Needs From: United Way of the Lakeshore

Do you have a passion for helping young minds grow? Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Join us as a volunteer mentor in our Early Literacy Program at Orchard View Early Elementary and make a real difference in the lives of children.

Where: Orchard View Early Elementary |2820 MacArthur Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442

When: TBA 

Volunteers are needed for the annual Muskegon Lake clean up! Members (and friends) of JCI Greater Muskegon will be working as a team to clean up the Jaycees Boat Launch ramp. If time allows, we will also assist with clean up at Heritage Landing once the Greater Muskegon Jaycees boat launch area is complete.

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Meet at the CIO Hall at 490 W. Western Ave in Downtown Muskegon. Pre-cleanup refreshments will be available.

8:30 AM: Gather as a team, collect supplies, and head out to the boat launch (located at 2912 Lakeshore Drive).

Let us know you're coming and preferred t-shirt size here: https://www.nelsonneighborhood.org/earth-day-volunteers

Love where you live and join this community-wide Earth Day Clean Up on Wednesday, April 22nd at 4:30 PM! This is a family friendly event, and all ages are invited to participate. 

Please consider bringing your own work/garden gloves and buckets for trash collection if you're able. All participants will receive 20% off their food from Hamburger Mikey's after the clean-up.

Following the clean-up, volunteers are invited to play plant bingo with Little Miss Green Thumb at 6 PM. Everyone leaves with a plant and has a chance to win prizes from 3rd street businesses. At 7 PM, there will be a community movie screening, courtesy of West Shore Friends of Film.

This volunteer opportunity is sponsored by Little Miss Green Thumb! Learn more about them by clicking here!

At United Way of the Lakeshore, we believe United is the Way to create lasting change. Our annual Heroes Celebration is a powerful evening dedicated to honoring the partners, volunteers, and frontline professionals who create ripple effects of impact across our community every single day.

We’re building a passionate, creative, and community-driven Planning Committee to help bring the 2026 Heroes Celebration to life—and we’d love for you to be part of it.

As a member of the Heroes Celebration Planning Committee, you’ll play a hands-on role in shaping an unforgettable event:

Award Selection Support
Help review nominations and celebrate the individuals and organizations making a difference.

Theme & Experience Design
Collaborate on event theme, décor, and overall guest experience.

Fundraising Support
Assist in securing in-kind donations, sponsorships, and auction or raffle items.

Promotion & Outreach
Share the event through your networks, social media, and community connections.

Volunteer Coordination
Help recruit and guide event-day volunteers to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Event-Day Leadership
Support registration, guest experience, setup/teardown, and overall flow of the event.

Post-Event Wrap-Up
Assist with thank-you outreach and help us reflect on what worked well for future success.

This is a flexible opportunity, with light involvement early on and increased engagement as the event approaches.
Committee members can expect:

Periodic planning meetings (virtual and/or in-person)

Optional subcommittee work based on your interests

Active participation in the final weeks leading up to the event

Availability on the day of the Heroes Celebration

Make an Impact
Help recognize and uplift the individuals driving real change across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana counties.

Grow Your Skills
Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit leadership, event planning, fundraising, and community engagement.

Build Connections
Network with local leaders, businesses, and changemakers who care deeply about our community.

Be Part of Something Bigger
Play a role in an event that celebrates the very best of what it means to Live United.

We’re looking for individuals who are:

Passionate about community impact

Organized, creative, or well-connected (or all three!)

Interested in events, fundraising, or volunteer leadership

Ready to collaborate and bring ideas to the table

No prior experience required—just a willingness to jump in and make a difference.

This is an interest-based opportunity, and we’ll follow up with next steps, committee structure, and meeting details.

Who: Muskegon Rotary Club Members
What: Student Engagement / Tabling Opportunity
Where: Oakridge High School Cafeteria
When:

Shift Options:

About the Opportunity:
Join us in connecting with local students and sharing the life-changing opportunities available through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Volunteers will help table during lunch periods, talk with students about studying abroad, answer questions, and encourage interest in the program.

This is a relaxed and fun way to engage with students and spark curiosity about global experiences, leadership, and cultural exchange.

You won’t be doing this alone—Dominique Bunker, Rotary Youth Exchange Officer, will be there to support conversations and provide program details.

Why Get Involved:

We’d love to have you join us for one (or more!) shifts. Your presence can make a lasting impact!

Make a Difference in Your Community—Right from Home!

Are you passionate about your local community and want to help others discover how to give back? We're looking for seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us update and enrich local pages on Ways to Connect, our national directory of volunteer sites.

