Community Service-Learning Sites

Great Plains SPCA

Address:

• 5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202
  

Website: greatplainsspca.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Katie Thurbon, volunteer@greatplainsspca.org

Mission: To drive change in our community through innovative programs that promote adoption, outreach and a better life for pets and the people who love them.

Volunteer Description: Adoption assistants, cat socializing team, dog cleanup team, dog socializing team, Sunday clinics, foster care team, general office support, veterinary care center support, meet-and-greet team, off-site events support, reception. (Note: Great Plains SPCA is currently only accepting new volunteers for cat socializing, events help and fundraising).

Requirements:

1. Watch Information Video and take a quiz
2. Fill out application
3. Commit to four hours a month for at least six months.

Days and Hours: Varies

Other Details: 

• Volunteers must be at least 13 years of age to interact with our animals. Volunteers between the ages of 13 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian at all times, including while completing all of the new volunteer steps in the process above.
• Volunteers 16 and older may volunteer independently without an adult.

KC Pet Project

Address: KC Campus for Animal Care (main location)
7077 Elmwood Avenue, KCMO 64132

There are additional locations at Zona Rosa and Overland Park, as well as various Petco Cat Habitat locations across the metro area.

Website: www.kcpetproject.org

Contact: volunteer@kcpetproject.org

Mission: Leading the way in creating a compassionate, safe community for pets and people through progressive lifesaving programs and services, community resources, and educational opportunities.

Volunteer Description: Needs range from dog walking & cat socializing, to customer service positions, and more! Wherever your passion lies, and whatever skills you can offer, KC Pet Project can certainly use your help!

Requirements for volunteering at the shelter include:

• At least 16 years old or older to volunteer alone (between 7-15 years old to volunteer with a parent)
• Have an active email account
• Must be able to commit to 4 hours a month (we do not offer short-term, one-time volunteer opportunities)
• Must be able to meet the Essential Capabilities of Volunteers

The first step to becoming a volunteer is to complete Volunteer Orientation! Visit kcpetproject.org/volunteer to get more information on the program and complete the Volunteer Orientation online. After the video, you’ll complete a quick quiz, and then sign up for a Shelter Tour at the location you are interested in volunteering at (KC Campus for Animal Care, Zona Rosa, or 95th Street Petco).

Days/Hours:
Open for volunteers 7 days a week, hours vary based on location

Lawrence Humane Society

Address: 1805 E. 19th St., Lawrence, KS 66046 

Website: lawrencehumane.org

Contact: Volunteer coordinator, 785-371-0497

Mission: The Lawrence Humane Society nurtures the human-animal bond by providing shelter, care and advocacy for homeless and abused animals, as well as resources for the pets and people in our community.

Volunteer Description: Lawrence Humane Society volunteers give their hearts, their time and their all to provide love and support to the homeless pets in our care. Our volunteers are integral to our mission, and are involved in all areas of the shelter. As a member of our volunteer family, you'll help save and enrich pets' lives, improve animal welfare in our community, make new friends (two- and four-legged), discover new skills, and enjoy plenty of wagging tails, purring hearts and wet kisses along the way.

Requirements: The Lawrence Humane Society requires that volunteers commit to a minimum of 4 hours of service per month. Additional requirement details can be found at lawrencehumane.org/get-involved/volunteer.

Days and Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. seven days a week (volunteer hours vary by activity)

Operation WildLife

Address:  23375 Guthrie Rd

Website: www.owl-online.org

Geographical Area: Leavenworth county

Contact: Diane Johnson, opwildlife@aol.com  

Mission: Providing wildlife rehabilitation and education throughout NE Kansas

Volunteer Description: See volunteer roles and duties,

Requirements: Volunteers ages 14-15 must volunteer with a parent or guardian. At age 16, they can volunteer by themselves. To work with federally protected species, volunteers must be 18 or older.

Days and Hours:
Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM - 2 PM, Sunday CLOSED

ArtsTech

Address: 1522 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: artstech-kc.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Paula Davis, pdavis@artstech-kc.org 

Mission: ArtsTech's mission is to better the lives of underserved urban youths through the development of artistic, technical, health and educational skills.

Volunteer Description: Work may involve but is not limited to: helping at ArtsTech seasonal events or assisting staff in art-based workshops, classes and programming at the ArtsTech facility or at a community partner's designated creative space. Assistance may include but is not limited to: prepping materials and/or work space, creating positive interactions with youths, and delivering an effective work environment for youths.

Requirements: Volunteer Paperwork

Days and Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, closed

Johnson County Library

Address: 14 locations throughout Johnson County.

Website: https://www.jocolibrary.org/volunteer

Contact: Amber Bourek Slater

Mission: Johnson County Library provides access to ideas, information, experiences and materials that support and enrich people’s lives.

Volunteer Description: Johnson County Library is looking for volunteers who want to help with one-time volunteer opportunities. These opportunities may include: preparing mailings, setting up for events, greeting and ushering programs, or helping with book sales. By signing up as a Swift Volunteer, you will receive emails letting you know about new one-time volunteer opportunities. You will be able to register for whichever opportunities interest you.

Requirements: None

Days and Hours: Library hours vary by location. Daytime, evening and weekend opportunities may be available.

Operation Breakthrough

Address: 3039 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO

Website: operationbreakthrough.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Maddie Connelly, 816-329-5233

Mission: The mission of Operation Breakthrough is to provide a safe, loving and educational environment for children in poverty and to empower their families through advocacy, emergency aid and education

Volunteer Description: Onsite pantry and donation assistant. Help in the food pantry to prepare bags of food for students and their families as well as community members. Help organize donations and sanitize the facility. Projects are ever changing according to the needs of the facility! 

Requirements: Background check is required; cost is $15. Other requirements include a negative TB skin test, and a completed volunteer application and volunteer agreement. There is an online orientation to be scheduled through zoom before the first time volunteering. Email volunteer@operationbreakthrough.org to schedule. 

Days and Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-noon or 3 p.m.-6 p.m.

Basehor-Linwood USD 458 Mentors and Care Cats

Address: 2108 North 155th St., Basehor, KS 66007. 913-662-7057

Website: https://www.usd458.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=681327&type=d&pREC_ID=1123674

Geographical Area: Leavenworth County

Contact: Tammy Potts, Director tpotts@usd458.0rg

Mission: Every child deserves someone to look up to.  You could be that mentor - that role model.

Volunteer Description: One hour a week minimum for the length of a school year.  Matched one on one, small groups or classroom rotation. (Career mentors can be shorter matched times).

Requirements: Your application will be background checked/screened, interview/orientation prior to placement. 

Days and Hours:
One hour a week minimum for the length of a school year - we match to fit your schedule.

Other Details: Complete the volunteer application.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City

Address: 520 Harrison St., Olathe, KS 66061

Website: bgc-gkc.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Kristy Friel Email: volunteer@helpkckids.org

Mission: To promote the development of self-esteem, values and skills for boys and girls ages 5-18, with special emphasis on youths from disadvantaged circumstances.

