Volunteer!

If you need to volunteer to fulfill SNAP ABAWD requirements, please visit the Tompkins County Opportunity Finder.

Advocacy Center of Tompkins County: Board Member

Responsibilities of the Full Board of Directors:

• Determine the organization’s mission and purpose
• Provide fiscal oversight
• Determine organizational policy
• Create and update long range plan for the agency
• Determine and monitor the organization’s program and services
• Approve the creation of new staff positions
• Ensure and enhance the organization’s public image
• Select, support, evaluate, and if necessary, dismiss Executive Director
• Select, orient, and involve new Board members Assess its own performance

Responsibilities of Individual Board Members:

• Act as voting member of the Board of Directors, with full authority and responsibility for the (above) described activities for a three-year term.
• Attend monthly Board meetings, and other Board activities including new Board member orientation, Board-Staff retreats, and other special events.
• Serve on at least one committee of the Board.
• Become knowledgeable about the organization.
• Get to know the staff.
• Assume Board leadership roles when appropriate.
• Come to board meetings well informed about issues on the agenda.
• Approach board issues with an open mind, consider other points of view, make constructive critiques or suggestions about ideas, and help the
• Board make decisions that benefit those the organization serves.
• Keep the Executive Director, Board Chair, and/or Committee Chair informed about any relevant concerns or needs of other board members, staff or the community.
• Represent the organization to individuals, the public and other organizations as appropriate.

For more information – or, if you have any questions – please email: info@actompkins.org. You can also complete the Board Member Application and return it to info@actompkins.org.

Hangar Theatre: Hangar Theatre Board Members

The Hangar Theatre is seeking new board members with a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. We are particularly seeking people with backgrounds in finance, tourism, real estate, and the law, but all interest is welcome if you share a love of the performing arts!

Board members help shape the Hangar Theatre’s artistic, educational, and community missions. Insights gained through active membership will inform the Hangar Theatre’s financial stewardship, policy development, and strategic direction.

Board Expectations
Board members use their varied talents to support the Hangar Theatre’s operations. Legal, finance, human resources/personnel, marketing, development, facilities, and management skills, among other areas of expertise, play critical roles in the Board’s work.

Time commitment: Board members spend, on average, five to ten hours per month attending board meetings, committee meetings, and events or activities and participating in advocacy opportunities.

For more information, please visit the Hangar Theatre Website, email shirley@hangartheatre.org or complete the Interest Form.

Mental Health Association in Tompkins County: Welcome Desk Volunteer

The Welcome Desk Volunteer is the first point of contact for MHA participants and visitors, helping create a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment. Responsibilities include answering phones, triaging calls, greeting visitors, and connecting individuals with appropriate services and staff.

Ideal volunteers have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, are comfortable answering phones, and can remain calm, compassionate, and professional when interacting with individuals who may be experiencing emotional distress.

This is a great role for someone who enjoys creating a welcoming environment! It’s perfect for a student who wants to work on homework, an avid reader, or a crafter who would enjoy volunteering while working on a personal project during quieter moments. You’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference simply by being a friendly, welcoming presence for everyone who walks through our doors. Apply on our website if interested.

Finger Lakes Toy Library: Board Member

The Finger Lakes Toy Library is growing, and we’re looking for new faces to join our volunteer Board of Directors! If you care about sustainability, play, and supporting local families, your unique perspective could make a world of difference. We’re especially looking for folks excited to help us with behind-the-scenes magic like fundraising, grant writing, and sponsor cultivation. Prior board experience is not required! We value diverse backgrounds and fresh perspectives, and we will happily provide all the tools and guidance you need to succeed. If you share our love for community and play, we’d love to hear from you! Email our Board Secretary, Erika Mudrak to learn more!

Finger Lakes Toy Library: Open Hours Host

Key Volunteer Responsibilities: Minimum 1 two-hour shift every other week. Host at toy library during browsing hours to allow members to select toys to borrow, suggest toys for families from our inventory of ~1300 toys, games, and puzzles. Check toys out to members on our point-of-service iPad app. Receive toys that have been returned, and check them in. Clean toys and facilities when not busy with members and families.

Background Check Required: Yes

Orientation Required: Yes

Training Provided: Yes Time commitment for role (one time, weekly, monthly) : At least one 2 hour shift every other week, for at least a 3-month commitment.

Time to be determined via discussion with our Director of Operations.

Desired skills/qualifications of volunteer: Reliable and able to work independently. Interest in children, play, toys, and early childhood development, and interest in discussing play needs of children with members. Ability to learn iPad software to manage checking in and out of toys.

