As winter paints the season with chilly days and cozy moments, February offers the perfect opportunity to warm hearts through volunteerism. Whether you’re lending a hand at community events, mentoring young minds, or supporting local initiatives, you have countless ways to make a meaningful impact.

From helping at winter festivals to sharing your skills with youth programs, your time and talents can bring joy and support to those who need it most. Ready to step in and spread some love? Discover how you can get involved and make this a month of connection and kindness!

Embrace the Magic of Winter
Join the Forest History Center to celebrate winter with outdoor games and activities on Saturday, February 22. Volunteers play a key role in ensuring the event’s success, from greeting visitors at the welcome table to supervising the sliding hill. The schedule is flexible, and all volunteers and their families can enjoy the event free of charge! Learn more.

Inspire the Future
Throughout the month of May, positive adult role models are needed to share their passions and interests with youth in the 4-H Wellbeing program. Volunteers will work with a 4-H Extension Educator to design a 30-45 minute hands-on activity related to their area of expertise and present it to the youth group. Get involved.

Pages with Purpose
Do you have children’s books at home gathering dust? Let’s put them to good use! Project READ is seeking books to help families in our community who may not have enough reading materials at home. By donating new or gently used books—or hosting a book drive—you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Register.

Step into the World of Money Management
The Bite of Reality event, hosted by IASC NEXT Career Pathways on February 7, offers teens a hands-on learning experience in money management. Students, guided by volunteers, navigate financial scenarios such as housing, groceries, and debt at various merchant stations. Volunteers will help students with budgeting, saving, and spending wisely. Morning or afternoon shifts are available, with training and lunch provided for full-day volunteers, making this a fun and educational one-day event. Sign up.

Power of Innovation
Smart North is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers for their Grand Rapids and Deer River Tech Hubs. Volunteers will help create a safe and inclusive environment where youth can explore their passions and interests in technology. You don’t need to be a tech expert—just a curious individual who enjoys learning and supporting others. Hours are flexible. Learn more.

Sign up for these roles and more on Bonfire, the area’s online volunteer portal, at volunteer.uwlakes.org. Bonfire is free to use and connects volunteers with local nonprofit and community organizations. 

If you are a community or nonprofit organization serving the greater region, you can post volunteer opportunities and manage volunteers on Bonfire. For more information, contact Molly Hiipakka, United Way Community Impact Coordinator, at 218-999-7570. Membership is free and includes one-on-one technical support.