Community Service Learning Center
Event Specific Service Opportunities, Expired
For your reference:
The following opportunities were listed with the CSLC but have now expired.
June 2011
The Salvation Army's Donut Day!
June 3
The Salvation Army is giving away 2,000 donuts on June 3rd to local businesses that make Grand Rapids a better place to live and work. Additionally, The Action Group of The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers who are willing to give 4 or 8 hours of their time putting smiles on faces by helping to deliver these donuts. It promises to be a day well spent giving to such organizations as The Veterans Home. If that is not enough, we are throwing in lunch and a free t-shirt. If you are interested in helping you can contact Angela DeVries at 616-459-3433 x1184 or email angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org or sign up at http://www.sawmni.org/actiongroup/?page_id=8.
For more information on The Salvation Army's role in National Donut Day, please visit: http://www.sawmni.org/actiongroup/ and click on the Donut Day link.
Hooky Day II
Friday June 10, 2011
United Way’s NextGen is hosting bi-annual "Hooky Days" to provide young adults with volunteer opportunities that support lasting changes in the West Michigan community. Hooky Day II will involve three separate locations around West Michigan – the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, Feeding America West Michigan and the Ronald McDonald House. Mission of NextGen: To help ensure the Heart of West Michigan United Way’s future success by encouraging young adults to give, advocate, and volunteer.
Where/When/Project:
Grand Rapids Home for Veterans (8am – 12pm or 1pm – 5pm)
3000 Monroe AVE NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505At the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, more than 100 volunteers are needed to assist in landscaping clean up and building raised garden beds for planting. NextGen was awarded $2,500 from The Home Depot Foundation to help make the Veteran’s Home project possible. The 2011 Community Impact Grant will be used to purchase building materials for the Veteran’s Home. NextGen will also be partnering with Erhardt Construction who will help with design and layout of the Veterans Home project.
Feeding America West Michigan: (9am – 1pm)
864 W River Center Drive Northeast
Comstock Park, MI 49321
At Feeding America West Michigan, a group of volunteers will pick produce to be distributed throughout West Michigan.
Ronald McDonald House (1:30pm-6pm)
1323 Cedar Street Northeast
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
At the Ronald McDonald House, volunteers will cook dinner for more than 25 members of our community seeking treatment for serious illnesses.
Get Involved: To volunteer please RSVP to nextgen@hwmuw.org and let us know what location you would like to volunteer at.
Habitat for Humanity- Demolition
June 13- June 25th
Habitat for Humanity of Kent County is the recipient of a generous donation from Grand Rapids Dominican Center! The GRDC are kindly donating hand rails, light fixtures, furniture and other assorted items to the ReStore so that they can be resold to generate revenue for building Habitat Homes. Monday through Saturday from June 13th to 25th, 9am-4pm Habitat's Demolition Crew will be removing said items from Aquinata Hall prior to a major renovation project. To be part of this exciting project, please contact Joanna at 616-588-5226 or jdykhuis@habitatkent.org. They need a lot of manpower for this one so bring a friend (or two!).
Howard Christensen Nature Center Camp Volunteer
June 22- August 12 (dates vary- see below)
Howard Christensen Nature Center is looking for volunteers for their Summer Day Camp, in the form of camp leaders and marketing assistance. The camp will be nature –oriented, focusing on topics such as habitats, geology, and outdoor survival. Training will be provided for group leaders. Volunteers must like children and being outdoors. The camp run from June 22- August 12. Specific dates include 6/22, 6/27- 7/1, 7/11, 7/13, 7/14, 7/22, 8/10, 8/12. Howard Christensen Nature Center is located at 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City, MI 49330. For more information visit www.lilysfrogpad.com and contact Kathy Reed or Cindy Perski at(616) 675-314 or via email at cperski@charter.net.
Friends of White Pine Trail
Saturday June 25th
8:00 am to 11:00 am
Work to be done: Shoring up some trail shoulders and patching tar by the bridge North of Rockford overlook. Some shoveling, retaining boards, trimming, erosion control, and tar patching. No experience necessary. Bring gloves, water, most tools will be provided. Park at the 12 Mile lot Questions? Contact Tony Stachowiak at 616-690-3339 or astachow@comcast.net
Moving Day Parade at UICA (Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts)
June 30
The UICA is moving to a new building and would like to invite volunteers to help them move. “Many hands make light work” is an idiom that the UICA is taking seriously and will form a human chain from 41 Sheldon to 2 West Fulton moving boxes one by one to their new facility. Volunteer to help escort to the new space and grab a box. It will be held on June 30, 2011 from 12pm to 1pm on 41 Sheldon SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. There is no required training and the UICA is within walking distance of a Rapid Bus Stop. There is a deadline so please contact Becca Schaub at (616) 454-7000 or email at artworks@uica.org.
July 2011
Howard Christensen Nature Center Camp Volunteer
June 22- August 12 (dates vary- see below)
Howard Christensen Nature Center is looking for volunteers for their Summer Day Camp, in the form of camp leaders and marketing assistance. The camp will be nature –oriented, focusing on topics such as habitats, geology, and outdoor survival. Training will be provided for group leaders. Volunteers must like children and being outdoors. The camp run from June 22- August 12. Specific dates include 6/22, 6/27- 7/1, 7/11, 7/13, 7/14, 7/22, 8/10, 8/12. Howard Christensen Nature Center is located at 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City, MI 49330. For more information visit www.lilysfrogpad.com and contact Kathy Reed or Cindy Perski at(616) 675-314 or via email at cperski@charter.net.
