATTN: Qiana Stovall, 13101 Allen Road, Southgate, MI 48195

No Registration Required

Orientations for the Court Ordered Community Service Program are Friday at 10:30am

Focus: HOPE 1300 Oakman Blvd. Detroit, 48238

(NO orientation on the following dates: 1/16, 4/3, 5/22, 6/19, 7/3, 9/4, 10/9, 11/27, 12/25).

Parking in the lot attached to the building - street parking is also available.

To participate you must bring:

Orientation Guidelines

Schedule & Location: Orientation is held every Friday at 10:30am at 1300 Oakman Blvd. Detroit 48238.

Requirements: Volunteers must have a valid photo ID on file before beginning their service. Applications must be completed and submitted during orientation for final approval.

Eligibility: Applications with convictions for violent, sexual, or property-related crimes (e.g., breaking and entering) are ineligible for this program.

Service Hours: Orientation time does not count toward community service hours.

On-Site Safety: All volunteers must wear an ID badge at all times while on-site

Timekeeping: Timesheets will be held by the Homebound Deliveries Clerk or Food Center Managers for the duration of the shift. Your timesheet will be signed once the badge has been returned at the end of the shift.

Hours of Operation:

Service hours vary slightly from our general business hours to ensure all tasks are completed.

• Monday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm

• Friday & Saturday: 8:00 am – 11:30 am

• Daily Deliveries: Available Monday – Friday, Select Saturday’s Note:

The latest daily start time for general service is 2:00 pm. Delivery drivers are exempt from this cutoff but must complete all deliveries on the same day they contact participants.

Dress Code

No loose-fitting jogging/sweatpants, tight pants or skirts, shorts/skorts/casual capri pants, miniskirts or high splits, sundresses/spaghetti strap (sleeveless) shirts/dresses, tight skirt/blouses, see-through shirts or blouses. No sleeveless shirts/tank tops, muscle shirts, hanging shirt tails, halters/midriffs/low cut blouses. No head wear (i.e. caps, skull caps) may be worn inside Focus: HOPE buildings except for religious head coverage, (i.e. yarmulke, Kofi, scarf/hijab, turban). No sandals or open-toed shoes on the food centers or warehouse floor.

Inclement Weather

To find out about closing, call 313-494-4600 and/or go to Focus: HOPE's website or social media platforms.

Completion Documentation

Please note that there is a process to receive your completion letter. Do not wait until the last minute. Community service completion letters are mailed directly to the court, and you will not be able to expedite this process. 

Additional Notes

-If you have additional questions, please call 313-494-4600.

-Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of their service, unattended minors will be asked to leave. 

-Late arrivals will not be allowed to attend orientation and will be asked to return at a later date.

We are looking for volunteers to help out during out quarterly literacy event.  

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 native plants, please contact John Slowey, Avalon’s Senior Groundskeeper, to learn about which native plants are needed at jslowey@avalonhousing.org.

Job Title: Service Day Volunteer

Reports To: Aleah Pisarz, Volunteer Program 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.

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.

The Team GUTS Fun & Fitness Camp is a fun day camp from 9am-12pm.

It's a fun camp and you would be helping our counselors with fitness activities, games, crafts and food!  Life happens, so we tell our volunteers that you do not have to give a hard commitment to every day, but just the days you are available. 

Our camp runs for four weeks, Monday through Friday in Clawson.  

June 15 - 19

June 22 - 26

July 6 - 10

July 13 - 17

We would love to have you! Please contact us for more information.

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

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.

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

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 9151 Chalmers 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) 494-4829. 

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 1300 Oakman Blvd. Detroit, MI 48238 (No appointment required)

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

Our biggest need is for Tuesday afternoons, but we are also looking for additional folks on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings. This is a wonderful opportunity to give of your time and talents to help your neighbors in need!

If you are a licensed registered nurse, we hope you’ll consider volunteering and helping in our effort to make lives better!

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

We are in need of help on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings at our Westland location and additional days/times at our Ypsilanti location. This is a wonderful opportunity to give of your time and talents to help your neighbors in need!

If you are a licensed registered nurse, we hope you’ll consider volunteering and helping in our effort to make lives better!

