Volunteering

Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter

For more information about joining the ACE Team, complete the online Volunteer Interest Profile, email infonc@alz.org, or call 828-398-5780.

• Alzheimer’s Association Community Educators (ACE) are public speakers, teachers, and key volunteers on the Western Carolina Chapter team. They raise awareness, teach dementia specific education workshops and connect attendees to chapter services. ACEs work in their professional, civic, and personal spaces to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and are empowered to identify gaps, areas of need, and areas of interest and fill those through education.

 

 

 

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that coordinates the needs of wildlife rehabilitation in Western North Carolina providing care for injured and orphaned wildlife, support for the wildlife rehabilitation network and conservation education to the community. Info: appalachianwild.org/volunteer.html

• Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship: Interns are vital to providing care for the animals and coordination of volunteers in the Wildlife Urgent Care facility during the busy seasons which run March – September. Interns help in all aspects of the rehabilitation process, from answering phone calls and emails about wildlife, to the daily care of the animals and their holding areas to assisting with rescue and transport, as well as releasing healed animals back into the wild. Each day is different and interns must be dedicated, dependable, flexible and comfortable coordinating other volunteers while also handling communications with the public. Interns must commit to at least four shifts a week and at least a six week period and ideally up to three months. The facility will be open with days and hours based on staffing and intern availability. Apply here: https://bit.ly/2yMlQ1k

 

 

 

American Cancer Society

For over 100 years, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has worked relentlessly to save lives and create a world with less cancer. Together with millions of our supporters worldwide, we help people stay well and get well, find cures, and fight back against cancer. Info: Tracy at 828-254-6931 ext. 29194.

• American Cancer Society needs office volunteers! Do you have a passion for helping others? Do you want to help end the suffering caused by cancer? Help the American Cancer Society end the fight against Cancer by being an office volunteer at the Asheville office of the American Cancer Society. Activities you will be engaged in include but are not limited to:
  • Help with answering phones, taking messages and transferring calls
  • Open and sort mail and faxes
  • Prepare regular and bulk office mailings
  • Shred files
  • Organize office spaces and files
  • Provide customer service by greeting and assisting office visitors and volunteers
  • Help connect volunteers with appropriate office staff
  • Assist with regular and bulk mailings
  • Copy materials, fold brochures and cut paper
• You will gain real world office experience. Learn how the non-profit sector works. Have first-hand connections with Relay Staff and programs offering opportunities for continuing service in our mission. We can schedule hours that work with your schedule. We look forward to having you on our team!

 

 

 

The American Red Cross

Network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world. We roll up our sleeves and donate time, money and blood. We learn or teach life-saving skills so our communities can be better prepared when the need arises. We do this every day because the Red Cross is needed – every day. Sign up to volunteer at redcross.org/volunteer or contact Kimberly Collins at kimberly.collins2@redcross.org or 828-545-9196.

• The American Red Cross continues to have an emergency need for blood and platelet donations. And, the number of blood drives in the Western North Carolina area have increased. There is not only a great need for blood donors, but also volunteers. Do you have great customer service skills and want to make a difference? Support the Red Cross blood program as a Blood Donor Ambassador! Ambassadors help donors feel welcome and comfortable, sign them in, and visit with them while giving out snacks & beverages after they donate blood. Shifts vary with each drive, but are generally 3 – 5 hours per shift.

 

 

 

Asheville Area Habitat For Humanity

Builds new homes for qualifying families and individuals while preserving existing homes. Info: info@ashevillehabitat.org

• Asheville Area Habitat is seeking individuals who feel a connection to our mission and are interested in getting their hands dirty on the jobsite. We need volunteer help in both our New Home construction and Home Repair programs. With Asheville Habitat, you will build ramps, frame walls, install flooring … and change lives.
• We welcome those with years of experience and those with none! Our supervisors are experts in construction and renovation, and excellent teachers. Whether you can make a weekly commitment or only come once, your efforts will help us build and repair homes for families struggling to live safely and affordably in Buncombe County. Our shifts run from around 8 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon, with Friday shifts ending at noon.
• Go to ashevillehabitat.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up. Please contact Stephanie Wallace at swallace@ashevillehabitat.org or 828-210-9383 with any questions or group inquiries.