Please complete the FLTL Volunteer Application if interested.

Finger Lakes Toy Library: Toy Cataloger

Key Volunteer Responsibilities: Photograph and catalog new toy donations into our online database. Ensure all parts are included and in good condition before cataloging. Accurately attribute donations when applicable. Reports to the Director of Operations.

Orientation Required: Yes

Training Provided: Yes

Time commitment for role: At least 10 hours total (may be divided over multiple days, weeks, or months) Desired skills/qualifications of volunteer: Reliable and able to work independently. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Interest in children, play, toys, and early childhood development. Comfortable working with computers and iPads. Must be able to lift 10+ lbs.

Please complete the FLTL Volunteer Application if interested.

Zero Waste Ithaca: Community Waste Reduction Volunteers

Zero Waste Ithaca is a local grassroots nonprofit working to reduce waste, support reuse, protect public resources, and build practical community alternatives to single-use systems. We are looking for volunteers who want to help with hands-on local zero-waste work, public education, and community organizing. Volunteers can help in many ways, depending on their interests, skills, and availability.

Current opportunities include:

• Tabling at community events — we are especially looking for volunteers for the Grassroots Festival in July
• Litter cleanups and trash pickup events — we plan on kayak trash pickup annually
• Outreach to local businesses and community partners for the reuse sticker program (See zerowasteithaca.org/map)
• Trash sorting and waste audits
• Event planning and volunteer coordination
• Photography and video
• Website and digital communications
• Public meeting attendance and comment support
• Research and policy advocacy

No prior experience is required for most roles. We welcome people who are practical, reliable, curious, and interested in reducing waste at the community level. Some opportunities are occasional and event-based, while others are better suited for people who want to become more involved over time. Learn more at Zero Waste Ithaca or complete the ZWI Get Involved Sign-up Sheet.

Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art: Visitor Services Volunteer

What You’ll Do-Greet and assist visitors with a friendly, professional presence Help maintain a neat and inviting gallery space Stay attentive and observant to ensure a positive visitor experience.

What We’re Looking For-Commitment to our visitor-focused standards Reliability and clear communication about your availability Ability to stand and walk during shifts (breaks provided).

Perks of Volunteering-Be a part of a vibrant arts community Gain experience in museum operations and visitor service Enjoy behind-the-scenes insights into the Johnson Museum If you are interested in getting involved, please email Holly Smith to begin the conversation today! Visit the Johnson Museum of Art Volunteer Page to learn more.

Training is provided, and a time commitment is required.

Lifelong: Board Member or Board Committee

Looking for a way to get more involved? Lifelong is a Community Center for adults 50+ whose mission is to enhance the lives of older adults in our community. We’re looking for new board members and people interested in serving on a board committee!
We recognize that diversity in our leadership is essential to understanding and meeting the needs of older adults in our community. We are actively seeking individuals from a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to join our Board of Directors and Board Committees, effective June, 2026. Experience in human resources, budgeting and financial management, senior/aging services, or legal expertise is a bonus but not required.

As a board member, you will have the opportunity to:

• Collaborate with an engaged team committed to serving older adults. Board meetings are held approximately 6x/year
• Provide input on strategic direction and guidance to support our programs and initiatives
• Contribute your unique skills, expertise, and perspectives to help us better serve our diverse community of older adults and participate in at least one board committee. Committees meet approximately 6x/year
• Make a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults in our community by helping to shape the future of Lifelong

For more details, please reference Information for Prospective Lifelong Board & Committee Members. If you or someone you know would be interested in serving on Lifelong’s board or joining us as a non-board member serving on a committee, email Sheila Squier, Lifelong Board President, or complete the Lifelong Potential Board or Board Committee Member Form.

Finger Lakes ReUse: Become a ReUse volunteer!

ReUse is always looking for help from our extended community! If you are passionate about reuse, zero-waste alternatives, deconstruction, organizing and sorting, merchandising, or cleaning. We would love to meet you. If you are a student, a senior, someone who wants to be of service, someone who wants to meet people, or anywhere in between, we have something for you. Visit Become a ReUse volunteer! to sign up.

The Mentor-Student Program: Volunteer Mentor

The Mentor-Student Program seeks volunteer mentors to work one-on-one with school-age students of various ages who benefit from having a positive adult role model in their lives. This opportunity involves training, support, and meeting with your student twice a week after school. This is a win/win experience for both the student and the mentor as you learn and grow with each other. Please email Susie Kossack, Program Coordinator, or call her at 607-275-6250 for info or to set up your training.

