Skip to main content Skip to main navigation Skip to footer content

Jan and Bud Richter Center

Community Service Opportunities Fair

Our community ties are strong because we believe this region can thrive when the community and University work as one. That’s why we show our commitment to the community by partnering with local organizations and spreading Fresno State pride across the Valley.

 

The Community Service Opportunities Fair is hosted bi-annually by the Richter Center. For information on the next in-person Community Service Opportunities Fair, please visit Our Events page. The fair is both an in-person and online opportunity for students and local community benefit organizations to come together in a mutually beneficial way. 

Below you will find information about community benefit organizations that are currently seeking volunteers. While this list includes a diverse array of service opportunities, there are hundreds of additional organizations in our area, around the state and across the nation that are in need of assistance from dedicated, skilled volunteers like you. Additional sources of information on service opportunities include Serve Fresno, HandsOn Central California, California Volunteers and Volunteer Match. The Richter Center staff can also provide more personalized assistance if the resources on this page do not meet your needs. Please email Trisha Studt at tstudt@csufresno.edu for additional assistance.

Please start by looking at the first tab below, "Students: Start Here!", where you will find helpful hints for your search.

As you prepare to investigate and select a community service opportunity, consider:

  • Your personal goals and any applicable course requirements?

When researching and speaking with community organizations:

  • Visit their website to learn more about the agency mission and services.

Follow the “5 P’s” by being:

  • Prompt: Start researching and contacting sites right away. Don’t procrastinate.

If you have questions or need individual assistance in identifying service opportunities, please email tstudt@csufresno.edu

Website: American Heart Association

Contact: Chariya Newton, 559.650.4008, chariya.newton@heart.org

To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We have multiple in-person events throughout the year. We are needing volunteers to help with day-of event logistics: set-up, clean-up, registration, donor support, etc.

Beautify Fresno Logo

Website:  beautifyfresno.org

Contact: Mark Standriff, 559.621.8626, mark.standriff@fresno.gov

Beautify Fresno is Mayor Dyer’s initiative to improve the City of Fresno’s “curb appeal” through the coordinated delivery of existing City resources to eliminate trash, graffiti, and blight, and by creating community-based cleanup and beautification projects. 

The Mayor’s vision was to create a new department with a singular focus – a sustainable, city-wide effort to clean Fresno’s neighborhoods, streets, and highways by partnering with local organizations, non-profits, churches, and service organizations, and individuals in the community to beautify, recycle, educate, and empower residents to make Fresno a cleaner, greener, more beautiful place to live, work and play.

 

Website: Better Business Bureau

Contact: Liliya Rudan, 559.803.9645, liliya@ccie.bbb.org

Help Develop and Execute Marketing Campaigns.
Digital Marketing.
Event Coordinating & Attending. 
Data Quality.

Website: Breaking the Chains

Contact: Jennifer Duarte, 559.492.1566, jduarte@btcfresno.org

Opportunities: Admin, case manager assistant, transportation, events.

Volunteer opportunities image

Website: boys2mengirls2women.org

Contact: Kimberly Hughes, 559.225.9300, b2mg2w.foundationinc@gmail.com

The mission of Boys2Men Girls2Women is to keep kids:

  1. in school,
  2. off drugs,
  3. out of gangs, and
  4. teen pregnancy prevention.  

We serve at-risk youth 4-18, by providing afterschool programs, tutoring and mentoring. 

Website: bulldogpantry.org

Contact: Erica Bird, 559.224.9052, thebulldogpantry@gmail.com

We are a student run food pantry seeking to: 

-Provide food to students and families in need. 

-Engage students through volunteering. 

-Provide resources and materials in partnerships with other non-profits. 

-Maintain sustainability through donations and community partnerships. 

In doing so we aspire to help the community one neighbor at a time. Very few of our volunteer options are virtual. The majority are helping to set up our distributions and to help during the distributions. Our food distributions are on select Saturday mornings often twice a month.

