On-Going Opportunities!
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Art, Culture, Humanities, and Recreation
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ART, CULTURE, HUMANITIES, AND RECREATION
ARTS AND CULTURE
Knitting with Residents! - Clark Retirement Community
Clark Retirement Community is looking for a volunteer to lead and assist a small group of ladies with knitting. This person will need to demonstrate an ability to teach and help our residents with basic knitting and with simple knitting projects. Many of the residents interested in a knitting group have experience in knitting, but may need a refresher. A staff member will be present for the entirety of the activity. For more information, contact Geraldine Pringle at the Clark Volunteer Services Coordinator phone number, 616-452-1568x 140. Posted 2/28/13.
American Heart Association - Go Red for Women
Go Red For Women is the American Heart Associations national campaign to increase awareness of heart disease the leading cause of death for women and to inspire women to take charge of their heart health. The collateral material volunteer would customize invitations, programs and update fact sheets from templates in Adobe Illustrator for 3 Go Red For Women Luncheons in Michigan. We are looking for a volunteer willing to work a few hours per week, with Adobe Illustrator experience and possibly have Illustrator on their computer. For more information on this opportunity, contact Ciciley Moore at 616-482-1503 or ciciley.moore@heart.org. Posted 11/14/12
Art Gallery and Studio
Heartside Ministry needs volunteers in the art studio (drawing, painting, sewing, beadwork) on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11:30 AM-3:30 PM, and Tuesdays from 2:00-3:30 PM. The times for the pottery studio are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00-3:30 PM. The times for weaving are Wednesdays from 1:30-3:30 PM. For more information on this opportunity, contact Helen Van Essendelft at (616) 235-7211 or at volunteer@heartside.org. Posted 09/21/11
HISTORY
Coopersville Farm Museum
Volunteers are needed to list events on websites and to assist with exhibits. Students who are interested should have some familiarization with museum events and accurate computer skills. Someone is needed on a regular basis, but the schedule is flexible. For more information on this opportunity, contact LeeAnn Creager at (616) 997-8555 or leeannc@coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Updated 09/14/12
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Discovery Cart Program is a new opportunity designed to engage Museum customers by providing themed artifact kits on subjects like games, music and habitats. This opportunity runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30-3:30 PM. The artifacts are available for close, hands-on investigation. We are looking for outgoing, friendly teens to connect with customers of all ages. We are recruiting teenagers for a minimum of one 3.5 hour shift per month. A brief training period is required. Trainings are held at the museum at 272 Pearl Street. To volunteer for this new opportunity, or to make a reservation for a training session, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, (616) 929-1737 or volunteer@grmuseum.org. Posted 11/07/11
SPORTS AND RECREATION
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
Children and Youth Education
Reading Corps Tutors Sought
Are you passionate about education? Ever considered serving a year with AmeriCorps? The Michigan Reading Corps (MiRC) is seeking Reading Corps members statewide to provide essential literacy intervention for K-3 students during the 2013-2014 school year! Learn more about this opportunity and make sure to apply by April 1, 2013!
Play and Learn Group Helper - The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Booth Family Services is partnering with Great Start to provide a play and learn group for children ages 1 to 5 years. The group meets weekly, and is an opportunity for children and their parents or child care providers to be a part of fun activities that will help them get ready for kindergarten. We are in need of a volunteer to help act as a greeter and helper for this program each Monday from 9:30 to noon. Duties include helping to open the door for participants, assisting in passing out information, helping mothers to find the restrooms, and other general help. The group will meet on Mondays from 10am to 11:30am starting on January 28, 2013. To sign up go to this link: http://bit.ly/bfsplay For more information, contact Kent County Volunteer Services at 616-459-3433 x1184 or KentCounty_Volunteers@usc.salvationarmy.org Posted on 01/24/13
West Michingan Refugee Education and Cultural Center
Project Faulu is a comprehensive educational support service with after school attributes that provides comprehensive educational support services to refugee children in grades K-12 in West Michigan. Students are assisted in completing their homework assignments and taught independent study skillls, equipping them with the necessary skills to complete thework on their own. The program is open Monday through Thursday starting 4pm- 6pm. For more information on this opportunity contact Shingi Mavima at 616-617-1178 or shingi@westmirefugee.org. Posted 2/21/13
SCHOOLS
West Oakview Elementary in the Northview School District is looking for 1 or 2 assistant coaches for their Odyssey of the Mind team this year. Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. This is a one night per week time commitment of about 2 hours each week through December and then a two night per week time commitment for 2 hours each through March 2, 2013. You will be working with the coach, as well as the seven team members ranging from 2nd to 4th grade. For more information, contact Shannon Burton at 616-283-1771 or via email at msuburton@gmail.com Posted 11/12/12
Allendale Public Schools - Elementary After-School ESL Program
This elementary after-school program services about 40 English-as-a-Second-Language students grades K-5 on Wednesdays after school. Volunteers that desire to work with diverse populations will work with a small group of students on reading comprehension, writing, and homework assignments. For more information, contact Didier Couvelaire at (616) 617-9666 or couvelairedid@allendale.k12.mi.us. Posted 10/24/12
Allendale Public Schools - Secondary After-School ESL Program
Allendale Public Schools are looking for volunteers that desire to work with diverse poulations to assist students in grades 6-8 with language, literacy, and homework assignments. This secondary after-school program for English-as-a-Second-Language students meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 2:45 and 4:15 PM. For more information, contact Didier Couvelaire at (616) 617-9666 or couvelairedid@allendale.k12.mi.us. Posted 10/24/12
Allendale Public Schools - Summer Reading Program for ESL Students Allendale Public Schools are looking for volunteers to assist one or two ESL students with literacy skills. This summer reading program services about 40 English-as-a-Second-Language students in grades K-12 on most Tuesdays and Fridays. For more information, contact Didier Couvelaire at (616) 617-9666 or couvelairedid@allendale.k12.mi.us. Posted 10/24/12
Volunteers are needed to engage in regualr conversations with those going through the ESL (English as a second language) program. Students participate and meet in a casual enviornment to practive their skills and share their culture and language. Volunteers meet once a week for an hour, often at lunchtime or for coffee. They are not there to provide language instruction, just simply to engage in natural conversation. Must have a desire to work with students from a different culture. This will take place at the ELS Language Centers in Allendale. For more information on this opportunity, contact Caleb Griffis at (231) 852-3757 or cgriffis@els.edu. Updated 02/4/13.