Volunteer Description: Ongoing opportunities for group and individual volunteers include sports coaching, event support, book buddies for our literacy program, classroom/programming support, and homework help. We also have a need for professional skill sets to engage on a variety of committees throughout the year. We continue to take precautions for COVID safety, such as wearing masks and social distancing.

Requirements: Background check is required; cost is covered by the agency. There is an hourlong orientation. Volunteer application and signed code of conduct are required.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday, 3-6:30 p.m.

Other Details: Individuals 18 years of age or older are welcome to volunteer.

Care Package Inbound

Address: 1221 W 103rd St #625 Kansas City, MO 64114

Website:  www.carepackageinbound.com          

Geographical Area: Kansas and Missouri

Contact:  Chris Youngdale – Chris.youngdale@carepackageinbound.com

Mission: Delivering hope to all people through compassion, support, and love for the foster community.

Volunteer Description: Care Package Inbound is currently looking to fill the following volunteer positions: Social Media Manager, Volunteer Manager, Gala Fundraiser, Small, Events Coordinator, Grants Specialist, Individual Donor Outreach Coordinator, Internal Auditor, Photographer/Videographer, TikTok Personality, and Fundraising Manager. See Care Package Inbound volunteer roles for more information.

Requirements: None

Days and Hours: Days and hours are flexible. The average time is 5-10 hours a week.

Other Details: Our passion is to make a generational impact, this goal takes a large number of individuals that are willing to make a difference. Each job matters and we believe that to do our best,  we must stay balanced with the work we do and the life we live.

Global FC

Address: 800 Quick Trip Way, Belton, MO 64012 and various parts of the historic north east neighborhoods

Website: www.globalfutbol.org

Contact: Ella Munthali 

Mission: Global FC exists to bridge diverse cultures to come together, forming just communities where all are free to be fully-known and fully-loved in pursuit of their God-given purpose and potential.

Global FC uses soccer as a vehicle for transformative impact. We support under-served youth with the tools to overcome obstacles to success by providing resources, opportunities, and relationships towards a brighter future. We accomplish this through our three areas of programming: Soccer, Education and Mentoring.

Our holistic approach harnesses the power of relationships to reduce youth violence and family conflict, strengthen communities, inspire academic success, promote health and wellness and to create mentorship chains.

Volunteer description: Volunteer positions include soccer coaches and assistant coaches, team mentors, matched mentors, and tutors. We also have internship opportunities. Contact Ella for more information about any of these positions.

Requirements:

• At least 16/18 years old (depending on position)
• Driver's License and reliable transportation
• Trainings
• Background check
• Interview
• Keeping a log of hours

Days and Hours: Vary depending on the position. Most volunteer opportunities require about 1.5-2 hours a week.

Growing Futures Early Education Center

Address: 8155 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS 66204

Website: growingfutureseec.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Kathy McLellan

Mission: The mission of Growing Futures Early Education Center (a Head Start and Early Head Start program) is to nurture children and strengthen families to enrich the community.

Volunteer Description: Classroom assistants support teaching staff and children in daily classroom activities and routines. Curriculum encourages children to make choices, engage in interactive learning and talk about what they’re doing. Volunteers will read stories, work puzzles, and encourage creative thinking and pretend play in a positive and nurturing environment. A staff member is always present. 

Requirements:

• Be at least 14 years old
• Complete a volunteer application
• Provide recent negative TB test result
• Provide recent health assessment
• Agree to local and national background check (agency covers half the cost)
• Sign confidentiality, code of conduct and release agreements  

Days and Hours:

• Monday through Friday mornings for a few hours between 8:30 and 11:30
• Monday through Friday afternoons from 3-5:30

Hiersteiner Child Development Center

Address: JCCC Campus

Website: jccc.edu/hcdc

Geographical Area: JCCC Campus

Contact: Claire Ehney, 913-469-8500, ext. 2749

Mission: The Hiersteiner Child Development Center (HCDC) program is designed to support the efforts of JCCC students to pursue their educational goals and to offer support needed by JCCC faculty and staff to achieve their work potential.

Volunteer Description: Volunteers can assist in classroom activities.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

KC Kansas Angels

Address: 10940 Parallel Parkway, Ste. K315, Kansas City, KS 66109

Website: www.kckansasangels.org

Geographical Area: Counties in Kansas: Atchison, Douglas, Franklin, Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami, Wyandotte

Contact: info@kckansasangels.org

Mission: The KC Kansas Angels mission is to walk alongside children in the foster care system, as well as their caretakers, by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building, and mentorship.

Volunteer Description: Internships, various volunteer opportunities at service projects with foster parents and children in foster care

Requirements: (for example, background check, volunteer orientation, minimum number of hours, etc.) - 100% dependent on the type of position - volunteers working with children directly would need to successfully complete a background check; internships would be 10-20 hours per week; volunteer hours would vary depending on the service project.

Days and Hours: varies depending on position - we are 100 virtual and working from home at this time.

Other Details: (anything else you’d like to include) We are looking for enthusiastic, passionate people to help us build our program and serve children and families experiencing foster care.

Kansas City Community Gardens

Address: 6917 Kensington, Kansas City, MO 64132

Website: www.kccg.org

Contact: Hannah Ebling-Artz, Schoolyard Garden Program Director of Services, 816-931-3877, ext. 319

Mission: To support schools in growing their own vegetable gardens that increase students’ access to healthy food, hands-on learning, and community building. We do this by providing new garden site consultations, low costs plants and seeds to schools, free workshops and training to teachers and other resources as needed.

Volunteer Description: Get matched with a schoolyard garden site and help students and teachers plant, water, weed, harvest and maintain their schoolyard garden.

Requirements: Background check, 10-week commitment 

Days and Hours: Monday-Friday 1 hour per week or 1 hour every other week between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Learning Club of KCK

Address: Office is at 2203 Parallel Ave.; tutoring sites are in public housing communities all within 66104 ZIP code

Website: LearningClubKCK.org

Geographical Area (county): Wyandotte

Contact: Sharan Nagra, Volunteer Coordinator and Director of Communications. Email: snagra@learningclubkck.org | phone/text: 913-283-4555

Mission: To provide a positive, pivotal education experience for the children of Kansas City who need it most.

Volunteer Description: Help elementary school students with their homework, read together, and play games for one hour after school.

Requirements: Volunteers must be able to pass a background check, must be vaccinated, and must wear a mask throughout the hour. Commitment is for one semester or one school year.

Days and Hours: After-school program: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 4:20-5:30 p.m., Wednesday: 1:50-3 p.m.

Other Details: Learning Club supports students in low-income communities with supplemental education. The after-school program consists of tutoring and reading.

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

Address: 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Website: nermanmuseum.org

Geographical Area: Campus

Contact: Karen Gerety Folk, 913-469-8500, ext 4771

Mission: The mission of the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art and its campus-wide art installation program is to be an interdisciplinary academic resource for students and faculty and a cultural center for exhibiting, interpreting, collecting and preserving works of contemporary art in a wide range of media.