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

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 be there for them when they walk in the door!

We are looking for volunteers who can come on a weekly basis to help answer phones, schedule appointments, check people in/out, etc. Hope Clinic has two locations - one in Ypsilanti and one in Westland/Wayne. People are needed at both!

The ideal people in this role are those with previous medical or front desk experience, but not required. What is required, though, is for someone who is:

- Able to commit to the same weekly shift for an entire year (due to the amount of training)

- Comfortable answering phones

- Able to operate in our three software systems (Practice Fusion, Quickbase, and CHAMPS - training provided)

- Detail-oriented

- 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 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 serves hot meals 6 nights per week out of our commercial kitchen. To keep everything in working order, the grease traps (2 of them) need to be cleaned on a monthly basis. It is a smelly job, but extremely important!

Note: One group member should be capable of lifting 50lbs high enough to put waste in a dumpster.

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 group volunteer application on our website: https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer

Hope Clinic is working to reduce barriers to care for uninsured patients—and language access is a key part of that. We're building a list of interpreters we can call on when needed.

If you have native-fluency or are certified as an interpreter in any of these languages, please:

Thank you for helping us make care accessible to all!

We hope to get an idea of each interpreter's availability, as well as if they can also read/write the language (not required), and if they require advance notice only. Please either include this info in the notes of your response, or email volunteer@thehopeclinic.org

Personal Care Pantry Donations

AAMOW has a personal care items pantry that clients can access free of charge, and items are delivered with their meals. Donations of the following items for the pantry are being sought on an ongoing basis: 

Boxes of tissues  

Individually wrapped rolls of paper towel  

Individually wrapped rolls of toilet paper  

Laundry detergent (minimally scented) 

Antibacterial hand soap (minimally scented)  

Antibacterial dish soap (minimally scented)  

Antibacterial bar soap (minimally scented)  

Individual containers of disinfecting wipes 

Large print activity books (crossword, word search, sudoku, coloring books, etc.) 

Colored pencils or markers

Card Donations

AAMOW welcomes any quantity of non-religious cards or placemats with simple, uplifting greetings. Below are some example messages. We appreciate if cards come without envelopes and are unsigned (we add a note that they are from a caring community member). Once received, they will be sent out to clients with their meal deliveries.  

Due to the diversity of our clientele, Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels typically steers away from phrases such as "I love you, you are loved, hugs, kisses, etc." on cards/placemats. However, sentiments of kindness, care, positive humor, and joy are welcomed and appreciated!  

Example sentiments: 

Have a nice day! 

May your day be filled with joy. 

Sending you warm and caring wishes. 

Hope you have a wonderful day! 

Your community cares about you!   

Hope this card brings a smile to your face. 

I hope you have a great day! 

Here is a card to help bring sunshine to your day. 

Thinking of you. 

Cards, placemats, and new/unused personal care/pantry donations can be mailed or dropped off in the purple container in the foyer of our office between 8-11am and 12-4pm Monday through Saturday.     

Meal delivery volunteers serve a critical role in our program and in the lives of our neighbors who are homebound due to their health status. Volunteers choose the day (Monday-Saturday) and frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, substitute) for volunteering. Meals are picked up at the Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels office at 11:30am, and routes typically take 1-2 hours to complete. 

Meal delivery volunteer requirements:

All volunteers must complete AAMOW’s full volunteer onboarding process, which consists of the following:

The full onboarding process can be completed within 2-3 weeks depending on how quickly applicants are able to address each of the required tasks.

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

Do you enjoy working with children and have a passion for literacy-based mentorship? Join us this semester in creating a supportive and empowering learning environment for Brilliant students!

The Homework Helper program offers focused, age-appropriate homework support to Brilliant Detroit and Pontiac students through 30- or 60-minute sessions. Homework Helpers assist students with assignments, reinforce essential classroom skills, and foster a calm, encouraging space where students can ask questions, build confidence, and successfully complete their work.

All available Homework Helper opportunities are listed below. After selecting your preferred opportunity, please submit an interest form through Galaxy. A member of our Volunteer Team will contact you via email with more details.