Moving Towards a Cure Grand Rapids 2011
July 23
Miles for Hope has planned a 5K/ 1Mile Brain Tumor Awareness Run/ Walk located at Comstock Riverside Park 2001 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49505. The event is from 8am till 1pm but volunteers will be needed from 6am till 1pm. Volunteer duties for weeks prior will be helping with publicity and flyer distribution and duties for the day of the event will be registration desk, breakfast station, water stops, set up and tear down. There is no training required and the organization is within walking distance from the Rapid bus stop. Anyone interested in volunteering must register before the deadline of July 18, 2011. Contact Nicki Pajak at (727) 781-4673 or email nicki@milesforhope.org if you have any questions.
August 2011
Grandwich – A Grand Rapids Signature Sandwich CompetitionAugust 6th from 12pm -4pm
The Grandwich Sandwich competition will take place Saturday August 6th at Rosa Parks Circle (Monroe Center, Grand Rapids, MI). This will be a judged event open to the public to announce the official sandwich of Grand Rapids also known as the Grandwich. Volunteers are needed to help set up and take down tables and chairs. Help collect donations and man admission tables and also help with clean up afterwards. This organization is wheelchair accessible, within walking distance from a Rapid bus stop and there is no training required. If you are interested contact Nicole Infante at (616) 340-0300 or email niki8769@yahoo.com. The deadline to register as a volunteer is August 5th.
August 10, 2011 - 8:00a-5:00p
Sibley Elementary School Garage Sale
Sibley Elementary gives away household items to families and needs volunteers to help sort items and other hospitality needs. Please contact Sergio Cira Reyes at 616.819.7746 or scirareyes@dablodgett.org
Aug 10,11,12 (time varies based on responsibility)
American Cancer Society Cattle Barons Ball
This is a Western Themed Gala Fund Raiser for Cancer and Cancer Research being held at the Steelcase Town Hall Center in Grand Rapids, MI. Volunteers are needed for Set Up, Take Down, Greeters, Data Entry, Registration, Auction. Please register by August 1st to volunteer (however, volunteers will be accepted after this date). For more information or to sign up, contact Rebecca Westmaas (Volunteer Coordinator) at 616.5107050 or readysetclean1@yahoo.com.
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/Gala/GalaFY10GreatLakes?pg=entry&fr_id=34584
September 2011
Urban Hope - Soul Of The City
September 2nd and 3rd, 2011 ~ 12 noon -12 am ~ Rose Parks Circle
Urban Hope Ministries is hosting Soul Of The City, a two-day music festival highliting entertainment of Local, Regional, and National Headline African American Artists. This event will also feature a Health and Wellness resource fair. Help is needed on both days for set up, tear down, trash pick up, face painting, security, food, various help with logistics and vendors, etc, . Free t-shirt and meal voucher provided per 4-hour shift. Please contact Una Lewis at 616.452.0416 or at soulcity011@gmail.com to volunteer.
United Way Day of Caring ~ CSLC Sponsored
September 9, 2011 ~ Mutiple Events!
The United Way Day of Caring is a program that collaborates with the Grand Rapids Heart of West michigan United Way. Click here for a list of all the opportunities! Please contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu for more information.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Grand Haven Walk MS
September 10, 2011 ~ 8:00a-2:00p ~ United Methodist Church of the Dunes
The United Methodist Church of the Dunes is gearing up for the 2011 Grand Haven Talk MS and they need your help! Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body, and stops people from moving. This organization exists to make sure it doesn't. They need volunteers for check in, setup, decorations, clean up, rest stop, food service, and a cheer crew. Seeking those that are friendly, outgoing, and community service oriented. Please contact Bris Roberts at bris.roberts@nmss.org or at 248-936-0362 for more information and to volunteer.
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International - Walk to Cure Diabetes
September 17, 2011 ~ 7:00a-1:30p ~ Ah-Nab-Awen Park
The Walk to Cure Diabetes is a walk to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Volunteers are needed to assist the JDRF with set up, clean up, check-in and registration, route guidance and to encourage participants throughout the walk. Volunteers must register by September 10. Interested volunteers should contact Tricia Rice at 616-957-1838 or trish_dave@comcast.net or westmichigan@jdrf.org for more information.
Non-Profit Volunteer and Internship Fair (CSLC Sponsored)
September 20, 2011 ~ 1:00p-4:00p ~ Henry Hall Atrium
The Non-Profit Volunteer and Internship Fair is an opportunity for students to connect with various agencies in the greater Grand Rapids area. Up to 50 agencies offering volunteer and/or internship opportunities will be present! Resumes and business attire are not required but may be appropriate for those looking for internships. For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Fair Farm Bill Grassroots Campaign Volunteer
September 21, 2011 ~ Food and Water Watch
Volunteers will get a chance to learn valuable grassroots organizing techniques, as well as political advocacy and media skills. September 21 is the kickoff meeting for the campaign. At this meeting, volunteers will learn about the campaign, and split into groups based on interest to plan events and receive training for the campaign this fall. For more information on this opportunity, contact Jane Wiedenbeck at 616-920-1940 or jwiedenbeck@fwwlocal.org.
