As a newer nonprofit ourselves, Isthmus is proud to support the volunteer-powered organizations that provide important services to our community. You can be a part of their success by finding a group that inspires your passion and making a commitment of your time and talent. Isthmus is grateful to Park Bank and the other sponsors who make this guide possible.
GiGi’s Playhouse Madison
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
GiGi’s Playhouse Madison provides free educational, therapeutic and social programs for individuals with Down syndrome and the greater disability community, serving all ages from infancy through adulthood. We create a supportive, inclusive environment where families connect, participants build skills and confidence, and the community experiences the power of acceptance for all.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers are the heart of GiGi’s, supporting nearly every aspect of our work — from program leaders and co-leaders, tutoring, fitness and kitchen help, to special events and Board service. We match each volunteer to the role that fits their skills, interests, and availability. GiGi’s is 99% volunteer-run, and their dedication helps participants of all ages grow, connect and thrive in a welcoming, inclusive community.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Fill out this volunteer form to share your interests and availability. It only commits you to a conversation!
https://tinyurl.com/4s2wnxrs
Wisconsin Veterans Museum
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
At the Wisconsin Veterans Museum in Madison, you will learn the stories of people like you, your family and friends who served our nation’s armed forces. Since its creation in 1901, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum has existed to acknowledge, commemorate and affirm the role of Wisconsin veterans in the United States of America’s military past and present. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is located on the Capitol Square in Madison. Admission is free.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers are needed to lead student tours of the museum and also assist with the editing of veterans’ oral histories. The museum holds the third largest collection of oral histories in the nation.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://tinyurl.com/24rwmxbn
Children’s Theater of Madison
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Children’s Theater of Madison’s mission is to spark imagination and build community through the creation and experience of theater. We provide professional performances, educational programs, and workshops for young audiences and families, promoting creativity, literacy and inclusivity while engaging diverse youth and supporting arts education across the community.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers at Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM) are essential to front-of-house operations, assisting with ushering, selling concessions, and greeting guests at performances and events. They help create a welcoming atmosphere for families and young audiences. Occasionally, volunteers also assist with backstage tasks. No special skills are required, but a passion for theater and working with children is appreciated. Volunteers receive training, gain valuable experience, and can see shows for free when they volunteer. It’s a fun and creative way to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Email: volunteer@ctmtheater.org
Link to Website Page: https://ctmtheater.org/get-involved/volunteer/
Bikes for Kids Wisconsin
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Bikes for Kids Wisconsin works in transportation equity and is on a mission to see that everyone has access to a bicycle. Through our educational classes, our Bike Giveaway and Bike to Work Programs, and our robust circular economy, we are bettering the lives of not only those we serve directly, but everyone who lives in our area through economic mobility, reduced pollution, cleaner water, less congestion, and healthier communities.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers need no experience with bicycles. Volunteers clean bikes, assist with our refurb-cycle, help us give bikes away, load and unload trucks, and break bikes down for parts.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Ben Andrews, Volunteer & Operations Coordinator: 608-405-0385
Ride@BikesforKidsWi.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County helps young people reach their full potential through the power of one-to-one mentoring. We match children facing adversity with caring, consistent adult mentors who provide encouragement, support and new opportunities. These relationships help youth build confidence, strengthen relationships, and succeed in school and beyond. By empowering kids to thrive, we’re also strengthening Dane County, creating a brighter, more connected community for everyone.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers make the greatest impact by becoming mentors — spending time with their Little, offering encouragement, and opening the door to new experiences. Through these one-to-one relationships, volunteers help youth build confidence, learn new skills, and see new possibilities for their future. No special expertise is required, just a genuine interest in supporting young people, being consistent, and showing up with care. The most important qualities in a mentor are reliability, good communication, and a willingness to engage and grow alongside their Little.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
www.bbbsmadison.org | 608-661-5437 | reception@bbbsmadison.org
Badger Prairie Needs Network
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Celebrating its 40th year in operation, Badger Prairie Needs Network (BPNN) is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing basic needs to struggling families in the community. We serve anyone in Dane County needing help. We offer a food pantry, free weekend lunch, on-site social workers, legal services, and programming to provide low-income households with opportunities to build skills for family-sustaining careers.
How can volunteers help?