TUTORING
West Michigan Refugee Education & Cultural Center
West Michigan Refugee Education and Cultural center tutors are responsible for tutoring students attending the after school program at least once a week.Tutors will communicate progress and/or issues to be addressed to family coordinators of student(s) worked with. The after school program runs Monday through Thursday from 4:00-6:00 PM throughout the school year. Training will be held in January 2013. For more information on this opportunity, contact Susan Kragt at (616) 247-9611 or susan@westmirefugee.org. Updated 11/26/12
West Oakview Elementary (Northview Public Schools) - Odyssey of the Mind
West Oakview Elementary in the Northview School District is hoping to have an Odyssey of the Mind team this year. Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. Team members apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. They then bring their solutions to competition on the local, state, and national level. Thousands of teams from throughout the U.S. and from about 25 other countries participate in the program. There are only 7 students allowed on a team in grades 2 through 4. The team is looking for one or two assistant coaches. This is a volunteer commitment and would be a great opportunity for anyone planning to work in education. This is a one night per week time commitment of about 2 hours each week through December and then a two night per week time commitment for 2 hours each through March 2, 2013. The tournament is scheduled for March 2 and is an all day event and you would need to commit to assist for a full day there. I have not yet determined which night(s) we would have practice as I would like to have input from the assistant coach(es). An Odyssey of the Mind Assistant Coaches must encourage safety and creativity while leaving the decision-making to the students. You will be working with the coach, as well as the seven team members ranging from 2nd to 4th grade. You are there to assist in the responsibilities listed below as well as to assist in running practice. Responsibilities of an Assistant Coach The assistant coach needs to keep in mind that the team must develop, design and execute the solution without help from others Odyssey is a strictly hands-off activity for adults. Here is a list of responsibilities for an assistant coach: Ensure the safety of the team at all times, suggest ways the team can resolve conflicts, encourage creativity and freethinking by all members of the team, communicate expectations of the team and parents. For more information about this opportunity, contact Shannon Burton at 616-283-1771 or msuburton@gmail.com. Posted 11/14/12
Oakwood Homework Center ~ Allendale Public Schools
Oakwood hosts a homework center every day, during their lunch hour, for students that need additional time or help to complete their work. Because their lunch hour is longer this year, we are willing to split shifts or schedule you with a buddy. This is a great mentoring program, where you will see the same students week after week.We just ask that you show up when you are scheduled. We can schedule as little as two days a month or as much as two days a week. There is a little down time, and some days not as many students need the homework center, so I always advise you to bring along your homework or a book to read during the slow times. For more information on this opportunity, contact Deb DeLooff at 616-892-5587 or at delooffdeb@allendale.k12.mi.us. Posted on 10/17/12
Cherry Street Health Services - Reach Out and Read
Volunteers are needed to participate in the Reach Out and Read Program with Cherry Street Health Services at two pediatric health center locations, West Side Health Center and Heart of the City Health Center. Reach Out and Read volunteers read to children in our waiting rooms to promote childhood literacy and a love for reading. Volunteers will spend shifts of 2-4 hours in the waiting room of West Side Health Center or Heart of the City Health Center reading to children. Volunteers typically commit to reading 1-3 days per week. Volunteer training required. For more information on this opportunity, contact Mikki Henry at (616) 235-7272 ex. 2016 or mikalenehenry@cherryhealth.com. Updated 09/24/12
Learning Lab Volunteers
Steepletown Neighborhood Services' Learning Lab is seeking volunteers! Our Learning Lab provides assistance to students seeking their General Education Diploma (GED). Volunteers would assist students with questions about online course work/homework. Some benefits: *Opportunity to work closely with a non-profit community based organization *Work with Grand Rapids area community youth/young adults *Flexible hours/ schedule *Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday *Morning and late afternoon *Long term and short term arrangements can be made Each volunteer will need to fill out a background check form provided by Steepletown. For more information on this opportunity, contact Melanie Straub at (616) 451-4215 ext 110 or melanie@steepletown.org. Posted 09/20/2012
ELNC Baby Scholars
Baby Scholars is a 12-week program that provides educational support for parents and children 5 months to 5 years old. Volunteers are needed to assist preschool teachers and/or parent coaches in implementing the curriculum for Baby Scholars. Spanish-speaking volunteers would be helpful, but not required. For more information on this opportunity, contact Kimberly Spencer at (616) 430-7292 or kimberly@elncgr.org. Posted 09/20/2012
ESL classes for Adult Refugees
ESL classes are held at GRIF (Grand Rapids International Fellowship Church) on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 9-11 AM for newly arrived adult refugees to help them learn English, to expose them to American culture, and to help them become employed. The volunteers will help ESL teachers in a classroom or assist students in a computer lab. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sharon Muldoon at (616) 965-8059 or smuldoon@bethany.org. Updated 09/14/12
The Salvation Army - Tutoring
Two tutors are needed on each day, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 4:00-4:45 PM to help students with their homework. Two volunteers are needed per day. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and be "Safe from Harm" trained (The Salvation Army will provide this training at no cost to interested candidates). For more information on this opportunity, contact Kent County Volunteer Services, at (616) 459-3433 x1184 or KentCounty_Volunteers@usc.salvationarmy.org. Posted 09/10/12
Hattie Beverly Youth Development Program Tutor - Restorers Inc.
