Volunteer Opportunities From: United Way of Mower County

Safety first!

Join our team of vigilant volunteers as a safety squad member at the festival. You and a partner will have access to a golf cart and walkie-talkie to cruise the park, keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. As a safety squad member, you'll help ensure a fun and secure environment for all festival-goers!  Your presence in the park will help festival goers find someone in case of an emergency and maybe even deter mischief before it starts :) 

You'll be on the lookout for potential issues like overflowing trash, low supplies of hand sanitizer or soap, or other issues that require attention. Your job also includes assisting in case of emergencies, like locating and leading other emergency services to those in need. And if you find anyone in distress, you'll be there in a flash!

You don't need to be a superhero to make a difference, just a safety squad member at our festival. Apply now to volunteer!

Do you like jumping in and helping out where needed?  Then we want YOU to be a Freedom Festival Floater!

What does a 'Floater' do?  All the things!  You'll check on other volunteers and see if they need a bottle of water.  Maybe sub in for a bouncy volunteer so they can have a shade break or bathroom break.  Maybe hop into the info tent to help out in case someone is running late.  Keep watch over the kids corn box, keep the picnic tables tidy, pass out brochures, etc.  Basically a jack of all trades!

Bring a friend and hang out at the Festival and help it run smoothly!

Do you want to help set up and decorate for one of the biggest community block parties in Austin?

It takes a lot of hands to get ready for the Freedom Festival, and we need you!

Things that you might do include:

So bring your friends and family, or come on down and meet someone new.  Stay the whole time, or stay as long you can and be a part of putting together our Hometown 4th of July!

Do you want to help tear down and clean up after one of the biggest community block parties in Austin?

It takes a lot of hands to get ready for the Freedom Festival, and we need you!

Things that you might do include:

*Taking down banners

*taking down signs

*Taking down bunting

*Taking lights off fence

*packing up info tent

*Shoveling corn pit

So bring your friends and family, or come on down and meet someone new.  Stay the whole time, or stay as long you can and be a part of putting together our Hometown 4th of July!

Cashier

Donation Intake

Join us for Student Service Week, a week focused on helping students earn volunteer hours while making a difference in the community!

Volunteers will assist with Autism Friendly Camps. This is a great opportunity to work alongside students with autism while supporting teachers and camp staff during activities and games.

Volunteer tasks may include:
• Assisting with fun activities and games
• Supporting teachers and camp staff
• Assisting with set up and clean up
• Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants

No experience is required, just a positive attitude and willingness to help! Multiple days available! 

Location: Our Savior's Lutheran Church across from Banfield| 1600 W Oakland Ave, Austin, MN 55912

We are in need of individuals to help serve and clean up after our dinner meal. You will work with our Kitchen Coordinator throughout the evening.

Details: Serving consists of asking our participants their food selections then placing a serving on their tray. After serving is completed, you will be asked to help wipe down tables, chairs, kitchen counters, serve tables, wash dishes, put dishes away, possibly sweep the floor.

Requirements: Must wear close-toed shoes. Long hair must be pulled back and up into a ponytail. Must be able to stand entire shift. Client confidentiality is a must.

Arrival: When reporting to the Salvation Army, please come to the back door (This is on the North side of our building) Volunteer entry sign is posted on door - There are 3 steps leading up to the back door of our building - knock on the door and someone will let you in to the kitchen.

Volunteer would help supervise and interact with children while Parents are at Parenting Classes.

Location: Community Action Building, 105 1st ST SE (across post office)

Be part of the inaugural Downtown Dish Festival, a brand new community celebration highlighting the flavors, creativity, and spirit of Austin! This free, family friendly downtown block party will bring together local food, entertainment, and community engagement in the heart of downtown Austin.

Volunteers are needed to help prepare the festival grounds before guests arrive. This is a great opportunity to support a new community event while earning volunteer hours and making a positive impact.

Volunteer Responsibilities:
• Move picnic tables and garbage cans throughout the festival area
• Assist vendors with unloading and setting up booths
• Help prepare event spaces and activity areas
• Perform other general set up tasks as needed

Location Note: : The event is happening on Main Street in Austin (rain site TBD). Meeting location would be outside the SPAM museum, near the Main Stage that will be set up on the event day.  

Contact Information: nick@austindca.org |  (630) 205-5764

Be part of the inaugural Downtown Dish Festival, a brand new community celebration highlighting the flavors, creativity, and spirit of Austin! This free, family friendly downtown block party will bring together local food, entertainment, and community engagement in the heart of downtown Austin.

Volunteers will: Help wrap up the inaugural Downtown Dish Festival by assisting with event teardown and cleanup. Volunteers will help restore the downtown area following the event and ensure vendors and event staff can efficiently pack up.