Badger Prairie Needs Network offers volunteer opportunities for ages 14+. Some popular shifts include working in the pantry, stocking shelves, greeting guests, serving lunch at the Saturday Community Meal, and repackaging prepared food in the commercial kitchen. BPNN is also in need of bilingual interpreters, drivers to pick up food at retailers, and administrative and facilities support. A variety of shifts fit any schedule and include days, evenings, weekdays and weekends and are around 3 hours long.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://www.bpnn.org/volunteer
Babies & Beyond of WI Inc.
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Babies & Beyond provides material support to pregnant women and families with children ages 0-4. Our Center offers a welcoming space where families can “shop” free of charge for donated goods, and receive a monthly allotment of diapers, baby wipes, and formula.
How can volunteers help?
Join our team of volunteers! Sort toys and baby clothes, bundle diapers, restock shelves, or help families during Open Hours — whether at check-out, filling diaper orders, or interpreting in Spanish. Every bit of help counts!
Who should potential volunteers contact?
www.babiesandbeyondwi.org/volunteer Email: volunteer@babiesandbeyondwi.org
Call: 608-222-0008 ext. 2
Oakwood Village
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Oakwood Village is two continuing care retirement communities on Madison’s west and east sides. Oakwood Village has been providing quality care to older adults over 75 years. Sponsored by 37 Lutheran churches in the Dane County area, Oakwood Village is a not-for-profit and serves people of all religions, races and economic backgrounds. This tradition of excellence is possible thanks to the efforts of committed and dedicated volunteers.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers interact with residents by spending time visiting with residents, assisting with special campus events or life enrichment programs, or supporting employees in their work. Experience in the medical field, with dementia or customer service is all preferred but not required.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
www.oakwoodvillage.net/volunteer
Literacy Network
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Literacy Network helps adults in Dane County build skills, reach goals, and connect communities. Annually, more than 1,500 adults from over 88 countries participate in our free literacy and English language programs. English as a Second Language, basic literacy, citizenship, and GED/HSED programs help participants get jobs, earn high school diplomas, become U.S. citizens, improve communication with their children’s teachers, and more.
How can volunteers help?
At Literacy Network, volunteers play a vital role by working one-on-one with adult students to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. Student goals include improving reading and writing skills, building English language proficiency, earning high school equivalency diplomas, continuing their education in college or certification programs, and preparing for the U.S. citizenship test. Each volunteer commits to two hours a week for a full 12-15-week semester. Key volunteer skills include fluency in English, reliability, patience, professionalism, and kindness. No teaching experience is needed. We provide comprehensive training, ongoing staff support, and opportunities for further development.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
More information about specific volunteer opportunities can be found on our website https://www.litnetwork.org/volunteer or by emailing us at volunteer@litnetwork.org.
Madison Cat Project
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Madison Cat Project has been working in the community to find homes for cats who might otherwise be euthanized at other shelters, whether due to behavioral, medical, or space issues, since 2001. We utilize communal rooms at our shelter and a network of foster homes in an attempt to create a lower stress environment for the cats in our care until adoption. Because not every cat is able to be socialized, we also work with community members to adopt under-socialized and feral cats to rural homes for rodent control. Other programs offered include public low-cost spay/neuter surgery and wellness services at our shelter.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers are able to get involved with MCP in a variety of ways. Adoption Fair Volunteers attend Saturday adoption fairs at our shelter and are stationed in one of our communal cat rooms; there, they’re able to talk with potential adopters who come in and help them find the perfect match in one (or more) of our cats. Foster Volunteers are able to take our more medically or behaviorally needy cats into their home and care for them in a more relaxing home setting until they’re able to be adopted. Housekeeping & Socialization Volunteers come into the shelter mid-day to help with basic shelter chores and socializing our shelter cats.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
www.madisoncatproject.org/volunteer
RSVP (Retired & Senior Volunteer Program) of Dane County Inc.
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
RSVP aspires to build and expand a community-wide network of volunteers and organizations that value individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression, and talent. RSVP strives to enrich the lives of senior volunteers and enhance support services for all Dane County residents.
How can volunteers help?
