Civic and charitable organizations across Central Iowa benefit from the support of volunteers from all walks of life. Have you ever wondered how you might be able to help? We asked leaders from three area charities what it takes to be an effective volunteer.
Michaela Devaney Lowe, Food Bank of Iowa
Last year, volunteers donated more than 44,000 hours of their valuable time to help us accomplish our mission. We appreciate that they come to us with curiosity and a willingness to learn. And we respect their time and ability to serve.
Volunteers sort, assemble and package donated and purchased food into family-sized portions. Without them, we would not have the capacity to process truckloads of donated food products. Other volunteers sort inventory, proof ingredient labels, drive delivery vehicles, input data, represent us at events, and more.
For more information, visit foodbankiowa.org
Katie Princehouse, Balance Autism
We value reliable volunteers who show up consistently, communicate openly, and bring patience and understanding to the people they’re supporting. They should be willing to learn, ask questions, and adapt to different situations without judgment. Their work helps strengthen our organization, while creating more opportunities for individuals with autism.
Volunteering can include helping with community events, supporting fundraising efforts, spreading awareness about autism, or advocating for inclusion in local spaces. Due to the confidential nature of our services, volunteer opportunities are limited.
More information is available at balanceautism.org
Joseph Johnson, Change Course
We are looking for volunteers who are willing to step out of their comfort zone and build relationships with people who have experienced incarceration or addiction treatment or are currently in poverty. Our volunteers bring character, consistency, and alignment with our mission. They are not judgmental. It is very important that they show up when they say they will, are punctual and prepared, follow through, and listen more than lecture.
Volunteering requires a five-month commitment of one evening per week to meet at our Community Gathering and be an encouraging influence in the lives of our participants.
For more information, visit change-course.org
How to Be a Satisfied Volunteer
For many, the rewards of volunteering go far beyond advancing the mission of organizations you believe in. There’s the satisfaction of helping others. Learning new skills or capabilities. Meeting new friends and serving a common purpose. Or simply taking a hands-on approach to building a better community. We asked three volunteers about the rewards they experience.
Wade Den Hartog, Volunteer, Food Bank of Iowa
I take great pleasure in knowing that my time and efforts directly contribute to alleviating the food insecurity that currently affects one in nine Iowans and is growing, especially among children, families, seniors, and veterans. I also enjoy the time spent with colleagues, friends, and other community members, as well as the sense of shared purpose it fosters.
There’s deep satisfaction in knowing that 96 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to feeding Iowans, and that our efforts help divert millions of pounds of food from landfills, reduce environmental impact, and save neighbors millions on grocery bills.
Brent Carlson, Volunteer, Balance Autism
Balance Autism was integral in providing services to my daughter Stella at a very young age, and so my volunteer service on the organization’s board is an expression of personal gratitude.
Their work has had a tremendous impact on Stella and our family, and we’ll never be able to thank all the staff and volunteers who tirelessly worked to help her bring out her best. I volunteer to honor the work of those who have come before and to help make those same services available to the many kids who don’t yet have access to them.
Dave & Julie Kester, Volunteers, Change Course
We’ve volunteered with Change Course since early 2024, and it’s been a joy to serve in many ways – from building maintenance and math tutoring to mock interviews, networking with staff, and serving on the board. What brings us the greatest joy is seeing the heart of the Change Course staff as they walk alongside participants who are discovering a renewed sense of hope and purpose while pursuing their long-term goals.
Because the mission is about transformed lives, we love supporting it and celebrating the milestones along the way. Attending graduation celebrations, the Night of Hope, and neighborhood parties allows us to witness and rejoice in those transformations – moments where perseverance, community, and hope are made visible.