Do you have a heart for students in our community and one hour a week to serve them? Join us at Restorers Hattie Beverly Tutoring Center! We support the educational goals of primarily low-income and minority students in the Madison Square Neighborhood. Tutors meet one hour a week with students to help them reach self-identified academic goals. Tutors should be faithful in showing up each week, encourage and respect students, foster a positive attitude toward learning, and help select materials and approaches suitable to students' skill levels and needs. Tutors are still needed this semester for middle and high school students in all subjects (especially math) on Tuesday or Thursday evenings from 5:30-6:30 PM or 6:30-7:30 PM. For more information on this opportunity, contact Leah Nieboer at (616) 243-1984 x26 or l.niebor@restorersinc.org. Posted 02/06/12
Elementary Tutor - Pinewood Elementary
We are looking for elementary tutors to help students that have been identified as needing additional academic support. The greatest need for tutors is in Reading & Math. We need tutors for the entire school year. This school is approximately 10-15 minutes from the Allendale campus. For the safety of all of our students, you must fill out a Criminal Background Check form and return to the address above, prior to any tutoring. Tutors will be paired with individuals or small groups of students to meet the same time each week. Tutors may also be asked to help with extra projects such as making copies, hanging art projects, assisting in the classroom as a new concept is taught, stuffing Friday Folders, etc. We can use tutors with as little as one hour/week, but we would like to encourage tutors to volunteer as often as they are able. For more information on this opportunity, contact Holli Ward at (616) 581-8002 or holli@michiganbutterflies.com. Posted 01/18/12
West Godwin Elementary Tutoring
Volunteers are needed to help fill a great need for tutors fo children in grades K-12. These students would benefit from small group and one on one assisting in the area of mathematics. West Godwin Elementary will have a daily schedule and specific plans for anyone interested in tutoring. The school also has a large Spanish speaking population, so bilingual English/Spanish would be beneficial but not necessary. For more information on this opportunity, contact Steve Minard at (616) 252-2030 or minard@godwinschools.org. Posted 01/12/12
TRIO Mpower Tutor Program
Tutor/mentors are needed for 6-12th grade students in the Grand Rapids area. Days/times vary but are generally Monday-Friday between 7:45 AM-2:30 or 3:30 PM, depending on the school. You will need to attend an orientation session which lasts about 45 minutes. Volunteers will assist a teacher in the classroom with student needs. You may be with the whole class or in small groups depending on the teacher. You may need to run an occasional errand, but the main focus will be on assisting students. There is also an opportunity to work with the TRIO advisors as an college outreach aide with the same type of students. The main difference is that you would not be in a regular core subject classroom. For more information on this opportunity, contact Santiago Zapata at (616) 331-7114 or zapatas@gvsu.edu. Posted 01/10/12
Camp Fire USA is in need of area individuals to volunteer with our after-school programs. These programs run throughout the school year, ending in mid-May. We are looking for individuals or groups to assist with activities or to teach various skills (dance, art, sports, music, foreign language, etc.) Our programs take place in seven elementary schools and one middle school. They generally run between the hours of 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Camp Fire USA requests a consistent commitment to be discussed prior to volunteer services, but all Camp Fire staff are flexible and are willing to accommodate all schedules. For more information on this opportunity, contact Ellen Hensel at (616) 949-2500 or ellen.hensel@campfireusawmc.org. Posted 10/17/11
United Church Outreach Ministry - Homework House Tutoring
Volunteers work with 1-3 students on reading, writing, vocabulary, and homework. For the Fall semester, tutoring will be on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:45-4:45 PM (Cesar Chavez Elementary) and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15-5:15 PM (Southwest Community Campus). It is a great opportunity for those interested in Education and Spanish to connect with students and make a difference in their lives. For more information on this opportunity, contact Ashley Juvonen at (616) 241-4006 or kristina.meyer@ucomgr.org. Posted 09/20/11
GED Tutoring
Heartside Ministry is looking for volunteers who want to tutor those wishing to finish highschool or just improve their reading, writing, and/or math skills. For more information on this opportunity, contact Helen Van Essendelft at (616) 235-7211 or volunteer@heartside.org. Posted 09/01/11
Creative Youth Center - Thrive Tutoring Program
Tutoring program Tuesdays and Thursdays for students in middle school and high school. Volunteers need to be able to commit to tutoring an hour and a half one day a week for a semester. For more information about this opportunity contact Katie Caralis at 248-225-3435 or katie.caralis@creativeyouthcenter.org.
