July brings sunshine, celebration, and the perfect opportunity to give back. As our communities come alive with summer events and activities, there are countless ways to make a meaningful difference. Whether you’re lending a hand at a local festival, helping prepare students for back-to-school season, or simply offering your time to those in need, every act of service counts. This month, let’s channel the spirit of summer into connection, compassion, and community impact.

Build the Path to Success
United Way of 1000 Lakes’ annual Stuff the Bus school supplies drive runs through July and August.  Community members are needed to donate school supplies and to help with backpack packing and distribution events on August 25th, 26th, and 27th. All ages are welcome to assist with a variety of activities, including collecting, inventorying, individually packing, and distributing backpacks. Get involved.

Serve & Connect at the Y Café
Ready to brighten someone’s day? Join the Y Café team as a volunteer and help create a friendly, inviting space for all who stop by! You’ll be serving up tasty snacks, treats, smoothies, and coffee beverages while spreading positivity and building community. This is the perfect opportunity for someone who enjoys customer service, loves a good cup of coffee, and wants to make a difference. Shifts are available Monday through Thursday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with flexible scheduling options. Learn more.

Inspire Kids This Summer
Make a difference in a child’s life this summer by volunteering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids and Greenway. Volunteers are needed to help with crafts, games, reading, and outdoor activities. Shifts are available Monday through Thursday, between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Bring your energy, patience, and heart—kids are waiting! Sign up.

Drive Change
Arrowhead Transit is urgently seeking volunteer drivers to help community members access vital services—especially seniors in need of medical care. Whether you can give a few hours a week or more, every ride makes a difference. Volunteers must be 18 or older, have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a clean driving record. You’ll use your own vehicle and receive mileage reimbursement. Make connections. Support independence. Drive change in your community. Register.

Swim, Bike, Run!
Enjoy the turquoise waters of Sugar Lake while helping with the 40th annual Timberman Triathlon on July 12th. Volunteers are needed throughout the day to support the USA Triathlon-sanctioned race. Select from a variety of roles, including water stops, kayak stations, timer support, and more. Get involved.

Sign up for these roles and more on United Way’s online volunteer portal, at volunteer.uwlakes.org. The platform is free to use and serves to facilitate connections between the Itasca area’s volunteer base and local nonprofit and community organizations.

United Way also leads the Volunteer Coordinator Network (VCN), which brings volunteer professionals together quarterly to share ideas, discuss challenges, and work together to ignite regional volunteer action. The network will meet on July 10, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Grand Rapids Tech Hub (601 SW 7th St, Grand Rapids). Membership is free. To learn more and to register, visit uwlakes.org/volunteer-network or call 218-999-7570