Opportunities From: VolunteerWNY

Position Summary
Support the Regional Disaster Cycle Services team by assisting with day-to-day operations in a Red Cross shelter before, during, and/or after a disaster. This in-person role helps ensure individuals and families feel safe, supported, and informed during emergencies.

Location
Western New York Region

Key Duties

Support shelter operations in areas such as reception, registration, dormitory, feeding, information, or supplies

Provide compassionate, respectful customer service to shelter clients

Work as part of a team under the guidance of a supervisor

Complete required virtual training (3.5 hours)

Qualifications

At least 16 years old

Willing and able to volunteer in person during disaster responses

Comfortable working in fast-changing environments

Able to interact with people from diverse backgrounds experiencing crisis

Available for consecutive shifts (4, 8, or 12 hours)

Able to follow written and verbal instructions in English

Willing to comply with Red Cross and public health policies

Valid driver’s license required for divisional or national deployments

Growth Opportunities

Shelter Supervisor

Additional Disaster Services volunteer roles

Do you have a reliable vehicle and a little time to spare?

YOU can make a huge difference in someone's life!

We're looking for caring volunteer drivers to help community members in Cattaraugus County get to their doctor's appointments, receive medical treatments, and to access essential services.

As a volunteer driver, you will:

Turn barriers into opportunities and help people reach the care and services they deserve.

Every mile you drive changes a life.

BECOME A DRIVER TODAY!

Do you have a reliable vehicle and a little time to spare?

YOU can make a huge difference in someone's life!

We're looking for caring volunteer drivers to help community members in Allegany County get to their doctor's appointments, receive medical treatments, and to access essential services.

As a volunteer driver, you will:

Turn barriers into opportunities and help people reach the care and services they deserve.

Every mile you drive changes a life.

BECOME A DRIVER TODAY!

Do you have a reliable vehicle and a little time to spare?

YOU can make a huge difference in someone's life!

We're looking for caring volunteer drivers to help community members in Livingston County get to their doctor's appointments, receive medical treatments, and to access essential services.

As a volunteer driver, you will:

Turn barriers into opportunities and help people reach the care and services they deserve.

Every mile you drive changes a life.

BECOME A DRIVER TODAY!

The International Institute of Buffalo is looking for volunteers to help New Americans practice English through our Conversation Club program! In this activity, volunteers are matched with recently arrived immigrants and refugees to help them develop their English language skills in a relaxed, casual environment. No teaching experience is required!

You may email us at volunteers@iibuff.org to join and call our offices at 716-883-1900 with any questions. You can also receive regular updates and be added to our volunteer email list by filling out our volunteer application form here!

The International Institute of Buffalo is looking for volunteers to help New Americans find jobs through our Employment Buddies program! In this activity, volunteers are matched with recently arrived immigrants and refugees to help them build resumes, create Indeed accounts and apply for jobs.

You may email us at volunteers@iibuff.org to join and call our offices at 716-883-1900 with any questions. You can also receive regular updates and be added to our volunteer email list by filling out our volunteer application form here!

Provide comfort and care when your neighbors experience a crisis, particularly house fires! Disaster Action Teams respond within two hours to the scene of a house fire, meeting the immediate basic needs of those affected and beginning recovery casework. 

**This is an ON-CALL position. Requires willingness to travel throughout Cattaraugus County!*

To see a current Disaster Action Team Member at work, please watch this short video!

Lockport CARES Emergency Shelter | Lockport, NY

Lockport CARES operates the only emergency homeless shelter serving Eastern Niagara County. Behind every stable shelter operation is strong administrative support that ensures accuracy, organization, and responsible stewardship.

We are seeking detail-oriented volunteers to assist with office and administrative tasks that help keep our operations running smoothly and efficiently.

Administrative Support Volunteers may assist with:

Filing and organizing paperwork

Preparing and mailing donor letters or communications

Data entry and record organization

Assembling informational materials

Light clerical support for program staff

Special organizational projects as needed

Tasks are assigned based on current needs and volunteer skill sets.