Michigan Campus Compact-Service Leadership Camp (CSLC Sponsored)
September 23-25, 2011 ~ Camp Sherman Lake
Michigan Campus Compact hosts a service leadership camp in which GVSU participates. There is a cost for registration (price includes meals). Transportation has been coordinated by the CSLC in previous years. For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Hillcrest Community Garden (CSLC Sponsored)
September 24, 2011 ~ 10:00am - 3:00pm ~ Kirkhof Center
Alternative Breaks' first Service Saturday will be with the Hillcrest Community Garden. Volunteers will work at their community garden, taking out old plants and doing some garden work to prepare them for the winter. Sign up is available here. Volunteers will meet in front of the Kirkhof Lobby Shop at 9:30am and travel to the site together. Pack a lunch, bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather! For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenna Brackett at ab.gv.community@gmail.com.
Family Weekend Volunteers
September 30 & October 1, 2011
The Family Weekend team is looking for volunteers willing to help during Family Weekend. They need volunteers for the Dueling Piano's event on Friday (9/30), Kirkhof activities and lunch on Saturday (10/1), and for Taste of Grand Valley on Saturday (10/1). If you are interested please contact Emma Perkins (perkinse@mail.gvsu.edu) or LeaAnn Tibbe (tibbel@gvsu.edu) for more information and times.
Be An Explorer of Grand Rapids Art & History
September 30 & October 1, 2011 ~ Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge need volunteers to be in charge of passing out information cards as well as badges to event participants at assigned significant historical locations or near a piece of art. The volunteers will need to come to the Flatiron Building (100 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids) 15 minutes before their shift starts for their assignment. For more information on this opportunity, contact Lisa Young at 616-774-8000 or lyoung@shrr.com.
ArtPrize 2011 UICA Exhibitions
September 20-October 10, 2011 ~ UICA
UICA is an ArtPrize Exhibition Center and needs help with front desk (selling ArtPrize merchandise, registering voters, and ticket sales), gallery monitors, and concessions. Required training on September 17 from 10:00-11:00a or 11:30a-12:30p (food provided). For more information on this opportunity, contact Becca Schaub at 616-454-7000 x17 or artworks@uica.org by September 16.
ArtPrize 2011 Grand Rapids Public Museum Exhibitions
September 21-October 9, 2011 ~ Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum will once again serve as an Exhibition Center and needs assistance with registering voters, customer service, and crowd control. Volunteers who can work three or more 4-hour shifts during ArtPrize are preferred. Must be 18 or older for registering voters. For more information on this opportunity, contact Joyce Makinen at 616-929-1737 or volunteer@grmuseum.org.
ArtPrize 2011
September 21-October 9, 2011
Volunteer kick-off party in August. Training on September 10. Scheduling for shifts begins September 11. Check back for updates to this listing. For more information on this opportunity, contact volunteer@artprize.org.
October 2011
Rogue River Stream Insect Monitoring
October 1, 2011 ~ 9:00a-1:00p ~ Trout Unlimited
Do you want to know what the water quality of the Rogue River and its streams are? Then come and join us in collecting stream insects. Stream insects are a good measure of water quality since many are pollutant sensitive and can be rapidly identified. Volunteers will be assigned a monitoring group and will work together to collect insects at stream sites. Each group will come back to the township hall and identify the insects they have collected. The end result will be a Stream Quality Score, which will be used to determine the quality of your stream site. Lunch will be provided for all volunteers. Please bring waders if you have them. For more information on this opportunity, contact Nichol De Mol at 231-557-6362 or ndemol@tu.org.
Kids' ArtFest 2011
October 2, 2011 ~ 12:00p-5:00p ~ Grand Rapids Children's Museum
The last Sunday during ArtPrize, the Grand Rapids Children's Museum is partnering with Square Peg Events, LLC to create a fun-filled afternoon of engaging, explorative art. The parks will be inhabited by artists, musicians, and street performers! Join us if you are a painter, drawer, street performer, musician, any other type of artist, or just as a general volunteer! Anyone can come hang out in the park with the kids and assist them with simple art projects or other areas of play and fun! For more information on this opportunity, contact Cynthia Hagedorn at 616-510-3599.
World Habitat Day
October 1 and 3, 2011 ~ Habitat For Humanity of Kent County
Build a Shanty Town: We are recreating a shanty town in the Wealthy Heights area to educate the public on how a sixth of the world's population live. Volunteers to help create the town are needed on October 1 from 9:00a-4:00p. Volunteers to provide event support (to direct the public to the Habitat sites in the area) are needed on October 3 from 3:30p-5:00p & 5:00p-7:30p. Volunteers to work at the information table (to issue film viewers with tickets and direct public to food station) are needed on October 3 from 3:30-5:00p & 5:00-8:00p. Volunteers to provide theater support (to collect tickets and usher) are needed on October 3 from 7:00p-8:30p. For more information on this opportunity, contact Joni Jessup at 616-588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org.
First Year Service Experience (CSLC Sponsored)
October 7-8, 2011 ~ 4:00p-4:00p ~ TBA
The First Year Service Experience is as service-learning opportunity for first-year students to volunteer together at a local non-profit organization. This fall, we will be taking 15-20 students to a local non profit organization (TBD). The group will be meeting in Kirkhof 2263 on October 7 before heading to their site of service! For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank Pick Produce
October 8, 2011 ~ 10:00a-12:00p ~ Klein Orchard
We have been invited to pick watermelons and need your help to gather them. The fresh fruit will then be distributed to families in need by our Mobile Pantry trucks. So grab your friends and come on out. For more information on this opportunity, contact Dena Rogers at 616-784-3250 or DenaR@FeedingAmericaWestMichigan.org.