Ways to Connect is a crowdsourced platform designed to boost traffic and engagement to local volunteer websites—like this one! With just a bit of online research and your enthusiasm, you can help neighbors easily find volunteer opportunity platforms, service clubs, mutual aid groups, and more—making it simpler than ever for everyone to make an impact locally.

Volunteer contributors have already helped us identify 1,200+ volunteer resources across 330 communities in the US!

What You'll Do:

Conduct quick, simple online research to identify active service clubs, mutual aid groups, and upcoming volunteer events in your community.

Enhance your community's page on Ways to Connect by ensuring the information is current, accurate, and inviting for potential volunteers.

Optional: Promote your community’s page on social media to help friends and family find a path to service.

Why Volunteer with Inspiring Service?

Easy and flexible: Volunteer remotely at your convenience.

Immediate community impact: Help your neighbors discover meaningful ways to contribute.

Small commitment: Volunteer for as little as 2 hours, or as much as you'd like.

Growth opportunities: Volunteers can explore deeper involvement through our Ambassador program.

Ready to help your community thrive? Join us today and make volunteering more accessible for everyone.

Make a difference—join us on the beach!

Muskegon City Parks & Recreation and Muskegon County Parks are partnering to improve the health and cleanliness of our local beaches.

Volunteers will begin at the beach at Kruse Park and walk the shoreline to the beach at Dune Harbor Park, collecting litter along the way.

Get outside, connect with your community, and help keep our beaches clean!

Event Date & Time:
May 2nd, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, followed by an optional picnic lunch!
Location:
Starting & Ending at Kruse Park
3205 W Sherman Blvd, Muskegon, MI 49441
What to bring:
All cleanup supplies—including gloves, bags, and data sheets—will be provided. Please bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for the sandy, uneven trail.

This event is part of the Adopt-A-Beach program, supporting clean, safe, and healthy shorelines.

Caring for the earth doesn't end in April! 

In partnership with Muskegon County Parks & the Muskegon Conservation District, join us for a fantastic day of aquatic native planting! 

During this event, volunteers will help plant 2,743 native aquatic plugs along the shoreline and water’s edge to restore habitat and improve water quality. Volunteers will also assist with planting native plants in the parking lot landscape areas to create native gardens. Converting these spaces to native plantings provides many benefits, including improved habitat for pollinators and wildlife, better stormwater absorption, reduced maintenance, and increased biodiversity.

Event Date & Time:
May 8th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 

Location:

2161 Seminole Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441

What to bring:
• Clothes you do not mind getting wet or muddy, as planting will take place in or near the water’s edge

• Waders, hip boots, rain boots, or muck boots

•Water Bottles

The Muskegon Conservation District and Muskegon County Parks will provide all necessary planting tools and gloves.

Volunteers must be high school age or older and comfortable working in or near the water’s edge.

If you’re interested in volunteering with younger children, be sure to check out next week’s Native Plug Planting opportunity! 

A special thank you to the Consumers Energy Foundation, whose Planet Award grant made this and many other events in 2025 and 2026 possible.

NOTE: This project is outside of the Community Impact Day hours to accommodate the same hours the build team will be on-site. Participants are still part of Community Impact Day and will enjoy the same accommodations as other sites.

Construction tasks may include: Deconstruction Framing, Painting, Trim, Carpentry, Exterior Trim, Siding, Final Details, Landscaping

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 11:30a-3:30p

Location: 1351 Ada Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442

Volunteers should report to 1351 Ada Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442 on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Stacie, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5 at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About:  Habitat for Humanity Northern Muskegon is a branch of Habitat Kent, a Housing/Shelter non-profit and serves over 450 people annually. Habitat Kent builds high-quality, energy efficient homes that remain owner-owned and affordable for generations. They offer a variety home styles that range from single-family standalone homes, attached single family, condos and rehabs. Habitat Kent supports a year-round building program and has multiple volunteer opportunities most days of the week between construction sites, the ReStore store, and community events.

Outdoor: Spring clean up outside, plant flowers, put down mulch, prep playground for family use.

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 1p-4p

Location: 175 W Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI 49440

Volunteers should report to Bethany Christian Services on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Meredith, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5 at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About:  Bethany Christian Services is a Children & Family Services and Human Services non-profit that serves over 200 individuals and families yearly. The Muskegon Office serves at risk children and families through programs such as Post Adoption Resource Center, Foster Care, Foster Home Licensing, Adoption, Pregnancy Counseling and Short Term Immigrant Foster Care.