NAMI Finger Lakes: Help Line Coordinator

The HelpLine Coordinator is a long-term, unpaid, volunteer position at NAMI Finger Lakes (NAMI-FLNY). The HelpLine Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the HelpLine and provides guidance and oversight to the HelpLine volunteers. In collaboration with the NAMI-FLNY Program Manager, the HelpLine Coordinator will assist in the development of policies and procedures related to the HelpLine and ensure HelpLine volunteers adhere to those policies and procedures.

The NAMI-FLNY HelpLine exists to help individuals and families improve their lives and advance recovery by having trained volunteers listen to their concerns, offer information, provide support, and connect callers with essential resources and services. The HelpLine volunteers extend empathy, understanding, respect, and emotional support to everyone contacting the HelpLine.

The NAMI-FLNY HelpLine is a “warm line.” Callers to the HelpLine leave a message describing their situation and expressing their needs. A HelpLine volunteer then returns their call within 24 hours with the appropriate responses.

NAMI-FLNY recognizes the value of lived experience because it expands one’s capacity for empathy, motivates a sincere desire to help others, and at times provides valuable perspective. However, HelpLine service often involves triggering conversations and topics. A HelpLine volunteer’s mental health must be solid with well-established treatment and/or self-help strategies and necessary support.

Volunteers selected for this position will be given free training.

This volunteer position reports to and works closely with the NAMI-FLNY Program Manager. For more information, see the HelpLine Coordinator Volunteer Job Description (PDF). To apply, visit the NAMI Finger Lakes Volunteer page.

NAMI Finger Lakes: Help Line Specialist

NAMI Finger Lakes (NAMI-FLNY) HelpLine Specialists help individuals and families improve their lives and advance recovery by listening to their concerns, offering information and support, and connecting them with essential resources and services. They extend empathy, understanding, respect, and emotional support to everyone contacting the HelpLine. Working on the NAMI-FLNY HelpLine is extremely rewarding, and yet at times, challenging.

The NAMI-FLNY HelpLine is a “warm line”. Callers to the HelpLine leave a message describing their situation and expressing their needs. A HelpLine volunteer then returns their call within 24 hours with the appropriate responses.

NAMI Finger Lakes recognizes the value of lived experience because it expands one’s capacity for empathy, motivates a sincere desire to help others, and at times provides valuable perspective. However, HelpLine service often involves triggering conversations and topics. The HelpLine Specialist’s mental health must be solid with well-established treatment and/or self-help strategies and necessary support. If at any time during the interview, onboarding, or service, a staff member becomes aware that providing HelpLine services could or is having a negative impact on a volunteer or that help seekers are not being well served, the volunteer may be asked to step away from service.

Volunteers selected for this position will be given free training.

This volunteer position reports to and works closely with the NAMI-FLNY HelpLine Coordinator. For more information, see the HelpLine Specialist Volunteer Job Description (PDF). To apply, visit the NAMI Finger Lakes Volunteer page.

Community School of Music and Arts: Administrative Volunteer

The Community School of Music and Arts is a local nonprofit providing Ithaca with exceptional art, music, dance, and theater programming. We’re looking for volunteers to help us with day-to-day administrative tasks like running the welcome desk, giving directions and information to visitors, answering emails and phone calls, helping organize our office, and more!

For more information, visit Community School of Music and Arts or call (607) 272-1474. Visit the Volunteer Sign Up Form.

Tompkins Learning Partners: Adult Literacy Tutor

Make a difference in our community by working with a local adult to help them reach their educational and life goals through 1:1 volunteer tutoring. Initial and ongoing training and ongoing support are provided. A regular 2-hour per week commitment is requested. Tutoring takes place at Tompkins Learning Partners or another public location. To learn more and sign up, visit the TLP Become a Tutor page.

Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County: Friends In Service Helping (FISH)

FISH: Driving support, Delivering care

If you have a valid driver’s license and want to make a tangible difference in Tompkins County, consider becoming a volunteer driver for Friends In Service Helping (FISH). FISH provides free non-emergency transportation to medical appointments for Tompkins County residents, offering vital support and a friendly face.

Benefits Include:
• Flexible Scheduling: Drive when rides suit your schedule.
• Receive mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate for using your own car or drive an Ithaca Carshare vehicle at no cost.
• The satisfaction of helping neighbors access critical healthcare. Even a few hours a month helps!

To learn more, visit FISH of Tompkins County or call 211/877-211-8667.

