As my children are getting a little older, we want to include time where we can volunteer together and give back to our community. Omaha has many wonderful organizations whose mission is to help others, and it is inspiring to serve with the people and agencies who give so much every day.
It is always a good idea to contact the agency before planning to volunteer to verify age requirements, complete the application process (if needed), or schedule a time in advance.
Omaha Area Volunteer Opportunities
COPE (Christian Outreach Program – Elkhorn) – Help sort and organize clothes. Donations of clothing and food welcome.
Heartland Hope Mission – Volunteer at the food and clothing pantry, ages 12 and up with adults.
Keep Omaha Beautiful – Volunteer as a group with trail clean-up, youth fall clean-up, and more.
Kids Against Hunger – Help fundraise and join a packaging event.
Visit a Nursing Home – Help with group activities, decorate for Holidays, make door decorations, play games with residents, participate in crafts, or play a musical instrument.
Omaha Public Library – Complete the youth application (ages 18 and under) or become a Summer Reading Program Volunteer (5th grade or above).
Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium – Several programs available for students in 4th through 12th grade.
Open Door Mission – Individuals, families, youth groups and businesses are needed to help sort, organize, and shelve donations.
Organize a drive – Collect gently used toys, clothes, books and donate them together.
Rainbow House – Families can volunteer to provide meals for children who are in the hospital.
Project Linus – Make a tie blanket for children with Project Linus.
Provide a meal at Ronald McDonald House – During cold and flu season (Nov. 1 – March 15), volunteers under the age of 18 will not be permitted. Maximum group of 8 volunteers (youth and adults). Children (must be potty trained) who come with a dinner group will be expected to stay in the kitchen with their parent.
Other opportunities with Ronald McDonald House – Collect Pop Tabs, do a donation drive, or make sibling activity bags.
Ring bells with the Salvation Army during the Holiday Season – Volunteers under age 16 require adult supervision.
Together – Youth, professional and civic groups, faith organizations, families and individuals are all welcome to volunteer with Together to help with daily tasks and special projects to help end homelessness.
Youth Emergency Services (YES) – Organize a drive or fundraiser, or prepare meals off-site and deliver them to their Street Outreach Center ready to be served to their youth who visit daily. (Sign up online)
United Way of the Midlands Volunteer Database – A great resource with a searchable database for finding local volunteer opportunities.