Outdoor: Walk the bike path along Lakeshore Dr collecting litter and placing it in bags

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 1p-4p

Location: Grand Trunk Launch Ramp, 2090 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon, MI 49441

Volunteers should report to Grand Trunk Launch Ramp on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Teairra, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5 at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About:  The City of Muskegon Parks & Recreation Department is a branch of The City of Muskegon and serves over 3,000 people annually. The Parks & Recreation Department enriches the community by providing safe, welcoming parks, engaging programs, and year-round events for residents of all ages. From maintaining beautiful green spaces and trails to hosting concerts, camps, fitness programs, and family activities, the department creates opportunities for recreation, wellness, and connection. Through accessible facilities and community-focused programming, Parks & Recreation helps enhance quality of life, encourage active lifestyles, and bring people together throughout the City of Muskegon.

Outdoor: Painting of interior and exterior cabins, assisting with grounds preparation, raking, pulling out and cleaning all life jackets, pool house, kayaks

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 1:00p-4:00p

Location: Pioneer Resources Pioneer Trails Camp, 1421 East Fruitvale Road, Holton, MI 49425

Volunteers should report to Pioneer Resources Pioneer Trails Camp, 1421 East Fruitvale Road, Holton, MI 49425 on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Karl, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5 at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About:  Pioneer Trails Camp is a division of Pioneer Resources and provides camp access and disability services to over 3,100 individuals annually. Pioneer Resources, has a rich history of services spanning 70 years. Originally founded by compassionate community members, it began as a response to the needs of individuals with disabilities, establishing a private nonprofit school for children with special needs during the 1950s and 1960s. Over the years, Pioneer Resources has evolved alongside changes in special education and the mental health system. Today, Pioneer Resources remains dedicated to its mission of serving the community, providing vital support to approximately 3000 individuals with disabilities and seniors each year. Through a variety of programs, including housing, transportation, recreation, employment, and training, our agency addresses the diverse needs of its clients. Whether it's facilitating independent living, ensuring access to essential services, or fostering opportunities for social engagement and skill development, Pioneer Resources continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves in Muskegon and Ottawa County.

Outdoor: Yard beautification, Outdoor art painting, Garden set up, Light replacement

Indoor: Room Set up and painting, light replacement

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 1:00p-4:00p

Location: 2333 Jarman St, Muskegon Heights, MI 49444

Volunteers should report to 2333 Jarman St, Muskegon Heights, MI 49444 on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Janet, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5 at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About: Lake Hawks’ mission of being one of the leaders in Muskegon County has been exemplified in its consistency and duration. Where some organizations started out with great intentions but for some reason or another, they are no longer active. That is not the case with Lake Hawks in Flight Foundation Inc. Since our inception we have helped renovate parks, worked with students to upgrade high school field by providing hands on skills, such as electrical work, landscaping, woodwork and flooring.  With that same energy and belief in our community it pushed us to build a new house in Muskegon Heights, the first in 17 years with students from Muskegon Career Tech program.  We pride ourselves in finding new innovative ways to work with multiple organizations and fill in the gaps, whether it is education, career based, family struggles, affordable housing or community driven concerns.

Outdoor: Raking, leaf blowing and gardening all over camp, assist with Evergreen and flagpole build, wash and clean cabins.

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 1:00p-4:00p

Location: Camp Pendalouan, 1243 E Fruitvale Rd, Montague, MI 49437

Volunteers should report to Camp Pendalouan, 1243 E Fruitvale Rd, Montague, MI 49437 on Community Impact Day to meet with the site lead, Madeline, and get further directions.

Volunteer Wrap Party from 4:30-5:00p at The Brewer's Lounge at Pigeon Hill, 895 4th St, Muskegon, MI 49440

About: YMCA Camp Pendalouan is a three-season summer camp and retreat center in Montague, Michigan. Located on the shores of Big Blue Lake, Pendalouan welcomes youth, families, schools, and groups to connect with nature through traditional day, overnight, and weeklong camping experiences. Pendalouan offers summer camps, outdoor education, retreats, and rentals rooted in YMCA values. For over a century, Pendalouan has been a special place to unplug and feel connected to community.

Help shape the future of our community—right here at home.

Do you care deeply about Newaygo County and want to play a hands-on role in strengthening our community? United Way of the Lakeshore is looking for passionate, thoughtful, and community-minded volunteers to serve on our Newaygo County Community Committee.

This isn’t a “sit back and listen” committee—it’s a roll-up-your-sleeves, share-your-voice, help-guide-the-work kind of role.

As a committee member, you’ll help guide the local direction of United Way’s work in Newaygo County by:

Second Thursday of each month 8:00–9:00 AM

Gerber Federal Credit Union Headquarters

Virtual attendance options available

You don’t need to be an expert—just someone who:

Who: Muskegon Rotary Club Members & Community Volunteers
What: Fundraiser Support (Sorting, Sales, Set-Up, Tear-Down)
Where: United Way of the Lakeshore Parking Lot | 31 East Clay Avenue
Dates: May 14–17

About the Opportunity:
Join us in supporting Rotary Youth Exchange students through our Yard Sale Fundraiser. Volunteers will help prepare, organize, and run the sale, with a variety of roles available—from sorting donations to assisting shoppers.