 

 

Asheville-Buncombe Technical College

Changing Lives | Strengthening Communities

• At A-B Tech, our volunteers are a vital part of achieving our mission of making A-B Tech a leader in the development of innovative educational programs. They serve in a variety of capacities across all our campuses from administrative support to tutoring. For more information volunteer@abtech.edu or 828-3968-7761. Applicants must be 18+. abtech.edu/volunteer-opportunities

 

 

 

 

Asheville City Schools Foundation

Works to create strong public schools and break the cycle of poverty. Info: jay@acsf.org or 828-350-6135.

• Volunteers needed to tutor/ mentor students (k-12). Shifts available Monday – Friday, 8 am – 6 pm.

• Volunteers needed to tutor Asheville High School/SILSA students. All subjects requested, math tutors especially needed. Once per week 10 – 10:35 am or 3:30 – 4:30 pm.

 

 

 

 

Asheville Downtown Association

Acts a leader and advocate for the vitality of downtown. Info: ashevilledowntown.org, volunteer@ashevilledowntown.org or 828-251-9973.

• Volunteers are needed at all of our events, including the Downtown After 5 concert series, Ingles Independence Day Celebration, Asheville Oktoberfest and Asheville Holiday Parade. Duties include everything from pouring beer and wine to selling merchandise and water or helping with festival greening.

 

 

 

 

Asheville Living Building Challenge Collaborative

The Asheville Collaborative intends to be a resource for built environment professionals that want to understand Living Building Challenge concepts and process. We support Living Buildings by providing information and education to the public, builders, designers, and advocates for change. We are available to present on key concepts of the Living Building Challenge at your office or community meeting space. Info: collaboratives.living-future.org/asheville or livingbuildingasheville@gmail.com.

• Our goal as the Asheville Living Building Challenge Collaborative is to foster the area’s first LBC-certified construction within three to five years. We are looking for building professionals, community leaders, and sustainability champions to join our collaborative as a volunteer to research barriers and opportunities of implementing a living building in WNC. As a volunteer, you choose which topic interests you: place, water, energy, health, happiness, materials, equity or beauty.

 

 

 

 

Aura Home for Women Vets – Asheville

Aura Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, helping homeless women veterans transition from communal living to self-sufficiency. Info: Alyce Knaflich at 828-771-6979 or aurahomewomenvets.org

• Volunteers are needed for computer tech support in office, volunteer coordinator and working board support.

Aura Home for Women Vets – Hendersonville

Aura Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, helping homeless women veterans transition from communal living to self-sufficiency. Info: Ellen-Gayle at helioswarriors@gmail.com

• Volunteer support is needed for property renovation located in Hendersonville. If interested, please submit your contact information, skills, talents, experience, day/weekend/times available.

 

 

 

Asheville Poverty Initiative

Asheville Poverty Initiative’s 12 Baskets Cafe is a powerful program for creating alternative social space, 12 Baskets works to build relationships among local residents, schools, social services, and businesses to deconstruct stereotypes and reduce fear. People from all walks of life are encouraged to come and meet their neighbors. All food served is rescued from local restaurants like Sunny Point, Morrison Healthcare/Mission Hospital and grocers and caterers. Simply by sitting and eating with someone you might otherwise never bump into: Stereotypes are dismantled. Fear reduced. Hope empowered. (828) 232-2149 • ashevillepovertyinitiative@gmail.com

• Join us at the Cafe and/or volunteer to pick up food. We welcome anyone interested in getting involved at The Café to come to our brief volunteer orientation help every Wednesday morning at 10:30 am or reach out via phone or email. The Cafe is open Monday-Friday, 11 am – 1 pm in the API community space at the rear entrance to 610 Haywood Road. In addition to the Café, API offers Realities of Poverty educational programming led by local individuals with direct experience living in poverty.

 

Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank

Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank is the only diaper bank serving WNC. Our mission is to improve the lives of babies, toddlers and parents in Western North Carolina through diaper distribution, community awareness and partnerships. We are a nonprofit diaper bank distributing diapering supplies (diapers, wipes, rash cream, cloth diapers) through social service organizations who work directly with families in need. Diaper need, or not having enough diapers to keep your child clean, dry and healthy is a serious public health issue nationally (1 in 3 American’s struggle to afford enough diapers) and a huge community problem in WNC. Diapers cannot be purchased with SNAP (food assistance) or WIC benefits so low-income families especially struggle to afford the high cost of diapers. Every month we distribute more than 30,000 diapers and need volunteer support to keep up with the incredible demand!