• Move picnic tables and garbage cans to designated pickup locations
• Assist vendors with loading out equipment and supplies
• Perform general event site cleanup
• Help collect and organize event materials and equipment
• Assist with other teardown duties as needed

Location Note: : The event is happening on Main Street in Austin (rain site TBD). Meeting location would be outside the SPAM museum, near the Main Stage that will be set up on the event day.  

Contact Information: nick@austindca.org |  (630) 205-5764

Be part of the inaugural Downtown Dish Festival, a brand new community celebration highlighting the flavors, creativity, and spirit of Austin! This free, family friendly downtown block party will bring together local food, entertainment, and community engagement in the heart of downtown Austin.

Volunteers will: Help ensure the Downtown Dish Festival runs smoothly by supporting event operations throughout the day. Volunteers will assist with vendor and performer needs, help maintain the event space, and provide general support to event staff.

• Monitor garbage and recycling stations throughout the festival area
• Assist bands and performers with loading equipment in and out
• Check in with vendors to identify and address any needs or concerns
• Help keep event spaces clean and organized
• Perform other event support duties as needed

Location Note: : The event is happening on Main Street in Austin (rain site TBD). Meeting location would be outside the SPAM museum, near the Main Stage that will be set up on the event day.  

Contact Information: nick@austindca.org |  (630) 205-5764

As part of Student Service Week, Mower County Public Health and the American Heart Association invite students to participate in a H.E.R.O. Training (Health Emergency Response Operations) focused on strengthening emergency preparedness and response skills.

By attending, students will earn volunteer hours while gaining valuable life-saving knowledge and certifications.

What to Expect

• Learn how to prepare yourself and your family for emergencies

• Receive CPR and First Aid certification

• Discover how to become a community champion through the MN Responds volunteer network

• Participate in interactive, hands-on training led by professionals

• Receive giveaways and resources

This is a great opportunity for students interested in healthcare, emergency response, public service, or leadership while making a positive impact in the community. 

*** SPOTS ARE LIMITED ***

Join Student Service Week and help make a positive environmental impact with Hormel Nature Center on June 26 from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Volunteers will assist with removing invasive buckthorn to help create more space for native, wildlife-friendly plants and habitats. This hands-on opportunity is a great way to support local conservation efforts while earning volunteer hours.

Volunteer tasks include:
• Removing invasive buckthorn plants
• Assisting with environmental restoration efforts
• Helping improve wildlife-friendly spaces
• Working outdoors alongside Nature Center staff

Buckthorn pullers and gloves will be provided. Volunteers should come prepared to work outside by wearing:
• Comfortable clothing
• Closed-toe shoes
• Long pants

Up to 30 volunteers can participate in this opportunity.

Join Student Service Week by volunteering with the Mower Council for the Handicapped on Thursday, June 25 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

The Mower Council for the Handicapped supports individuals in our community who have mobility challenges or disabilities by providing access to durable medical equipment and other important resources.

Tasks will include:
• Deep cleaning and organization
• Thorough sweeping and mopping
• Assisting with inventory counts of durable medical equipment
• General support tasks as needed

This is a great opportunity to earn volunteer hours while helping maintain equipment and spaces that provide important resources for community members. Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for cleaning and organizing activities.

Help support the YMCA during Student Service Week by assisting with various cleaning and maintenance projects that help keep spaces safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for community members.

Volunteers will assist with:
• Indoor playground cleaning
• Weeding and outdoor clean up
• General pool area cleaning
• Other light cleaning and organizational tasks as needed

This is a great opportunity for students looking to earn volunteer hours while helping maintain important community spaces used by children and families throughout the year. Volunteers should be prepared to work indoors and outdoors and wear comfortable clothing that can get dirty.

Join us during Student Service Week and help support a local Youth Track Meet through Austin Parks and Recreation!

Volunteer tasks may include:
• Assisting with event set up and clean up
• Helping direct participants and families
• Assisting staff at activity stations or events
• Helping keep events running smoothly
• Encouraging and cheering on participants

Volunteers should meet at Wescott Field/Packer Dome.

This opportunity is perfect for students who enjoy working with children, sports, teamwork, and community events. No experience is needed, just a willingness to help and be positive and engaged throughout the event!

Join Student Service Week by volunteering with the Parenting Resource Center and help create clean, welcoming spaces for local families and children.

Volunteers will assist with:
• Cleaning rooms at the Seibel Center
• Sanitizing toys and children’s items
• Organizing and helping with the clothes closet
• General cleaning and organization projects as needed

This opportunity is a great way to earn volunteer hours while supporting programs and resources that serve families in our community. Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and be ready to help with a variety of hands-on tasks throughout the shift.

Location:  105 1st St SE | Across from the Post Office 

Join Student Service Week by volunteering with Discover Austin on June 25 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

This opportunity is perfect for one student interested in helping welcome visitors and support local tourism efforts in the community.

