Lend a Hand – Volunteer Opportunities in Des Moines

Des Moines and its local charitable organizations sponsor a number of efforts designed to improve the lives of the less fortunate. These activities require many volunteers to make them successful. If lending a helping hand appeals to you, then check out these volunteer opportunities and see which one might be a good fit.

Iowa Homeless Youth Centers
1219 Buchanan St.

The Iowa Homeless Youth Centers were established to eliminate homelessness among children, young mothers and youth in the Des Moines area. The goal is to help individuals and families attain self sufficiency and live independently. Volunteers are sometimes needed to organize holiday gift giving and donations, for fundraising opportunities such as the "Chilly Chili Challenge", child care, kids club, teen club, residential treatment, helping with flowers and grounds, and mentoring. 

Department of Human Services Guardians for Wards of State

Certain individuals in our community require persons to look out for their best interests. Often, the elderly or people with mental disabilities can no longer make their own decisions and may not have family who can help. Guardians are appointed to help them with a variety of activities, from signing admission requests for hospital care, to help with applications for state assistance from Social Security and other programs, and to monitor the ward's condition and treatment. It can take as much time as you want to commit. 

Animal Rescue League of Iowa
5452 NE 22nd St.

It's not just humans who could use a helping hand in our city. Volunteers are also needed at this Des Moines animal shelter in these capacities: to walk dogs; to assist with cleaning, talking to, petting and socializing with pets to help them become adoptable. They also need people to work as adoption counselors, who help match people with the right pets. Other jobs include teaching people how to be more responsible pet owners, assisting with dog training and volunteering for events. 

Catch Des Moines: Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
400 Locust St., Suite 265

The Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau needs enthusiastic volunteers to share their love of the city. Help visitors have a better experience of Des Moines by giving directions and providing information on tourist venues, explaining how to get around town and assisting with conventions and sporting events. It's a great way to meet people from all over the world while getting to know your city. 

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa
1441 Pleasant St.

The Ronald McDonald charities offer several ways to get involved in our area, including helping out in the RM family room at Mercy Hospital in the Pediatric Department. Volunteers are needed to check families in and out, to help them with laundry and cleaning or to provide a meal for them.

Volunteering is a great way to discover your untapped talents, so contact one of these organizations and realize your potential while helping others.