Current opportunities:

Brilliant Detroit, Cody Rouge Homework Help

Weekly, Mondays and Thursdays, from 4:30-6 p.m.

Begins Monday, January 12, 2026 and concludes Thursday, May 28, 2026

Our Cody Rouge hub is seeking two volunteers with strong educational backgrounds to support the Homework Helper program. A background in mathematics is especially desired.

Volunteer Role 1: Math-focused academic support

Volunteer Role 2: Reading, writing, and general homework support

Brilliant Detroit, Brightmoor Homework Help

Weekly, Mondays, from 4-5 p.m.

Brilliant Detroit, Martin Park Homework Help

Weekly, Mondays and Wednesdays, from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Brilliant Detroit, Central Homework Help

Weekly, Tues-Thurs from 4-5 p.m.

Begins Tuesday, January 27, 2026 and concludes Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Our Martin Park and Central hubs are looking for additional volunteers to support Brilliant Detroit K-3 students with homework across multiple subjects. This role offers a meaningful mentoring opportunity, particularly for older students interested in guiding younger ones!

As a Farmers Market Volunteer, you’ll assist with a variety of tasks, including working at the info booth, helping with customer counts, and supporting the smooth operation of the market. This is a great opportunity to engage with the community and contribute to the success of the market while gaining hands-on experience.

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:

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. 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!

CASA Volunteers are everyday citizens who are trained to represent the best interest children who are wards of the court due to neglect or abuse issues.  

Appointed by the 6th Judicial Circuit Court, CASA's watch over and advocate for children within the court system to make sure they don't get lost in the overburdened legal and social service structures or languish in inappropriate home settings.  Through weekly contact with the child and communication with the adults involved in the child's life, CASA's asses the child's needs, look for resources to address those needs and make recommendations to the court through their findings.

The CASA advocate provides a consistent voice for the child during Court involvement and a constant, reliable presence to the child at this time in their life. 

For more information on CASA, please visit www.casaoaklandcounty.org or contact bbaker-mbacke@carehouse.org 

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!

La Casa Amiga is looking for volunteers to help with the distribution of emergency food boxes throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County. This is an outside volunteer opportunity. We will need volunteers to help collect information, direct traffic, and place boxes and groceries into trunks.
It is important that you wear comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes. Be mindful of the weather conditions as you will be outside. Consider bringing work gloves.
This opportunity will occur from 8:45AM -11:00 Am at the Casa Amiga Office 76 Williams St, Pontiac 48341.
Minimum 14 years old, Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. We are asking any person considering volunteering to please practice necessary safety precautions: It is important to stay informed as these types of situations can be dynamic. If a volunteer opportunity is not appropriate for you and if you are interested in other ways that you can help, the latest information will be on our page https://www.facebook.com/LaCasaAmigaCommunityPrograms

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

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

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

United Way is seeking corporate partners and groups to host a book drive for new books that will be distributed to the community. There is no strict timeline for the book drives - we will work with you to develop a timeline that works for your group and the needs of the community.

After registering, we will provide a list of recommended books (which includes diverse genres, topics, and reading levels). Spanish language and bilingual (Spanish/English) books are of particularly high need!

To host a book drive, click RESPOND or contact volunteer@UnitedWaySEM.org. 

We could not fulfill our mission without the help of our volunteers! Giving back to the community by volunteering allows you to be a Friend In Deed for our neighbors in need, and for the community. It’s also a great way to gain a new, broader, and more unique perspective, and meet like-minded people.

Team GUTS is looking for volunteers to come help our participants with encouragement and having fun. Volunteers will move along with our participants and "buddy up" to create a more fun environment while getting in some great exercise. No dance experience is needed and like that saying says:  "Dance like no one is watching".

Description of our class:

Team GUTS Cardio Dance Fusion is a combination of Jazz, Hip Hop, Latin, and Zumba styles of dance designed to provide easy movements, free range of motion and low impact footwork that can improve coordination, flexibility and cardio health. Experienced instructors use fun and energetic music to provide a creative and inclusive workout.

Our classes run on Saturdays.

todd@teamgutsmichigan.com

Grocery help could be help grocery shopping and/or picking up donations from Forgotten Harvest and other locations that donate food to HAVEN.