Bulldog Pantry image

 

 Website: carefresno.org

Contact: 559.473.4746, admin@carefresno.org

Care Fresno is a Christian non-profit with a mission of cultivating hope and healing in under-resourced communities in Fresno.  We run after-school programs to build mentoring relationships with children in neighborhoods.  Our goal has been to help decrease crime by forming these relationships.  Our after-school programs consist of mindfulness time, homework time, Bible studies, a healthy snack, outdoor games and activities, and arts and crafts.  
We are in need of volunteers that love working with children and want to serve their community.  Our volunteers make this program possible!  As a volunteer, you would get to be a mentor to children and make a difference in their lives.  

Website: Catholic Charities

Contact: Virginia Mendoza, 559.237.0851, vmendoza@ccdof.org

Catholic Charities Diocese of Fresno is a Community Benefit Organization serving the needs of those in crisis with sites in Fresno, Merced and Bakersfield. We are the first responders in helping our neighbors with food, clothing and other basic necessities regardless of age, race or beliefs. Hunger extends far beyond our brick and mortar sites. Thanks to our supporters we are able to fulfill our mission to serve all those in need throughout the 35,239 square miles within the Diocese of Fresno.

Website: donateblood.org

Contact: Gordon Halstead, 559.706.7614, ghalstead@donateblood.org

Provide a safe and abundant blood supply for the hospitals and patients we serve in the Central valley.

Opportunities: Canteen Volunteer, Blood Drive Volunteer, Reminder Phone Call Volunteer.

 

Central Cal Legal Services image

Website: centralcallegal.org

Contact: Montez Brooks, 559.570.1266, mkbrooks@centralcallegal.org

Know Your Rights Web Series – Virtual Bilingual Recording. 

We are searching for bilingual law students who can translate the content and present via audio only in their second language. The Know Your Rights web series will be a 40-topic series launched on the CCLS YouTube channel. Each presentation will be 5-10 minutes with a PowerPoint slide. The slides have been created and presented in English. We only need auto recordings in languages other than English. Topics include immigration relief, public benefits access, tenant’s rights, guardianship, domestic violence restraining orders, bankruptcy.   

If you are interested in presenting a topic, please email Montez Brooks at probono@centralcallegal.org with your resume. Estimated time for each topic is one (1) hour. More information can be found here.

 

Website: ccspca.com

Contact: Linda Stolling, 559.223.7722 x 124, lstolling@ccspca.com

Our mission is to provide protection, placement, and education to ensure responsible animal care.  

We have volunteer opportunities that include animal care, adoptions assistance, community ambassador and marketing opportunities, children's programs assistance, office work, grounds and facilities work, fundraising, clinic assistance and much more.

Central Valley Justice Coalition Logo

Website: justiceco.org

Contact: Christy Seeber, 559.825.0020, admin@justiceco.org

The mission of the Justice Coalition is to partner with the church and the community to prevent human trafficking through education, partnership, and outreach. Through our presentations, classes, and trainings, we educate all sectors of the community to increase understanding of the realities of human trafficking and empower people to create change. Our youth advocacy program connects with vulnerable youth, offering support and education to keep them from being exploited. Through our outreach programs, we connect with those currently engaged in sex work and involved in trafficking in order to meet needs and offer belonging. 

 

Website: www.centrolafamilia.org

Contact: Chin Vang, 559.237.2961, cvang@centrolafamilia.org

Contact directly for service opportunities.

Students waving

Website: citizensclimatelobby.org

Contact: Andrea De Zubria, 559.824.1083, afarberdezub@gmail.com

Citizens’ Climate Lobby is a climate change organization that exists to create the political will for a livable world by enabling individual breakthroughs in the exercise of personal and political power.

Volunteers write letters, make phone calls, prepare and give presentations, staff information tables and host special events to inform their members of Congress and the public about the impacts of climate change and the need for effective bipartisan climate legislation.

Website: clovisal.org 

Contact: Alan Fry, alanfry@mail.fresnostate.edu

Raise money to help veterans in need and to serve the community in various capacities.