ANIMAL WELFARE
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
ENVIRONMENTAL WELFARE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Year-round Adopt-a-Beach Program ~ Alliance for the Great Lakes
Celebrate your love for the Great Lakes by adopting a beach. It's fun. It's easy. Adopt-a-Beach" teams are from all walks of life including: individuals, families, businesses and community groups. Adopters commit to multiple visits per year. During the visits, adopters use Alliance forms to collect data on different aspects of their beach. To schedule an event or volunteer for an already scheduled event, please visit our website for specific directions on how to create an account and register. For more information contact Jamie Cross at 616-850-0745 or at jcross@greatlakes.org. Posted 10/26/12
Environmental Conservation Coalition - Gardening at Burton
The Environmental Conservation Coalition is looking to recruit "Educational Instructors" for its Gardening at Burton program next year in February. During this informational meeting, you will learn all about our programs including the Gardening at Burton Program. We invite you to learn more about this opportunity and more about our organization. Lunch will be provided, we hope to see you here! As an Educational Instructor for ECC you will be teaching various classes with students of Burton Elementary in Grand Rapids. Each lesson will be hands on with the gardening beds and will last roughly an hour. For more information on this opportunity, contact Paris Lara at (616) 884-9864 or parislara@eccgr.org Posted 10/18/12
Comprenew - E-Waste and Recycling Opportunities
Comprenew offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to assist staff with e-waste recycling or rebuilding computers for resale. Our events can be set up on a one-time, one-day format or as a general open-ended program whereby individual or GVSU groups can arrange to come in to the facility. Specific duties, depending on IT skills, are: disassembling computers (removal of hard drives,etc), diagnostic and repair services on reuseable computers (laptops and desktops), retail e-thrift store stocking and parts displays. For more information on this opportunity, contact Dale Dieleman (616) 531-9102 or ddieleman@comprenew.org. Posted 08/27/12
Environmental Conservation Coalition - Writer
Are you a freelance writer? reporter? journalist? or maybe you have free time on your hands and happen to have decent writing skills? Our website integrates the concept of news delivery pertaining to environmental news within the community, we need people who are passionate about writing and can give the time needed to report on all the latest environmental news in Grand Rapids. The Environmental Conservation Coalition is looking for writers to publish news articles on our website and maintain sections of the "Eco Center" section. This position requires you to stay up to date on environmental news in Grand Rapids and report accordingly to our website for our readers. Volunteers should adhere to deadlines and be disciplined in his or her work, be creative in his or her outlook and be able to write on environmental based topics and issues in various patterns. Candidates should have good knowledge about English vocabulary and grammar. For more information on this opportunity, contact Paris Lara at (616) 528-8322 or parislara@eccgr.co.cc. Posted 01/20/12
AIDS/HIV
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
DISASTER AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
FAMILY SERVICES
The Salvation Army - Community Resource Navigator
The Salvation Army is looking for a volunteer to be their Community Resource Navigator for their Booth Family Services. A community resource navigator will provide vital one-on-one support to community members applying for Kent County Department of Human Services (DHS) assistance through the online MI Bridges system. Volunteers should be computer literate, have a strong desire to help those in need, willing to attend a free navigation training session, comfortable engaging others in conversation, and enjoy interacting with diverse groups. Bilingual abilities are highly desired, but not necessary. Volunteers will also help with various office tasks, possibly including data entry and filing, during slow times. Volunteers may also be asked to occasionally help with the food pantry. For more information, you can contact Angela Devries at angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org or at 616-459-3433 x1184. Posted on 03/15/13
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
The Salvation Army - Booth Clinic Volunteer
Booth Clinic is a health clinic for prenatal and ongoing family health care in partnership with Cherry Street Health Services to ensure that babies are delivered healthy and stay healthy in their early years, and that young mothers are supported in this process through traditional and creative approaches. They are looking for volunteers to assist with various administrative tasks at the clinic, which include: making phone calls, filing paperwork, organizing donations, greeting clients, assisting with Play and Learn program for parents and children, and helping out at other programs at Booth Family Services as needed. Volunteers must complete a background check, receive Safe from Harm training, and must be 18 years old or older. To sign up, please visit http://bit.ly/clinicvol . For more information, you can contact Angela Devries at angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org or at 616-459-3433 x1184. Posted on 03/15/13
Plan A Open Enrollment - Kent Health Plan
Kent Health Plan is looking for volunteers to serve during the months of March and April 2013, helping low-income clients apply for free government-funded health coverage. Volunteers are needed to help clients complete application booklets and to enter data from the booklets into a web-based program. This program has not been accepting applications for the past two years and we expect thousands of people to apply county-wide. We will provide necessary training for volunteers. We are open from 8:30 to 5 on weekdays, and are looking for volunteers to serve during that time. For more information, contact Paul Hazen at phazen@kenthealthplan.org or 616-726-8204, ext. 257. Posted on 03/11/13
Wings Home - Caregivers
Wings Home is a 4-bedroom charitable home designed to meet the needs of hospice patients in a peaceful, homelike setting. They are looking for volunteers to be caregivers for patients. Volunteer caregivers may cook and serve meals, give medications, do personal care for patients, or clean the home. Shifts are 7am-12pm, 12pm-5pm, and 5pm-10pm. For more information, contact Courtney Deater at 269-686-8659 or volunteer@wingsofhopehospice.com. Posted on 02/01/13