Volunteer Description: Work with museum staff, art educators and other individuals to facilitate informal learning and assist with educational programs for families and teens, including exhibition reception, studio art activities and the drop-in family reading room. Inform visitors about museum rules and policies, answer questions about exhibitions and programs, give directions and distribute educational materials and information brochures as needed. 

Requirements: Submit a volunteer application, schedule a 30-minute interview and attend a 45-minute exhibition preview training session with the museum’s Education Coordinator.

Days and Hours: 

• Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Sunday 12-5 p.m.

Olathe Head Start

Address: 1700 W. Sheridan St., Olathe, KS 66061

Website: www.olatheschools.org/earlychildhood

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Katie Dorsey, 913-780-7410

Mission: The mission of Head Start is to enhance the quality of life of families through education and support services in a safe, caring environment.

Volunteer Description: To assist in our Head Start classrooms (an early childhood program that serves 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds). Interacting with children, reading to children, helping to supervise hand washing, washing tables, assisting with cleanup of centers.

Requirements: Background check required for a volunteer with 40 hours; cost is covered by agency. A 30-minute orientation session is required. A TB test is required after 20 hours of volunteering.

Days and Hours: 

•  Monday-Thursday, 8:30-11:30 a.m., 12:30-3:30 p.m. or 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Other Details: Evening activities are available where adult family members and teenage children can help with childcare.

Operation Breakthrough

Address: 3039 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO

Website: operationbreakthrough.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Maddie Connelly, 816-329-5233

Mission: The mission of Operation Breakthrough is to provide a safe, loving and educational environment for children in poverty and to empower their families through advocacy, emergency aid and education.

Volunteer Description: Teacher assistant: Come alongside the classroom teachers working with infant, toddler or preschool-age children. Engage and participate with classroom routines. You may also help with cleaning and sanitizing within the classrooms.

Requirements: Background check is required; cost is $15. Other requirements include a negative TB skin test, and a completed volunteer application and volunteer agreement. There is a two-hour orientation required that is offered once every month.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon or 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

Other Details: Volunteers must be 14 years old or older.

YouThrive

Address: 15885 S Lackman Road, Olathe, KS 66062

Website: www.youthrive.org

Geographical Area: We provide services in Johnson, Wyandotte, Douglas and Shawnee counties

Contact: Jordan Lewis - jordan@youthrive.org

Mission: "To broadly engage the community to empower, equip, and support youth as they make the transition from foster care to becoming healthy and contributing adults."

Volunteer Description: Our volunteers (Support Families) will supplement and strengthen the youth’s existing supportive relationships by serving in a mentoring-like role.
Unlike many mentoring relationships, the Support Family will be advised to avoid being directive in their coaching, but focusing instead on developing a youth-adult partnership of mutual learning. The Support Family will be guided to take a posture of encouraging and supporting the young adult as they learn to take ownership and responsibility of their own goals and decisions.
The role of Support Family is not limited to married and single parents with children. Any adult at least 21 years old can volunteer to serve as Support Family for the youth in our program. Their primary role is to commit to a family-like relationship of caring, encouragement and supportive coaching.

Requirements: Training (1-time training), individual interview, background check

Days and Hours: No set days and hours. Meeting with youths in our program will depend on the schedule of the youth and volunteer. Varies.

Safehome

Address: Location is confidential, but near downtown Overland Park

Website: safehome-ks.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Abby Parrish, Abby.Parrish@safehome-ks.org

Mission: To break the cycle of domestic violence and partner abuse for victims and their children by providing shelter, advocacy, counseling and prevention education in our community.

Volunteer Description: People may volunteer in any of the following areas: Development, Direct Client Services, Administration and Episodic Projects. Details are on the website.

Requirements: Requirements vary by volunteer opportunity, please contact for more information.

Days and Hours: Varies by volunteer opportunity.

Amedisys Hospice

Address: 9001 State Line Road, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO 64114;
8725 Rosehill Road, Suite 380, Lenexa, KS 66215

Website: amedisys.com

Geographical Area: Kansas City Metro and surrounding areas

Contact: Laura O'Brien, laura.obrien@amedisys.com, 816-444-2273

Mission: Every day of life matters. At Amedisys, we view hospice services as a means for allowing people to make the very most of their time, even when faced with life-limiting circumstances. This compassionate care is provided in the comfort of your own home – wherever you call home.

Volunteer Description: The activities you will do as an Amedisys hospice volunteer may be many and varied. It may include visiting patients at home or in a facility to provide companionship or caregiver respite, supporting patients with phone calls or cards, helping with administrative duties, running errands, providing pet therapy, or sharing your creative talents by knitting lap blankets or creating other items for patients — there's a wide range of possibilities. Some opportunities may be done at home.

Requirements: Because hospice volunteers spend time in patients’ and families’ homes, an application, background check, TB test, and interview process are necessary to ensure the person is right for this type of volunteer work. Volunteers also must complete a volunteer orientation.

Days and Hours:
Flexible

KC Shepherd's Center

Address:

• Main office: 1111 W. 39th St., Suite 200, Kansas City, MO, 64111
• Adventures in Learning & Home Delivered Meals: 5144 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, 64111

Website: kcshepherdscenter.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Terri Goddard, 816-444-1121, ext. 105

Mission: Shepherd's Center Central is a local leader in the regional effort to ensure that all people can age successfully. Our mission: To empower midlife and older adults to live healthy, engaged and independent lives.

Volunteer Description: Our volunteers can interact with a variety of different programs. Assist with set-up and programming at Adventures in Learning, work with our Senior Companions, provide support for our Home Delivered Meals Program, and help in our office. If you decide that Shepherd's Center is a good fit for your learning goals and classroom needs, the volunteer manager will provide you with information regarding your activity descriptions based on current organization and program availability.

Requirements: Complete an application, and then schedule an orientation session with the volunteer manager. Be willing to learn, energetic, flexible and a good communicator. Students must take responsibility for their own hours and time management.

Days and Hours:

• Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Friday; 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Some weekend and evenings may be available

Lakeview Village

Address: 9100 Park St., Lenexa, KS 66215

Website: lakeviewvillage.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Kris Lambert, 913-744-2457

Mission:

To strengthen the lives of seniors within a nondenominational faith-based community. Our core values are growth, integrity, respect, optimism and community.

Volunteer Description: Help with activities in our licensed areas, visit one-on-one with residents, help independent residents with duties, and help with administrative work for departments. Shadowing is offered in rehab and nursing areas. Volunteers may also do grounds work to enhance the campus, help residents in their gardens or around their home by pulling weeds and planting flowers. Volunteers can also help with reading to kids or activities in our child development center.

Requirements: Background check and TB test covered by agency. Completed application and interview. Orientation and meeting with volunteer coordinator by appointment.