Friends of the Ithaca Youth Bureau: Seeking Board Member

Friends of the Ithaca Youth Bureau (FIYB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Ithaca Youth Bureau (IYB) in fulfilling its mission. In light of increasing youth needs and decreasing government support, the FIYB helps the IYB to provide recreation and youth development programs to promote the health, happiness, and well-being of all youth and families in the greater Ithaca area. FIYB is seeking volunteers interested in serving as a board member. If interested, please email the Friends of the Ithaca Youth Bureau.

Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins & Cortland Counties: Construction Volunteer

We welcome volunteers of all abilities on our construction sites – no prior experience required! Our supervisors are poised and ready to teach and train, and we want your volunteer experience to be as rewarding and productive for you as it is for us. Construction tasks include framing, hanging drywall, painting, laying flooring, landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, and even installing the kitchen sink. Join us for a work day and experience firsthand how we put donations to work and how you can be a part of the affordable housing solution.

Sign up for shifts on the Volunteer Sign Up page.

You’ll need to complete the volunteer profile and sign a liability waiver in Helper Helper to sign up for your first shift. Please note that volunteers on our active construction sites must be at least 16 years of age. Volunteers under 18 must volunteer with an accompanying adult.

Here are some pro tips to make the most of the workday:

• We can accommodate volunteers of all skill levels.
  Please wear closed-toed boots/shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty/damaged/painted. Work may be inside or outside on any given day, so please layer appropriately for the weather.
  Bring a water bottle and pack a lunch if you plan to stay the whole day.
  It’s fine if you can’t stay for an entire shift, but please arrive at the start time for orientation purposes.

If you have questions, please email the Volunteer Coordinator or call/text 607-844-3529. To sign up, see the Volunteer Sign Up page.

Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County: Preparing and Serving Meals and Love

Loaves & Fishes serves meals five days a week to anyone who walks through our doors – all are welcome; no questions asked. We rely on food donations and community volunteers to ensure delivery of over 65,000 meals per year. Be a part of feeding the community by helping set up/prep on Monday/Wednesday/Friday 9:00-11:30 and serve/clean up 11:15-2:00, and Tuesday/Thursday help set up/prep 2:30-5:00 and serve/clean up 4:30-7:00 up to 300 meals while building community and connection with our guests from all over Tompkins County. Please complete the Volunteer Registration form if interested.

Family Reading Partnership: Story Walk Liaison

Be a Story Walk Liaison! We have seven Story Walks located around Tompkins County, and we need volunteers to walk the trails periodically, make sure everything looks good, and report back any issues that may come up. The time commitment would be 2-3 hours per month.  Apply to the Family Reading Partnership.

Family Reading Partnership: Plan a Book Drive for FRP

The Family Reading Partnership is always looking for more books! Plan a book drive to collect used books for our Bright Red Bookshelf program. We are specifically looking for gently used board books and picture books for kids aged 0-5. We do have signage and additional guidelines to help you plan and conduct a successful book drive! Contact Beverly Wallenstein for more information and to pick up donation crates and signs.

Family Reading Partnership: Bright Red Bookshelf Tender

Tend book crates and bookshelves as part of our Bright Red Bookshelf program. This involves picking up donated books and then stocking a bookshelf with used books. Time commitment: one hour every few weeks. Apply on the Family Reading Partnership website or contact Beverly Wallenstein.

Tompkins County Office for the Aging: Project CARE Friendly Visiting Program

Project CARE is a free, friendly visiting program that helps to alleviate loneliness and social isolation among Tompkins County residents aged 60 and over. Volunteers provide older adults with companionship and assistance while sharing a unique bond. Volunteers may provide the following services:

• Weekly friendly visits
• Weekly telephone-friendly reassurance calls
• Caregiver respite
• Running errands
• Organization
• Light housekeeping
• Technology assistance
• One-time special requests

Visit Project CARE for more information and to apply.

Lifelong: Front desk coverage (routine or substitute)

Lifelong is regularly in need of volunteer assistance with administrative tasks such as answering phones, greeting Lifelong visitors, and providing membership information. Administrative background helpful but not necessary. A welcoming, friendly presence is essential! Email Liza Burger to sign up

Catholic Charities Tompkins/Tioga: Clothing Closet

We need volunteers in our Ithaca office! Specifically, we’re looking for volunteers for our Clothing Closet. Duties consist of receiving and sorting clothing donations that are then offered through the Clothing Closet for our clients to shop for free. We are looking for volunteers who can commit to a couple of shifts per week. Our shifts are:

Tuesday through Friday
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

You can volunteer either in the mornings or afternoons, or if you like, you can volunteer the whole day! You can download this document (DOC) for more information.