Great Lakes Caring Hospice
This is an excellent opportunity for students looking to volunteer in the home care environment. Be a friend to someone who is ill and in need of end of life companionship and support. Volunteers are needed to sit with patients and offer companionship and support to patients and their families. Great Lakes Caring Hospice also needs volunteers who can sit respite for patient families so that they can get away for a few hours to run errands. For more information on this opportunity, contact Cindy Harwood at (616) 975-6200 or charwood@glhhs.com. Posted 10/01/12
Hospice of Holland
The two main volunteer requests are for weekly companionship visits to patients in their homes, facilities or at the Hospice House and for respite visits done at a patient's home. Respite visits allows the caregiver to take a break knowing that a trained volunteer is sitting with their loved one. Volunteers DO NOT perform any personal care to our patients and spend most of their time developing a relationship, in life review and having fun with the patient! Training is necessary to volunteer. We offer HOP (Hospice Orientation Program) training twice a year, in the fall and in the spring. The HOP training will enable volunteers to have a greater knowledge of the dying process, understand the different roles the staff at Hospice of Holland plays to ensure our patients have excellent care and how our volunteers play a vital role in our patient care. There are many other ways to get involved! For more information on this opportunity or others, contact Becca Benjamin at (616) 355-5514 or volcoor@hollandhospice.org. Posted 09/19/12
Art Therapy Program – Spectrum Health Rehab & Nursing Center
Volunteers are needed to do hands on painting and art with nursing home residents. Training for volunteers is provided upon commencement of service and includes education about the nursing home facility. Although not limited, this opportunity is great for students with an interest in art or helping the elderly. Great for art, recreation therapy, art therapy, social work/sociology, or gerontology students. For more information on this opportunity, contact Kay Fricano at (616) 486-3024. Updated 09/14/12
Spectrum Health Hospice
Spectrum Health Hospice is offering a volunteer training for those individuals who are interested in providing compassionate support for patients near the end of life. We are especially in need of musicians and vocalists, friendly visitors and caregiver relief volunteers. The time commitment is generally one hour per week after completing training. The Spring training session will be held at Zeeland Community Hospital in the DeWitt Center located at 8333 Felch Street in Zeeland. The training will run for 3 consecutive Wednesday mornings from 9:00 am 1:00pm. The dates for the trainings are March 6, 13 and 20. In the event the Spring training session is not going to work with your schedule; please note that we keep a database of individuals who are interested in being notified of upcoming trainings when they are scheduled. We typically rotate day time and evening classes and choose a variety of locations to try and accommodate many schedules and geographic areas.For more information on this opportunity, contact Yvonne Elliott at (616) 391-4240 or yvonne.elliott@spectrum-health.org. Posted 08/28/12
Resthaven Care Center- Front Desk & Nursing Research
Resthaven Care Center, a non-profit skilled nursing facility, seeks nursing students to serve as front desk greeters while analyzing our data for nursing research projects. Volunteers greet and escort visitors to the facility, answer phones, and serve coffee and cookies to those visiting the Cafe area. Nursing students could also work on a research project while volunteering. Weekeday shifts are available from 4:30-8:00pm, as well as 4 hour shifts on Saturday and Sunday. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sue Schurman at (616) 796-3619 or volunteers@resthaven.org. Posted 08/28/12
American Cancer Society- Road to Recovery
Volunteers will transport cancer patients undergoing treatment to and from medical centers. In order to become a driver, one must: own a safe and reliable vehicle, posses currernt and valid driver's license, posses proof of adequate automobile insurance, have a good driving record, and attend Road to Recovery volunteer training. For more information on this opportunity, contact Michael Mason at (616) 551-4032 or michael.mason@cancer.org. Posted 08/28/12
Kent Health Plan
Volunteers are needed to help members maintain their health coverage, make reminder phone calls, make pharmacy phone calls, and assist with health education classes, if needed. The times for volunteers are Monday-Friday between 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, 1-4 hours per week, depending on your availability. For more information on this opportunity, contact Josue Melendez at (616) 726-8204 or at jmelendez@kenthealthplan.org. Posted 09/28/11
HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS
Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan- Alarm Install Canvassing
Healthy Homes seeks Volunteers to canvass the Garfield Park Neighborhood, to let families know that we have free CO and Smoke Alarms available. This is an ongoing event, and we are flexible with whatever days and hours work for the volunteer. Volunteers will be given an area to canvas. They will sign up families interested in having Healthy Homes install free Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms. Flyers with all the needed information will also be handed out. For more information on this opportunity, contact Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan at (616) 241-3300 or info@healthyhomescoalition.org. Posted 09/20/2012
The Salvation Army
The AmeriCorps Housing Assessment Program (HAP) is looking for an AmeriCorps member to work with our community in the effort towards ending homelessness and promoting housing stability for everyone. The member will meet with participants in order to connect them with resources; assist in coordinating and organizing a housing connections session each week; and educate participants on different programs and housing options in the community. This unique AmeriCorps member opportunity begins October 8, 2012 and runs for one year. This opportunity includes a bi-weekly stipend, totaling $11,800 for the year of service. Along with a stipend, full health benefits, child care benefits and student loan forbearance all included! The perfect candidate is skilled in oral, written and inter-personal communication with people from a wide variety of backgrounds; able to interact positively with individuals, colleagues and collateral agencies; able to work cooperatively, as well as independently, and to accept responsibility; skilled and fluent with computers and databases; and have at least a high school diploma. If interested please submit your cover letter and resume by August 17 to: Jameela Maun, Coordinator Housing Assessment Program The Salvation Army Booth Family Services 1215 East Fulton Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Posted 08/27/12