Days and Hours:

•  Available times are flexible, to work around students' schedules: any day of the week/weekend, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., depending on area.

Other Details: Family members and children are welcome to volunteer. Must be 14 years old to volunteer without an adult.

Villa St. Francis

Address: 16600 W. 126th St., Olathe KS, 66062

Website: www.villasf.org

Contact: www.catholiccommunityhealth.org/contact-us

Mission: Embracing Christ’s love for all people; we serve those who need care with compassion, excellence, and dignity.

Volunteer Description: Volunteers will help staff with numerous opportunities available, including Bingo, One on Ones, Daily Mass, Gardening and many more!

Requirements: Volunteers must complete a 1-hour orientation and have a TB screening. Testing can be provided by us.

Days and Hours: Contact volunteer coordinator for details.

Bridging The Gap

Address: 1427 W. Ninth St., Suite 201, Kansas City, MO 64101

Website: bridgingthegap.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Kechia Smith, kechia.smith@bridgingthegap.org

Mission:

Make the Kansas City region sustainable by connecting environment, economy and community. We educate citizens, businesses and governments about the impact their decisions have on our environment, and help them follow through with direct action to make our world, region and community green, healthy and sustainable.

Volunteer Description: Recycling Center volunteer opportunities are always available, Wednesdays through Saturdays. Many other opportunities are available in spring and fall, including tree plantings, ecological restoration, and litter pickups.  

Requirements: All volunteer opportunities require advance registration. Each volunteer opportunity requires a waiver, which is provided upon signup. Nearly all opportunities are outdoors and we require closed-toe shoes.

Days and Hours:

•  Visit BTG's volunteer events calendar for current opportunities: bridgingthegap.org/btgevents/

Other Details: Family members and children are welcome to volunteer if they meet the minimum age and sign up in advance. The minimum age varies by opportunity/program.

JCCC Department of Sustainability

Address: 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210

Website: www.jccc.edu/sustainability

Contact: Kristy Howell

Mission: Sustainability strives to balance our environmental, economic and social goals to produce more resilient systems that will endure into the future.

Volunteer Description: We have short and long-term volunteer opportunities throughout the year. There are rolling opportunities for waste audits, sustainability campus feature tours, events, education and marketing that run for 6-10 weeks, flexible hours, 20 hours

Events: Earth Week and On-Campus Recycling
Organizing materials for Earth Week events, event setup, work events, event breakdown. There will be an on-campus recycling event for staff and students on Wednesday, Oct. 6, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Reach out for more information.

Studies: JCCC Bird Collision Study
Walking outdoor routes looking for bird mortalities, recording locations, condition, weights, etc., as per data requirements. The position requires downloading iNaturalist app on phone and handling injured/deceased birds with gloved hands.
(1.5 hours or more a week, flexible, full semester 20+ hours)

Days and Hours: Contact Kristy Howell for details.

Habitat for Humanity of Kansas City

Address: 1423 E. Linwood Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64109

Website: habitatkc.org/

Geographical Area: Leavenworth, Wyandotte and Johnson counties in Kansas / Clay, Platte and western Jackson counties in Missouri

Contact: Dana Bass, 816-924-1096, ext. 1060

Mission: To build simple, decent, affordable homes for families and communities.

Volunteer Description: Varies, depending on what stage the house is in. Could be framing, painting, trim work, siding, etc.

Requirements: Must be over 18 years old. No background check. A waiver and release form are required to volunteer. Orientation is on-site the day of volunteering. Volunteers can sign up directly through our website.

Days and Hours:

• Wednesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Full day required.

Other Details: Family members are welcome to volunteer. Must be over 16 to volunteer on the build sites; those who are 16 and 17 must have an adult present. Must be over 14 to volunteer at our ReStore locations; those who are 14 and 15 must have an adult present.

Ronald McDonald House

Address: 2502 Cherry St., Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: rmhckc.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Monica Hashemi-Bozarth

Email: volunteering@rmhckc.org

Mission: To reduce the burden of childhood illness on children and their families by providing a home away from home while children are receiving medical care in area hospitals.

Volunteer Description: Gather a group of coworkers, family members, friends or other community members and volunteer in our houses or Family Room inside of Children's Mercy Hospital to support the families we serve. Schedule an opportunity when you're available or on an ongoing basis at one of our 4 locations. We offer opportunities for groups up to 10 adults (over age 13) to provide meals, snacks, freezer meals, help with chores and more! We have a self service volunteer sign-up calendar. Please visit our website to find a volunteer time that works best for you and your group!

Requirements: Provide and serve a meal for 40 or 50 people depending on the location you're serving. Your group provides the menu, ingredients and volunteers for this opportunity. We have a full kitchen facility in each of our houses for groups to use, but you're welcome to bring in catered food if desired..

Days and Hours:

•  7 days a week, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Other Details: Family members and children are welcome to also volunteer, depending on tasks.

Blessings Abound Thrift Store

Address: 10325 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS 66212

Website:  blessingsaboundkc.org

Contact:  Carol Ledbetter, Volunteer Coordinator, volunteer.blessings@gmail.com, 913-648-0700

Mission:  Blessings Abound Thrift Store is a nonprofit organization called to serve the metro Kansas City Community by selling and recycling donated merchandise in order to provide aid to people in need.

Volunteer Description: Our current volunteer needs include furniture assistance and sorting donations, specifically clothing, accessories and linens, as well as placing items on the sales floor. Cashiering positions are also available but require a more consistent commitment. Minimal mobility opportunities are available if requested. 

Requirements: Complete volunteer registration form.

Days and Hours:

•  10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Contact Laura to set up an orientation/start date. 

Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas

Address: 9720 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212

Website: catholiccharitiesks.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Aimee Dion, 913-433-2104

Mission: As a faith-based organization, we are inspired by God's love and compassion to provide unconditional love and necessary help to people of all faiths by stabilizing and strengthening individuals and families in need across the 21 counties of Northeast Kansas.

Volunteer Description: Various opportunities in food distribution, refugee resettlement, thrift stores, financial education, hospice and administration. See our volunteer page for additional details: catholiccharitiesks.org/covid-volunteering/ 

Requirements: Background check paid for by agency. Orientation sessions as needed.

Days and Hours:

•  7 days a week. Will accommodate schedules.

Other Details: Family members and children are welcome to volunteer.

Community Housing of Wyandotte County

Address: 2 S. 14th St., Kansas City, KS 66102 

Website URL: chwckck.org

Contact Information: Nathalie Martinez-Vowels, volunteer@chwckck.org

Mission: To stabilize, revitalize and reinvest in Kansas City, Kansas, neighborhoods through improved housing and other quality-of-life initiatives.

Volunteer Description: Come grow with us! We welcome volunteers ages 4 and up to help plant, mulch, weed and harvest produce at Splitlog Farm and Orchard. The farm is located in a food desert, and the fruits and vegetables are provided free of charge to nearby residents and families of students who attend M.E. Pearson Elementary School, which is located across the street. 

