5 Volunteer Opportunities in August

In a world that often feels fast-paced and self-focused, volunteering offers a refreshing counterpoint. At its core, volunteering is about giving time and energy to causes greater than oneself, creating ripples of positive change that benefit communities, individuals, and even the volunteers themselves. This altruistic act not only supports various social and environmental causes but also fosters personal growth and community spirit.

Grab a friend to amplify your positive impact in the community while giving back in the coming weeks!  Here are five ways you can get started today.

Running the Rapids

Lace up your sneakers and support Running the Rapids on August 24th!  The event begins and finishes at Portage Park in Cohasset with both half marathon and 5k events. Volunteers are needed to offer support and give direction along the racecourse for participants, as well as help with registration and finish line activities. Express interest.

Set Children on the Path to Success
United Way’s annual Stuff the Bus school supplies drive runs throughout the summer.  Volunteers are needed for several collection and packing events, including August 8th, 13th, and 15th. All ages are welcome to assist with collecting, inventorying, individually packing, and distributing the backpacks to students. Get involved.

Channel Your Flannel

United Way of 1000 Lakes seeks volunteers to support their eighth annual Lumberjack Mile & 5K on September 7th.  From water stations to post-race food attendants, volunteers are needed to help ensure the event goes smoothly. Throw on your best flannel, get into the Lumberjack spirit, and sign up today. Lend a hand.

Celebrate Summer

Help the Children’s Discovery Museum celebrate summer while they host a family-friendly end-of-summer bash on August 24th! There will be crafts, games, food trucks, a bouncy house, and a kid’s concert. Volunteers are needed to run games, administer art projects, and assist with set up and tear down. Learn more.

Behind the Scenes

Nearly 130 volunteers are needed to help make the Grand Rapids Riverfest a success! Whether you want to be front and center or behind the scenes, volunteering is a great way to experience the festivities. KAXE/KBXE offers a variety of crews to choose from – from gate attendants to stage setup and grounds to parking attendants. Sign up.

Sign up for these roles and more on Bonfire, the Itasca area’s online volunteer portal, at volunteer.uwlakes.org. Powered by United Way, Bonfire is free to use and makes connections between the Itasca area’s volunteer base and local organizations.

If your organization is interested in posting opportunities, please call Molly Hiipakka, United Way Community Impact Coordinator, at 218-999-7570 to get started. Membership is free and includes one-on-one technical support.