Habitat for Humanity of Kent County
Help Habitat achieve their mission of strengthening families and communities by providing affordable homeownership! Volunteers are need for construction/destruction, framing, trim carpentry, painting and siding, and much more. Each volunteer will be trained how to do these tasks so no experience is needed. These builds will be happening throughout the year. For more information on this opportunity, contact Emma Wagenvelt at (616) 588-5420 or ewagenvelt@habitatkent.org. Posted 10/29/11
HUNGER/POVERTY
The Salvation Army of Kenty coounty is looking for a volunteer to help with their food pantry one morning a week. Tasks include pickup of food/supplies, unloading and storage of products, and assisting with other related transportation needs as directed by ES Staff. Qualifications include having a chauffeur's license with a good driving record, the ability to lift a minimum of 40 lbs. and good communication and organization skills. For more information, please contact Angela DeVries at 616-459-3343 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org. Posted 02/15/13
Manna Meals is an after school feeding program for DK-5th grade kids from low income homes in the Allendale community. This runs throughout the school year and meals are delivered every school day. A driver is needed to go to Oakwood Intermediate school and will fill in for at least 6 weeks. The meals will be picked up at Life Stream Church, delivered to Oakwood school, handed to the kids as they come to pick them up (marking off their name from the list), and bringing back any leftovers to the church again. For more information contact Diane Westrick at 616-283-0878 or dianewestrick@yahoo.com. Posted 01/17/13
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank- Donation Sorting
The food bank desperately needs able bodied volunteers to help sort weekly donations coming in from area retail stores on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The times are from 1:30-4:30 PM but these hours are also flexible. For more information contact Dena Rogers at (616) 389-6251 or DenaR@FeedingAmericaWestMichigan.org Posted 10/26/12
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank- Food Bank Office
Filing help is needed in Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank's fundraising department and accounts payable/receivable department. This opportunity is flexible. You can come for an hour or all day! Clerical help is needed anytime Monday-Friday between the hours of 9:00 AM-4:30 PM. For more information on this opportunity, contact Dena Rogers at (616) 784-3250 or DenaR@FeedingAmericaWestMichigan.org. Updated 09/14/12
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank- Food Delivery
The Food Bank delivers cases of food to charity organizations most weekday mornings. This opportunity is flexible and varies 1-5 days a week from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. Volunteers will be asked to ride along with our driver to help unload deliveries across Kent County. For more information on this opportunity, contact Dena Rogers at (616) 784-3250 or DenaR@FeedingAmericaWestMichigan.org. Updated 09/14/12
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank- Warehouse
Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank is looking for volunteers to help charity organizations load orders (cases) of grocery items in their vehicles. This opportunity involves working in their warehouse Monday - Friday 9:00 AM-12:00 PM. It is flexible and available for as little or as often as you like. For more information on this opportunity, contact Dena Rogers at (616) 784-3250 or DenaR@FeedingAmericaWestMichigan.org. Updated 09/14/12
Guiding Light Mission
Guiding Light Misson needs volunteers to help prepare and serve food during lunch time. Volunteers should arrive 10:00 AM and help prepare food. At 11:30 AM, lunch is served. After everyone is served, the volunteers can eat lunch. Volunteers will leave around 12:30 PM. For more infromation on this opportunity, contact Kari Oosterbaan at (616) 451-0236 or kari@lifeonthestreet.org. Posted 12/15/11
IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE SERVICES
West Michingan Refugee Education and Cultural Center
Project Faulu is a comprehensive educational support service with after school attributes that provides comprehensive educational support services to refugee children in grades K-12 in West Michigan. Students are assisted in completing their homework assignments and taught independent study skillls, equipping them with the necessary skills to complete thework on their own. The program is open Monday through Thursday starting 4pm- 6pm. For more information on this opportunity contact Shingi Mavima at 616-617-1178 or shingi@westmirefugee.org. Posted 2/21/13
Medical Advocacy and Transportation for Refugees
The Patient Advocate for LSSM Refugee Resettlement functions as a liaison between the patient, family members, medical staff, hospital departments, and community agencies during the first 90-120 days of resettlement into a medical home. Volunteers will assist patients in understanding their rights and responsibilities and introducing them into the U.S. Healthcare system. The volunteer must be able to pursue appropriate avenues for the solution of medical problems as they affect overall health care delivery and support services, assist arrangement for translation and transportation services for patients, deal with multiple issues at one time, be self motivated and require very little supervision, be very well organized and able to make quick changes of direction, be able to communicate with a wide variety of people from diverse socio-economic ethnic (refugees) backgrounds. We prefer students who are studying Social Work, Nursing, Pharmaceutical, Pre Med or Medical Students. Must own car and possess valid U.S. Driver's License. For more information on this opportunity, contact Jennifer Spears at jspea@lssm.org or at (616) 356-1934 ext 34. Posted 09/19/2012.