Strong administrative systems:

Support accurate documentation and compliance

Strengthen donor stewardship and communication

Allow program staff to focus on guest care and housing navigation

Contribute to the long-term sustainability of the ministry

Your behind-the-scenes support plays a direct role in maintaining operational excellence.

We are seeking volunteers who:

Are organized and detail-oriented

Have basic office or clerical skills

Are comfortable handling confidential information

Can work independently with clear direction

Are dependable and professional

Have a heart aligned with our Christ-centered mission

Some tasks may require basic computer proficiency.

Administrative Support Volunteers provide clerical and organizational assistance only. Volunteers do not provide counseling, guest supervision, or case management services.

Confidentiality and discretion are essential due to the sensitive nature of shelter operations.

Flexible scheduling based on availability

Ideal for volunteers with limited but consistent time

Project-based opportunities may also be available

Accurate records, organized systems, and timely communication strengthen the integrity and effectiveness of Lockport CARES. Your administrative support helps ensure that our shelter remains responsive, accountable, and sustainable.

Formed in 1859, Concordia Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Western New York and one of only 4 that still remain in the City of Buffalo. The historic cemetery is listed on both the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places and its buildings are designated Buffalo Landmarks.        

Encompassing 15 acres, the cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of early residents of Buffalo, including over 500 war veterans. There are over 21,000 people of all ethnic backgrounds, cultures and religions reflecting this area's vast diversity at rest here.

 Staffed entirely by volunteers, this historic site was saved from abandonment in 2003.

We are in the process of developing our events for the year and planning a promotional campaign for the historic cemetery. In addition to what will be happening this season at Concordia, we were also invited to serve on a committee reporting to the Erie County Historical Commission and tasked with creating events in honor of the country's semiquincentennial, and so we have created a county-wide project that is currently awaiting approval. Once approved, we will need to begin its promotion.

We would like the intern/s to research and develop stories to be used in social media and on tours, write press releases and promotional materials, help with videos and events and help develop a manual for volunteers joining our team. 

What the interns will get: exposure to a wide range of media, free access to webcasts and workshops to develop PR skills, and networking with other nonprofits, local community leaders, government representatives and media professionals.

The cemetery is closed for the winter so our meetings are currently being held on Zoom. 

Please contact us at  Concordia1859@gmail.com if interested.

Be part of the "Try One Ride" Program

Interested in volunteering? Not sure you can commit? 

Let's talk about the "Try One Ride" Program

Canopy provides rides through vetted volunteers to medical appointments, physical therapy, and more — ensuring the ability to be proactive with your health and giving support when you need it. 

We also provide rides for personal needs such as grocery shopping, banking, and general errands — ensuring peace of mind and the ability for seniors to remain independent.

Call Wendy at (716) 235-8133 or email me at wendy@canopyofneighbors.org to talk about one time opportunities to volunteer. 

Our volunteers are integral to the success of UBCFA events by creating a positive, welcoming and safe experience for patrons and visitors. UBCFA Volunteers have a passion for the arts, enjoy contributing to the local community and have a strong customer service attitude.  Our volunteers greet and welcome visitors, act as ushers and ticket takers for theatre events, assist visitors in navigating the UBCFA and occasionally participate in special projects.

Help us operate the cafe during weekday lunch service! No prior hospitality experience required. Volunteer tasks may include plating guest meals, taking orders at the register, brewing coffee, and washing dishes.

Currently, shifts are available on Thursdays and Fridays.

If you'd like to help in the kitchen, available shifts are 10-12:30pm and 12:30-3pm.

If you'd like to help front-of-house (taking orders at the register, serving guests), available shifts are 10:30-1pm and 1-3:30pm.

Volunteers must be at least 17 years of age.

**Open Invitation: Board of Directors – Attorney Position**

The Epilepsy Association of Western New York is seeking a dedicated and community-minded attorney to join our Board of Directors.