Funds raised will support local students from Muskegon and Oakridge as they prepare for life-changing exchange experiences in Denmark and South Korea.

Volunteer Shifts & Needs:

Wednesday, May 14 (Prep Night)

Friday, May 15 & Saturday, May 16

Set-Up:

Yard Sale Shifts (2-hour increments):

Volunteers may:

Tear-Down:

Sunday, May 17

Set-Up:

Yard Sale Shifts:

No tear-down needed—remaining items will be donated to local charities.

Why Volunteer:

We really need your help to make this fundraiser a success. Every shift filled helps us get one step closer to sending these students on a life-changing journey.

Caring for the earth doesn't end in April! 

In partnership with Muskegon County Parks & the Muskegon Conservation District, join us for a fantastic day of native planting! 

During this event, volunteers will help plant native plants in the parking lot landscape areas to create native gardens. Converting these spaces to native plantings provides many benefits, including improved habitat for pollinators and wildlife, better stormwater absorption, reduced maintenance, and increased biodiversity.

Event Date & Time:

Friday, May 15th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

If all scheduled plants are installed before the end of the event, we will continue planting any remaining plants from previous workdays.

Location:

2161 Seminole Rd, Norton Shore, MI 49441

What to bring:

• Closed-toed shoes and clothing suitable for planting and getting dirty

• Water Bottles

Muskegon Conservation District and Muskegon County Parks will provide the necessary planting tools and gloves.

A special thank you to the Consumers Energy Foundation, whose Planet Award grant made this and many other events in 2025 and 2026 possible. 

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs to families in need in Hart. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Join JCI Greater Muskegon as we walk in the annual Memorial Day Parade in Downtown Muskegon! Current and former members as well as friends and family are all welcome to join the fun!

Staging: 8:30 AM

Parade Start: 9 AM

Meet behind the Social Security Administration Building at 340 Morris Ave. in Downtown Muskegon.

50/50 Ticket Rovers

Beer/Wine Station - Domestic

Info Tent - Share your love for Rotary with PIP!

Kid Zone - This is not babysitting! Children should not be left unattended

Ticket Rovers

Ticket Sales 3rd St

Ticket Sales 4th St

ID Check 4th St

Hydration Station

Check garbage cans and change as needed

Clean-up and tear down
The Boy Scouts do the bulk of the work, but we need to collapse tables and chairs, load vehicles, etc.

Do you want to be notified when Burning Foot volunteer sign-ups go live? Register here by clicking 'sign-up', and we'll email you an early invitation before registration goes live to the public on June 1, 2026!

Please note - this is for interested volunteers for the festival, not a direct sign up to volunteer. 

Burning Foot Beer Festival Ambassador: Sponsorship Volunteer

Burning Foot Beer Festival | Muskegon, MI

Burning Foot Beer Festival is seeking motivated, community-minded volunteers to serve as festival ambassadors in the months leading up to this year’s festival.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside the festival’s Board of Directors and sponsorship team to help secure and strengthen partnerships with local and regional businesses. Sponsorship Volunteers will assist with identifying potential partners, making connections, and supporting outreach efforts that help ensure the continued success of one of Muskegon’s most beloved summer events.

Key Responsibilities:

Why Get Involved?

Volunteer Perks:

This opportunity is ideal for individuals looking to deepen their community involvement, grow professionally, and contribute to an event that brings thousands together on the Lakeshore each year.

Looking for a fun way to earn volunteer hours and help protect local nature?

Join the Muskegon Conservation District for a hands-on invasive species removal event at Muskegon Nature Preserve!

We’ll be hand-pulling European frog-bit, an invasive aquatic plant, to help restore and protect this beautiful natural area. Don’t worry, we’ll make it fun, social, and rewarding!


When: Meet at 9:00 AM, wrap up around Noon

Come for an hour or stay the whole time—every bit helps!

Where: Muskegon Nature Preserve 2529 Lake Avenue North Muskegon, MI, 49445

MCD will provide:
-Waders
-Gloves
-Kayaks & PFDs
-Trash bags & shrub rakes

You bring:
-Your own boots
-A snack or lunch
-A willingness to get a little muddy and make a big impact


This is a great opportunity to give back, learn about invasive species, and enjoy the outdoors with awesome people.

Questions? Contact the Muskegon Conservation District—we’d love to have you join us!