Sustainable Community Development Initiative
For Campus Sustainability Week, GVSU's Sustainability Community Development Initiative is putting on several events to promote the No Impact Experiment. Their list of events and volunteer opportunities are listed below. Please note that you are not required to participate in all of the events, although you are more than welcome to.
Campus Sustainability Week Promotion
October 10-14 ~ 11:00a-3:00p ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby and DeVos Center
Volunteers are needed to help promote Campus Sustainability Week. You will need to be able to explain what is taking place during the week and why individuals are signing up for the No Impact Experiment, but you can review the information before the event. For more information on these opportunities, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Trash
October 17 ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby and DeVos Center
Fair Trade Fair (morning set-up) ~ 10:00a-11:00a
Volunteers are needed to help set up for the Fair Trade Fair lobby event. You will need to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to help bring items from vehicles into the lobby.
DIVE! Screening and Question/Answer Period ~ 12:00p-1:00p
Volunteers needed to promote the DIVE! Screening and question/answer period. You will be around Kirkhof Center handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Make sure to review the Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
Fair Trade Fair (afternoon take-down) ~ 4:00p-5:00p
Volunteers are needed to help take down items from the Fair Trade Fair. You will need to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to help take down items to vehicles.
DIVE! Screening and Panel Discussion Promotion ~ 4:00p-6:00p
Volunteers are needed to promote the DIVE! Screening and panel discussion. You will need to stay around either Kirkhof Center or DeVos Center, handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Make sure to review the Campus Sustainability Week informations to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
For more information on these opportunities, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Free Drink for Sustainable Transportation
October 18 ~ 8:00-10:00a or 3:00-5:00p ~ Kirkhof Center bus stop, Mackinac Hall bus stop, bus stop between Eberhard Center and DeVos Center, and Pew bus stop
Volunteers are needed to hand out free drink coupons for using sustainable transportation. This means bike riding, taking the bus, carpooling, etc. Volunteers will want to review Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted. For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Transportation
October 18 ~ Kirkhof Center and DeVos Center
Climate Change Presentation with Peter Sinclair Promotion ~ 10:00a-11:00a ~ Kirkhof Lobby or 2:00p-3:00p ~ DeVos Center
Volunteers are needed to promote the Climate Change Presentation with Peter Sinclair. Volunteers will stay around Kirkhof Center (for the 10:00a-11:00a shift) or DeVos Building C (for the 2:00p-3:00p shift), handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Volunteers will want to review Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Food
October 19 ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby
Farmer’s Market (morning set-up) ~ 7:30a-9:00a
Volunteers are needed to help set up for the Farmer’s Market lobby event. Volunteers will need to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to help bring items from vehicles into the lobby.
Tour of Trillium Haven Farm and Sustainable Agriculture Project Promotion ~ 10:00a-11:00a or 1:00p-2:00p
Volunteers are needed to promote the Tour of Trillium Have Farm and Sustainable Agriculture Project. Volunteers will stay around Kirkhof Center (for both the 10:00a-11:00a and the 1:00p-2:00p shifts), handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Volunteers will want to review Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
Farmer’s Market (afternoon take-down) ~ 4:00p-5:30p
Volunteers are needed to help take down items from the Fair Trade Fair. You will need to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to help take down items to vehicles.
For more information on these opportunities, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Energy
October 20 ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby
Beehive Design Collective Promotion ~ 3:00p-5:00p
Volunteers are needed to promote the Beehive Design Collective. Volunteers will stay around Kirkhof, handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Volunteers will want to review Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
Water
October 21 ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby
Tour of Stormwater and Wetlands Promotion ~ 9:00a-10:00a or 2:00p-3:00p
Volunteers are needed to promote the Tour of Stormwater and Wetlands. Volunteers will stay around Kirkhof Center (for both the 9:00a-10:00a and the 2:00p-3:00p shifts), handing out Campus Sustainability Week pluggers. Volunteers will want to review Campus Sustainability Week information to be able to explain what is taking place during the week as well as knowing the main event being promoted.
For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenny Jordan at 616-331-8096 or sustainability@gvsu.edu.
WGVU FM Radio Membership Drive
October 15-21 ~ GVSU Eberhard Center
WGVU would like volunteers during the live broadcasts to answer the phone to take membership pledges. You will take down the callers' pertinent information. There will be instructions provided before each shift. For more information on this opportunity, contact Amanda Reader at 616-331-6780 or readera@gvsu.edu.
Forever Adventure Monster Mash 2011
October 21, 2011 ~ 6:00p-12:00a ~MXTP
Monster Mash 2011 will need socially active, civic minded volunteers to help promote the benefit concert through social networks, hanging posters, flyer drops, and advanced ticket sales/referrals. Fun-loving volunteers are also needed to attend the costumed event. Concert performances are by Midwest Skies, Elm Street Riot, Quicksand Swimclub, Ready Set Reset, Landon Hughes, and Evan Lian. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sarash Brockett at 586-322-7700 or Josh Knopf at 586-944-6082.