RSVP offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities throughout Dane County. Volunteers are personally placed in over 70 nonprofit and public agencies. Volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments, deliver meals, tutor in schools and Head Start sites, promote crime prevention and teach computer skills to seniors, make and donate items of warmth and comfort (i.e. quilts, mittens, tote bags), serve on the RSVP Board and committees, and much more! For more information about specific volunteer opportunities and programs, please visit our website at www.rsvpdane.org.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
RSVP OF DANE COUNTY INC. 6501 Watts Road, Suite 250 Madison, WI 53719, 608-238-7787, info@rsvpdane.org, www.rsvpdane.org
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison provides essential services that support families with seriously ill or injured children, helping them stay close when it matters most. Each year, we serve over 1,700 families from Dane County and beyond, offering meals, comfort, and a place to rest while children receive medical care. By removing barriers and easing stress, we strengthen family bonds and promote healing. Our House and Family Room create a welcoming, compassionate space where families are empowered, supported, and never alone during challenging healthcare journeys.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers are the heart of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison, helping families feel cared for during challenging times. One of the most meaningful ways to help is by preparing meals or baking treats for families staying at the House. Volunteers plan the menu, bring ingredients for 30 servings, and cook in our state-of-the-art kitchen. Meal and baking volunteers must be at least 10 years old, with minors accompanied by a parent. Not a fan of the kitchen? We can find a spot for you! There are other ways to support our mission. Please reach out to Sophia Melgar at smelgar@rmhcmadison.org or 608-819-8515 to learn more.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Sophia Melgar, 608-819-8515, smelgar@rmhcmadison.org. For volunteer opportunities: rmhcmadison.org/recurring-volunteer. Or to sign up to make a meal: rmhcmadison.org/mealsignup/.
Centro Hispano
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Centro Hispano empowers youth, strengthens families, and engages the community with the belief that strong youth, families, and communities are inseparable. For over 42 years, Centro has served as a trusted anchor for Latinx and immigrant families, offering bilingual, culturally responsive programs that span the life cycle, from afterschool academic and career readiness programs in Madison’s middle and high schools to workforce training in health, finance, tech, and peer support. Centro also provides wraparound services such as immigration legal aid, mental health support, and case management. Serving more than 7,500 individuals and 3,500 families annually, with 90% of clients identifying as immigrants. Centro continues to create opportunity and equity for Dane County’s growing Latinx population.
How can volunteers help?
We welcome volunteers for a variety of projects, events, classes, and community activities. If you have some free time and would like to collaborate on a marketing project, help organize toys for our upcoming Tres Reyes event, or support our operations team, please contact us.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Jovan Chavez, jovan@micentro.org, https://www.micentro.org/voluntreer
FairShare
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
FairShare’s mission is to build resilient food communities by investing in farmers and empowering eaters. Throughout our work we center the well-being of farmers, strengthen equitable, community-based food markets, and act as collaborative leaders in our food communities. Our programs provide skill development through farmer peer-to-peer learning, support access to nutritious food, and build resources to promote local food communities.
How can volunteers help?
Our primary volunteer need is around our annual fundraising bike ride, Bike the Barns, in September. The event supports Partner Shares, our program supporting access to CSA shares for limited income households. Bike the Barns utilizes more than 100 volunteers on the day of the event, and dozens leading up to the event, with activities such as rider bag stuffing, route marking, rider check-in, car and bicycle parking direction, food and beverage service, waste diversion via compost stations, and route flagging. We have occasional in-office sorting and organizing activities outside of Bike the Barns.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Beth Stropki via beth@csacoalition, or fill out the form at https://www.csacoalition.org/get-involved
Maydm
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Maydm works in Dane County to provide girls and youth of color in middle and high school with STEM skills, experiences, and connections by partnering with schools, corporations, and community partners to provide education and employment to bridge the wealth gap and increase representation in STEM careers.
How can volunteers help?