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will help set up at the beginning or tear down at the end of the festival.

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will act as a floater to help with whatever needs to get done before, during, or after the festival.

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will stand at the cross streets of the parade route and direct traffic away from the route.

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will be serving alcohol from the drink tent.

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will be stationed at one of the two entrances to accept entry fees from patrons.

Muskegon Pride Festival 2026 is happening June 6! We are excited to be moving to Hackley Park this year. This means we will need more volunteers than ever. Happy Pride! This position will be selling drink tickets either in a booth or moving throughout the festival grounds.

We're looking for energetic and reliable volunteers to help bring Taste of Muskegon to life! Tasks include setting up tents, tables, and chairs, assisting with signage and decor placement. Volunteers will need to be able to lift light to moderate items and comfortable working outdoors. Wear close toed shoes and comfortable clothes.

The Volunteer Check-In team are friendly faces our volunteers see at Taste of Muskegon! This role is responsible for welcoming volunteers as they arrive, checking them into their shift, and making sure they receive their volunteer T-shirt, and providing our volunteers their free Taste Tickets! This position answers basic questions and helps direct volunteers around Taste of Muskegon.

Ticket Sellers sell Taste tickets to guests. This role involves handling cash and/or card payments, providing customer service, and answering basic questions about ticket options and how they're used throughout the festival. Ticket Sellers should be comfortable working with the public and a fast-paced environment.

Do you love food and the planet?! Then this role is for you!

The Sustainability Green Team volunteers help keep the festival clean and eco-friendly by assisting with trash and recycling stations, guiding guests on proper disposal, and preventing bins from overflowing. This role involves cleanup, being on your feet, and supporting the festival's sustainability efforts. 

Saving the planet never tasted so good!

Beer and wine server volunteers help serve alcoholic beverages in a responsible and friendly manner. Volunteers must be 21+ to pour beer and wine, and valid photo ID will be checked at the Volunteer Check-In before starting your shift.

Friends of the Festival serve as general support volunteers, stepping in where needed throughout the event. This role requires flexibility, a willingness to assist in various areas, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing needs.

Assist at the gate to check IDs for wristbands and helping ensure anyone with alcohol disposes of it prior to leaving the park.

We're seeking dependable volunteers to help with tear down once Taste of Muskegon concludes on Saturday night. Responsibilities include taking down tables, chairs, tents, removal and collection of fencing, and more allowing for the streets to be re-opened. Volunteers need to be able to lift moderate to heavy items and comfortable working outdoors in the dark (with street lights). Wear comfortable clothes and close toed shoes.

We're seeking dependable volunteers to help with tear down once Taste of Muskegon concludes. Responsibilities include taking down tables, chairs, tents, signage, and whatever else includes getting Hackley Park back in order. Volunteers need to be able to lift light to moderate items and comfortable working outdoors. Wear comfortable clothes and close toed shoes.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs to families in need in Hart at the Oceana County Fairgrounds. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

The Ice Delivery position will focus on ensuring all of our food, information and exhibitor booth ice needs are met! Duties include delivering bags to vendors as they make requests, as well as periodically checking to see if vendors needs ice. This position will also need to carefully track how many bags of ice each vendors uses via a sheet given by the LAF Committee.

The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art stations, and so much more! Saturday, June 27, 2026 & Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 9am to 5pm in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

The Information & Sales Team position will focus on working at the Festival Information Booth. Duties could include selling bottled water and answering general questions about the Festival.

The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art stations, and so much more! Saturday, June 27, 2026 & Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 9am to 5pm in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

The Friend of Art position is a flexible role that steps in where needed to support various aspects of the Lakeshore Art Festival. Duties could include selling ice cold bottled water, answering general questions about the Festival, covering volunteer unfilled volunteer positions and ensuring a smooth festival experience. This role requires adaptability, a positive attitude, and a willingness to jump in wherever extra hands are needed.

The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art stations, and so much more! Saturday, June 27, 2026 & Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 9am to 5pm in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

The Information & Sales Team position will focus on working at the Festival Information Booth. Duties could include selling bottled water and answering general questions about the Festival.

The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art stations, and so much more! Saturday, June 27, 2026 & Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 9am to 5pm in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan.

Community Art Project with MCC - Thumbprints United

You can help engage the community in an interactive art project in which anyone can participate for free. 

