The holidays are a popular time to reach out a hand in support to neighbors and the community. Beyond monetary support, many organizations open their doors to folks who seek to offer their time as a gift. But volunteerism doesn’t just benefit organizations- those who volunteer are shown to have improved mental health outcomes and perhaps even a longer life! Get out there, make a difference, and lend your hands to a good cause.
How to Get Started as a Volunteer
Just getting started? What a fun place to be! Here’s where you can dream about how you’d like to make a difference in your community. Some points to consider include your abilities and how to apply them, where you see a need in your day-to-day life, and if there is an existing volunteer group to support those needs.
When approaching an organization to volunteer your time, check to see if there is a webpage or direct contact for volunteering. This site (or conversation with the coordinator) will usually share all you need to know about what volunteering looks like at their location, such as transportation, recommendations, and more.
Where to Sign Up to Volunteer in the Food System
Farmers Markets
Farmers markets use volunteers to help coordinate visitors and vendors, help with set up and break down, or lend a hand during special events. Reach out to your local market manager to learn more, or find a Michigan farmers market here.
Food Pantries, Community Kitchens, or Food Waste Organizations
Time spent with hunger organizations directly benefits those most in need of food in your area. These organizations can use volunteers for anything from driving box trucks and vans to organizing and packing, or even gleaning (harvesting leftover food) from fields or orchards. The Food Bank Network offers a map of Michigan’s major gleaners and food banks to find an organization near you.
Farms or Community Gardens
If you have a green thumb, consider using your skills at a local farm or community garden! Planting, weeding, watering, building a raised bed, or even running a special interest group are all part of the job in this sector of volunteerism. Start by reading our tips on being the best farm volunteer ever.
Schools
Your local school district likely has a food program for families experiencing food insecurity, or possibly even a school garden program! Visit the office to talk to someone about volunteering or starting a school program. For more resources, consider checking out the Edible Schoolyard, an organization founded by Alice Waters.
Other Nonprofit Organizations
There are many, many ways beyond this list to make an impact with your time! Check out MSU Extension’s Volunteer Central to look up ways to connect with your local 4-H or Master Gardeners program, or consider a visit to your local community center or public library to find more ideas on how to give back.
3 Tips for Volunteering with a Food Organization
- When volunteering with a food organization, you don’t need to be certified in food safety practices, but your attire should keep you and the food you touch clean. Pull any long hair up, or keep facial hair neat. Make sure your hands and fingernails are clean. Wear closed-toed shoes and freshly laundered clothing. This will keep the food you hand off safe for the eater.
- Listen! Particularly if you are new to the space, make sure that you are actively listening to instructions and ask questions before getting started. For food gleaners, keeping the right weight or count when repacking is important – same for any farm wash/pack. Kitchens may have recipes to follow closely. The better you listen, the better you can offer a valuable service.
- Be a part of Team Serotonin! Farms and gardens can be muddy or hot during a shift. Kitchens can be noisy and stressful. Make an effort to combat this with a smile and small talk, where appropriate. Be a positivity influencer!
Where do you volunteer? Let us know about your experience on Instagram or Facebook!