The Salvation Army Turning Point Program
October 21 (1:00p-4:00p) & October 22 (9:00a-1:00p, 1:00p-5:00p), 2011 ~ The Salvation Army
Join The Salvation Army Action Group as they paint their facility for substance use treatment! Volunteers are needed to help tear down wallpaper, tape, paint, and decorate to provide a warm, home-like environment for those in recovery. For more information on this opportunity, contact Angela DeVries at 616-459-3433 x1184 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Make a Difference Day (CSLC Sponsored)
October 22, 2011 ~ 9:30a-3:00p ~ Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room
Come celebrate extraordinary deeds performed by ordinary people on America's largest national day of doing service. This event begins at Allendale's Campus Kirkhof Center. Volunteers will be bussed to various organizations in the greater Grand Rapids area. For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding Volunteer Orientation
October 22, 2011 ~ 10:00a-1:00p
Volunteers at Equest help groom and tack up horses in the barn, lead horses and walk along side assisting our special needs riders, under the direction of instructors. There are also group and one time events throughout the year to participate in. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at Equest, interning, or building service hours the three hour orientation is hands on from 10:00a-1:00p, dress for the weather and wear closed toed/heeled shoes. For more information on this opportunity, contact Kelly Wujkowski at 616-866-3066 or kellywujkowski@att.net.
Admissions Office Campus Fair Tours
October 28, 2011 ~ 10:45a-12:15p ~ GVSU Fieldhouse
The Admissions Office holds a campus fair on the Allendale campus. Volunteers are needed to be tour guides and take families around the campus and show them what we have to offer. Tours last about 45 minutes to 1 hour. For more information on this opportunity, contact Astin Martin at 616-331-8820 or martasti@gvsu.edu.
Michigan National Guard Youth Programs Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Event
October 29 (7:00a-4:30p) & 30 (7:00a-1:30p), 2011 ~ Location TBD (DeVos Center or Amway Grand)
During the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Event, the Michigan National Guard Youth Programs will be hosting childcare for children ages 6 and under and special programming for youth aged 7-17 who have recently completed the deployment of a loved one. Volunteers are needed to assist with either the childcare or youth programming services. For more information on this opportunity, contact Traci Osterman at 517-481-9890 or traci.m.osterman.ctr@us.army.mil by September 23.
Strong Kids Call-A-Thon
October 24-29, 31-November 4 (5:30p-8:00p) ~ Visser Family YMCA
Volunteers are needed to make phone calls to previous Stong Kids donors. Volunteer hours will be 5:30p-8:00p every night, and 10 volunteers are needed each night. Pizza will be provided! For more information on this opportunity, contact Shaylee Vanderbaan at 616-885-5719 or vandesha@mail.gvsu.edu.
November 2011
Mel Trotter Ministries (CSLC Sponsored)
November 5, 2011 ~ 9:30a - 3:00p ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby
Alternative Breaks’ November Service Saturday will be with Mel Trotter Ministries in Downtown Grand Rapids. Mel Trotter Ministries provides shelter, food, clothing, and other resources to community members in need. Participants will meet in front of the Lobby Shop in Kirkhof Center at 9:30am and will carpool to the site. As always, bring a water bottle, pack a lunch, and dress for the weather! Register here. For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenna Brackett at ab.gv.community@gmail.com.
Senior Neighbors Twilight Shines
November 8, 2011 ~ 5:15p-9:30p ~ Senior Neighbors
Twilight Shines is one of the biggest fundraising events for Senior Neighbors. Volunteers are needed to assist with making guests feel comfortable by distributing food and beverages and supporting the Senior Neighbors staff to make the fundraising event a big success. For more information on this opportunity, contact Khalia Daniels at 616-233-0740 or kdaniels@seniorneighbors.org.
Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Foundation Fundraising Letter Project
November 1-13, 2011 ~ 8:00a-5:00p ~ Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Association
Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Foundation charity fundraising project to support clients who do not have insurance or funds to pay medical costs. Opportunity begins on November 1, continuing through November 13th. Volunteers may schedule an appointment to work on project during this period. Volunteers must have neat and legible handwriting and be able to alphabetize. Volunteers will be addressing envelopes. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sondra Lienesch at 616-486-3956 or sondra.lienesch@spectrumhealth.org.
Service and Advocacy Week (CSLC Sponsored)
November 7-11, 2011 ~ 9:00a-6:00p ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby
Service & Advocacy student organizations host various programs designed to bring awareness to their causes. Members of S&A orgs may help plan- if interested they must contact the Service Initiatives Graduate Assistant. For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Day of Lexiling
November 12, 2011 ~ 10:00a-2:00p ~ Shawmut Hills School, GRPS
Groups wanted! Volunteers are needed to help lexile all of the library books. You will be serching online to find the reading level equivalent of the library materials. For more information, contact Gloria Cangelosi at 616-819-5606 or CangelosiG@grps.k12.mi.us.
Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Foundation Charity Fundraising Mailing
November 14-16, 2011 ~ 8:00a-5:00p ~ Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Association
Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Foundation fundraising letters--to raise funds for patients who do not have insurance or ability to pay medical costs. Flexible commitment-call to schedule volunteering anytime from 11/14-11/16 from 8am to 5pm (You may work as little as 1 hour or longer if available). Volunteers will fold and stuff up to 500 envelopes. Flexible time commitment-you may work as little as 1 hour or more if available, from 8am-5pm. Volunteering begins on 11/14 and continues through 11/16. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sondra Lienesch at 616-486-3956 or sondra.lienesch@spectrumhealth.org.