Requirements: Minimum of two-hour shift requested. Release and waiver required for all volunteers. 

Days and Hours: Minimum two-hour shifts available Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cross-Lines

Address: 736 Shawnee Ave., Kansas City, KS 66105

Website: cross-lines.org

Geographical Area: Wyandotte County, KS

Contact: Rachel Russell, 913-281-3388

Mission: Provide people affected by poverty with basic services and opportunities that encourage self-confidence and self-sufficiency.

Volunteer Description: Volunteers can serve breakfast or lunch in our community kitchen, help in our community garden, help assemble boxes of food in the Food Pantry, or help in our office with administrative and program functions.

Requirements: Contact the agency.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Other Details: Individual volunteers must be 18 or older, anyone between the ages of 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Johnson County Human Services

Address: 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 1300, Olathe, KS 66061

Website: www.jocogov.org/department/aging-and-human-services

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Brandy Hodge, 913-715-8866

Mission: To provide essential services as a safety net targeting older adults, people with physical disabilities and low-income residents to support independence, dignity and self-sufficiency.

Volunteer Description:

• Meals on Wheels: Drive a route to deliver hot noon meals, usually once a week.
• Catch-a-Ride: Provide transportation to the elderly, people with disabilities, or someone in a life transition who does not drive to essential appointments such as medical, grocery store and social services. Can drive once a week or every day.

Requirements:

• Meals on Wheels: Must be 18 years old and have proof of auto insurance and a driver's license, drive own vehicle, submit to a background and motor vehicle check, and attend an orientation session.
• Catch-a-Ride: Must be 25 years old, provide proof of auto insurance and a driver's license, submit to a background and motor vehicle check, attend an orientation session.
• Orientation is two hours long and offered twice a month. The cost of the background check is covered by the agency.

Days and Hours:

• Meals on Wheels: Monday-Friday, 10:45 a.m.-noon
• Catch-a-Ride: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Other Details: Family members and children are also welcome to volunteer.

Phoenix Family

Address: 3908 Washington St., Kansas City, MO 64111; multiple sites to serve across the Kansas City area

Website: phoenixfamily.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Ellen Gude, 816-612-8843

Mission: Empower people living in low-income housing with on-site support to gain stability and achieve self-sufficiency. Youth program HIKE (Help Instill the Key to Education) provides reading instruction to improve literacy.

Volunteer Description: Our biggest need is always our HIKE reading program. Volunteers are trained as reading coaches and are paired with students grades K-8 who are struggling with reading. Volunteers also assist in our senior health and wellness programs, which involve art activities, putting on healthy-living workshops or screenings, or helping with our mobile food pantry deliveries and delivering fresh produce to seniors' doors.

Requirements: One-hour orientation offered weekly. Background cost covered by facility. Student volunteers complete application and sign waiver. We provide volunteers with detailed instructions and lesson plans for their sessions.

Days and Hours:

•  Weekdays, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; exact times and durations depend on the opportunity and location

Other Details: Family members and children are also welcome to volunteer.

Rosedale Development Association

Address: 1403 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, KS 66103

Website: rosedale.org

Geographical Area: Wyandotte County, KS

Contact: Erin Stryka, 913-677-5097

Mission: To work in partnership with residents, businesses and institutions to build a strong and healthy community and to improve the quality of life for those who live, work and play in Rosedale.

Volunteer Description: Volunteers help Rosedale Development Association staff and community members accomplish a lot in the Rosedale community. Many of our opportunities involve hands-on work in the community gardens, on the Rozarks nature trails or with minor home repair projects. There are also opportunities to coach youth sports teams and for light office work.

Requirements: Youth sports volunteers are required to attend a one-hour orientation that is offered once before each season (fall, winter, spring and summer). A background check is required for volunteers who work with children, and the cost is covered by a grant.

Days and Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Some evening/weekend opportunities are available for working on the gardens, trails and youth sports.

Other Details: Family members are welcome to volunteer, especially with group activities like working in the community gardens.

Shawnee Community Services

Address: 11110 W. 67th St., Shawnee, KS 66203

Website: scsks.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Sylvia Terry, President/CEO, 913-268-7746, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Mission: To provide free food, free shoes and free clothes to anyone who comes to our agency.

Volunteer Description: Accept donations; sort and organize food and merchandise.

Requirements: 15-minute interviews are individually scheduled; call 913-268-7746 to schedule.

Days and Hours:

• Open to the public Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 
• Phone is answered 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday-Friday

Other Details: Family members and children can also volunteer.

Tiny Pantry Times

Address: 7215 W 71st Street Overland Park, KS 66204

Geographical Area:  Northern Johnson County

Contact: Jennifer Menon Parker, jmenon2@jccc.edu

Mission: To provide food, hygiene products, and small clothing for warmth to indigent individuals that cannot provide for themselves.

Volunteer Description: Packing hygiene kits, snack packs, feminine hygiene kits, cooking and packaging of food stuffs for distribution.

Requirements: Volunteers must be 13 years or older, fully vaccinated, and have a clean background check.

Days and Hours: By appointment.

Shawnee Indian Mission Historic Site and the City of Fairway

Address: 3403 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS 66205

Website: fairwaykansas.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Jennifer Laughlin, 913-262-0867

Mission: To preserve the site, its traditions, landmarks, and the history of the Native Americans, missionaries and pioneers of Johnson County.

Volunteer Description: Conducting tours throughout the site, including inside the buildings and the grounds. Greet and welcome tour groups. On occasion, assist with evening special events or programs. Provide information and answer questions. Lead youth programs and/or art activities. Be aware of future programs and events to share with visitors to increase exposure of the Mission to the general public.

Requirements: Training will take place with both the site director, Jennifer Laughlin, and a seasoned site volunteer in order to learn about the history, operations and school programs/activities.

Days and Hours:

•  Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Care Beyond the Boulevard

Address: Varies, office is at 530 Quindaro Boulevard

Website: www.carebeyondtheboulevard.org

Geographical Area: Greater Kansas City Metro

Contact: Jaynell Assmann (KK), APRN-C, CEO [Jaynell.assmann@gmail.com]

Mission: To provide high quality medical and mental health care and support to the homeless and underserved populations of Kansas City outside the bounds of traditional healthcare settings, and in so doing become a force for health care equality and social change.

Volunteer Description:  Volunteer roles vary; we have physicians, NP's, PharmD, nurses, nursing students, medical students, non medical professionals, and IT.

Requirements: Volunteers must be 18 years old, (that can vary if not doing direct patient contact). Volunteers must be vaccinated for Covid 19.

Days and Hours:
Varies widely, we have multiple stationary and mobile medical clinics every week.  It takes between 3 and 15 volunteers for the clinics (depending on the area), we also have various flu, covid and physical clinics at different times throughout the year.

Cherith Brook Catholic Worker House

Address: 3308 E. 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64127

Website: cherithbrookcw.blogspot.com

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Eric Garbison, 816-241-8047

Mission: Hospitality to the homeless, urban homesteading (permaculture with orchard, chickens, bees, garden), nonviolent peace work, simple living (we are a faith community).