Volunteer Needs/ Opportunities:

• In person warehouse volunteering: Join us in-person to wrap diapers, pack orders, unload delivery trucks, prepare cloth diaper kits and organize the diaper shelves!  We add dates by the month and have 2 locations available.
• Host a diaper drive!
Gather your friends, coworkers or neighbors and collect diapering supplies to donate to BNB! We have an easy to use Diaper Drive Kit and will provide you a collection box. This is an easy way to help raise awareness and make a measurable difference for diaper need in our community.
•At home diaper wrapping volunteering:
Because diapers come in such a wide range of sizes and quantities per package, and we aim to distribute them as equitably as possible, our volunteers help us bundle diapers in packs of 25 for sizes Preemie-6, and packs of 12 for size 7, and Pull-Ups.  It’s an easy process, and we’ll show you how to do it and send you home with all the supplies you’ll need.  Once you have the diapers wrapped, you’ll bring them back and we’ll pack them into diaper orders to go our partners. –
To learn more about any of these volunteer opportunities visit https://babiesneedbottoms.org or email info@babiesneedbottoms.org

 

Beacon of Hope

The Beacon of Hope serves Madison County residents by providing food, emergency assistance, low-cost thrift store and advocacy to those in need. Contact Rachell Skerlec, Volunteer Coordinator at 828-649-3470

• Volunteer needed to help with office work a few hours a week Thursdays and/or Fridays.

 

 

 

 

Big Brothers, Big Sisters of WNC

Helps children thrive through partnerships with trained adult mentors. Info: bbswnc.org or 828-253-1470

• Big Brothers Big Sisters needs volunteers age 18 and older to share their interests twice a month with a young person from a single-parent home. Suggested activities are free or low-cost, such as sports, local attractions, etc. Men are especially needed! Volunteers are also needed to mentor one hour per week in elementary schools and after-school sites. Find out more at bbbswnc.org and/or attend an orientation session that takes place from noon to 12:30 pm on the second and fourth Thursdays at our office in the United Way Building, 50 S. French Broad Ave., Suite 213, Asheville.

 

Black Mountain Home for Children, Youth & Families

Founded in 1904 as Mountain Orphanage, we have provided care for children in need in Western North Carolina for more than 100 years. If you want to give back, add purpose to your life, and make a forever impact on the lives of children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, and other traumas, we invite you to attend a campus tour and learn more about People with Purpose Volunteer Program. For more information please email info@BlackMountainHome.org, or call 828-686-3451

Some ways you can help: Work in our Mountain Home Thrift Store or Thirteen Pennies Cafe. Help out in our reception office. Keep our grounds and lawn looking nice. Work as a handyman or skilled tradesman on building and remodeling projects. Provide care for our small farm animals – Veterinarian training needed. Keep our vehicles and machines tuned, auto, small engines, appliances, etc.

 

 

 

 

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

Provides the resources and life-saving programs to build a No Kill community in Buncombe County. Info: bwar.org or 828-230-2156

• Volunteers needed to help care for animals staying in the adoption center and/or foster animals at home.
• Volunteers needed to assist with fundraisers, adoption events and clerical tasks.

 

Center for Art & Inspiration 

Volunteers needed for greeting guests and directing them to their seats, monitoring guests’ behavior during performances and light clean up after shows and smiling! 828-697-8547 or email info@thecenteraib.com

 

 

 

WNC Bridge Foundation

WNC Bridge Foundation Info: 828-575-2509 • wncbridge.org • Make a new start, become a part of WNC Bridge! We’re always on the lookout for dynamic and friendly people who have a desire to give back, no matter what your background. By volunteering or donating, you are directly responsible for helping provide funding for all of WNC Bridge Foundation supports.

 

 

 

 

Charlie’s Angels Animal Rescue

A shelter and foster network for area cats and dogs based in Fletcher. Info: wncanimalrescue.org or 828-885-3647.

• Volunteers are needed to foster a dog for 2 to 3 weeks. No costs involved.

 

 

 

 

Children First CIS of Buncombe County

Provides programs to economically disadvantaged children & families. Info: childrenfirstcisbc.org, info@childrenfirstbc.org or 828-259-9717.