Website: cysfresno.org

Contact: Jim Pryce, 559.229.3561, jpryce@cysfresno.org

We are a non-profit counseling agency working with children ages 2-18.  We have a variety of volunteer opportunities at CYS.  One program allows for volunteers to work directly with caregivers and clients by explaining to them what type of victim services are available to them in California.  If services are wanted by the family the volunteer will then assist in filling out applications for assistance with the family.  The volunteer will then provide case management services by following up with the family to be sure they are not running into any difficulties.  Volunteers are also a valued member of our team by assisting in sanitizing and organizing toys that are used throughout the day by the many therapists who see clients, as well as, preparing intake paperwork for the all new clients.  

Coved Flyer

Website: coved.org

Contact: Yeji Lee, 508.734.0159, outreach@coved.org

We are currently seeking undergraduate/postgraduate/grad students to volunteer virtually as mentors for K-12 students, particularly those with limited access to educational resources. If you’d like to connect with a student, please consider signing up to be a mentor at bit.ly/coved-mentor-signup! 

Mentors serve not only as a source of academic support, but as role models for the student they work with. This will provide an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to students who have trouble accessing learning materials and mentorship.

 

Website: eahhousing.org

Contact: Laura Hernandez, 559.676.5469, laura.hernandez@eahhousing.org

EAH Housing About Us EAH Housing is an non-profit affordable housing organization that was established in 1968 that serves over 25,000 individuals in the western United States, including low-income seniors, veterans, families, individuals with special needs and those at risk of homelessness. To learn more information about who we are, please visit EAHHousing.org

Resident Services: Our StayWell resident programs thrive with the assistance of volunteers and work of our Resident service Coordinators within the following areas: Monthly Pantry distributions, community events, holiday celebrations, after school program support, and community outreaching.

This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, gain hands-on experience & support local community projects. Volunteer positions are available at our Fresno and Selma locations.

evangel home flyer

Website: evangelhome.com

Contact: Jacquelyn Pearson, 559.492.7190, community@evangelhome.org

Our Mission at Evangel Home is:
- To serve women and children in crisis.
- To meet their basic physical needs.
- To promote personal development and responsibility.
- To encourage spiritual growth.
- To uphold and honor Jesus Christ in all we do.

Our Vision: A home where the cycle of crisis ends, where lives are reconciled to Jesus Christ, where families and relationships are restored and where the future holds hope for the next generation.

Evangel Home is a shelter for single women and mothers with children. Our programs include the Crisis Home 30-day emergency shelter, Cross Roads 9-month residential program, and Community Connection transitional program for Cross Roads graduates. Please see the accompanying graphic for more information on each program.

After an initial screening with our Community Coordinator, we would love for qualified community members to come alongside our Evangel Home community to support with receptionist duties, meal preparation, childcare, various maintenance projects, and more.

Website: everyneighborhood.org

Contact: Andrea Ricci, 661.619.0031, andrea@everyneighborhood.org

Every Neighborhood Partnership equips you to serve in elementary schools either with our Saturday Sports program or the Literacy Mentor program.

The Saturday Sports program you would volunteer for two-hours on Saturday mornings in a group mentoring setting with students at elementary school site campuses.
The Literacy Mentoring program you would volunteer in classrooms at least 1-2 hours per week, working with students one-on-one on their foundational reading skills- in either Kinder-2nd grade or 3rd-6th grade. 

ENP volunteer opportunities

 

Website: epuchildren.org

Contact: Carrie Ann Anderson, 559.229.2000 ext. 2140, canderson@epuchildren.org

EPU guides and strengthens children and families with unique needs through early intervention and supportive resources that cultivate hope and resilience. 

EPU's Volunteer Opportunities:

  • Parent Education & Support: child education, special education, clerical
  • Parenting Services: clothes closet, food distribution, Saturday monthly event
  • EPIC ( Engage, Play, Inspire, Connect ): early childhood intervention, education, child development
  • Child Development Center: early childhood development, education, teacher aids
  • Fundraising Events: GALA, Fiesta de los Ninos,
  • Special One Time Events: Family Fun Day, Holiday Events 

EPU volunteer flyer

Website: fstc.net

Contact: Lorene Mendoza, 559.732.1970, lorene.mendoza@fstc.net

Our mission is to help children, adults, and families heal from violence and thrive in healthy relationships.

