The weather is heating up, and so are the opportunities to give back across the Lakeshore!
Summer is one of the busiest and most exciting times for volunteering in our community. From family-friendly festivals to community projects and outdoor service opportunities, there are countless ways to connect with neighbors, support local organizations, and make a positive impact while having fun.
Parties in the Park Returns to Downtown Muskegon
Parties in the Park is back at Hackley Park for eight great Friday nights of free, family-friendly entertainment throughout the summer. Each party is hosted by a local non-profit organization, and volunteers are what help make these evenings a success.
Volunteer opportunities vary by event and may include:
- Ticket sales
- ID checks and wristbands
- Beverage sales
- Kid's zone activities
- Set up and clean up
- And more!
Upcoming Parties in the Park opportunities include:
Muskegon Rotary Club
Friday, May 29 | 5-9 PM: Kick off the season while supporting local service initiatives through Muskegon Rotary Club. Sign up by clicking here!
Noah Project
Friday, June 5 | 5-9 PM: Support Noah Project's mission while helping to create a fun and welcoming evening. Sign up by clicking here!
AgeWell Services of West Michigan
Friday, June 19 | 5-9 PM: Help support programs that serve older adults throughout our community. Sign up by clicking here!
Festival Season is Here!
The Lakeshore is known for its vibrant festivals and special events that bring neighbors, friends, families, and visitors together, and volunteers play a huge role in making them happen!
Upcoming festival opportunities include:
Muskegon Pride Festival
Saturday, June 6 | Downtown Muskegon: Celebrate community, inclusion, and pride while helping with this beloved event. Sign up by clicking here!
Taste of Muskegon
June 12 & 13 | Downtown Muskegon: Help welcome thousands of visitors for a weekend filled with local food, entertainment, and fun. Sign up by clicking here!
Lakeshore Art Festival
June 27 & 28 | Downtown Muskegon: Support artists during this nationally recognized downtown festival. Sign up by clicking here!
Want to explore even more special events and summer festivals? Check out upcoming opportunities happening across the Lakeshore here: https://www.unitedwaylakeshore.org/festival-volunteering
Additional Ways to Give Back this Season
Muskegon Area Parks & Greenways Coalition
Love spending time outdoors? Muskegon Area Parks & Greenways Coalition is looking for volunteers to support local parks and green spaces. These opportunities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while giving back, and many projects are perfect for teams and groups. Learn more by clicking here!
Oceana County Mobile Food Pantries
Help support local families through our monthly Feeding America West Michigan mobile food pantries in Oceana County. The next volunteer opportunities will take place on Friday, June 19 at the Oceana County Fairgrounds. View the full volunteer schedule and sign up by clicking here!
Habitat for Humanity Northern Muskegon
Habitat for Humanity is currently building a new home in the Angell Neighborhood in the City of Muskegon. Volunteers (individuals or groups) are invited to assist with construction and interior work. No prior experience is required and all tools and support will be provided. Learn more and get involved by clicking here!
Volunteer with United Way of the Lakeshore
United Way of the Lakeshore will host its own Parties in the Park event on Friday, July 24, with proceeds benefitting the Volunteer Center and its work supporting volunteer recruitment and management efforts across the Lakeshore. We'd love to have you join us as a volunteer for the evening! Sign up to volunteer by clicking here!
Why Volunteer at Summer Events?
Volunteering is a great way to:
- Meet new people and connect with community
- Earn service hours
- Enjoy select volunteer perks like free t-shirts or admission
- Support important local causes
- Spend quality time with friends, coworkers, or family members
Many opportunities welcome groups, so consider making volunteering your next team outing or summer adventure. Need help signing up a group? Email sara@unitedwaylakeshore.org to get started.
Thank you for continuing to show up for our community. We hope to see you volunteering this summer and beyond!