Nursery Supervisor
September 20-November 15, 2011 ~ Holy Spirit Parish
The moms of Holy Spirit Parish are looking for volunteers to supervise the nursery while they meet for a bible study on Tuesday nights from 9:00a-10:30a. There will be about 10 children in the nursery ranging from 18 months to 5 years old. Volunteers must complete a training class called Protecting God's Children at Holy Spirit Parish on September 7 at 6:30p and submit a background check. For more information on this opportunity, contact Kelly Clancy at 616-402-6752 or kelly.clancy@ymail.com.
Overnight Service Trip (CSLC Sponsored)
November 18-19, 2011 ~ 4:00p-4:00p ~ TBA
The Overnight Service Trip is an opportunity for GVSU students to come together for a 24 hour experience of service and fellowship. Each Winter Semester, 25 students head out into the community to make a difference. For more information on this opportunity, contact the Community Service Learning Center at 616-331-2468 or service@gvsu.edu.
Art Van Santa Parade
Saturday, November 19, 2011 ~ 6:30a-12:00p ~ Downtown Grand Rapids
Each year the Grand Rapids Jaycees welcomes the holiday season by hosting the Santa Parade in downtown Grand Rapids. Parade Marshals: Parade Marshals are responsible for keeping the crowd out of the street so the parade runs smoothly. Staging: Stagers are responsible for lining up parade entrants in the assigned order. The parade will be divided up into separate staging areas and volunteers will be assigned to a specific area. Volunteers will also be expected to walk with their entries during the parade to ensure entrants follow the rules & regulations. Destaging: Destagers ensure that entrants exit the parade route in a safe, orderly and efficient manner. Destaging will be located at the end of the parade behind Van Andel Arena. Banner Carriers: Banner Carriers carry banners for the Grand Rapids Jaycees and other parade entrants during the parade. Balloon Handlers: Balloon Handlers will help control the large balloon/floats in the parade. You will be trained beforehand on how to do it. For more information on this opportunity, contact Christie Lowe at 616-862-7052 or volunteer@santaparadegr.com.
December 2011
December Service Saturday (CSLC Sponsored)
December 3, 2011 ~ 9:45a-4:00p ~ Comprenew
Alternative Breaks' last Service Saturday for 2011 will be held at Comprenew. Volunteers will be dismantling and disassembling electronic waste (mostly computers) into individual parts to prevent them from ending up in landfill. It’s a great way to hang out with friendly people, gain some service hours, and take out your aggression on inanimate objects! We will meet in front of the Kirkhof Center Lobby Shop, carpool to the site, and volunteer until around 4:00pm. Service will be indoors, and don’t forget to pack a lunch and a reusable water bottle! For more information regarding this opportunity, contact Jenna Brackett at ab.gv.community@gmail.com. Register here to attend: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/J9GK5BM.
The Holiday Artists' Market
December 3, 2011 ~ 9:30a-9:00p ~ UICA
Volunteers are needed to be greeters, art runners, and help with concessions for this annual event. The Artists' Market offers handmade art, jewelry, and gifts created by 46 regional artists and artisans. This volunteer opportunity is located near a Rapid bus stop. For more information on this opportunity, contact Becca Schaub at 616-454-7000 or becca@uica.org.
Habitat for Humanity of Kent County
December 6-8, 2011 ~ 8:30a-4:00p ~ Habitat for Humanity
Habitat needs 5-7 volunteers who have carpentry experience (volunteer or home experience is sufficient) to help carefully deconstruct a house to remove items to be resold at ReStore. Volunteers will be removing countertops, fixtures, and other items in good shape that can be salvaged for resale. For more information regarding this opportunity, contact Joni Jessup at 616-588-5224 or jjessup@habitatkent.org.
Homestead Holiday Festival
December 10, 2011 ~ 12:00p-5:00p ~ Blandford Nature Center
Join Blandford Nature Center for their annual fundraiser festival, filled with fun familiy activities and pioneer themes. Volunteers are needed to bake cookies and bring them to the event. Volunteers are needed to assist with the nature craft-making stations, supervise the marshmallow roasting fire pit, help in the log cabins, guide visitors on and off wagon rides, lead snow games, assist in directing and parking cars, and assist at the refreshment table. For more information on this opportunuty, contact Jessie Schulte at 616-735-6240 or jschulte@blandfordnaturecenter.org.
2011 Grand Rapids Jingle Bell Run
December 10, 2011 ~ 7:00a-12:00p ~ The Michigan Athletic Club
Set Up (7:00-9:00a) Volunteers are needed to unload boxes from cars, put up banners and signs, move and set up tables, put directional signs and water on the course as well as make sure the course is clear of debris.
Registration (7:00-11:00a) Pre-registration: Check in those participants that have pre-registered, collect donation envelopes, distribute T-shirts. Walk-In Registration: Have those who are registering complete a registration form, collect donations and present race materials (goodie bag, shirt and number).
Greeters (7:00-11:00a) Welcome participants and direct them to various event sites (you will be given all the information that you need to do this job).
Food Servers (7:30-11:00a) Set up and hand out food to racers (fruit needs to be halved, beverages poured, etc.), help set up and maintain the Chili Party Snowman-shuffle.
Course Marshals (7:45-10:00a) Stationed along the race course, you will make sure participants are running in the correct direction, cheer on participants, go directly to finish line to assist with handing out ribbons/goody bags.
Course Marshals (8:00-10:30a) Will make sure participants are running in the correct direction, encourage participants, help those that may need assistance, cheer!