For over 70 years, our organization has provided vital support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by epilepsy across Western New York. As we continue to grow our impact, we are looking for a legal professional who can help guide our governance and strategic direction.

**Ideal candidates will bring:**

* Legal expertise (experience in nonprofit, healthcare, compliance, or corporate law is a plus)
* A commitment to community service and mission-driven work
* Interest in supporting individuals living with epilepsy and their families
* Willingness to actively participate in board meetings and initiatives

**Board member responsibilities include:**

* Providing guidance on governance, policies, and risk management
* Supporting strategic planning and organizational growth
* Serving as an ambassador for the organization in the community

This is a meaningful opportunity to use your professional skills to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

If you are interested in learning more or would like to be considered, please contact us at jirwin@epilepsywny.org.

We welcome and encourage inquiries from individuals who are passionate about strengthening our community.

**Together, we can make a difference.**

**Open Invitation: Board of Directors (Community Member)**

The Epilepsy Association of Western New York invites community members to express interest in joining our Board of Directors.

For over 50 years, we have supported individuals and families affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, and direct services across Western New York. We are seeking passionate, committed individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in their community.

**We welcome candidates with experience in areas such as:**

* Business, finance, or operations
* Marketing, communications, or fundraising
* Healthcare, education, or social services
* Community leadership or nonprofit involvement

**Ideal candidates will bring:**

* A strong commitment to community service
* Interest in advancing our mission and expanding our impact
* Willingness to actively participate in board meetings and events
* Ability to serve as an ambassador for the organization

**Board member responsibilities include:**

* Supporting strategic planning and organizational growth
* Assisting with fundraising and community outreach
* Providing oversight and guidance to ensure mission success

This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute your time, talent, and perspective to an organization dedicated to improving lives.

If you are interested in learning more or being considered, please contact us at jirwin@epilepsywny.org

**Your voice and leadership can help strengthen our community.**

Join us the first Saturday of each month (10am-noon) for some gardening chores and accidental fun. Tasks vary but may include: weeding, watering, light carpentry, planting, harvesting, collecting seeds, starting seed trays, turning soil/compost, transplanting, raking, deadheading, putting up groundhog deterrent fencing, pruning trees and shrubs. Bring your favorite work gloves and water bottle. 

Sessions are 2hrs. You do not have to signup--just show up. Stay for an hour or the whole session.
Ms.Caesandra doesn't monitor rsvp/cancellations so please do not wait for a reply--we only cancel if it's POURING BUCKETS. 
If you're worried about the weather, please txt Ms.Caesandra to see if it's too extreme.

NO SKILLS/TOOLS NECESSARY! We will train you.
SAVE THE DATES: 2MAY, 6JUN, 11JUL, 1AUG, 5SEPT, 3OCT, 7NOV

The BHSC Foundation is looking for volunteers for our 2026 Halloween Masquerade Gala on October 24th.

Volunteers will be needed the day prior for set up and for the event on the 24th to help with raffle ticket sales, runners for auction items, tech help for online bidding and many more roles. 

Compeer clients need rides to social activities so they can connect, build friendships, and feel part of the community. You’ll pick up Compeer clients at their home, drive them to social activities, join in the fun if you’d like, and make sure they get home safely. Your ride helps clients living with mental health challenges stay connected, build friendships, and feel included.

Volunteers will communicate with a member of the Compeer staff using a secure transportation database tool to fulfill shifts & coordinate efficient pick-up and drop-off routes.

Monthly Milage reimbursement provided to drivers*

Key Responsibilities:

Drive Compeer clients and approved family members to a Compeer sponsored activity.

Optional- Drivers are offered the opportunity to stay at the Compeer activity, participate and build relationships with compeer clients.

Participate in positive interactions with all passengers, including greeting and engaging in conversation throughout sessions, listening non-judgmentally and empathetically.

Provide safe, comfortable, and dignified transportation.