Lutheran Social Services of Michigan - Refugee Resettlement
Volunteers who are looking for a cultural experience by interacting with Refugees and helping them to navigate their new home here in Grand Rapids. Volunteers will meet with refugee clients once a week for an hour. Committments last for 3 months. Volunteers will teach English, bus train, teach culture, and become their "first" friends. For more information on this opportunity, contact Jennifer Spears at (616) 356-1934 or jspea@lssm.org. Updated 09/17/12
MENTORING
Heights of Hope Mentoring
Volunteers are needed to help mentor youth in Holland. They will meet weekly with youth in a mentoring position. the mentors will do activities with their youth, meet with them weekly, and build a relationship with their assigned youth for at least a calendar year. For more information on the opportunity, contact Becky Lawrence at 616-366-6947 or heightsofhopementoring@gmail.com. Posted 02/18/113
New Beginnings Mentor - Women's Resource Center
Female Volunteer Mentors are needed to work with a new program that matches women in the community with women incarcerated at the Kent County Correctional Facility. Mentors provide pro-social support and serve as role-models for women re-entering the community. Training begins 2/2/2012 and is offered throughout the year. The volunteer will attend trainings as required, attend group mentoring at the jail on Monday evenings until your Mentee is released, and meet face to face with Mentee in the community approximately 4 hours per month following release. For more information contact Jamie Riehle at 616-458-5443 or jriehle@grwrc.org. Posted 01/17/13
Proof Mentoring Organization
PROOF Mentoring Organization is seeking caring, supportive individuals willing to serve as a mentor to a student in 5th through 8th grade. Students are encouraged to set goals and strengthen faith within themselves. The mentor will meet with their student 45-60 minutes per week (during the school day) throughout the school year. Currently schools that are partnered with PROOF are Byron Center Public Schools -Nickels Intermediate and WEST Middle, Lowell Middle School, and soon Hudsonville Riley Middle School and Baldwin Middle School in Georgetown. For more information on this opportunity, contact Trish Verbrugge at (616) 355-4424 or trish@proofmentoring.org. Posted 09/25/12
Bethany Christian Services - Mentor Program
Mentors are needed to be a consistent guide & a support system in different themed youth programs: Domestic Foster Care, Youth in Transition, and Refugee Foster Care. Mentors are asked to make a one-year committment to spend a few hours a month with a child or youth. For more information on this opportunity, contact Scott Spitters at (616) 224-7438 or mentor@bethany.org. Posted 09/20/12
Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program
Community Based Amachi Program
Are you in the Grand Rapids area this summer and looking for a fantastic opportunity? Please consider being a mentor to a child with an incarcerated parent. The Big Brothers Big Sisters Amachi Program will provide you with an opportunity to gain experience working with a child and also give you a new friend! The commitment is 1-3 hours per week, doing child-friendly activities. Some activity ideas could include going to the zoo, baking cookies, picking up books at the library or playing sports. It's really unlimited! If you had the chance to change a child's life, would you? Here's your chance! For more information on this opportunity, contact Lisa Puente at (616) 774-4310 or lpuente@dablodgett.org. Posted 09/19/12
Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program
School Based Program- Alger Middle School & Brookside Elementary School
As a school-based mentor, you would be visiting a child at their school once a week (for about an hour) to be a friend and perhaps help them with academics, projects, or just chatting. We have a variety of schools that we work with in the Grand Rapids area. Most of our schools accommodates college students that may need an internship placement or may need a certain number of hours for a class they are taking. Alger Middle and Brookside Elementary are the two school that are in high need at this time. For more information on this opportunity, contact Lisa Puente at (616) 774-4310 or lpuente@dablodgett.org. Updated 09/19/12
Girl Scout Troop Leaders - Assistant Leaders
Girl Scout Troop Leaders and Assistant Leaders are needed throughout Ottawa and Kent County either for after school, late afternoon, or early evenings - leaders select their choice of meeting day/time and frequency. Leaders will guide elementary or middle school girls in a national Girl Scout leadership program ranging from six weeks up to several months. Leaders will also manage troop monies; coordinate product sales; help girls earn badges and awards. Can have two volunteers or more partner up to deliver the program. Online training provided and in person training available for various dates. Go to http://www.gsmists.org/Volunteer/volunteer-application to download application. Financial assistance available for $12 yearly membership. For more information on this opportunity, contact Kim Dyer at (866) 566-7434 or kdyer@gsmists.org. Posted 09/11/12
4-H Tech Wizards Mentoring Program
Volunteers will be asked to facilitate a small group of 2-4 youth, guiding them through various STEM related projects. Our program is geared towards youth who may be interested in exploring science hands-on. The program instructor will provide curriculum and project ideas with which the groups can choose. Ongoing youth mentoring program meets for two hours once a week during school year at Holland area schools, working with 8th-12th grade students. The program owns technology like LEGO Mindstorm Robotics, Estes Rockets, USB Microscopes, iPads, laptops and filmmaking equipment to enhance learning. For more information on this opportunity, contact Barb Brow at (616) 994-4580 or browb@anr.msu.edu. Posted 08/27/12
The Freshman Academy - Summer Mentors
The Freshman Academy is in need of student mentors to work the summer program. The Oliver Wilson Freshman Academy Program (FA) is a support program that offers comprehensive and collaborative services to students who have demonstrated a strong potential for academic success in college and who are either from an underrepresented high school and/or the first in their families to attend college. This institute will give these students some much needed skills they will need as they transition to college life. There is a training session April 30-May 1, however if you cannot make it they will work with you on another date. For more information on this opportunity, contact Sulari White at (616) 331-3588 or whites@gvsu.edu. Posted 04/06/12
SENIOR SERVICES
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
YOUTH/CHILDREN
Steepletown's West Side Garage Store - Steepletown Neighborhood Services
Steepletown Neighborhood Services is looking for volunteers to help with their West Side Garage Store. The volunteers will be cashiering, sorting and pricing clothing for the sales floor, cleaning & repairing furniture, sorting music and books and making the sales floor attractive and customer friendly. Volunteers will also research vintage and antique quality items and photograph and write descriptions for social media publications.The West Side Garage Store is a great place to meet neighbors, reminisce about the old days and help a neighborhood non-profit grow it's youth programming. For more information, contact Sarah at 451-4215 ext 131 or at sandy@steepletown.org. Posted on 04/18/13
