Opportunities From: United Way of East Central Iowa

Grow Pamoja - Urban Garden Grow Pamoja offers immigrants and refugees hands-on farming experience in America. Our urban garden provides access to agricultural resources, supporting local food systems and empowering newcomers to grow and contribute to their communities.

Schedule: Every other week for tasks such as weeding Note: Must be scheduled in advance; volunteers need to be flexible with coordination

Grow Pamoja - Southwest Food Pantry provides nutritious food, supporting local food systems and empowering newcomers to grow and contribute to their communities.

English Language Program: Building Confidence and Community At United We March Forward (UWMF), we believe that language is the key to opportunity. Our English Language Program is designed to help immigrants and refugees gain proficiency in English, enhancing their ability to navigate life in the United States. We offer in-person classes, ensuring a supportive environment where students can learn and practice together.

Partnering with Kirkwood Community College, we provide additional small group sessions to meet the diverse needs of our learners. Our program also offers access to language learning tools like Rosetta Stone, allowing students to practice at their own pace, wherever they feel comfortable. We celebrate milestones with our students, knowing that English proficiency takes time, dedication, and perseverance. Our goal is to empower individuals to succeed in their personal and professional lives while fostering a sense of community.

Requirements: Consistency is important; ideally 21+ years old with a willingness to commit 1–2 times per month

Note: This is not a one-time volunteer opportunity

Driver's Education Program: Empowering Economic Mobility United We March Forward (UWMF) is dedicated to helping immigrants and refugees increase economic mobility by obtaining their learner's permits. Through our partnership with the Iowa Department of Transportation’s "Skip the Trip" program, we support non-English speakers in learning to drive. We serve an average of 3-4 students each month, providing personalized instruction and translation assistance. Driving opens doors to better employment, self-sufficiency, and the ability to support their families and communities.

Requirements: Volunteers should be 21+ with a valid driver’s license and a flexible schedule