Needs From: United Way of the Lakeshore

Volunteer for Day of Caring 2026 – Muskegon County

Friday, April 24, 2026

Join United Way of the Lakeshore & Muskegon Community College for our annual Day of Caring, a community-wide day of service bringing hundreds of volunteers together to support local non-profit agencies and community spaces across Muskegon County.

In 2026, Day of Caring will take place on Friday, April 24 and will kick off at Muskegon Community College as part of their centennial celebration. Together, we’ll gather in the morning, then head out across the county to serve. We’re proud to be painting Muskegon Blue & Gold together!

This registration is for both individuals and teams. If you’re part of a team, please include your team or organization name when registering. If you’re not part of a team—no worries! Individual volunteers are welcome and will be matched with a meaningful project.

Questions? Contact Sara Sherwood at sara@unitedwaylakeshore.org or (231) 332-4010.

Project applications are currently being accepted and reviewed; projects will be announced in March 2026.

What You Can Expect

A meaningful, hands-on volunteer experience supporting local non-profits and community spaces

Breakfast, lunch, and water provided for all volunteers

A free Day of Caring T-shirt, thanks to our sponsors, to all volunteers who sign up by March 19th. T-shirts for anyone registering after March 19 will be assigned based on the sizes available and date of registration.

All materials and tools provided (no special skills required)

A fun and fulfilling day serving alongside friends, neighbors, coworkers, and community members

Sample Schedule for the Day

(Subject to change based on assigned project)

8:00 AM – Volunteer Check-In & Pancake Breakfast at Muskegon Community College

8:30 AM – Kickoff Celebration, Community Remarks, & Group Stretch

9:00 AM – Travel to Assigned Volunteer Sites

12:00–1:00 PM – Lunch Delivered to Volunteer Sites

Early–Mid Afternoon – Project Wrap-Up
(End times will vary by project and scope of work)

What to Wear & Bring

Closed-toe shoes (required)

Comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
(Dress for the weather and your comfort)

Work gloves if you have them (some will be available at the kick-off breakfast for those who don't have any)

Safety glasses will be provided when needed for tasks involving tools

Other Important Logistics

Transportation
Volunteers are responsible for getting themselves to and from their assigned sites. Carpooling is encouraged.

Restrooms
Restroom access or portable restrooms will be available at each project site.

Lunch & Dietary Needs
Lunch will be delivered to your site and will include vegetarian options. Vegan and gluten-free lunch can be provided upon request. Breakfast will include pancakes, sausage, juice, water, and coffee.

Water
Water will be available at the kickoff for you to pick up and transport to your project site.

Accessibility

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible experience for all volunteers.
To request an accommodation or inquire about accessibility, please email sara@unitedwaylakeshore.org or include a note in your registration.

We kindly ask that attendees avoid wearing strong fragrances out of respect for others’ sensitivities.

Thank you for being part of the change. Your time and energy help build a stronger, more caring Muskegon County.

Looking for more information?

Check out the Day of Caring website!Interested in sponsoring? Email sara@unitedwaylakeshore.org for the available sponsor levels.Newaygo and Oceana County Day of Caring information will be released later in the year, as these events will take place in the fall of 2026.

Lunch Delivery Volunteers – Day of Caring

Help keep our volunteers energized and supported during United Way of the Lakeshore’s Day of Caring by delivering lunches to project sites throughout Muskegon County.

Lunch Delivery Volunteers play an important role in making sure the hundreds of volunteers serving our community receive their meals during the day.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Pick up boxed lunches at United Way of the Lakeshoreat 11:30 AM

Have your vehicle loaded with lunches and delivery information

Deliver lunches to assigned Day of Caring project sites between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM

Share any special meal notes with site leaders (such as vegan or gluten-free meals)

Each driver will receive delivery locations and any special instructions when picking up the meals.

Requirements:

Volunteers must provide their own vehicle

Drivers must be licensed and insured

This is a great opportunity to support Day of Caring for those who cannot commit to volunteering for the entire day. The role typically takes about 1–2 hours, depending on delivery locations.

Thank you for helping ensure our volunteers are well taken care of while they make a difference in our community!