Water Stop Volunteers (8:00-10:30a) Set up table, and then pre-pour a full table of water cups, hand out water to the participants as they go by, clean up all cups/debris on the street (trash bag provided), cheer!
Finish Line Volunteers (8:30-11:00a) Help finish line official set-up, bring out all bottled water assigned to go to the finish line, pass out water to runners that are crossing the finish line, direct participants inside for refreshments and chili!
Assist in Break Down of Finish Line Clean-up (9:00-11:30a) Carry boxes and load them into cars, break down empty boxes, take down banners and signs, take down and put away tables, walk the route to look for any participants that may still be walking and look for any debris on the route. For more information, contact Cindy Pogue at 800-968-3030 or cpogue@arthritis.org.
2011 Holiday Shopping Tour at Meijer in Cascade!
December 13, 2011 ~ 4:30p-9:30p ~ The Grand Rapids Jaycees
This annual event provides children from area agencies the opportunity to purchase gifts for loved ones and visit with Santa. Our project is often the only way many families have gifts for the holidays. Volunteers are needed for assisting children with shopping, helping with crafts and games in the Santa room, wrapping gifts, and running gifts through the different areas for gifts to be wrapped and returned to the child. Individuals are also needed to check-in agencies and volunteers. Shifts run from 4:15p-6:00p, 5:45p-7:45p, and 7:30p-9:00p. Please sign-up by clicking here so that you will be scheduled for your preferred area and shift. For additional questions, please contact grjayceesholidayshoppingtour@gmail.com.
32 Hour Bell Ringing
December 15-16, 2011 ~ 6:00a-2:00p ~ The Salvation Army
We are so excited about a NEW opportunity at The Salvation Army. We are going to ring bells for 32 hours straight, in front of the Van Andel Arena, starting December 15 at 6 AM, through December 16, at 2 PM. We are using this event to let our community know that we serve 24/7 and the need is 24/7. When one's heat, home, job or food is gone, or is in jeopardy....we are here, The Salvation Army, providing love and hope to those in need. We are recruiting individuals and groups to volunteer to ring bells to raise money for our programs and services with shifts of 2 hours at a time, starting at 6 AM. To sign up to volunteer for a shift, please contact Kris Palosaari at 616-459-3433 x1181 or email kris_palosaari@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Snowflake Break
December 17-31, 2011 ~ 11:45a-4:00p ~ Grand Rapids Public Museum
Snowflake Break at the Grand Rapids Public Museum provides a great opportunity for teens to earn volunteer hours. Snowflake Break is a family-oriented activity offered to customers during the holidays. Teen volunteers assist the families with crafts and seasonal activities. Volunteers need to be outgoing, friendly and able to work with customers of all ages. Free parking is provided. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 616-929-1737 or volunteer@grmuseum.org for information or to schedule.
January 2012
Ada Park Township - Volunteer Work Day
January 11, 2012 ~ 9:00a-12:00p
Volunteers are need to help move woody debris (branches, small logs) from woods to a chipper then move the chips out onto the trails. Volunteers will need to dress for working in the woods, sturdy shoes, warm clothes, etc. Ada Park Township has work gloves but feel free to bring your own. If you have any questions please contact Mark Fitzpatrick at 616-862-0584 or mfitzpatrick@adatownshipmi.com
Point in Time Homeless Count
January 25, 2012 ~ 2:00a-5:00a ~ Community Action House
The Point in Time count is a one-time count of homelessness in Michigan. Volunteers will be working in teams to go out to different areas of Ottawa County to count individuals who are homeless. The goal is to gather anecdotal information and numbers of homeless persons in the county. There will be a training beginning at 2:00am, the count will be conducted from 3:00-5:00am with a short briefing to follow. Volunteers will not be required to approach homeless persons, but count them and offer any dotated items such as blankets, coats, etc. The deadline to sign up is January 24th. For more information or to sign up please contact Cara Zerbel at 616-738-1170 or email czerbel@communityactionhouse.org
Sibs and Kids Weekend
January 27 (4:00-6:00, 6:00-8:00, 8:00-10:00p) and January 28 (10:00-12:00, 1:00-3:00, 3:00-5:00, 5:00-7:00p), 2012 ~ Kirkhof Center
There are many volunteer opportunities for student organizations and individual students. You may help our entertainers/talents as they prepare their programs, serve as a "runner" for the talent, run the inflatable games, help with snacks and programs, and/or assist our guests at locating the various activities. Volunteers are allowed to work as many two-hour shifts as they would like. Snacks will be provided. For more information on this opportunity, contact Amanda Waldfogel at waldfoga@mail.gvsu.edu. with your name, your organization (if applicable), and the date(s) and time(s) you are available. RSVP is preferred but not required.
February 2012
Pass it Forward
February 24, 2012 ~ 8:00a-2:30p ~ GRCC Student Center
Do you like to make a difference in your community? Would you like to network with students from Davenport, Grand Rapids Community College, Aquinas College and others? Pass it Forward thrives off the idea of the domino effect. In this case, we hope one good deed could start a chain of others throughout the community. Just go out of your way to help someone out, and tell them to "pass it forward" to someone else. Now is your chance to give back! For more information on this opportunity, contact Tiffany Ewigleben at tfalconewigleben@grcc.edu or Leah Kicinski at lkicinski@grcc.edu. To sign up for this event, register here.