Interested parties should contact Andrea Gaul.

Foodnet Meals on Wheels: Community Dining Helper

Volunteers needed to greet diners, prepare the dining room, distribute packaged meals, and wipe down tables. Weekdays 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., Ithaca (M-F), Slaterville Springs (T), and Lansing (Th, beginning October 23). To sign up, call 607-266-9553, email Foodnet, visit foodnet.org/volunteer, or complete our Foodnet Meals on Wheels Volunteer Application.

Foodnet Meals on Wheels: Morning Meal Prep

Volunteers are needed to portion food into containers for our older neighbors in need in Tompkins County. Weekdays 8:30-10:30 a.m., 2422 North Triphammer Rd. To sign up, call 607-266-9553, email Foodnet, visit foodnet.org/volunteer, or complete our Foodnet Meals on Wheels Volunteer Application.

American Red Cross: Disaster Action Team (DAT) Specialist: Tompkins County

This position supports the Regional Disaster Services department. Most of the 60,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are local, personal disasters like home fires. Disaster Action Teams (DAT) provide emotional support, financial assistance, and information to help families begin the process of recovery. Disaster Action Team (DAT) Specialists respond to local disasters and provide immediate compassion and care to clients. See the American Red Cross Volunteer Opportunities for more details or to apply for the volunteer position.

American Red Cross: Disaster Recovery Caseworker

Recovery Client Care Caseworkers support individuals and families impacted by disasters by helping them access financial assistance, resources, and recovery support through the Red Cross Client Care Program. In this role, volunteers work as part of the Client Experience Team to ensure clients receive timely, compassionate, and well‑documented support throughout their recovery journey.

Volunteers may serve in one of several focus areas—opening new cases, maintaining active cases, or closing cases—depending on interest and skill set. Responsibilities may include conducting client intakes, documenting services in the RC Care case management system, providing referrals to internal programs and community resources, and supporting follow‑up and recovery planning. Some roles involve direct client contact, while others focus on behind‑the‑scenes case coordination and quality assurance.

Services may be provided virtually or in person, before, during, or after disaster events. This role is ideal for volunteers who are caring, adaptable, comfortable using online systems, and motivated to help ensure no disaster‑affected client falls through the cracks. Learn more at redcross.org/volunteer.

American Red Cross: Disaster Spiritual Care Volunteer

The DSC Service Associate serves in disaster relief operations to provide spiritual and emotional care to individuals, families, and staff affected by disasters. The role focuses on helping clients draw on their own spiritual resources, building partnerships with local faith communities, and supporting long‑term recovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Support clients in using their personal spiritual values and faith during crisis.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local faith‑based organizations.
• Provide spiritual and emotional support and connect clients with local recovery resources.
• Offer spiritual care support to staff as requested.

Required Qualifications: Meets one of the following

• Disaster spiritual care provider in good standing with a National VOAD member organization, Board‑certified chaplain, Professional or volunteer chaplain endorsed by their organization
• Endorsed leader of a local faith community
• Successfully completed DSC Screening evaluation
• Strong organization, punctuality, and active listening skills.
• Ability to follow Standards, Procedures, job tools, and reporting requirements.
• Compassionate communication and ability to involve others in resolving issues.
• Ability to gather, evaluate, and report information accurately.
• Ability to provide interfaith support while upholding neutrality and impartiality.
• Demonstrated customer focus, action orientation, and appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Physical Requirements

• Stand or sit for up to 2 hours at a time.
• Walk up to 2 miles on uneven terrain per shift.
• Bend, stoop, or crawl multiple times per shift.
• Work outdoors in inclement weather.
• Spend extended periods writing, reading small print, speaking by phone, and using a computer.
• Climb two or more flights of stairs. Drive during daytime and evening hours.

To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteer, call 607-752-6216 or email Kelli Quinn.

The History Center in Tompkins County: Museum Exhibit Hall Docents

Exhibit Hall Docents and tour guides are an integral part of The History Center’s community engagement. They are a knowledgeable, conversational, and uplifting presence in our museum front in the Ithaca Commons. Visit The History Center’s History Happenings page to learn more and sign up for their newsletter.

Love Living at Home: General Volunteers

Volunteers are needed for driving, light household errands, friendly calls/visits, and light yardwork.  To sign up, call 607-319-0162, visit lovelivingathome.org, or complete the Volunteer Interest Form and email it to the Love Living at Home office.