• Children thrive when there is a caring adult in their lives. You can be that caring adult and help elementary students succeed in school & after school. Just one hour a week can make a difference in the life of a local child living in poverty. We have opportunities to be a tutor/mentor/role model for local children in need Monday-Friday both during school and after-school hours. This is a great opportunity for retirees and students.

 

 

 

 

Citizens’ Climate Lobby

The Citizens’ Climate Lobby is a volunteer-driven organization building the political will for congressional action on climate change. We advocate a unique plan to put a slowly increasing fee on fuels that emit carbon pollution and refund the money collected to American families. Info: citizensclimatelobby.org/chapters/NC_Asheville

• Volunteers are needed to help get signatures from businesses, politicians, academics, faith leaders and scientists that asks our legislators to take action on climate or to request a solution (like Carbon Fee & Dividend).
• Volunteers are also needed to write letters to the editor or opinion editorials, give presentations, lobby our legislators as citizens, and work to educate others.
• The Asheville Chapter is looking for volunteers to contact community leaders. If you could spare two hours per week for this important work, please contact asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org. Training and all needed resources will be provided.

 

CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange

Volunteer host families are needed for the 2022-2023 school year! Experience a new culture, grow your family, and create memories that last a lifetime! Hosting an international exchange student gives you the opportunity to learn new customs and perspectives, allows you to share American culture, and builds connections that cross borders and often last a lifetime. It is a gift to yourself, your international student, your school, and your community.

Host families come from all backgrounds, structures, lifestyles, and parts of the United States.

For more information about becoming a host family, visit http://www.ciee.org/host-families or email lisanciee@gmail.com with any questions.

 

 

 

Disability Partners

Provides a variety of independent living services with the goal of increasing independence and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Info: 828-298-1977 or disabilitypartners.org

• Volunteers are needed to teach the Basic Computer Skills course. The class is for adults with disabilities and is limited to six people. The class must meet two days a month from 12:30 – 4 pm. The two days are the choice of the volunteer, but they need to be consecutive.

 

 

 

 

Eliada

Eliada’s mission is Helping Children Succeed. Since 1903, Eliada has been doing one thing: Helping Children Succeed! Located on the same piece of ground that our Founder Dr. Lucius Compton purchased, we have spent 114 years caring for children with all types of needs. Info: Joshua Conger-Kallas at jkallas@eliada.org.

• Volunteers with Eliada Homes will assist children and families in the community to succeed through service in our programs. Volunteer opportunities include work with: Leadership Committees, Child Development, Psychiatric Residential Treatment and Level III Day Treatment, Foster Care, Fundraising/Clerical Departments, Recreation & Residential Activities, Student Clubs, Transitional Living and Workforce Development, Facilities & Campus Maintenance, Early Education, Afterschool/Summer Camp, Special Events, Corn Maze and/or the Therapeutic Animal Stewardship Cooperative.

 

Wrenegade Foundation seeks volunteers for the Farm to Fork Fondo, a mass-start farm-to-table cycling event from 8 am – 5 pm on Sunday, June 30 to help fill water containers, cheer on cyclists, and hand out food at aid station stops along the cycling route.

 

 

 

 

Energy Savers Network

Energy Savers Network (ESN) works to lower the energy cost burden of limited-income families in Buncombe County while helping to reduce energy consumption in the fight against climate change. They train volunteers to weatherize homes with energy-efficiency upgrades, they hold workshops to build storm window inserts for households with single pane windows, and they canvas low-income neighborhoods to seek more clients. They also encourage corporate or organizational groups to join in on the volunteer fun. Come learn new skills and enjoy meeting new people while increasing your “happiness” factor by doing some good hands-on work that makes a difference in someone’s life and just feels right. ESN is funded by the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, grants, and donations. They are a partner project of Blue Horizons and Green Built Alliance. Contact ESN at www.energysaversnetwork.org/volunteer, volunteer@energysaversnetwork.org, or call 828-585-4492 x2.

• Volunteers will spend several hours in a low-income home, learning how to install weather stripping, efficient lighting, weatherized windows, and other energy saving fixes. We also need volunteers for administrative and outreach efforts.

 

 

 

 

Guardian ad Litem

Could You Be A Voice For A Child?

• A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) advocate is a trained community volunteer who is appointed, along with a Guardian ad Litem attorney, by a district court judge to investigate and determine the needs of abused and neglected children petitioned into the court system by the Department of Social Services. For more information about becoming a volunteer court advocate, please visit: volunteerforgal.org or call us at: (828) 259-3443.

