As September arrives, the air begins to cool, routines settle back in, and a new season of opportunities emerges. It’s a perfect time to pause and reflect on the impact volunteers have made over the summer—fueling events, strengthening programs, and meeting urgent community needs—and to look ahead at how we can carry that spirit of service forward into fall.  From supporting families as the school year begins to lending a hand at seasonal projects and events, volunteers remind us that small acts of kindness can ripple outward, creating big change. September is more than a transition between seasons—it’s a reminder that when we come together, our community grows stronger. 

Become a Grant Reviewer
United Way of 1000 Lakes is seeking grant review volunteers to help ensure United Way resources are distributed equitably, objectively, and with great consideration for their best use. Volunteers review funding requests from local nonprofits, discuss the value and impact of various programs to the community, conduct site visits, and make funding recommendations to the United Way Board of Directors. Volunteers develop leadership skills and learn more about the local nonprofit landscape. Take action.

Serve Up Connections
The Itasca County Family YMCA Café is seeking volunteers to help create a warm, welcoming space for members and guests. Whether serving snacks, treats, smoothies, or coffee, volunteers bring more than refreshments, they offer a friendly face and a sense of connection to all who stop by. Shifts are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with flexible scheduling and the potential for expanded hours. It’s a simple way to share joy and strengthen community, one cup at a time. Learn more.

Pass the Pages
Do you have children’s books at home gathering dust? Project READ is collecting books to share with families who may not have enough reading materials at home. By donating new or gently used books—or even organizing a book drive—you can spark curiosity, encourage learning, and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Get Involved.

Inspire Young Minds
Make a difference in the lives of local youth by volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club of the Northland. Opportunities are available at the Grand Rapids and Greenway chapters, where volunteers can support classrooms, assist with homework, spark creativity through arts and crafts, encourage reading, and more. This rewarding experience helps young people build essential life skills —and gives volunteers the chance to learn, grow, and be inspired along the way. Sign up.

Turn Compassion into Action 
Be a source of support and connection at Grace House, where volunteers are essential to daily operations and community care. Shifts are available seven days a week, providing flexible opportunities for service all year long. Volunteers complete a background check and attend a training session, offered monthly or as needed, to prepare for this meaningful role. Join the dedicated team that helps make Grace House a haven for those in need. Take action.

To sign up for these opportunities—and many more—visit volunteer.uwlakes.org. 

Volunteer Itasca, an initiative of United Way of 1000 Lakes, serves as a hub for community connection. Through its online portal, individuals can explore a wide range of opportunities from more than two dozen local nonprofits. The platform helps people find meaningful ways to give back that reflect their skills and passions—linking over 400 volunteers with organizations in need just last year. 

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 October 9, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Itasca County Family YMCA (400 River Rd, Grand Rapids). Membership is free. To learn more and to register, visit uwlakes.org/volunteer-network or call 218-999-7570.