Opportunities From: United Way of East Central Iowa

Volunteers — or “Snow Heroes” — who would like to help shovel snow from public sidewalks for Cedar Rapids residents in need this winter. Snow Hero volunteers can sign up on the City of Cedar Rapids website at www.CityofCR.com/SnowBuddies. Heroes must be at least 18 years old and provide their own snow-removal equipment. 

Snow Heroes will be paired with eligible residents in need - based on factors such as location and availability. Snow Heroes will not be allowed to solicit or accept money, tips or gifts for their volunteer activities. Can't commit to the whole winter season but want to help keep our sidewalks safe and clear? Backup Snow Buddies are needed as well! 

As cold and flu season approaches, the Eastern Iowa Health Center is seeking volunteers to host a coat drive for our adult patients. We are collecting hats, gloves, and winter coats in all sizes to help ensure that our patients stay warm and healthy throughout the colder months.

Make a Difference in the Kitchen with Meals on Wheels!

Meals on Wheels serves our community by preparing and delivering hot, nutritious meals to clients each weekday. Volunteers play a vital role in helping us meet this mission—and we couldn’t do it without you!

Available Kitchen Opportunities:

Ingredient Preparation — 7:30/8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Assist with washing, chopping, and preparing ingredients for the day’s meals.

Assembly Line Assistance — 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Work alongside staff and fellow volunteers to assemble hot, nutritious meals.

Meal Packaging
Help package approximately 600 meals per day with a dedicated, friendly team.

Route Organization — Monday through Friday
Assist in organizing and staging meals for delivery to our clients.

Congregate Meals (Brownstone Café) — 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Support our community dining program by serving meals and engaging with guests.

Each of these roles offers the chance to work with a supportive team while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Join us in delivering “more than just a meal.” As a Meals on Wheels volunteer driver, you’ll provide nutritious food, a friendly visit, a safety check—and the reassurance that someone cares. Your time helps seniors remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Our dedicated volunteers deliver more than 1,000 meals each weekday across the metro area. Drivers pick up meals around 10:45 a.m. from various pick-up sites, and each route takes about one hour to complete.

Flexible Opportunities:
Our routes are both family-friendly and business-friendly. You can deliver once a week, once a month, or as your schedule allows—we’ll work with you to find a fit that works best.

Volunteer Requirements:

A current driver’s license

Your own vehicle and proof of auto insurance

Completion of a background check prior to delivering

Youth are welcome to accompany an adult driver!

If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, contact us at volunteer@horizonsfamily.org or call 319-398-3943 to learn more.