Thumbprints United is a collaborative community art project that transforms a simple fingerprint into a powerful symbol of unity and diversity. Everyone in the community is invited to leave their unique thumbprint on large boards (shaped like MCC 100) —using colorful, non-toxic ink—to contribute to a vibrant collective artwork. Each thumbprint, distinct in its pattern and hue, represents an individual voice, while the resulting mosaic celebrates the strength found in togetherness. As the boards fill with hundreds of thumbprints, it visually narrates the story of a community coming together to create something beautiful, meaningful, and entirely unique. This project inspires connection, inclusion, and pride, reminding participants that every person leaves an indelible mark on the community. Volunteers would be needed to assist with using rotating blue and yellow inks and offering handwipes to wipe off the access ink. Two volunteers per three hours shift.

Children's Lane Art Project 1 - Creative Color with Muskegon Community College

Children will receive their own coloring book filled with illustrations created by art students from Muskegon Community College. Volunteers guide children to explore their world in color and design, while encouraging imagination and self-expression. The station is set up with crayons for children to color or they can take them home with their limited edition coloring book.

Children's Lane Art Project 2 - Creative Clay with Muskegon Community College

Children will explore the world of sculpting with hand modeling clay. Each child is provided with a set of colorful (MCC colors) soft modeling clay. The station will feature simple instructions and inspiration cards for making fun shapes like animals, flowers, and favorite cartoon characters. Volunteers guide kids through basic techniques such as rolling, pinching, and shaping the clay, while encouraging imagination and self-expression. There are also challenge cards for older children who want to try more complex creations. Once finished, each child can take it home as a unique keepsake. Both activities promotes sensory development, creativity, and fine motor skills in a fun, hands-on environment.

Education in the Wild is a transformative community initiative by the McClure-Rabb Idlewild Foundation designed to empower underserved youth through hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and access to opportunity. Rooted in the historic legacy of Idlewild, this program introduces young people to the beauty and importance of the natural world while fostering confidence, curiosity, and lifelong skills. Participants engage in immersive wilderness experiences that include environmental education, fishing instruction, water safety and swimming activities, and guided outdoor exploration. Through these experiences, youth build resilience, teamwork, and a deeper connection to nature—many for the very first time. Education in the Wild also removes barriers by providing free meals, snacks, and giveaways, ensuring every child feels welcomed, supported, and valued. The program extends beyond outdoor learning by hosting a college and career fair, connecting students and families with higher education institutions, resources, and pathways to future success. By combining outdoor education, nourishment, mentorship, and academic exposure, Education in the Wild creates a safe, enriching environment where underserved youth can thrive, dream bigger, and envision a brighter future.

Set Up Volunteers

Tear Down Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Information Tent & Check-In Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Ticket Sales Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs to families in need in Walkerville. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Craft Beer Server Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Water Sales Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Domestic Beer Server Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

ID Check Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Ticket Rover Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Kid's Zone Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Trash & Clean-Up Volunteers

All Parties in the Park volunteers will receive a free T-shirt!

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs. of food to families in need in Shelby. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs to families in need in Hart. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs to families in need in Hart. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs. of food to families in need in Shelby. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 2 PM.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs. of food to families in need in Shelby. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Help us unload, sort, and distribute 10,000 lbs. of food to families in need in Shelby. Mobile food pantries help meet the community from where they are and provide nutritious and healthy ingredients for family nourishment. Volunteers help with the intake process of the families, help direct traffic, sort the trucks' goods, and help pack/distribute. The mobile food pantry will be open to the public beginning at 5 PM.

Muskegon Heights Public School Academy, along with the Coalition of Community Development, are in need of several volunteers to serve in the libraries at King and Edgewood Elementary Schools. Volunteers will be reading stories, helping children choose and check out books and teaching library etiquette. Times for volunteer needs vary per school.

They are as follows:

All locations are wheelchair accessible and have disability parking available. This opportunity requires each volunteer to submit to a background check! If you are interested, please click "Express Interest " or fill out a contact form by clicking here.

Muskegon Heights Public School Academy, along with the Coalition of Community Development, are in need of several volunteers to help out at King and Edgewood Elementary Schools along with Garden Manager to provide guidance to students planting, growing and harvesting the garden. Volunteers will also help maintain the gardens when students are unavailable.

Times volunteers will be needed vary between the schools and are generally in half hour blocks, or a two hour shift will see four classes. Meet 4 times a week, but commitments don't have to cover all days, we mix and match! Contact us to find out more if you are interested in details. No gardening experience needed. 

Become a Muskegon South Pierhead Light Keeper and spend your summer on the coast of beautiful Lake Michigan, sharing in Muskegon's maritime past! 

Our Light is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1pm-5pm beginning Memorial Day and running through Labor Day. When you sign up to be a Keeper, you will be added to a schedule based on your availability. Volunteers are asked to work a minimum of three 4-hour shifts per month throughout the Summer. Keepers may be very busy or rather slow, dependent on the weather and the day.

