Being a part of the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, we often get asked about other great non-profits where people can find meaningful volunteer opportunities. Below is a list of some of the best opportunities for volunteering in our area.
Main Street Community Center – Main Street Community Center relies on hundreds of volunteers to execute programs throughout the year. Whether you are wanting a set volunteer day & time – or you wish to sign up for opportunities as you are available – they have a spot for you. All volunteers must complete an application and background check prior to placement. https://mainstcc.org/volunteer-opportunities
Hospice of Southern Illinois – Hospice volunteers offer patients and families a listening ear, a hand to hold, and the presence of a caring heart. Additionally, veteran hospice volunteers offer specific veteran-to-veteran support. Volunteers can provide this support at a nursing home, assisted living community, hospital or personal residence and receive specialized training before helping patients and families. Also, volunteers assist administrative staff at health fairs, in parades, and with community education. Must be 16 years or older. https://hospice.org/volunteer
Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois (G.I.R.L. Champion) – If you have a love for Girl Scouts be a G.I.R.L. champion and advocate in your community for all girls to join Girl Scouts. The Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois need adults who are passionate about the mission to be Community Organizers to help facilitate community events to recruit new girls. Must be 18 or older. Good for people 55+ with people skills. Requires a background check and training. https://www.gsofsi.org/en/for-volunteers
YMCA Gateway Region – YMCA volunteers support programs, assist with special events, coach, serve on committees or boards, raise funds or serve to make their communities a better place to live. When you volunteer at the Y, you not only enhance your personal well-being but also take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change right in your own neighborhood. Time commitment varies based on position. Background checks and training are required. https://gwrymca.org/programs/volunteer
Community Care Center (Soup Kitchen Cook)- The Community Care Center is looking for volunteers who love to be in the kitchen and cook yummy food. The soup kitchen provides hot meals for fellow friends that don’t really have a place to call home. The business hours of Community Care Center are Monday-Thursday from 9am-3:30pm. Volunteering even one day a month is acceptable. Must be 18 years or older. Court ordered volunteers are allowed. http://www.gccommunitycarecenter.org
Metro East Humane Society – When you volunteer at Metro East Humane Society, you can help walk dogs, socialize cats, or assist shelter personnel with bathing, grooming, and cleaning. Happy, healthy, socialized animals are more adoptable, so these volunteer positions are critical. Must be 16 years or older to volunteer without an adult. https://www.mehs.org/volunteer
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois (Mentor) – Mentor a child with Big Brothers Big Sisters. All youth in our community have potential – the potential to graduate high school and go to college, to get a job and provide for themselves and their families, to realize their dreams and be impactful members of our community. What they may be lacking is someone to defend that potential, and the missing piece could be you! Must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license and insurance. Training and background checks required. https://www.bbbsil.org/get-involved/becomeabig
Heather Freed, LCSW
President & CEO