Volunteer Description: Prepare and serve food, cleaning, wash dishes, laundry, host people, sort and organize donations, and listen to the needs and concerns of others. On our work days: garden work and small maintenance projects, deep-cleaning spaces, painting, cooking meals, etc.

Requirements: No orientation and no background check. Willing to work closely with homeless and those who live their lives on the margins of our society. Be willing to do so in a nonjudgmental and welcoming way.

Days and Hours:

• Showers and breakfast hospitality: Monday, Tuesday, Thursdays: 8-11:30 a.m.
• Thursday evening meal: 5-7 p.m. (service starts at 5 p.m.; can sign up to cook meal in advance)
• Work day: 2nd Saturday of month, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Roundtable discussions: 3rd Friday of month, 7-8:30 p.m.

Other Details: Family members and children welcome to also volunteer.

City Union Mission

Address: 1100 E. 11th St., Kansas City, MO 64106

Website: cityunionmission.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Chris Eveler, Impact Volunteer Specialist

Mission: Operates the Hotline for the Homeless, allowing the homeless to call a single number to find available shelter in the area. Provides a shelter. City Union Mission prevents homelessness through community assistance, such as assisting community clients with bills, school supplies, clothing, food and holiday projects.

Volunteer Description: Programs for low-income children including tutoring and sport activities. Learning Centers at the Men's Center and Family Center that assist guests with building resumes, obtaining GEDs, SAT preparation, tutoring and more. Group or individual volunteering in cleaning, landscaping and office clerical assignments. Skilled Labor mentoring programs.

Requirements: Background check administered for High Impact Volunteering (I.e.) Client Interaction Volunteering.

Days and Hours:

• 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (Monday-Friday)
• Thrift Stores, 7 days a week.

Other Details: Family members age 16 or over encouraged to volunteer.

Community LINC

Address: 4012 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64011

Website: communitylinc.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Daniel Barber, 816-561-5862

Mission:

To end homelessness, impact poverty and remove barriers for the families we serve, we have been helping Kansas City families become stronger and self-sufficient for more than 20 years. Programs include budgeting, healthy lifestyles, counseling and life-skills training.

Volunteer Description:

• Children's program volunteer: Interact with students.
• Resource closet organizer/laundry: Work behind the scenes to enable us to furnish apartments for our families.
• Apartment prep: Short notice-help to clean/decorate and stock apartments for families moving in.

Requirements: Required orientation: 1/2 to 1 hour, depending on role. Orientation dates decided based on need. Safety precautions reviewed before volunteering. Background check is required for children's program. The cost of the background check is covered by agency if there is a financial need.

Days and Hours:

• Children's Program: Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• All other programs: Monday-Friday and Saturdays, can be scheduled for groups.

Hillcrest Transitional Housing Thrift Store

Address: 7824 Quivira Road, Lenexa, KS 66216

Website: hillcrestkc.org

Contact: Mark Carr

Mission: Helping families get from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

Volunteer Description: Proceeds from the thrift stores support the operations of the Hillcrest Transitional Housing program. By using minimal staff and thousands of hours of volunteer time every year a large portion of the sales goes to support housing for homeless families. The primary roles for volunteers are: Donation Processing: Items that are donated are screened, sorted, priced and then put out on the sales floor. Selecting and preparing only the best items (the others are recycled) gives our thrift stores a reputation for high quality, but relies on volunteers to screen the donations. Donation processing is an activity that groups can do together. Customer Service: Helping our customers find what they are looking for and ensuring a good shopping experience means that people come back.

Requirements: Be over 18 and available during the hours we are open.

Days and Hours: Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Lawrence Community Shelter

Address: 3655 E. 25th St., Lawrence, KS 66046 

Website: www.lawrenceshelter.org/

Geographical Area: Douglas County

Contact: Lacee Roe, Volunteer Program Manager, LaceeR@LawrenceShelter.org, 785-380-7017 (call or text)

Mission: The Lawrence Community Shelter offers safe haven to individuals and families facing homelessness. LCS uses a Housing First philosophy in its programming, which includes emergency shelter services, a street outreach team, case management with an emphasis on trauma-informed care, and housing stabilization support.

Volunteer Description: LCS Volunteers promote awareness about homelessness, organize donation drives, maintain a community garden, and help with day-to-day operations at the shelter. Volunteers are added to a scheduling app where they can view the LCS Volunteer Calendar, request shifts, and track their hours.

Requirements: LCS volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, pass a background check, and have reliable transportation to and from the shelter.

Days and Hours: LCS operates a 24/7 shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. Most volunteer activities occur between Tuesday - Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Additional hours are available for some volunteer roles.

Other Details: Internship opportunities available.

Shelter KC

Address: Men's Center: 1520 Cherry St. Kansas City, MO 64108
Women's Center: 2611 E. 11th St. Kansas City, MO 64127

Website: www.shelterkc.org/

Geographical Area:Jackson County

Contact: Christina Gardner, Volunteer Coordinator, cgardner@shelterkc.org, 816-421-7643, ext. 134

Mission - We are helping Kansas City’s homeless men and women experience freedom from the past and hope for the future. Established in 1950, it’s been our mission to serve people in need. Whether they turn to us because of bad choices, bad breaks — or both — we welcome those who are poor, homeless, hungry and hurting into our doors.

Volunteer Description: We have numerous volunteer opportunities from serving meals, helping in our clothing room, teaching classes, participating in chapels, cleaning, and special events. The list goes on and on.

Requirements: During Covid-19 we have not been having minors under 16 volunteer outside of special holiday events, but this is undecided for the new year.

Days and Hours:  We are open seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

Uplift

Address: 1516 Prospect Ave., Kansas City, MO 64127

Website: uplift.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Tammi Jehle, 816-287-1827

Mission: To deliver basic human needs, care and compassion to the homeless of Kansas City.

Volunteer Description: Load the trucks with food and supplies and then take them to the homeless. Upon return to the warehouse, clean and restock.

Requirements: Must dress appropriately.

Days and Hours:

• Monday and Wednesday, 4:30-10:30 p.m.
• Saturday, 3:30-9:30 p.m.
• On the second Saturday of each month, work is available at the warehouse for all ages from 9 a.m.-noon

Other Details: Family members and children age 14 and up are welcome to volunteer.

Harvesters

Address: 3801 Topping Ave., Kansas City, MO 64129

Website: harvesters.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Contact by email, 816-929-3090

Mission: Feed hungry people today and work to end world hunger. Clearinghouse for collection and distribution of food and household products.

Volunteer Description: Sort and repackage donations. Kids Café monitoring, food and fund drives, office support. The ages for our warehouse are 8 and up. There are some opportunities that require children to be 12 or older, but that will be outlined in the specific volunteer shift.

Requirements: Sign up online, create a volunteer profile. When working, wear close-toed shoes and no smoking.