Kroc Family Fun Night (The Salvation Army)
February 24, 2012 ~ 5:45pm-8:30pm ~ The Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center
The Salvation Army needs six volunteers to help with their family fun night! Duties include working the resistration table, being an obstacle runner where you would be responsible for helping children through an obstacle course, obstacle organizer, diaper and tod derby oranizer, and supplies support. For more information on this opportunity, contact Angela Devries at 616-459-3433 x1184 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org (please be sure to indicate the volunteer opportunity you are interested in helping with in your message).
February Service Saturday ~ CSLC Sponsored
February 25, 2012 ~ 9:15a-3:00p ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby Shop
Volunteers will be working at the Lamberton Lake preserve with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, helping the organization prepare for a restoration project slated to begin this spring. Volunteers will be removing invasive buckthorn, clearing the property of brush and debris, and installing monitoring wells as time allows. Volunteers will meet in front of the Lobby Shop in Kirkhof Center and carpool to the site. Please pack a lunch and a reusable water bottle! For more information on this opportunity, contact Jenna Brackett at ab.gv.community@gmail.com. To sign up for this event, register here.
Dash Down Division 5K Race (The Salvation Army)
February 25, 2012 ~ 7:30a-12:30p ~ The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Korc Corps Community Center
40 volunteers are needed to help with The Kroc Center's first ever 5K Dash Down Division Race. For more information about the Dash Down Division, please visit our website. Volunteers are needed for parking lot and course supervision, traffic control, registration and distribution of race information, set-up & tear down of race venue, and greeting of participants entering the Kroc Center. For more information on this opportunity, contact Angela Devries at 616-459-3433 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org.
March 2012
Radon Booth at the West Michigan Home and Garden Show
March 2-3 (12p-3p, 3p-6p, 6p-9p), March 4 (3p-6p), 2012 ~ Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan
Volunteer at the Healthy Homes booth and get into the Home and Garden Show Free! Volunteers are needed for the Healthy Homes Booth at the West Michigan Home and Garden show, held at the DeVos Place. The shift times are posted above. This show is a great opportunity to provide materials and education about radon. Volunteers will be trained and given the information needed to work in pairs at the booth for 3-hour shifts. For more information contact Brittany Schlosser at 616-241-3300 or brittany@healthyhomescoalition.org.
Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament
March 3, 2012 ~ 7:30a-7:30p ~ Forest Hills Central High School
Volunteer judges are needed to represent East Grand Rapids Elementary School. Required training will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2012, from 5:00 to 8:30p at Forest Hills Central High School. For more information on this opportunity, visit http://www.miodyssey.net or contact Kirsten Del Vecchio at 616-406-4090 or kirstendel@gmail.com.
WGVC March Television Drive
March 3-6, 2012 ~ 5:45pm-11:00pm ~ WGVU Studios
Would you like to showcase your group or organization by receiving recognition on live television? Or are you an individual that would like to become more invested in the West Michigan community? WGVU-TV has several volunteer opportunities to answer phones and take pledges during our March Membership Drive in the WGVU-TV studios. WGVU is seeking people for the following dates/times during our March campaign: (5 people) March 3, 6:45-9p, BIG BAND VOCALISTS (not live); (5-6 people) March 4, 5:45-9:30p, GREAT PERFORMANCES: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA; (6 people) March 5, 7:45-11p, DR. WAYNE DYER: WISHES FULFILLED (not live); (4 people) March 6, 7:15-9:30p, NEWSHOUR YANNI LIVE AT SAN FELIPE DEL MORO. Training is provided prior to answering phones. For more information on this opportunity, contact Amanda Reader at 616-331-6780 or readera@gvsu.edu.
Volunteer to Read with The Salvation Army
March 16, 2012 ~ 8:00am-11:30pm ~ The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is inviting over 50 young professional and college student volunteers to visit classrooms around Grand Rapids for a fun-filled reading activity. Volunteers will meet at The Salvation Army for an orientation session. During the orientation, volunteers will have an opportunity to practice reading their assigned book, and will be taught how to administer a classroom activity related to their book. Volunteers will then transport themselves to their assigned school and read to a classroom with a volunteer partner. Volunteers will then help administer a classroom activity. Background check required. For more information on this opportunity, contact Angela Devries at 616-459-3433 x1184 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org. To sign up for this event, register here.
National Peer Review: Community Solutions Action Plan ~ Literacy Center of West Michigan
March 22, 2012 ~ 9:00am-5:00pm
Grant Writers and Educators: This is any opportunity to review, critique, and learn from national Community Solutions Action Plans submitted in application for the All America City Grade Level Reading Award. For more information on this event, contact Lindsay McHolme at 616-459-5151 or lmcholme@literacycenterwm.org
March 23-24, 2012 ~ Grand Rapids Jaycees
The Grand Rapids Jaycees will be hosting the 2012 Special Olympics Michigan State Basketball Finals and Skills Competition on Friday, March 23, 2012 and Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Rockford High School, Rockford Freshmen Campus, and Rockford North Middle School. More than 500 athletes from across the state will travel to Rockford to participate in this event. To make this event a success for the athletes, we need your help. Various volunteer opportunities needed, see the regisgration form for a complete list. For more information on this opportunity, contact Emma Baranowski at volunteer4somi@gmail.com. To sign up for this event, register here.
March 24, 2012 ~ 8:00am-2:00pm ~ Kirkhof Center Lobby Shop