Some of the primary responsibilities of volunteer keepers include the following:

Volunteers are asked to learn basic historic information about our lights. They should be energetic, comfortable speaking to the public, able to handle money and make change for admissions and several small gift shop items. Volunteers should plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the start of their shift.

We depend on our Volunteer Lighthouse Keepers to provide visitors and local community members with a fun, informative and educational experience at the lighthouse. Please consider joining us at Muskegon's South Pierhead Lighthouse this summer! 

Volunteers under 18 will need parent/guardian supervision or permission as required.

For information regarding accessibility and all other volunteer questions, please email muskegonlightsoperations@gmail.com.

Muskegon County Department of Health and Human Services is looking for inviduals who would like to make a difference in individual's lives.  You would be transporting individuals to medical appointments or parenting times with their children and/or parents.  You would be reimbursed mileage for using your own car and meals.  You will have to register with two systems: CHAMPS and SIGMA VSS prior to being reimbursed for mileage and transporting individuals. 

Our office will help you enroll in both CHAMPS and SIGMA VSS

A deconstruction project can range from disassembling kitchen cabinetry and countertops, appropriately disconnecting sinks, toilets, and dishwashers, to removing household appliances, landscaping materials and furniture. Deconstruction staff will provide all necessary instructions and safety equipment to volunteers.

The VITA free tax preparation program is a service available in Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties during tax season, February 1 - April 15. The program needs assistance with various clerical needs throughout the tax season and during the rest of the year.

It is also helpful if this position can assist with reminder phone calls for tax appointments.

Learn more by clicking here.

Oversees a geographical area of volunteers and Girl Scout troops.  Hosts monthly meetings at a local, public location.  Assists with girl and adult recruitment.  Primary contact between Girl Scout Council and local Girl Scout Volunteers.

Application and background check required.

Mentor groups of 5-10 girls.  Provide opportunities to develop life skills and share talents.  Volunteering is very flexible to fit any busy schedule.

Application and background check required.

Intern is responsible for assisting with program creation and implementation, office duties, and girl and adult recruitment.

Plan local events for Girl Scout members.  Work closely with Council staff and Service Unit Volunteers.

Application and background check required.

Flexible hours

To participate in all DAT program support and capacity building activities necessary to ensure effective service delivery during a DAT response.  

Disaster Action Teams provide 24-hour emergency response to local disasters, particularly house fires, ensuring that those affected have access to resources for basic necessities such as food, shelter and clothing. 

This position is responsible for the tasks involved in the Disaster Action Team program including:

Ability to:

Current training requirements are contained in the Training and System Requirements for Disaster Action Team Members Job Tool

Works closely with all other DAT Members to ensure team goals are achieved. 

With additional training there are opportunities for individual and leadership development to serve as:

Additional training is available across all service lines to orient volunteer to additional activities and opportunities within the Red Cross.

What is a Tester?

As a tester, you play the role of a home seeker - a person who is looking for a housing unit in which to live. Testers must be at least 18 years old, objective, careful observers, accurate reporters, and truthful and credible witnesses.  View the Volunteer Information page to learn more and the qualifications for testers page to see if you qualify to volunteer.

Testers are paid a stipend for both remote and in-person tests.

Become a Tester

Our housing tester program is an interesting way to learn about the community and get first hand experience with fair housing.  Testers play the role of a home seeker and participate in apartment showings, open houses, and other experiences to help us monitor fair housing practices.  Testers are of vital importance to the advocacy and research programs of the Fair Housing Center.  Without a vast and diverse pool of volunteer testers, the Fair Housing Center would be drastically limited in our ability to conduct research and investigate claims of illegal discrimination.

What is Testing?

Testing is a term used to describe the process of checking the housing market to determine the nature and extent of discriminatory treatment practiced against various home seekers. For example, in matched pair testing two or more individuals, similar in every respect other than the variable being tested, are sent to the same sales or rental office. Testers keep careful notes as to what transpires and, and then record their experience on a standard report form. Differences in the treatment of testers often form the bases for successful resolution of a housing discrimination complaint.

Why Testing?

The testing process has been consistently supported by federal courts as a legitimate and necessary method to identify practices of unlawful housing discrimination. In West Michigan, successful complaints filed by claimants have been based upon evidence obtained by Fair Housing Center testers.

How Do I Become a Tester?

If you are interested in taking on the challenging and rewarding role of a tester, email us to learn about upcoming tester training dates.  To register for a tester training via phone, or for more information about testing, contact Sarah Brandt at (616) 438-5712.

Volunteer sign-ups for SHIP are on hold during open enrollment and will reopen December 8, 2025.

A volunteer SHIP (formerly known as MMAP) counselor meets with Medicare recipients who need help sorting through complex insurance and prescription changes each year.