 

 

Farmshire Animal Sanctuary

Farmshire Animal Sanctuary is an off-the-grid eco-rescue farm committed to improving lives and co-existing with the animals we share our planet with.

• The sanctuary is looking for recurring volunteers on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Email farmshiresanctuary@gmail.com with availability or visit facebook.com/farmshireanimalsanctuary

 

 

 

Foster Grandparent Program

Foster Grandparent Program is looking for volunteers who are 55 and older to help in elementary schools and Head Start Programs.  While providing this assistance to children, the volunteers receive a stipend of  $2.65 per hour to supplement their monthly income.  This stipend does not count as income and does not affect other benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, rent subsidy, or supplemental security income.  Volunteers also receive mileage reimbursement and paid vacation and sick leave.  For more information, contact Stacy Friesland, Foster Grandparent Program Manager, at 828/251-6622.

 

 

 

Hall Fletcher Elementary

An Asheville City school located in West Asheville. Info: volunteercorner.wordpress.com or 828-350-6451

• Volunteers needed to assist teachers, maintain school garden and tutor children in math and reading. Shifts available Mondays through Fridays 8 am to 2 pm.

 

 

 

Haywood Regional Medical Center

Haywood Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint Hospital, is located in Haywood County and offers a comprehensive array of services, including orthopedics, spine services, cardiology, general surgery, women’s care, emergency medicine, behavioral health, and includes 12 multi-specialty physician clinics. Info: MyHaywoodRegional.com/Volunteer or 828-452-8301.

• Haywood Regional Medical Center is currently seeking volunteers of all ages for ongoing support at the hospital, outpatient care center and The Homestead. Volunteering for Haywood Regional will offer you an opportunity to utilize your special talents, learn new skills, and make new friends. Volunteers can choose to work include: Emergency Department, Information Desk- Main Lobby, Patient Escort, Library Cart, Outpatient Surgery, The Homestead (Hospice), the Auxiliary Gift Shop or on-site fundraising.

 

 

 

Heart of Horse Sense

Heart Of Horse Sense supports quality, professional Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning programs (EAP/EAL) for veterans, active duty service members and their families and for economically disadvantaged children and their families. For more information, email: volunteer@heartofhorsesense.org or phone 828-649-7064. Website: heartofhorsesense.org

• Volunteers are needed to help care for animals/farms where EAP/EAL is offered, help at offsite horse events throughout WNC and assist with fundraising events and clerical tasks.

 

 

Historic Johnson Farm

Historic Johnson Farm is a historic site and heritage center owned by Henderson County Public Schools. Its mission is to provide cultural heritage experiences and educational opportunities for school children and the community. For more information, visit historicjohnsonfarm.org. To volunteer, call 828-891-6585 or email jfarm@hcpsnc.org.

• Volunteers are needed to help lead tours for the public and help with school field trips.
• No weekly commitment necessary.
• Volunteers who enjoy working outdoors are needed to help with the landscape and the gardens.
• Volunteers meet most Monday mornings, but you do not need to commit to every week.

 

 

Light A Path

Light A Path, a local non-profit whose mission is to create resilience through connection to yoga, meditation, dance, strength training, and running for youth, the incarcerated, the unhoused, low-income community residents and those in recovery, are looking for volunteers who feel connected, engaged, and committed to the work we’re doing. Please look at our website and FAQs and consider filling out an application.  www.lightapath.org

 

 

 

Literacy Council of Buncombe County

Works to increase literacy and English language skills. Info: volunteers@litcouncil.com or 828-254-3442

• Volunteers needed for the Adult Education Program, which teaches basic reading, writing and spelling. Previous teaching experience not required.

• Volunteers needed for the Augustine Program, which works with low-income children reading below grade level. Previous teaching experience not required.

 

 

 

 

Loving Food Resources

A special needs food pantry providing food and other items to persons living with HIV/AIDS or in hospice with any diagnosis. Info: 828-255-9282.

• Volunteers needed for stocking, helping clients shop, driving, food box delivery, sorting, graphic design and office assistance. Shifts available Tuesday – Friday: 9 am – noon; Saturday: 9 am – 2 pm.