Volunteer tasks will include:
• Making welcome bags for visitors and guests
• Refilling brochure and information racks
• Assisting with light organizational tasks
• Helping create a welcoming experience for community visitors

This is a great opportunity to earn volunteer hours while learning more about community engagement, tourism, and local events in Austin.

Volunteers would help kids do crafts, play games and other STEAM activities. The class is from 9 to 10 am but I need help with setting up and clean up at the end. Class will be at four different parks. Thursdays will be at Galloway Park.

Wagon Wheels is an equine therapeutic program that supports individuals physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually through therapeutic horseback riding experiences. Participants include individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/Hyperactivity Disorders, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, trauma or brain injury, and other conditions.

Looking for a volunteer carpenter or individuals with construction experience to help build a mounting stand that will support participants in safely accessing horses during programming. This project will make a meaningful impact by helping improve accessibility and safety for riders of all abilities.

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Lorna at  320-262-2864 to express interest.

Wagon Wheels is looking for a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator to help support our equine therapy program. This role is ideal for someone who is organized, reliable, and interested in taking on a leadership position while making a meaningful impact.

Wagon Wheels supports individuals physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, including participants with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, trauma, brain injuries, and more.

Time Commitment: A few flexible hours during the week.    Schedule will be coordinated based on your availability. Great way to earn extra volunteer hours during the week! 

We are looking for someone who: Is organized and communicates clearly.    Can take initiative and support a team Is dependable and willing to commit to a consistent schedule

Additional Information: The organization will work with your schedule to ensure a good fit. This is a great opportunity for anyone ready to step into a leadership role.

*****Scheduling: After signing up, Lorna will contact you to schedule your volunteer time. You may also call Lorna directly at 320 262 2864 to express interest.

Location: The location will be shared after you sign up to volunteer.

Join us for a work party at the Nature Center! Depending on the greatest need, you will participate in an hour and a half long outdoor volunteer event with other community members. Staff will guide you on what is needed; be prepared to get your hands dirty and have fun!

Multiple Days Available

Volunteers would help kids do crafts, play games and other STEAM activities. The class is from 9 to 10 am but I need help with setting up and clean up at the end. Class will be at four different parks. Mondays will be at Shirley Theel Memorial Park.

Volunteers would help kids do crafts, play games and other STEAM activities. The class is from 9 to 10 am but I need help with setting up and clean up at the end. Class will be at four different parks. Tuesdays will be at Lafayette Park.

Volunteers would help kids do crafts, play games and other STEAM activities. The class is from 9 to 10 am but I need help with setting up and clean up at the end. Class will be at four different parks. Fridays will be at Lions Park.

Wagon Wheels is an equine therapeutic program that supports individuals physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Participants include individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/Hyperactivity Disorders, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, trauma or brain injury, and other conditions.

Volunteer Duties:
Volunteers will assist with brushing horses. Primary responsibilities include brushing and grooming the horses to help prepare them for therapeutic sessions. Volunteers may also help with light stable tasks such as cleaning stalls, but the main focus is ensuring the horses are brushed and ready.

Time Commitment:
This opportunity is available one day per week, or more if desired. Evening availability is preferred between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

Scheduling:
After signing up, Lorna will contact you to schedule your volunteer time. You may also call Lorna directly at 320 262 2864 to express interest.

Location:
The location will be shared after you sign up to volunteer.

*Please note that this volunteer opportunity does not compensate you for your tutoring services*

Our current tutors are supporting students on a weekly schedule. Hours are flexible, and current tutoring locations are at Austin Public Schools, the YMCA, or the Austin Public Library. 

Once you have registered to be a volunteer Aspire Tutoring tutor and you are not on our current tutor list, we will email you a tutor application/questionnaire for more information OR you can click the link to complete the application here https://airtable.com/app3CzHIhvZQWIhXa/pagqPzESUOSUWxOTL/form

For more information, please call Austin Aspires at 507-437-0920.

This a unique volunteer experience to gain experience and be a part of the Children's Dental Health Services clinical care team. The Clinical Support volunteer works closely with a Dental Hygienist to help organize the clinical care area before and after the family visit. You will help bring out designated supplies for each visit (these may include tooth brushes and other dental supplies). Volunteers will help interview children on their oral health habits and knowledge. This person will work closely with CDHS staff and the dental hygienist and support the activities of the clinic.

Volunteer drivers are needed to provide transportation for clients to medical appointments or errands using their personal vehicle. Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement at the current IRS business rate and can choose their available days and times.

Every day people are forced from their homes due to disasters. Single- and multi-family fires account for 90% of disaster responses. YOU can help us respond to disasters in your community. YOU can be there for the family in need. As a member of the Disaster Action Team you respond to emergencies, ensuring that those affected have access to resources for basic necessities such as food, shelter and clothing.