Pantry help could be making sure non-perishable items are dated and stocked properly, helping unload, portion, and put away perishable grocery items. 

Background check would be required before volunteers begin, agency will cover costs. 

Victory Garden Volunteer | Staebler Farm County Park, Superior Township | Year-Round
Staebler Farm County Park has a Victory Garden that is looking to be re-energized by MULTIPLE VOLUNTEERS to help support the Teaching Kitchen at the Michigan Folk School.
Victory Gardens, also known as war gardens or food gardens for defense, were vegetable, fruit, and herb gardens planted at private residences and public parks during World War I and II.
Detailed Information Flyer found here:https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/90ba08a8-9110-4c85-a1ea-3a96655be233

SPRING: 8-10 hours a week*
Clean-up garden beds, getting them ready for planting.

SUMMER: 3-4 hours a week*
Maintenance of the garden, including harvesting crops grown.

FALL: 1-2 hours a week*
Maintenance of the garden, including harvesting crops grown. Pest monitoring.

WINTER: Hours project-based
Garden Maintenance and planning.

If this opportunity sounds interesting to YOU, email parks-volunteering@washtenaw.org (VICTORY GARDEN in subject) or register online below.
NOTE: Registration constitutes an application of interest rather than official enrollment. After registering, you will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator with further information.
Volunteers ages 16+ welcome.
TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED. A basic understanding of gardening principles is needed. Multiple volunteer positions available. Most volunteer work will be done independently, depending on YOUR schedule.
*Hours are estimates and will be shared by multiple volunteers

Physical Intensity Level: Moderate

Register at this link: https://miwashtenawweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&keyword=volunteer&_csrf_token=jl6O016O0I6V213D3L3E2S5K5P665D4T08735X6F58156O3V5R6G1J6R5Y5C5771724M574Z075I484K5G1G5V4J5A5D066U5X5D6G6Z5M4B4W5J0H5O4Q55511K5V4I5F

Independence Lake County Park, Whitmore Lake | Tuesdays | 10:00am-12:00pm
Join our group with naturalist Faye Stoner to protect Independence Lake’s remarkable natural areas. As the season progresses, we’ll traverse prairie, woods, and a variety of wetlands, including sedge meadows, prairie fen, cattail marshes, and a buttonbush swamp. You’ll use loppers and saws to bust down shrubs and vines to protect these amazing natural spaces, while enjoying nature, fresh air, and exercise in a friendly community setting. Training, snacks, gloves, and water provided (bring your own water bottle).

Register online here:https://miwashtenawweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=5e528a9e9dcc8ad9720aef85be8af6b1c3be471d8f3c3fafc544c7445eb14fd4&keyword=volunteer&keywordoption=Matc
Youth volunteers welcome! Pre-registration required. Must be at least 11 years old for stewardship activities. For ages 11-15, parent/guardian must volunteer with child. For ages 16-17, parent/guardian signed permission slip required.

Physical Intensity Level: Moderate

Scio Woods Preserve, Scio Township, Friday 04/24, 1pm-4pm

Draper-Houston Preserve, Milan, Friday 05/08, 1pm-4pm

Explore Washtenaw County's beautiful diversity of spring wildflowers and enjoy a hands-on service-learning activity removing spring invasive plants.

Participants will be led by Parks Staff, getting off-trail and spending their time hand-pulling and removing invasive plants.

Training, snacks, gloves, and water provided (bring your own water bottle)

APRIL

*FRIDAY, April 24: Scio Woods Preserve, Scio Township, 1pm-4pm

Website to learn more about Scio Woods (https://www.washtenaw.org/395/Kidder-McKeachie-Scio-Woods-Preserve)

MAY

*FRIDAY, May 8: Draper-Houston Preserve, Milan, 1pm-4pm

Website to learn more about Draper-Houston (https://www.washtenaw.org/366/Draper-Houston-Meadows-Preserve)

Youth volunteers welcome! Pre-registration required. Must be at least 11 years old. For ages 11-15, parent/guardian must volunteer with child. For ages 16-17, parent/guardian signed permission slip required.