Days and Hours:

•  Multiple hours available, sign up form online.

Nourish KC (formerly Episcopal Community Services)

Address: 750 Paseo Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64106

Website: nourishkc.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Mission: To engage the community in both feeding the hungry and empowering the poor to move beyond the barriers of poverty with dignity.

Volunteer Description: Volunteers at Kansas City Community Kitchen can expect to do clean and cut produce, plate food in to-go containers, and clean and serve meals to the guests as they come up to the door, depending on which shift you sign up for. We are currently only serving meals to-go due to COVID-19 but hope to reopen our dining hall soon. Once open, volunteers will help serve lunch, acting as "front of house" staff in our restaurant-style service, as waiters, hosts, beverage station, bussers, etc., to take care of our guests. NourishKC also accepts volunteers for our Food Rescue Program, where volunteers pick-up and deliver rescued food from assigned grocery stores and pantries. For more information, please visit our website NourishKC.org/volunteer.

Requirements: Volunteers must wear a face mask at all times, along with a hair net or hat, and an apron (both of which will be provided to you upon arrival). Please wear close-toed shoes, at least knee-length pants, and a shirt with sleeves. Upon creating a volunteer profile, volunteers will be asked to electronically sign a COVID-19 and photo release waiver. There will be a short orientation at the beginning of the shift, but there is no other orientation or background check required.

Days and Hours:
We host volunteers at Kansas City Community Kitchen Monday through Friday in two different shifts. Our morning shift is from 8-11am and our lunch service shift is from 10:30am- 2:30pm. If you can’t volunteer during this time, please reach out to us and we may be able to find another opportunity for you.”

Reconciliation Services and Thelma’s Kitchen

Address: 3101 Troost Ave. Kansas City, MO 64109

Website: www.thelmaskitchen.org

Geographical Area: Jackson CO, MO

Contact:Mike Marcus - volunteer@rs3101.org

Mission: The mission of Reconciliation Services is to cultivate a community seeking reconciliation, to transform Troost from a dividing line into a gathering place, revealing the strength of all.

Volunteer Description: (roles and duties)

Volunteers at Thelma's Kitchen help produce our boxed lunches that go out at Kansas City's first ever pay-what-you-can cafe. We provide boxed lunches at a donate-what-you-can rate to our neighbors, and sell boxed lunches to local organizations and businesses who support our work by purchasing meals that pay it forward. Volunteers will handle basic kitchen prep, packaging lunches, and have the option to deliver food ro serve our neighbors at our window. 

Requirements:  Visit https://www.thelmaskitchen.org/volunteer to apply. Minimum 18 years or older without a parental waiver. Masks and hats or hairnets required for all volunteers. 

Days and Hours: 
Monday - Friday
8:00-12:00 and 10:30-2:30 shifts available! 

Village Presbyterian Church Food Pantry and Clothes Closet

Address: 9960 Mission Road, Overland Park, KS 66207

Website: villagepres.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Susan Webb, Director, 913-671-2314

Mission: To provide free groceries and clothing to low-income families.

Volunteer Description: Sorting donations and stocking shelves.

Requirements: Required orientation. May not wear sandals or flip-flops. All volunteers must sign-up with director in advance.

Days and Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
• Saturday, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Other Details: No children. Does not provide court-ordered community service hours.

Kansas City Center for Inclusion

Address: 3911 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111

Website: inclusivekc.org/

Contact: Contact by email

Mission: To provide a safe, welcoming community space where LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families, friends and straight allies can come for education, resources and activities; and to provide community outreach in building a cohesive LGBTQIA+ community in the KC metro.

Volunteer Description: Volunteer opportunities include but are not limited to keeping our safe-space promise as a Center Ambassador; being present and engaging while working in Outreach; and Staff Volunteers for social media, resource referrals and youth mentorship. 

Requirements: Applications and interview with Executive Director.

Days and Hours: Monday-Thursday, 4-8 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Other times are available outside of our open hours.  

Literacy KC

Address: 3036 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64109

Website: www.literacykc.org

Geographical Area: Greater Kansas City

Contact: Lindsay Vaughn, lvaughn@literacykc.org

Mission: Advance literacy in the metropolitan area through direct services, advocacy and collaboration.

Volunteer Description: Several opportunities are available for working with adult learners and English language learners in the areas of reading, writing, comprehension, math and digital literacy.

Requirements: Varies depending on selected program

Days and Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Other Details:

Reach Out and Read

Address: Physical address: 2100 W. 36^th Ave., Support Services Building, Suite 116, Kansas City, KS 66103

Mailing address: 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Mail Stop 1051, Kansas City, KS 66160

Website: Reach Out and Read KC

Geographical Area: Wyandotte County, KS

Contact: Ellen Quinn, Event and Communications Coordinator, equinn5@kumc.edu, 913-588-3073

Mission: Reach Out and Read gives young children a foundation for success by incorporating books into pediatric care and encouraging families to read aloud together.

Volunteer Description: During the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to provide an opportunity for you to volunteer virtually in a pre-recorded way.This volunteer time would total 1 hour. It is more important than ever for families, and especially young children to build healthy routines that provide comfort and a sense of order when so much in the world seems chaotic.

Join our #ReadTogetherKC challenge to help ease children's anxieties from the pandemic. By making reading a daily activity, we help every child have the healthy foundation they need for success. Every Thursday at 12:30 p.m., we are posting an ROR-KC Virtual Storytime on all of our social media platforms.

To participate:

1. Please choose one children's book to read. Please do not choose a religious or political book, due to our policies.

2. Then introduce yourself/your role wherever you live. Please then explain why our mission is needed now more than ever during this time (encouraging families to read aloud together). Then record yourself reading your chosen book (PLEASE SHOW US THE PICTURES, TOO!)

The easiest way to record yourself is to prop your phone against something sturdy so it does not fall or have someone else record for you. HAVE FUN!

3. Once you are finished, please utilize Dropbox or Google Drive to send your video to reachoutandreadkansascity@gmail.com

Requirements: No background check. Contact to schedule an orientation.

Days and Hours:

• Labeling: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Other Details: Family members and children are welcome to volunteer after completing orientation.

Ability KC

Address: 3011 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: abilitykc.org

Geographical Area: Jackson County, MO

Contact: Gemma Zook, 816-751-7700

Mission: To provide therapeutic and educational services for children with disabilities in an environment which fosters their independence and celebrates their successes.

Volunteer Description:Volunteers are needed in the following programs: Adult & Pediatric Day Programs, Therapeutic Preschool, Successful Adult Independent Living Skills (SAILS), Summer Therapies, and Adaptive  Swim Lessons. Please visit the webpage for more information about each position.

Requirements: Background check required; cost is not covered by agency. 45-minute orientation. Volunteers commit to at least one half-day session per week for the duration of the semester.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday, 8-11:30 a.m. and 1-4:30 p.m.

Other Details: All volunteers must be at least 14 years of age.