 

 

 

 

Lunch Buddies

Candler, Pisgah and Woodfin Elementary all have a lunch buddy program in which volunteers come once a week to have lunch with a child. Information: Laura Cleaveland, school social worker at 828-779-1240.

• Volunteers need to pass a background check.

 

 

 

 

Make a Wish Western North Carolina

Please visit nc.wish.org to see more information on how to get involved and apply to be a Volunteer Wish Granter.

• We are currently seeking people with daytime, weekday availability and a passion for working with children to be volunteer wish granters and help us enhance the wishes of our incredible Wish Kids who live in the Asheville and Hendersonville areas of North Carolina. In this role, you work as a team to determine a child’s one true wish and give them a truly life transforming wish experience. You are also responsible for creating a wish enhancement for the child to increase the excitement for their upcoming wish!

Here are the requirements for this volunteer role:
•Complete and submit a volunteer application and Conflict of Interest Form.
•Complete a self-paid background check. The cost is roughly $26 and are run once every three years.
•Attend Wish Granter training (3 hours)
•Plan and deliver one enhancement piece/party per wish.
•Take on a minimum of eight wishes per calendar year and two in one day, if applicable.

 

 

 

 

MANNA FoodBank

Processes donated food for distribution throughout WNC. Info: mannafoodbank.org or 828-299-3663.

• Volunteers needed to work in the warehouse. Mon. – Sat. daytime and Tuesday evenings.

MusicWorks Asheville

Teaching life skills through music. musicworksasheville.org/volunteer-index-impact

• Available hours for volunteers are 3-5:20pm, Monday through Friday.

 

 

 

 

My Sister’s Place

Works to end domestic violence and sexual assault and provides safe haven for women and their children. Info: 828-649-2582.

• Volunteers needed to work at the thrift store in Marshall, which supports the organization’s clients. Shifts available Monday -Friday: 10 am – 4 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 2 pm. Volunteers also needed for internet support, fundraising and light building maintenance.

 

 

 

 

OnTrack WNC

Our financial education, counseling and support helps people reach their money and housing goals so they can overcome crises, afford basic needs, improve money management skills and make sound financial choices rooted in their values. Info: ontrackwnc.org or 828-255-5166.

• Volunteers needed to support low- and moderate-income families in preparing their tax returns. No tax or accounting experience is needed; we provide training and support to all volunteers. Tax preparation fees are an expensive barrier to many people to file their taxes; either eating into their much-needed refund or adding to an already difficult burden. Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, we eliminate this barrier by preparing tax returns for free for those who need it most.

For many families, accessing a tax refund can mean replenishing an emergency fund, buying new clothes for the kids, or repairing the family car. That’s why our volunteers find the program so rewarding; many have been returning for 3, 4, even 10 and 11 years. Our volunteers are a great bunch of fun, team-oriented people who love to support our clients. Most joined the program with no previous tax experience. Motivation and our comprehensive training are all one needs.

If you’d like to find out if this program might be a good fit for you, please contact the VITA Coordinator, Rebecca Strimer, at rebeccas@ontrackwnc.org.

 

Opportunity House

A cultural center in Hendersonville. Info: opportunityhouse.org or 828-692-0575.

• Volunteers needed to work in the thrift store and front desk.

 

 

Our Voice

Our Voice serves survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking, age 13 through adult, in Buncombe County. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing while ending sexual violence and human trafficking through education, counseling, and advocacy. Our volunteers are the heart of our organization, providing essential advocacy support for survivors. Info: Ourvoicenc.org.

• We’re currently looking for volunteers to help support on our crisis line and help us with outreach at events as well. If you are compassionate, reliable, and looking for a way to make a difference, we encourage you to join us. For more detailed descriptions on our different volunteer opportunities please visit our volunteer page.

 

Pan Harmonia

Asheville’s own chamber music repertory company. Info: office@panharmonia.org.

• Volunteers needed throughout our concert season for the following:

Staffing and ushering at a concert
House manager for performances
Outreach coordination support
Brochure and poster distribution
Ticket sales and office help

 

PFLAG Asheville

Call for Volunteers! There are many ways community members can help our PFLAG Asheville Chapter thrive and grow. Come help us in our mission to support members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families, provide education, awareness, resources and fellowship. We are looking for volunteer members to be part of various subcommittees helping with events and communications. Board positions are available for those seeking more in-depth involvement. For more information email us at pflagasheville@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

Pisgah Legal Services

Provides free legal help to people who cannot afford a private attorney. Info: 828-210-3787 or pisgahlegal.org

• Volunteers needed for the reception area and other administrative areas as needed. Must be 18 years or older to apply.