Physical Intensity Level: Moderate

Register at this Website: https://miwashtenawweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=5e528a9e9dcc8ad9720aef85be8af6b1c3be471d8f3c3fafc544c7445eb14fd4&keyword=volunteer&keywordoption=Matc

County Farm Park, Ann Arbor | Select Fridays & Saturdays | Time Varies with Workday

Join our group to care for the land you live beside in a friendly community setting. This Winter, enjoy the warmth of community and warming exercise using loppers and saws to demolish invasive shrubs. Our work together makes a difference for birds, bees, and butterflies, while also beautifying Britton Woods and opening up views through the woods. Through this hands-on service-learning activity, you’ll get off-trail outdoor exercise and develop a sense of well-being in nature, all while building community with like-minded people. Group led by Jonathan Parker. Training, snacks, gloves, and water provided (bring your own water bottle).

Find Workdays and REGISTER ONLINE: https://miwashtenawweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=5e528a9e9dcc8ad9720aef85be8af6b1c3be471d8f3c3fafc544c7445eb14fd4&keyword=volunteer&keywordoption=Matc
For questions or cancellations, contact the volunteer team at parks-volunteering@washtenaw.org.

Youth volunteers welcome! Pre-registration required. Must be at least 11 years old for stewardship activities. For ages 11-15, parent/guardian must volunteer with child. For ages 16-17, parent/guardian signed permission slip required.

Physical Intensity Level: Moderate

Volunteers will support Central Detroit Christian’s Breakthrough Afterschool Program by helping create a safe, engaging, and encouraging environment for youth. Volunteers will work directly with students on a variety of enrichment activities that promote academic success, creativity, and healthy physical activity.

Volunteer responsibilities include:

Homework Support: Provide one‑on‑one or small‑group assistance to students as they complete daily homework assignments, offering guidance, encouragement, and positive academic reinforcement.

Reading Support: Read with students or listen to them read to help build literacy skills, comprehension, and confidence.

Arts & Creative Activities: Assist with structured art projects and hands‑on creative activities that allow students to express themselves and develop fine motor and creative thinking skills.

Sports & Recreation: Support staff in facilitating organized sports and physical activities designed to promote teamwork, fitness, and fun.

Positive Engagement: Serve as a role model by building supportive relationships, encouraging positive behavior, and helping maintain a welcoming, inclusive space for all participants.

Ideal volunteers enjoy working with youth, are patient and dependable, and bring enthusiasm to helping students learn and grow.

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. 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!

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

In addition to forensic interviews and therapy services, CARE House of Oakland County offers ongoing support through programs such as our Family Support Group (FSG) and Nurturing Parent Program (NPP). These weekly evening programs provide children and caregivers with a safe space to build connections, develop healthy coping skills, and strengthen family relationships.

Before each session begins, families share a meal together — creating an opportunity to decompress after the day, connect with one another, and enter the evening’s programming feeling welcomed and cared for.

Meal Providers support our evening programs by preparing or purchasing dinner for participating families. This opportunity is perfect for individuals, families, community groups, student organizations, faith groups, or workplace teams who want to make a meaningful impact but may not be able to commit to ongoing weekly volunteering.

Meal Providers are responsible for:

All meals are served on:

Providing a meal is a simple but powerful way to support children and families on their healing journey — helping create a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

What is CARE House of Oakland County? We are the sole Child Advocacy Center serving children and families in Oakland County, MI who have experienced abuse and neglect. Our team works to ensure that every child who walks through our doors receives compassionate support, advocacy, and access to the services they need to begin healing in a safe and child-focused environment.

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

United Way Community Fulfillment Center

The United Way Community Fulfillment Center envisions a community where community members have seamless access to basic everyday essentials that are appropriate and of great quality through providing brand-new clothing, housewares, electronics, food and beverages, cleaning supplies, and home and automotive hardware. This program solely relies on donations from agency partners to support low-income families, local non-profit organizations, faith-based institutions, and grassroot community organizations within Southeastern Michigan. 