Heartland Therapeutic Riding Inc.

Address: 19655 Antioch Road, Bucyrus, KS 66085

Website: heartlandtherapeuticriding.org

Geographical Area: Miami County, KS

Contact: Brett Bauer, 913-897-3939

Mission: The mission of Heartland Therapeutic Riding Inc. (HTR) is to serve children and adults with disabilities and to improve quality of life through equine-assisted activities and therapies. We are committed to changing lives, one ride at a time.

Volunteer Description: Our volunteers help in our lessons to keep our riders safe and engaged in their class. They also have the opportunity to take a further training and help in our barn with the horses. Throughout the year we have projects available for volunteers such as landscaping and helping with special events.

Requirements: Must attend 2-hour orientation session that is offered every 4-6 weeks. Safety precautions are covered prior to beginning of service. Volunteers must provide own transportation and appropriate clothing/footwear.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday, both day and evening classes

Other Details: Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

Inclusion Connections/PawsAbilities

Address: 2073 E. Santa Fe Olathe KS 66062

Website: https://ickc.org/ 

Geographical Area: Johnson County

Contact: Breanna Knapp - breanna@ickc.org

Mission: The mission of Inclusion Connections is to strengthen the lives of individuals with disabilities by creating inclusive opportunities for community involvement, access to meaningful employment, and better options for supported living.

Volunteer Description:  Assist with the PawsAbilities job training program, helping to create products, facilitate student learning, and various other tasks including treat making, 

Requirements:  Fill out a volunteer application at https://ickc.org/volunteer/

Days and Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

JCCC CLEAR Program

Address: Johnson County Community College Campus, COM 312, Box 82

Website: jccc.edu/community-resources/clear

Geographical Area: JCCC Campus

Contact: Courtney Barden, 913-469-8500, ext. 3247

Mission: To offer a life-enhancing college experience to individuals with intellectual disabilities by offering academically sound noncredit classes and campus activities.

Volunteer Description: Assist with classroom activities, promoting positive social interactions between students.

Requirements: All prospective volunteers must meet with program manager for brief overview and expectations, approximately 45-50 minutes. Volunteers must be respectful, encouraging and supportive of students in the classroom.

Days and Hours:

• Saturdays: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (7- or 14-week commitment)
• Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (10-week commitment)

Other Details: We are happy to write references or letters of recommendation for volunteers who have made worthwhile contributions within the classroom.

Johnson County Developmental Supports (JCDS)

Address: 10501 Lackman Road, Lenexa, KS 66219

Website: jcds.org

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Melissa Reeves, melissa.reeves@jocogov.org 913-826-2212

Mission: JCDS provides day and employment services and residential and case management assistance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Volunteer Description: Assist staff in teaching work skills and supporting individuals as they perform tasks at the work facility. Can help with art or retirement program. Weekend companions at residential settings participate by reading, helping with chores, playing games, etc.

Requirements: Each volunteer must take a tour of facility. Required to go through criminal background check except for youths under the age of 18 and individuals working through a service group, or a one-time event. Background check cost is covered by agency.

Days and Hours:

•  Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at employment center
• Weekend hours available at various residential locations.

Other Details: "Friends of JCDS" welcomes family volunteers. "Friends" maintains 11 homes that need yard work or some simple home maintenance. Families often participate.

Kids TLC

Address: 480 S. Rogers Rd Olathe, KS 66062

Website: https://www.kidstlc.org/

Geographical Area: Johnson County, KS

Contact: Elizabeth Hall, Director of Campus and Community Engagement, ehall@kidstlc.org, 913-324-3801

Mission: KidsTLC exists to transform the lives of children and families experiencing mental and behavioral health challenges, developmental trauma and autism.

Volunteer Description: KidsTLC volunteer opportunities include sharing time with the kids, campus and community. These include but are not limited to being a holiday host, joining an afterschool club, assisting with fundraising events, helping with summer camp events, collecting/sorting donations for kids, their families and our programs.

Requirements: All individual volunteers must complete orientation and a background check prior to any direct service to clients. Volunteers working directly with clients must be 21 years of age.

Days and Hours: vary depending on need (days/evenings/weekends)

Other Details: KidsTLC Volunteer program seeks to create successful assignment matches that benefit both volunteer and agency.

Metro Lutheran Ministry

Address: 3031 Holmes, Kansas City, MO 64109

Website: mlmkc.org

Contact: Michelle Kendrick-Salierno, michellekendrick@mlmkc.org, 816-285-3154

Mission: With abiding faith in the intrinsic value of all God’s children, Metro Lutheran Ministry connects those in need with food, housing, health care, education, employment services and other resources in order to nurture greater hope, health, opportunity and peace.

Volunteer Description: Opportunities include working in the food pantry (Monday-Friday 8:30a-11a), Second Saturday, and Senior Box week (the third Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of the month). Help is also needed in the garden and orchard during March-October.

Days and Hours: Varies by volunteer opportunity.

Requirements: Complete paperwork requested for ongoing volunteers.

Let’s Talk

Address: 645 Vermont, PO Box 609, Lawrence, KS  66044

Website: letstalk-lawrence

Geographical Area: Douglas County

Contact: Cori Green, RN, BSN Executive Director: cori@letstalklawrence.org

Mission: “Let’s Talk” is working to build a strong foundation of comprehensive sexuality education in Kansas. We focus broadly on the themes of decision making and consent, inviting participants to think about their values and relationships in the context of the sexuality education programming we provide.   

Volunteer Description: Social media posts, answering anonymous questions from "Let's Text" and helping deliver the education to young adults. 

Requirements: background check 

Days and Hours: As Needed

• Bethany College
• Brandon Woods at Alvamar
• Center of Grace
• The Children's Place
• CLO Midnight Farm
• Communities in Schools of Mid-America
• Cross Points Church
• Delaware Ridge Elementary School
• The Dialogue Institute
• Down Syndrome Guild of Greater KC
• El Centro
• Evergreen Hospice Care Community
• Freedom Hoops
• Heartland Community Church
• Hope City KC
• Insight Women's Care Center
• InterUrban ArtHouse
• Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center
• Johnson County Corrections
• Johnson County Court Services
• Just Food
• Kansas City Golden Gloves
• Kansas City Public Schools
  
• Kansas City Rescue Mission
  
• Kansas City Zoo
  
• KCKPD Victim Services Unit
  
• Kids TLC
  
• KVC
• Lawrence-Douglas County Housing Authority
• Learning Club
• LMH Health
• Loud Light
  
• Mirror Inc.
• North Kansas City Schools
  
• Saint Lukes South Hospital
• Shawnee Mission Northwest PTSA
• Smiles Change Lives
• Synergy Services
  
• Team Jesus
• The Creek Church
  
• Turner Community Library
  
• Turner School District 202
• Walnut Grove Elementary
• Wayside Waifs
  
• Wyandotte County Unified Government Health Department
• You Thrive
  
• Unleashed Pet Rescue