Steepletown Child Care Center - Steepletown Neighborhood Services
Steepletown Neighborhood Services are looking for volunteers to play/sit with babies in the Child Care Center two mornings a week. The childcare center is used by students in the GED program that need to bring their babies to school with them. The hours are only 8:45 am - noon, Monday through Thursday. Duties include interacting with children, maintaining attendance records of children, attending to personal hygien of each child in your care, and straightening of the child care rooms.Whether you are thinking of becoming an educator or just have a genuine love of children, volunteering at a child care center may be just for you. For more information, contact Sandy Stuckhardt at 616-451-4215 ext. 111 or sandy@steepletown.org. Posted 04/18/13
March of Dimes
There are many ways to assist March of Dimes in their efforts to help babies, mothers, and families close to home. Volunteer duties range helping sell sponsorships, recruiting new volunteers, coordinating outreach to mission families, serving on committees, or assisting with marketing and public relations. They are looking to learn about their volunteers, to find them the perfect placement! Internship opportunities are also available! For more information contact Patty Osborn at (616) 247-6861 or posobrn@marchofdimes.com. Posted 11/28/12
MomsBloom
Help a family get off to a strong start after having a baby! Volunteers will assist with the baby, play with children, lite household help, and provide a listening ear to the mother. There is a free training session on Tuesday, September 18 at 6:30 PM. If this one does not work for you, there are sessions each month. For more information on this opportunity, contact Angie Walters at (616) 828-1021 or angie@momsbloom.org. Posted 09/10/12
Girls Choral Academy
Volunteers will commit to meet at least for the duration of the school year. Mentors should see their girls once per month from October through May, as well as corresponding monthly via mail. Activities will be planned by Girls Choral Academy throughout the year and mentors will be provided with a calendar. Girls Choral Academy Grandville Avenue Girls Choir program is an after school choir dedicated to enhancing childrens lives through music. While learning music, we also emphasize self-esteem, self-confidence and leadership skills. For more information on this opportunity, contact Amanda Thorstein at (616) 361-6111 or amanda@girlschoralacademy.org. Posted 08/29/12
Safe Haven Ministries - Childcare Volunteers
Children's program and childcare volunteers will work with, watch, teach, play and engage children of clients who are utilizing the support services of Safe Haven Ministries. Multiple shifts are available, morning and weekends. For more information on this opportunity, contact Rebekah baker at (616) 452-6664 or rbakker@safehavenministries.org. Posted 07/31/12
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
CIVIC AND COMMUNITY
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
GOVERNMENT
Kentwood Police Department - Road Volunteers
Minimum commitment 3 hours a week (12:00pm - 4:00pm) based on your availability. Volunteers patrol the city and enforce handicap, fire lane and other parking laws, conduct vacation house checks and report code violations. Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age. Training (provided) and background check required. For more information on this opportunity, contact Leslie Montgomery at (616) 656-6571 or montgomeryl@ci.kentwood.mi.us. Posted 07/31/12
Kentwood Police Department - Road Volunteers
Trail volunteers act as friends on the trail reporting issues such as maintenance problems, graffiti and more. Volunteer hours between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM. Training (provided) and background check required. For more information on this opportunity, contact Leslie Montgomery at (616) 656-6571 or montgomeryl@ci.kentwood.mi.us. Posted 07/31/12
LGBT
There are currently no on-going volunteer opportunities within this category at this time.
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
The Salvation army is looking for a volunteer to be their Social Communications Volunteer. This position executes the communication and writing responsibilities of the Divisional Development office as assigned. They also work in concert with teh Web and Graphic Designer and the Public Relations and Communications Director, and the Development Department Administrative Assistant to advance the Salvation Army's image and reputation electronically, via social media and on the Web. For more information, contact Angela DeVries at 616-459-3433 or angela_devries@usc.salvationarmy.org Posted 04/12/13
Girls Scouts of MI Shore to Shore - HR Intern
The Human Resource Director is looking for a Human Resources Intern. You can select the time that works for you to come to their office in northwest Grand Rapids in Walker. For more information about this opportunity, contact Kim Dyer at (866)-566-7434 or kdyer@gsmists.org. Posted 10/03/12
PUBLIC AND LEGAL SERVICES
Tax Appointment Takers - Baxter Community Center
Baxter Community Center is an AARP tax preparation site and anyone in the community making less the $52k/yr can call and make an appointment to get their taxes prepared at NO COST here at Baxter. Volunteers will be needed to answer calls and schedule appointments for clients using google calendar. For more information contact Sonja Forte at 616-456-8593 or sonja@baxtercommunitycenter.org. Posted 01/17/13
RELIGION AND FAITH-BASED SERVICES
ESCAPE
Every Sunday, ESCAPE teaches a class called Why Try. It discusses the challenges in life and how we can overcome them. ESCAPE is an urban teen and young adult leadership program for students ages 14-21. Every couple of weeks, the class will have a "Family" day where we gather for a meal or do a service project in the Holland community. Volunteers eat and build relationships with the students, help facilitate discussions, share Bible references and personal testimony and foster a safe atmosphere for students to share. For more information on this opportunity, contact Alison Corso at (313) 720-9965 or alison.escape@gmail.com. Posted 09/13/12
Bridge Street House of Prayer- The Pavilion
The Pavilion is a coffee shop ministry that provides free coffee and bagels on the West side of Grand Rapids. Volunteers will commit to one 3-hour shift per week for a trimester long commitment (Sept-Dec, Jan-May, June-Aug). Volunteers serve bagels and coffee behind the counter, help with the operation of the coffee shop, converse and build relationships with West Side locals, as well as learn about other partnerships within Grand Rapids such as Other Way Ministries, Gold Ave CRC, and Stockbridge Boiler Room. For more information on this opportunity, contact Lindsay Sisson at (517) 230-4004 or lindsay.sisson@bridgestreethouseofprayer.org. Posted 09/07/12
The Community Service Learning Center encourages students to consider participating in the following community service and volunteer opportunities. Please note that the CSLC does not assume responsibility for the opportunities listed by non-GVSU organizations nor provide transportation to those opportunities. To RSVP as a volunteer, please contact the organization directly, but don't forget to log your service entry in Service Tracker!
You can check for additional Volunteer Opportunities at these sites:
"HandsOn Connect" is a volunteer opportunity database containing on-going and event (date) specific opportunities in the Greater Grand Rapids area.
Click here to access our list of expired on-going opportunities.
Page last modified April 18, 2013