 

 

 

Project Linus

National non-profit organization which donates handmade blankets to children in crisis. Info: 828-645-8800

• Volunteers needed to make blankets. The new blanketeers can contribute knitted, crocheted, quilted, no-sew fleece or flannel blankets.

 

 

Read to Succeed

Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe is on a mission to inspire and teach kids to read. Our vision is that all children in our community are skilled and engaged readers. That’s why we train volunteers to work one-on-one with K-3rd students in our local Asheville City and Buncombe County schools to help them learn to read at grade level. 

Students who aren’t reading at grade level by the end of 3rd grade are 4x more likely to drop out of school. Our passionate volunteers are committed to helping close the literacy gap and giving students the skills and confidence they need to succeed both in school and in life. After training, volunteers serve just one hour a week tutoring their student in-school.

Info: r2sasheville.org or contact Julie Claywell at 828-767-0943.

• Volunteer needs include Reading Tutors, Subs and Administrative helpers.

 

 

Rotary Club of Asheville

The Rotary Club of Asheville is a service club of engaged and passionate volunteer members who desire to do good in the community and the world while honoring shared ethics and core values as described in our Four-Way Test, of the things we think, say, or do:
First: Is it the TRUTH? Second: Is it FAIR to all concerned? Third: Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Fourth: Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Info: www.rotaryasheville.org.

• Our projects range from awarding needs-based and merit scholarships to deserving Asheville and Buncombe High School seniors, recognizing Teachers of Excellence with a check for $2,000 each, and more… We are People of Action! Volunteer events include Habitat for Humanity, Verner Learning Center, serving meals at Haywood Street Congregation, Bark in the Park, MANNA Foodbank, Medical/ Dental Brigade, and many more.

 

 

T.H.E Center for Disordered Eating

T.H.E Center for Disordered Eating, founded in 2004 and located in the heart of Asheville, is a support network for individuals and families, health care providers, educators, and the general public. T.H.E. Center is the only nonprofit in North Carolina serving thousands through community and professional outreach and education, advocacy, resource development and referral, a lending library, and support groups.

• Volunteer needed for administrative assistance or participation on the event committee. Volunteer opportunities are on-going or event based.

 

 

Ten Thousand Villages

Ten Thousand Villages is a nonprofit organization that supports artisans in underdeveloped countries by providing American store-fronts for artists’ handmade crafts.

• Would you like to serve as a volunteer at a Fair Trade shop? To find out more, contact 828-254-8374 between noon and 4:00 p.m. any day of the week.

 

 

The Mills River Partnership

A not-for-profit organization that addresses water quality in the Mills River watershed. MRP focuses on educating the local community about water quality issues and helping farmers and other landowners implement best management practices to control sediment pollution. Info: millsriverwater.org.

• We have a variety of volunteer opportunities year round, including river cleanups, live stakings, and stream restorations. We host educational workshops around water quality, and we also collaborate to bring workshops focusing on bird watching, foraging, native plant restoration, and more.

 

 

The Rathbun House

Provides free lodging to patients and caregivers staying in Asheville for medical treatment for a minimal charge. Info: mountaincareservices.org/rathbun-house or 828-251-0595.

• Volunteers needed to support and register guests. 9 am-1 pm, 1-5 pm & 5-9 pm seven days a week.

 

 

The Writers’ Workshop

Non-profit literary center, founded in 1985. Info: 828-254-8111 or writersw@gmail.com.

• The Writers’ Workshop of Asheville is looking for volunteers to help in a variety of ways, either at our office or in your home. Volunteers take free classes, in person or online!

 

 

 

The Community Kitchen

Provides free meals and food boxes to the needy. Info: thecommunitykitchen@gmail.com or 828-648-0014.

• Volunteers needed to help prepare and serve dinner.

The Social Bridging Project

The Social Bridging Project was started in partnership with the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness, Healthy Aging NC, UNC-Asheville, and MAHEC. With funding through Dogwood Health Trust, we are excited to continue to serve individuals throughout the state of North Carolina.