Once a volunteer finishes the on-line modules and attends a three-day training, s/he becomes a certified SHIP counselor. To maintain a SHIP counselor status a volunteer must commit to 65 hours a year. New three-day trainings are scheduled periodically throughout the year. Counselors are trained, certified and supported.

You can work one day a week or more.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:  Provide Long-Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) services for a facility in Muskegon, Oceana, or Ottawa county including resident advocacy services, family support and consumer education. Actively work to improve the long-term care system by representing the interests of long-term care residents and monitoring the development of federal, state and local laws, regulations and policies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Work with individual residents to resolve simple problems and promote high-quality care.  Explaining residents’ rights, empowering residents to communicate their concerns individually or collectively, and assist in the resolution of resident concerns. Refer complex concerns to the Local Long Term Care Ombudsman for Resolution.

Provide a community presence by visiting residents of the assigned long-term care facilities 2-4 hours weekly. Report results and findings to the Local Long Term Care Ombudsman. 

Promoting community education and awareness regarding long-term care issues and the use of best practices. May attend resident council meetings.

Continually seek to identify problems within the long-term care system.

Maintain inspection reports, licensing information and related materials for assigned facilities. 

Providing family support with assessing participants needs, helping to determine the type of care which may be most appropriate, and providing information about the facilities and services available. 

Attend state-wide training and complete educational requirements to retain LTCO certificate.

Volunteers provide support to Solid Rock Depots in a wide variety of ways. Our Depots strive to keep operating costs as low as possible to maximize the amount of money that goes directly to benefit our community, and volunteers are one of the ways to achieve this. Volunteers also help ensure every Depot is a great experience for donors and shoppers.

There are many ways to volunteer at Solid Rock Depot. Volunteer needs at our Depots may vary from time to time, but the following are common ways you can help the Depot:

Volunteers provide support to Solid Rock Depots in a wide variety of ways. Our Depots strive to keep operating costs as low as possible to maximize the amount of money that goes directly to benefit your community, and volunteers are one of the ways to achieve this. Volunteers also help ensure every Depot is a great experience for donors and shoppers.

There are many ways to volunteer at Solid Rock Depot. Volunteer needs at your local Depot may vary, but the following are common ways you can help the Depot: 

Besides helping Solid Rock Housing Support repair homes through merchandise sales, Solid Rock Depot also helps keep metal out of landfills through our scrap metal recycling efforts. 

A scrap metal volunteer would prepare and sort materials or products for recycling. Occasionally, dismantle components of products, such as appliances, for recycling. 

Experience of working in metal fabrication will help but not required. 

Will work to assist CALL 211 staff to develop and maintain a comprehensive, accurate, well-organized resource database that will provide users with relevant and up-to-date information about health and human service options in our community. Will also play an active role in outreach opportunities including communication with agencies in our community and participation in resource fairs/community events.

There are children in the Oceana County Court system that need Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers. CASAs are assigned by the judge to represent the best interest of children in abuse and neglect court proceedings. The volunteer visits with the child regularly, researches the background of the child, prepares written reports for the Court and attends hearings until the case is permanently resolved. CASA volunteers are a constant for children in a time of chaos. A child may have multiple social workers, foster care placements, therapists, and teachers throughout the life of the case but only one CASA volunteer.

Children with a CASA are more likely to: be placed in a permanent safe home faster, do better in school, and receive comprehensive services needed.

Must be at least 21 years of age, have a High School diploma/equivalent, pass background & reference checks, attend an interview, complete 30 hours of pre-service training, have reliable transportation, and time (10-15 hours per month).

Join us in packing Sack Suppers in their final stage before delivery! 

While this shift is designated for the task of packing Sack Suppers, no task is ever a guarantee. Projects do change last minute due to food goods available on-site. Please be ready to have a good time while ensuring kids in our community get the nutrition they need to thrive!

For a full listing of our volunteer opportunities, please visit our websites:

http://kfb.volunteerhub.com/

https://www.kidsfoodbasket.org/get-involved/find-your-opportunity/

Thank you for supporting Kids' Food Basket!

We need help preparing good, healthy, nourishing meals for children and families in our community! 

Come help prepare Sack Suppers!  You could be assisting with things like sandwich making, packing fresh produce, making trail mix, sorting food, re-packing food items,  or other much needed tasks. No task is ever a guarantee, and projects do change last minute due to food goods available on-site.

Please be ready to have a good time while ensuring kids in our community get the nutrition they need to thrive! 

We will welcome volunteers 5+ years of age. Volunteers ages 5 to 16 must also have parent or guardian supervision. For more information regarding this event, please check out our Volunteer FAQs.