Eligibility Requirements:

Screening & Training Requirements:

Background checks are funded by Compeer and the NYS Office of Mental Health. There is no cost to a volunteer applicant.

The Richardson Olmsted Campus seeks volunteers to join its incredible park beautification team! Volunteers will be working on the south lawn to restore its original beauty!

More information is available at https://richardson-olmsted.com/support/get-involved/.

Goodskills Career Builder, a workforce readiness program through Goodwill Industries of Western New York, is seeking volunteers to support job seekers preparing for careers in manufacturing and tech-enabled roles.  A key component of the program is the mock interview – an essential step participants must complete before meeting with hiring employers. In addition to being a program requirement, these interviews provide participants with valuable, real-time feedback to help them build confidence and strengthen their interview skills.  We are looking for professionals or retirees with interviewing or hiring experience to serve as mock interviewers. Volunteers will conduct practice interviews and offer constructive feedback to help participants succeed in real hiring environments.

We need your help to keep great books accessible to communities 24/7. Visit Little Free Libraries in your community to distribute books! 

We can suggest where to look for free or inexpensive books, or if you already have some, you can share those too. You can find book-sharing boxes near you using our world map or free mobile app. Volunteers over 18 anywhere in the U.S. where there are Little Free Libraries can register for this opportunity. 

Register on our website to get started. If it's your first time signing up with Team LFL, you will be prompted to create an account in our volunteer hub. Once you sign up, you will get access to tips & resources that you review independently online. Our Little Free Library staff can answer your questions by email. You can share books whenever it works for you.  

This is a great opportunity for solo volunteers looking for something flexible to fit their schedule, or for parents looking for a volunteer activity they can do with kids. 

Purpose: By keeping Little Free Libraries full of books, you are helping to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access. 

Responsibilities:

Time required: You set your own schedule. It could be a one-time project or a regular book distribution schedule.

How we can support you: We'll help you start with some online training, and we will suggest sources for books.

Qualifications:

Questions: You can contact the Community Engagement Manager to ask questions. 

Communities are hungry for books! Help Little Free Library fulfill its mission of book access for everyone by coordinating a local book drive. You can lead a book drive and distributed the collected books to local Little Free Libraries. Little Free Library staff can answer your questions along the way. 

This is a flexible volunteer opportunity. You can coordinate your book drive during the times that work best for you and your community. Volunteers over 18 anywhere in the U.S. where there are Little Free Libraries can register for this opportunity.

How to get started: Register on the Little Free Library volunteer hub. If it's your first time volunteering with Team LFL, you will be asked to create an account in our volunteer hub. After you register, we will send you a guide about how to coordinate a book drive. Then, staff will check in with you by email to offer support for your book drive planning.

Purpose: By keeping Little Free Libraries filled with books, you are helping to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access. 

Responsibilities:

Time Required: A typical book drive lasts about two weeks to one month, plus time beforehand to plan and promote the drive. 

Training & Resources Available: We will help you get to know our organization and share our tips for planning a successful book drive. 

Qualifications:

Benefits: Experience the satisfaction of getting more books into the hands of readers while connecting with your community. Volunteers in the US will get a free Little Free Library t-shirt after you record your impact in the Team LFL online hub. 

Supervision & Support: You can connect with the Community Engagement Manager to ask questions. 

Calling all bookworms! Book Lovers Day is August 9, and we’ve got a fun way for you to celebrate by spreading the joy of reading, one beloved book at a time.

Celebrate Book Lovers Day by sharing a book you love in a Little Free Library near you. You’ll be expanding book access by sharing your favorite reads.

It’s easy to participate:

This is a great activity for families, friends, or book clubs to do together. 

Impact: Celebrate your love of reading while expanding book access in your community.

Time Required: Flexible. Share one book, or share many! Please share your book(s) anytime on Saturday, August 9. 

Support: You can contact the Community Engagement Manager to ask questions. 

Volunteers under 18 need online volunteer forms completed by a parent/guardian to participate.