How to "Serve Your Community Together" Sheet

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Serving Your Community Together

Want to make a difference in your community? Do it together!

“I truly believe that when we work together, we can build the strongest, kindest, and most connected community possible.”  

~Dolly Parton

There are countless organizations working every day to support people in need. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, find an organization that is already doing meaningful work and bring a group of people together to help.

Volunteering as a group is a great way to strengthen your local community while building your own community of kind, like-minded people who want to make a difference.

How to organize a group service opportunity: 

1. Find an organization 

Research organizations in your community that serve people who need support. Look for food pantries, shelters, community kitchens, support for immigrants, environmental groups, or other nonprofits whose mission speaks to you.

2. Find a group opportunity

Contact the organization and ask about volunteer opportunities that can accommodate a group (this info can often be found on the website). A group of 10–15 people is often a good size, but every organization is different. The organization can then hold a block of volunteer spots for you and your group.

3. Get the details:

Before inviting people, make sure you understand exactly what is expected. Ask about:

  • Date, time, and location & group size

  • Physical requirements and any age restrictions

  • What volunteers will be doing

  • What to wear or bring

  • Parking directions

  • Registration or waivers if applicable 

  • Any other rules or instructions

4. Spread the word

Advertise the opportunity through your network of friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, community groups, or other like-minded people. 

5. Pass along all necessary info

Make sure everyone receives the organization’s instructions before the service day. For example: wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, be prepared to lift boxes, wear clothes that can get dirty, arrive 15 minutes early, or complete a volunteer form in advance.

6. Show up and serve! 

Show up, and let the organization lead the way. Remember: you’re there to support their work and fill a need they’ve identified. Bring a positive attitude and be ready to pitch in!  

Suggestions on what to bring as an organizer: (but not necessary)

  • Name tags (if org doesn’t provide them)

  • Portable speaker - helps keep it upbeat to work with music 

  • Water and/or snacks 

When we serve together, we aren’t just helping an organization, we’re building relationships, strengthening our communities, and reminding ourselves that we all have something to contribute and there are so many good people willing to help their neighbor!

Serving Your Community Together

Want to make a difference in your community? Do it together!

“I truly believe that when we work together, we can build the strongest, kindest, and most connected community possible.”  

~Dolly Parton

There are countless organizations working every day to support people in need. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, find an organization that is already doing meaningful work and bring a group of people together to help.

Volunteering as a group is a great way to strengthen your local community while building your own community of kind, like-minded people who want to make a difference.

How to organize a group service opportunity: 

1. Find an organization 

Research organizations in your community that serve people who need support. Look for food pantries, shelters, community kitchens, support for immigrants, environmental groups, or other nonprofits whose mission speaks to you.

2. Find a group opportunity

Contact the organization and ask about volunteer opportunities that can accommodate a group (this info can often be found on the website). A group of 10–15 people is often a good size, but every organization is different. The organization can then hold a block of volunteer spots for you and your group.

3. Get the details:

Before inviting people, make sure you understand exactly what is expected. Ask about:

  • Date, time, and location & group size

  • Physical requirements and any age restrictions

  • What volunteers will be doing

  • What to wear or bring

  • Parking directions

  • Registration or waivers if applicable 

  • Any other rules or instructions

4. Spread the word

Advertise the opportunity through your network of friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, community groups, or other like-minded people. 

5. Pass along all necessary info

Make sure everyone receives the organization’s instructions before the service day. For example: wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, be prepared to lift boxes, wear clothes that can get dirty, arrive 15 minutes early, or complete a volunteer form in advance.

6. Show up and serve! 

Show up, and let the organization lead the way. Remember: you’re there to support their work and fill a need they’ve identified. Bring a positive attitude and be ready to pitch in!  

Suggestions on what to bring as an organizer: (but not necessary)

  • Name tags (if org doesn’t provide them)

  • Portable speaker - helps keep it upbeat to work with music 

  • Water and/or snacks 

When we serve together, we aren’t just helping an organization, we’re building relationships, strengthening our communities, and reminding ourselves that we all have something to contribute and there are so many good people willing to help their neighbor!