As someone who’s planning on going into nonprofit work, I have spent a lot of time researching volunteer organizations in Kansas City. Some organizations have stopped accepting volunteers due to the pandemic and a lack of resources for training, but many more have a greater need than ever. I’ve listed some of my favorite local organizations below that are still open and accepting in-person volunteers. Most of these organizations (except for the ones which have been marked below) also accept and appreciate donations! If you don’t have time to volunteer, you can definitely still donate any amount and know that it’s going toward a good cause.
- Roo Pantry
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The Roo Pantry is UMKC-run and located on Troost, which is just a 5 minute drive away! The daily operations of the pantry are run by a graduate student who is very flexible and helpful to undergrads. This is a great place to volunteer if you need documentation for a class. You’ll mostly help with stocking, organizing and documenting items.
- Missouri Department of Conservation
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The Anita B. Gorman Center is a branch of the Missouri Department of Conservation and it’s located right down the street, directly across from the Roo Pantry! Not only are both the professional and volunteer staff super caring, but they’re so flexible with students and make sure to send us lists of relevant scholarships and internship opportunities! You can choose to do landscaping, assist with programs or perform administrative duties. MDC does not accept donations, as it is a government-funded organization.
- Medical Reserve Corps of Kansas City
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This organization gives volunteers emergency preparedness training and works on health education, screenings, efforts to provide medical services to at-risk populations and disaster aid. This is a bigger time commitment than the other volunteer opportunities, but it’s a great experience for anyone going into the medical field and will look great on a resume. The Medical Reserve Corps is funded by community sponsors and does not have a listed link for donations.
- Bridging the Gap
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Bridging the Gap works on recycling, litter and water conservation issues. If you’re interested in environmental issues and not sure where to start, BTG has a wide variety of programs that they need assistance with! You can learn more about the economic side through green businesses, join the Heartland Tree Alliance to protect urban tree populations and help preserve wildlands. Even if you’re currently unable to volunteer, I highly recommend checking out their website if you’re a nature lover. They have a list of nearby wildland hikes and lots of free information on local conservation.
- NourishKC
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Help create a more food-secure city with NourishKC! Volunteers help clean and cut produce, plate food, serve meals and clean up after their shift. Their lunch service runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If none of these options appeal to you, check out Nonprofit Connect! It’s a local site with listings for tons of different nonprofits in the KC area with both volunteer and paid positions. Uncover KC also has listings for creative volunteer opportunities on their event calendar.