Our amazing Community Fulfillment Center's storeroom needs a couple of volunteers to assist clients and partners, sort donations, restock shelves, and perform light data entry tasks. Staff is available to direct volunteers every Wednesday from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. We greatly appreciate your consideration and support! 

Volunteers will work with our site manager to welcome and assist clients, load donations into vehicles, sort donations, restock the shelves, complete data entry, and create a positive client experience. In addition, volunteers work directly with clients providing them with the basic needs and personal care items they need to support families in an uplifting and hopeful context.  

Volunteers may also assist with physical improvements to the space, including painting.

We are excited to offer volunteers the opportunity to receive training in disaster relief efforts. These trainings will equip you with essential skills and knowledge to effectively assist communities in times of crisis. By participating, you will learn about emergency response strategies, resource distribution, and community support techniques. Join us in this rewarding experience and become a vital part of our mission to help those in need during challenging times. Together, we can make a difference!

The program also hosts additional annual distributions for families and non & for-profit organizations, including perishable and non-perishables, brand-new clothing, houseware, electronics, beverages, cleaning supplies, household appliances, automotive hardware, and holiday gifts.  

Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Questions? Contact Chris Taylor at (313) 226-9293 or Chris.Taylor@LiveUnitedSEM.org

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

Access to books is a key part of the equation, as research shows that children with access to ample reading materials have increased literacy at an earlier age and are more prepared for school at all levels. 

To celebrate Ann Arbor's bicentennial, United Way for Southeastern Michigan has set a goal to collect 200 books for organizations in Washtenaw county. Spanish language and bilingual (Spanish/English) books are of particularly high need!

If interested in serving as a book sponsor, select RESPOND or contact volunteer@UnitedWaySEM.org. 

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

Our O’Hair Park hub is looking for a volunteer to support their weekly 'Distribution Day' where Brilliant families can access essential items such as fresh produce, clothing, books, and diapers. These events are designed to help parents meet their children’s needs with dignity, care, and ease. Volunteers play a key role in making Distribution Days successful by helping create a welcoming and well-organized environment so that our families can focus on selecting the items that are most meaningful to them.

Distribution Days will take place each Thursday, from 4-6 p.m.

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

Join us for a fun and engaging Youth Volunteer Day, hosted by the Growing Hope Teen Leadership Program! This summer series runs every Tuesday from June 30 to July 28, from 10 AM - 12 PM, offering youth ages 11-17 the chance to

Work on the farm and learn about urban agriculture
Connect with other youth in your community
Take home fresh produce grown with your own hands
Gain a sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction

Help grow fresh food for your community while building skills and making a difference. Come get your hands in the soil and be a part of the change!

Drop-off & Supervision:
Parents/guardians drop off and pick up youth at Growing Hope for each session. The event is fully supervised by trained adult staff, all of whom have completed background checks. Signed waivers are required for participation. Youth will be in a safe, supportive environment while learning, working, and having fun on the farm!

Bradford Academy’s Board is a small, dedicated group of four to five members who work collaboratively to support the school’s mission and long-term success. The board meets monthly at the school and provides thoughtful oversight, guidance, and leadership to help ensure a high-quality educational experience for all students.

Board members play an active role in governance, financial oversight, and strategic planning. They help guide important decisions, ensure responsible stewardship of resources, and support policies and practices that align with the school’s values and goals.

Serving on the board is a meaningful way to contribute time, expertise, and perspective. Board members help shape both the day-to-day health of the school and the long-term vision that supports students, staff, and families for years to come.

Looking to make a difference in student lives? We are searching for a dedicated, passionate individual to join our School Board of Directors. If you’re interested in joining the board, please send an email to cherylpaull@choiceschools.com

Bradford Academy’s Board is a dedicated group of members who work collaboratively to support the school’s mission and long-term success. The board meets monthly at the school and provides thoughtful oversight, guidance, and leadership to help ensure a high-quality educational experience for all students.

Board members play an active role in governance, financial oversight, and strategic planning. They help guide important decisions, ensure responsible stewardship of resources, and support policies and practices that align with the school’s values and goals.

Serving on the board is a meaningful way to contribute time, expertise, and perspective. Board members help shape both the day-to-day health of the school and the long-term vision that supports students, staff, and families for years to come.