To learn more Click Here.

Questions or assistance email: MNDAKVolunteer@redcross.org

Help coordinate disaster response efforts from the comfort of your home!

The Duty Officer plays a critical role in ensuring timely and effective disaster response. As a virtual volunteer, you’ll be the first point of contact for disaster notifications and will help dispatch teams to assist those in need.

What You'll Do:

What You’ll Need:

100% Virtual | Flexible Shifts | Make a Real Impact

If you're organized, calm under pressure, and want to make a difference from wherever you are, we’d love to have you on the team!

Click Here to learn more and sign up!

Questions or need assistance email: MNDAKVolunteer@redcross.org

Volunteer advocates allow CVRC to provide 24-hour (evenings, weekends, and holidays) assistance to victims of crime by answering our crisis line via a cell phone that we provide to you.

Volunteers will help provide support, information, referrals, and assistance to victims of many different types of crime. When on-going support is needed, our volunteers help provide a warm hand off to our in-office advocates, that will continue to provide support. With use of the cell phone provided, calls are answered in the comfort of your own home. During your volunteer time, a staff member is always available to answer your questions.

We will provide you with the tools and skills needed to prepare you for this opportunity. First, we will have you come to our office to shadow us to better understand the work we do. Then you will complete the online training and , some in-office training with us.

Please contact our office to request a volunteer application, meet with the volunteer coordinator to review requirements for volunteering, shadow in office, and complete the online and in-person training.

We are flexible in working with you so that you can volunteer when it works best for your schedule. 

We need volunteers for Bingo at Lansing Corners. We need volunteers to call bingo, sell bingo packets, meat boards & pull tab style racing. Selected volunteers must be 18 or over, and able to move around freely in a bar environment. Must be trustworthy and reliable. Each volunteer will get a free standard meal. Plan on about 2.5 hours on Wednesday evenings. Bingo is such a fun activity and we would love to have people who love to be around a fun environment to help us out. Volunteers are asked to contact the Mower Council for more information. 507-433-9609 or email us at mowercouncilhandicap@hotmail.com . 

United Way is seeking dedicated volunteers to serve as Bus Aides for the Rainbow Route Preschool Bus. As a Bus Aide, you will help supervise and engage with preschool children during their ride to and from school. This is a fun and meaningful way to support young children while ensuring their safety on the bus.

Schedule

Responsibilities

Requirements

NEXT STEPS: 

This role focuses on working with our youngest 4-H members, in grades K-2, providing hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity and skill-building. Responsibilities include: 

View the full role description here. Note: To be in this role, you must complete the Minnesota 4-H Volunteer Application process, which includes an application, a background check, and a Safety of Minors Orientation

If interested, contact Adam Stevermer, Mower County 4-H Extension Educator, at stev0421@umn.edu or 507-438-2394. 

Hospice volunteers serve as supportive companions and patient advocates.  Hospice volunteers can assist with a few light household tasks, read to a patient, play a game, write letters, converse, facilitate legacy/memory making activities, listen, provide vigil, respite or other meaningful interactions.  Hospice volunteers are also needed to assist with clerical tasks in the office and providing grief support for the surviving families and community.  All Mayo Clinic Hospice Volunteers must be at least 18 years or older and are provided with a robust and comprehensive training to help you feel confident in your abilities to offer supportive presence to hospice patients and bereaved. If you'd like to apply, please visit https://volunteer.mayoclinic.org/. For more information about the rewarding opportunities that await you, please contact Mayo Clinic Hospice at 507-284-4002.

Hospice pet therapy volunteers are teams of an adult and a certified therapy animal who are sensitive to the needs of hospice patients and families. Hospice volunteers visit with patients, converse, facilitate legacy/memory making activities, listen, provide vigil or other meaningful interactions. All Mayo Clinic Hospice Volunteers must be at least 18 years or older and are provided with a robust and comprehensive training to help you feel confident in your abilities to offer supportive presence to hospice patients and bereaved. If you'd like to apply, please visit https://volunteer.mayoclinic.org/.  For more information about the rewarding opportunities that await you, please contact Mayo Clinic Hospice at 507-284-4002.

Purpose of Link Crew

Link Crew is a program designed to empower Juniors and Seniors as role models for new students and Freshmen.  Link Crew is an important part of helping Freshmen transition to the high school and provides an opportunity for upperclassmen to develop their leadership skills. Through Link Crew, most students earn 17 hours of community service, but through special opportunities, some students earn more.

Mandatory Activities

The Hormel Historic Home is proud to share the history and architecture of the treasured home of George and Lillian Hormel.  Our tour guides lead guests in groups on tours through the rooms telling stories of the family and pointing out the unique architectural features.  A script is provided as well as family history to help guides become familiar and comfortable with the tour.