As summer starts to come to a close and people begin to think about back-to-school and fall activities, schedules get filled and many of our volunteer shifts go unfilled. Unfortunately, hunger happens 365 days a year, but fortunately it's easy to help.
This time of year before the holidays hit is a great time of year to register for a volunteer shift with friends or family members and connect while making a difference. Plus, you get to meet the amazing Volunteer Center team! It's easy to sign up and one shift can help put many meals on the plates of our hungry neighbors.
"Volunteers are an essential part of Second Harvest Heartland's mission: end hunger together. Volunteers epitomize togetherness," says Volunteer Center Coordinator Shawnia Johnson.
What does a volunteer shift look like?
Volunteers assist with sorting, packing and labeling fresh produce and dry goods in the Volunteer Center. Volunteers also learn about our mission and help make an impact in our fight against hunger. At the end of each shift, volunteers get the opportunity to see how many meals they provided to the community by helping to sort and pack food.
Who should come volunteer?
Volunteering is for everyone ages 8 and up! This opportunity is great for all individuals and groups interested in learning about hunger and willing to help the cause. Volunteering at Second Harvest Heartland can help support your social life, personal values and familial obligations.
- Are the tweens in your home bored by Friday afternoon? Have them grab a friend and an adult chaperone and visit the Volunteer Center to bust that boredom! We have shifts Fridays from 9-11 a.m. and 12-2 p.m.
- Have a remote work team that could benefit from doing an in-person structured activity together? Make the Volunteer Center your connection location, then grab lunch afterwards.
- Are you a young professional with flexible work hours and a desire for more sustainable systems? Leave work a bit early for a 3:30-5 p.m. shift and contribute to a stronger food system.
- Is your church, synagogue or faith organization looking for a back-to-school community event? Visit us on a Saturday from 9-11 a.m. and ensure kids get the meals they need to start school strong.
At Second Harvest Heartland, there's a volunteer shift for everyone. Come be a part of the local hunger relief movement by signing up for an end-of-summer food repacking shift!
