Volunteer with Catholic Charities
Volunteer service is an act of the heart
Volunteers like you are vital for meeting the basic needs of our neighbors.
By serving, you are providing food, shelter and support as well as dignity and hope. Serving others is the grateful response of Christians because Christ first served us.
Benefits of Volunteering
Positively impact others’ lives and feel great
People who volunteer report higher rates of life satisfaction and happiness.
Build connections and meaningful relationships
Volunteering leads to new opportunities and friendships.
Discover the value of serving
Putting others first can boost your self-confidence.
Gain perspective
Seeing others’ resilience helps us reframe our own struggles.
Individual Volunteers
Explore Opportunities
Learn about all the ways you can help change lives and support families in need.
How To Apply
Individuals who wish to volunteer, whether on a one-time or regularly scheduled basis, sign up today.
Already a Volunteer?
Check out our volunteer updates and sign in to the volunteer portal to track your hours.
Volunteer Groups
Request a Group Service day and opportunity
Families, work teams, classes and clubs can sign up to support certain programs.
FAQs About Volunteering
Good questions
Find answers below or contact the volunteer coordinator at (316) 264-8344, ext. 1261.
Do I need to be Catholic to volunteer?
No, we welcome anyone to volunteer. The people in our programs and our staff members are from all walks of life and religious backgrounds.
Are there volunteer opportunities in the evening or weekends?
Yes.
- Volunteers are often needed to organize, serve meals or clean in the evenings at the shelters.
- Volunteers are also needed to provide weekend meals for the shelters through our meal train.
- Child care for shelter families is periodically needed in the evenings.
I am a student in need of service hours. May I volunteer?
Yes. If you’re under 18 years old, you will need to complete the Parental Consent Form in addition to the volunteer background check forms. Forms will be available after you apply.
I have court-ordered service hours. May I volunteer?
No, we unfortunately do not offer court-ordered service hour opportunities. This includes misdemeanors, felonies and those who have chosen to serve community service in lieu of paying a fine.
We also do not accept any individuals found guilty of any charges related to violence against another person, burglary or fraud.
Please connect with United Way 2-1-1 to learn about what community opportunities might work for you.
May I bring a child with me to volunteer?
If your child is in kindergarten and at least five years old, you may bring the child as part of a family or group volunteer opportunity. You must, however, sign your child up along with other members of the group. Families are considered groups.
What is the minimum age to volunteer?
If volunteering with a group, including family groups, children must be in kindergarten or at least 5 years old. All children under 18, regardless of age, must complete the Volunteer Consents and Waivers AND parents must also sign the consents and waivers.
To volunteer without a parent or guardian, youth must be at least 15 years old.
Do you have one-time volunteer opportunities?
Yes, volunteer alone at Our Daily Bread Food Pantry on South Hillside for one morning. Groups may volunteer one-time at Our Daily Bread Food Pantry or do maintenance projects at one of our program locations.
Do you offer volunteer hours for students or service projects?
Yes. We can provide documentation for school or internship hours. You will, however, be required to complete the VIRTUS training and pass a background check if volunteering more than once at our programs.