Celebrate 10 Years of Changing the Face of STEM: Volunteer With Us! This year, Maydm is turning 10, and we want YOU to be part of the celebration! There are exciting opportunities for individuals, teams, and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to make an impact: Inspire Through Experience: Host students for hands-on site visits where they can explore STEM careers, try real-world projects, and engage directly with professionals. ERGs can use this as a chance to connect, mentor, and showcase their work. Shape the Future: Become an internship host this summer. High school students with skills in IT, engineering, and more are eager to contribute, learn, and gain workplace experience under your guidance. Celebrate With Us: Volunteer to help plan or support our 10th-anniversary event! Be part of creating an unforgettable celebration with interactive demos, student showcases, and community engagement. Special Projects: Have an idea to highlight STEM or mentor students in a unique way? Let’s make it happen — your creativity can inspire the next generation of innovators.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Christin Calloway, christin.calloway@maydm.org
The Rainbow Project
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
The Rainbow Project provides trauma-informed, best-practice mental health counseling and community resources to young children and families who have experienced trauma such as child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or community violence.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteer opportunities include helping out at our annual Rhumba 4 Rainbow Benefit Gala (volunteers get free admission), providing childcare for adult support group participants, feeding fish or watering office plants, administrative help, fundraising, and more. We love to hear how our neighbors can contribute in ways we might not imagine ourselves. Volunteers must pass a required background check because our mission is all about the wellbeing of the children we serve.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Interested in volunteering at The Rainbow Project? Visit our website and apply: www.therainbowproject.net/volunteer
Bayview Foundation
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Bayview is committed to moving low-income families out of poverty and helping them realize their aspirations. In the middle of Bayview’s affordable housing, the Bayview community center provides essential programs so that, steps from home, residents can access out-of-school programming, groceries and community meals, wellness activities, resources and referrals, adult education and career development, and in-depth arts and cultural programs.
How can volunteers help?
Our greatest need is ongoing consistent weekly shifts restocking and staffing the food pantry in four-hour shifts, or tutoring/academic support to youth in two-hour shifts. In the summer months a regular garden volunteer for two hours weekly would be helpful, as would a group for semi-annual grounds cleanup.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://tinyurl.com/2wj5yjwx
Agrace
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Founded in 1978, Agrace is a nonprofit, community-supported health care organization providing personal care, supportive care, hospice care and grief support to people who are aging, seriously ill, dying or grieving. Every day in southern Wisconsin, more than 1,800 patients and clients trust us to see them through very difficult times.
How can volunteers help?
Local volunteers are especially needed for three roles: 1) to assist customers, operate the cash register and sort donations at the Agrace Thrift Stores in Madison; 2) to pack donated items in donors’ homes for the thrift stores’ Donation Transportation Service, or 3) to make companionship visits to local Agrace Hospice Care patients. Volunteering may involve reading aloud, listening to music together, playing cards, assisting with meal delivery, or simply being there as a caring presence. No previous health care experience is necessary. Our free, virtual training will prepare you for a rewarding experience.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
For more information, or to get started, fill out an online application at Agrace.org/Volunteer or call Agrace at 608-327-7163.
Habitat for Humanity of Dane County
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
At Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, we offer a hand up, rather than a hand out. Through our volunteer network, generous donors and sales from our two Habitat ReStores, we’re helping families achieve strength, stability and self-reliance to build a better life through shelter.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteer with Habitat on a construction site or at a ReStore! As a construction volunteer, you can work on a wide range of projects including framing, siding, trim, painting, and so much more. Every home built, renovated, or repaired by Habitat is a partnership between hundreds of volunteers, organizations, donors, and families. Opportunities available Thursdays-Saturdays. Must be 18+. Or, join as a ReStore volunteer to help with various store needs. Opportunities available Tuesdays-Saturdays. Roles include riding on the donations truck, cashiering, or processing incoming donations. Must be 16+. No experience is needed for these opportunities as all tools and training will be provided on site. Join us today!
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Visit habitatdane.org/volunteernow, or contact Julie at 608-620-4922 / volunteer@habitatdane.org
Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison is a Catholic lay organization of 400+ staff and volunteers who provide direct, person-to-person support for neighbors facing financial hardship. Through home visits and charitable programs, we offer essentials like food, medicine, clothing, furniture and household goods, as well as long-term assistance such as micro-loans, housing support and storage for people experiencing homelessness. Our seven St. Vinny’s Thrift Stores across Dane County provide affordable, eco-friendly shopping and offer vouchers for free clothing, furniture and household goods to low-income people. At the heart of our work is friendship, hope and respect for the dignity of every person.
How can volunteers help?
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison has several volunteer opportunities for people wanting to give back to their community and help their neighbors in need! The majority of volunteers serve their neighbors in the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry sorting food, stocking shelves, packing food boxes, filling online orders, and loading food in the outdoor drive-through pantry. In the St. Vincent de Paul Charitable Pharmacy volunteers welcome patients and fill prescriptions under the supervision of dedicated pharmacy staff. Volunteers willing to provide Spanish translation are especially needed in the pharmacy. There are also volunteer positions available at the 1.25-acre Lacy Garden in the summer, at Vinny’s Lockers, or as a home visitor.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Shannon Killberg, Volunteer Manager, 608-442-7200 x42, https://tinyurl.com/8ht4c2ur
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16-acre public garden featuring outdoor gardens as well as a 10,000-square-foot tropical Conservatory. Olbrich Botanical Gardens provides a place for community building, events, educational opportunities, and chances to create relationships with nature.