We are a collaborative project that provides social support to isolated older adults in the North Carolina community by making wellness check-in phone calls. Many of the community members we serve are experiencing a variety of difficulties in their lives. These include; chronic illness, mental, emotional, and psychological conditions, isolation, loneliness, economic hardship, and digital inequities.

Some of our roles include providing connections to essential community resources such as transportation, food, housing, medical services, etc. Oftentimes, volunteers act to ease social isolation and loneliness by simply calling to check in and say hello. We also troubleshoot issues with cell phones, computers, and other devices. This includes facilitating connectedness by assisting with the use of platforms such as FaceTime, Zoom, and Facebook.

Perhaps most importantly, we develop lasting relationships with people while also identifying solutions and promoting overall well-being.

Our callers receive the necessary training via Zoom and all volunteering is done remotely. The leadership team at The Social Bridging Project work diligently with callers to make sure their needs are always met. While we don’t require any time commitment, we do strongly suggest that volunteers commit to 2-5 hours of service per week for more than three consecutive months at a time. Please let us know if there are any barriers that would make it difficult for you to attend an online training or meet the suggested time commitment. We will be glad to speak with you about providing accommodations.

Those interested can reach out by phone at (828) 412-0431 or by email at socialbridge@unca.edu with more questions.

Verner Center for Early Learning

Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to over 300 children – birth to five years old – throughout Buncombe County, North Carolina. Through holistic learning environments, we strive to help build a community where every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.

• Verner’s seeking volunteers passionate about early childhood education to support toddler and pre-k classrooms. Classroom volunteers spend one-on-one time with children reading, playing, and connecting in the classroom and playground. Secondly, we are looking for individuals to volunteer in our infant room. Infant room volunteers help teachers hold, soothe, and play with the babies. Interested individuals can contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Polly Phillips, to schedule a time to volunteer with us at pphillips@verneremail.org or visit our website and fill out a volunteer interest form. Verner has two locations: 2586 Riceville Rd, Asheville, NC, and 566 N. Louisiana Ave, Asheville, NC. Volunteers are welcome at both!

 

Warrior Canine Connection

Warrior Canine Connection is a non-profit that enlists recovering Warriors in a therapeutic mission of learning to train Service Dogs for their fellow Veterans in need. WCC service dogs complete approximately two years of training to help Veterans with physical and psychological wounds. Info: https://warriorcanineconnection.org/.

• We are always looking for dedicated volunteers to become puppy raisers, puppy sitters, or puppy starters. Veterans are welcome to come learn with us and participate in Mission Based Trauma Recovery. We often hold trainings and programming at Groce Methodist Church due to their generosity and support. Feel free to reach out to either Amy or Michele if you have any questions: aguidash@warriorcanineconnection.org or mtate@warriorcanineconnection.org.

 

WNC AIDS Project

WNCAP (Western North Carolina AIDS Project) Dedicated to preventing new cases of HIV/AIDS and promoting self-sufficiency in people living with HIV. WNCAP provides HIV-related client support, prevention, education and advocacy activities guided by the belief that all people are entitled to equal access to health care and disease prevention. Info: wncap.org or 828-252-7489.

• 2nd & 4th Saturday Morning Food box Delivery: 10 am – noon. Ride with another team member and deliver pre-packed boxes of food to home-bound, food insecure families living in the Asheville/ Buncombe area. Requires ability to lift 50 pounds, good driving record, and confidentiality. More info at wncapvolunteer@wncap.org 828-252-7489 ext.315

 

WENOCA: The Sierra Club of Western North Carolina

To explore, enjoy and protect the planet. To practice and promote the responsible use of the earth’s ecosystems and resources; to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and to use all lawful means to carry out those objectives. Information: judymattox@sbcglobal.net, 828-683-2176

• Volunteers needed for Facebook posts, newsletter articles, kitchen help, transportation help, working booths, etc.

 

Wrenegade Foundation

• Registration for volunteers to support the Wrenegade Foundation at the Farm to Fork Fondo held Saturday, June 30 from 8 am – 5 pm, to fill water containers and hand out food at aid stations. Information and registration: wrenegadefoundation.org/volunteer-information-center.

 

YWCA

Advocates for young women’s leadership and welfare. Info: 828-254-7206, ext. 219

• Volunteers needed for a variety of tasks in the child care department. A background check, a medical questionnaire, TB screening and a minimum age of 16 are required.