If you have a passion for education and supporting student success, we kindly ask that you email our Superintendent, Cheryl Paull at cherylpaull@choiceschools.com with the subject line: School Board Interest.

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

Please wear closed-toe shoes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to purchase books from our Amazon wishlist.

Do you like traveling with a dog companion?

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

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

Qualifications:

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

REGIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS - DETROIT MEMBERSHIP DESCRIPTION

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

Organizational Overview

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

Read Aloud Mentoring Program

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

Regional board members will:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Job Title: Front Desk Volunteer

Reports To: Aleah Pisarz, Volunteer Program Coordinator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Job Title: Food Pantry Volunteer

Reports To:

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

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

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

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

We’re looking for volunteers who are passionate about working with children, supporting literacy in Detroit, and leading engaging reading cohorts at our hubs.

As a volunteer leader, you will work in-person at one of our sites to lead an hour-long program once a week from October to May. 

Volunteers will be partnered with a child and be tasked to read aloud books and lead activities based on those books with that child. This opportunity is best suited for those with early childhood education experience and/or interest, however, anyone can lead these programs. These programs work best when the facilitator is upbeat, energetic, compassionate, and engaging.

These programs are offered in person at hubs based on the volunteer's availability. Volunteers will be placed based on the needs of our hubs and the volunteer's proximity to one of our Brilliant pods.

A Brilliant Detroit orientation and background check are required to serve in these programs. Specialized training for this opportunity will also be given after the background check is completed. For more information, please contact volunteer@brilliantdetroit.org.

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

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

Role: Office & Programs Support

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

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

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

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

As a Brilliant Health Corps Volunteer, you will share your knowledge in Health, Wellness, and/or Nutrition by supporting or leading specialized health programs. Volunteers play an essential role in creating engaging and impactful health, wellness, and nutrition nights for families.

Volunteer Health Corps Roles and Responsibilities: 

Volunteer Facilitators (Skills-based)

Volunteer Facilitators support or lead specialized health programs by sharing their expertise in Health, Wellness, and/or Nutrition.

Volunteer Presenters (Skills-based or experience-based) 

Volunteer Presenters lead or co-lead educational workshops during health nights.

General Support Volunteers (Support roles) 

General Support Volunteers assist with organizing and running health nights as part of a team. 

To learn more and join Brilliant Cities as a Health Corps Volunteer, please complete the interest form through Galaxy. A member of our Volunteer Team will contact you directly.

Brilliant Cities is a neighborhood-powered model ensuring children 0-8 are school-ready, healthy, and supported. We do this by transforming houses into family-focused, community hubs and partner with organizations to coordinate research-based programs for children and families. These programs focus on education, health, and family support, giving young children and families what they need for a bright future.

Brilliant Cities takes great pride in honoring National Days of Service that closely aligns with our mission and core values to educate and unite individuals, families, service clubs, businesses, schools, and faith-based organizations in volunteerism throughout the year. 

We actively coordinate service projects around the following Days of Service: 

To collaborate on an upcoming service project and explore how our missions can align, please complete the interest form through Galaxy. A member of our Volunteer Team will contact you directly.

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

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

Position Summary
The Volunteer Coordinator is a volunteer role. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gather feedback to continually enhance the volunteer experience.

Track volunteer hours and participation in the volunteer management system.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy working with children and creating joyful experiences.

Comfortable in busy school environments.

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

Friendly, patient, and enthusiastic about literacy and equity.

Punctual and dependable for the full 3-hour shift.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to view all available volunteer opportunities.

The Data Entry Enthusiast This person has a knack for being able to sort, organize, and enter various data sets into several different systems.  They might find it relaxing and rewarding when transferring handwritten hard copy notes into electronic data files. They see the need for digital organization.  This volunteer is important in a helping organization’s mission to become paperless so we can share our story and impact better while serving our clients in a meaningful way. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

We accept unexpired, shelf-stable items, including:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shopper Assistant:

Stocker:

Available Shifts (multiple dates):

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

Tuesdays: 12:15 PM – 4:30 PM

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

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

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

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

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

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