How can volunteers help?
Olbrich Botanical Gardens’ staff depend on about 600 volunteers during each calendar year. Volunteers assist staff in almost every department including: outdoor horticulture, conservatory and greenhouse horticulture, membership and development, guest experience, education, and special events. Volunteer responsibilities and time commitments differ by jobs.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://www.olbrich.org/volunteer-inquiry
Root 2 Rise
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Root 2 Rise invites high school students who are not finding joy in their education to serve as Tutor-Mentors in elementary classrooms. Our mission is to support their development as students and future leaders while introducing them to potential career opportunities, so that they can make a difference for themselves, their K-5 peers, their families, and our communities.
How can volunteers help?
Join us in supporting young people with your skills and experience in career coaching and mentoring, PR consulting, fundraising, data management, and program evaluation. Flexibility to volunteer remotely or in person. We are excited to meet you!
Who should potential volunteers contact?
dhanson@root2rise.org
AgeBetter Inc. (SAIL and Safe at Home)
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
AgeBetter Inc. is a Dane County nonprofit with two programs — SAIL (Sharing Active Independent Lives) and Safe at Home — that support safe, healthy aging in the community. SAIL is a membership program where members support one another and access vetted home maintenance, repair, and personal services. SAIL offers direct services such as daily check ins, house checks, tech support, and shredding. It also offers social and community educational events. Reduced dues are available. Safe at Home provides free home safety assessments to help prevent falls and related accidents. For six months afterward, staff follow up with participants to review recommendations and connect them to services. Community volunteers are vital to both programs.
How can volunteers help?
We are in need of volunteer drivers, friendly visitors, event photographers, and home safety assessment providers. Our programs SAIL and Safe at Home serve older adults living in Dane County. Volunteer Drivers help SAIL members get to/from appointments — medical and non-medical. Occasionally non-driving members request help with picking up and delivering items (mileage reimbursement is provided upon request). Volunteer Friendly Visitors connect with members for an hour or so to read mail, help with a simple home task — taking out garbage or similar — or just take a walk or have a conversation over coffee (no personal care such as dressing/bathing/toileting, transferring, etc.). We strive to connect people with mutual interests. Event Photographers are asked to take photos at events and/or for special projects e.g. photos for a brochure or website. Safe at Home volunteers are asked to perform free home safety assessments individually or in pairs. Volunteers need to have a background in Occupational or Physical Therapy and/or enrolled in a college level program. For all volunteer positions, anyone age 21 + is eligible, after filling out a volunteer application and background check.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Call AgeBetter at 608-230-4445 or email info@agebettertoday.org
Galin Scholars
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Galin Scholars works to increase access to college preparation for greater Madison-area high school students with strong academic potential who are from low-to-middle income families and from demographic groups underrepresented in college. Many of our scholars will be the first in their families to go to college or to pursue a traditional college path. Our scholars are selected in 10th grade and work with us in 11th and 12th grade on individualized ACT preparation, college advising, academic tutoring, and connecting to extracurricular opportunities in order to expand their college options. Our application for the Class of 2028 (current 10th graders) opens in January 2026.
How can volunteers help?
We are seeking volunteers who understand the importance of leveling the playing field in college preparation for local students. We would welcome your experience in (or enthusiasm for!) communications, events, fundraising, or outreach to schools and the community.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Chris Gomez Schmidt, 608-501-2486, chris@galinscholars.org
Wisconsin Science Museum
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
We contribute to the public understanding of science, and the science education of children. We also promote the public appreciation of the scientific achievements of people working in Wisconsin or born and educated here.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers can work as docents to greet visitors and help with answering visitor questions. There are also oportunities to help with designing and building new exhibits.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://wiscimuseum.org/contact-us/
Green Pastures Living
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
We work to provide senior housing in small town communities by guiding older adults and their families through the process of aging in place and downsizing through consultation and outreach.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers work with seniors who need help with downsizing and accessibility assessments in their homes.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
People interested in volunteering can fill out an online form on our website: www.greenpasturesliving.com or calling Anne 608-909-1313 or email live@greenpasturesliving.com
Dane County Humane Society
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Dane County Humane Society is a private, donor-supported nonprofit. It’s not a government agency or part of a national animal welfare group. DCHS provides refuge, healing, and new beginnings to thousands of companion animals, exotic species, barnyard animals, and injured, sick and orphaned wild animals each year. Your support helps DCHS achieve its mission — helping people help animals.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers are essential to every facet of DCHS’ lifesaving work. Currently, volunteers are needed most as home-based foster caretakers and at DCHS Thrift Stores. DCHS Thrift Stores are mostly run by volunteers. The west side and east side stores need volunteers to serve as donation sorters, pricers and cashiers. The Thrift Stores generate revenue to support the work DCHS does helping animals and people in our community. DCHS also needs foster volunteers who can open their home to provide temporary care to dogs in need of a break from the shelter environment or to neonatal kittens (May through October).
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Learn more and apply at www.giveshelter.org/volunteer
OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
Our mission is a commitment to equity and quality of life for all LGBTQ+ people through community building, health and human services, and economic, social, and racial justice advocacy. Our vision is to create a community where the presence and contributions of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender people are welcomed and celebrated; where intolerance is challenged and defeated; where justice prevails; and where civil rights of all people are valued and respected.
How can volunteers help?
Volunteers have always been integral to OutReach since our beginnings in 1969, because OutReach is made up of the local queer community and exists to serve our community! There are so many different volunteer opportunities: Front Desk shifts at the center/answering phones, helping at community events, arts & crafts (making buttons, painting banners, making bookmarks), being part of the Library Committee, office tasks, helping out in the food pantry, and so much more! We also have our Trans Care Package Drive coming up, and will need lots of volunteers to help out. We love to empower you to use your skillset and passions to serve the local LGBTQ+ community in ways that resonate with you!
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Please email the Community Engagement & Volunteer Coordinator at gw@lgbtoutreach.org. Please also fill out our Volunteer Application Form here: https://tinyurl.com/4c3jefa9
WayForward Resources
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
WayForward Resources provides access to nutritious food and clothing for people throughout Dane County and support that helps people stay in their homes in Middleton, Cross Plains and west Madison.
How can volunteers help?
At WayForward, volunteers do more than lend a hand — they keep our community moving forward. Whether you’re stocking our food pantry and clothing center, helping at events, running a food drive, or contributing in many other ways, there are opportunities to match different interests and availability. Volunteers ages 12+ are welcome (12-15 with an adult).
Who should potential volunteers contact?
https://tinyurl.com/5n7fuzrb
United Way of Dane County
What does your organization do for the Dane County community?
United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community so all can thrive. Our mission, to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, is rooted in innovation and action. By collaborating with diverse partners, we deliver forward-thinking solutions and results that improve health, education, financial stability and local resilience. Nationally recognized for low fundraising and operating costs, we ensure donations are strategically invested to maximize impact and create lasting change — right here in Dane County. United Way of Dane County is the intersection where the community meets to change lives. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, United Way of Dane County connects people to possibility. Last year, United Way supported 82,329 neighbors in Dane County.
How can volunteers help?
At United Way of Dane County, we connect compassionate individuals with meaningful opportunities to strengthen our community. By donating your time, you can provide support to those who need it most. Join us in building a caring, stronger Dane County and learn about our volunteer opportunities at unitedwaydanecounty.org. United Way of Dane County offers year-round volunteer opportunities for individuals, groups and businesses — from packing essential supply kits called, ImPacks, tutoring youth and supporting local nonprofits — to one-time or ongoing roles. Corporate and group volunteering is encouraged through team-based projects, donation drives and leadership development opportunities on United Way committees or networks. Specialized volunteer networks include READI (retirees), LINC (early-career professionals), Women United, and the Business Volunteer Network (BVN). Major events like our annual Day of Caring mobilize hundreds of volunteers to pack thousands of ImPacks and backpacks. Volunteers can search for in-person or remote volunteer opportunities year-round — right here in Dane County at volunteeryourtime.org.
Who should potential volunteers contact?
Hannah Stowell, 608-246-4381, volunteer@uwdc.org, https://www.volunteeryourtime.org/
Email Mark Clear at mclear@isthmus.com to list your organization in this digital guide.