Family Service of Tulare County LOgo

farms to grow logo

Website:  farmstogrow.com

Contact: Elaine Smith, 510.379.8600, esmith@farmstogrow.com

Our mission is to Promote the sustainability and legacy of Black farmers as well as sprout the next generation of small farmers. To Document and disseminate farm history to advance the public's understanding of the important roles of Black farmers. To Improve the access to urban food markets including schools, restaurants, and individual consumers for Black and other underserved farmers.

Website: focusforward.org

Contact: Maria Martin, 559.722.6949, marias@focusforward.org

Providing service to youth and families impacted by justice and welfare systems within Fresno County.

 

Focus Forwrad Flyer

 fresno animal center logo

Website: fresnoanimalcenter.com

Contact:  volunteer@fresnohumane.org

The Fresno Animal Center was built by the City of Fresno to provide state-mandated animal control services. The Center provides temporary kennels for Fresno's homeless pet population while they wait to be reclaimed by their owners, or if abandoned, adopted into a forever home.

We are looking for volunteers 18 years or older who want to make a difference in our lifesaving capacity and enrich the lives of shelter animals.

We need help with: walking dogs, office assistance, cleaning, enrichment, laundry, and dishes.

Website: fresnobarriosunidos.org

Contact: Nydia Hernandez, 559.387.6462, nydia@fresnobarriosunidos.org

We transform communities by empowering youth and families through education, wellness, and advocacy. We are inclusive, respectful, and appreciative of the youth and families we serve. We offer a program specific to youth who would like to volunteer. We also offer program for youth interested in advocacy and policy change. 

Historical Society Logo

Website: valleyhistory.org

Contact: Lori Hunter, 559.777.4031, lhunter@valleyhistory.org

Since our inception in 1919, the mission of the Fresno County Historical Society has been to engage, inform and educate the public through the collection, preservation and interpretation of the stories, images and resources of our unique region in order to better understand our past and help shape our future. 

Volunteer opportunities include:  Tour Docent, Event Volunteer, Membership Outreach, Community Outreach, Education Volunteer, Administration Volunteer

Discovery center volunteers

Website: fresnodiscoverycenter.org

Contact: Stephanie Barajas, 559.251.5533, sbarajas@fresnodiscoverycenter.org

Our mission is to ignite curiosity and imagination in Central Valley youth by providing hands-on STEAM experiences. We have 3 categories of volunteering:

  1. Floor Staff interact with guests: -Docent - give tours, develop and/or lead STEAM activities - Science Center Assistant - greet guests, support center staff, clean exhibits and buildings - Educator Assistant - assist with STEAM activities, classes, or field trips at the Center or off-site at schools or events - Event Staff - assist in planning, organizing, set up, facilitating, and/or clean up of events.  Behind the Scenes deals with outdoor and/or maintenance tasks:
  2.  Building & Exhibit Maintenance - repairing and/or maintaining buildings & Exhibits - Landscaping - gardening, weeding, weed whacking, pruning, Cactus Garden Maintenance, etc. - Animal Care - cleaning enclosures, prepping meals, handling animals, animal presentations  NOTE: Not everyone who signs up will have the opportunity to be placed in this role. Volunteers will be eligible to apply for this role after their probationary review.  
  3. Administration is more office based: - Marketing - Survey teachers, guests, etc. - Take pictures & videos, create social media content, videos, flyers, posters, signage, etc. - IT - website management, office support, etc. - Committee Member - Events, Exhibit, Membership, Cafe Scientifique.

Children on rug

Website: fresnoeoc.org

Contact: Tashon Smallwood, 559.263.1996, tashon.smallwodd@fresnoeoc.org

Head Start 0 to 5 is a federally funded community-based program for income eligible pregnant women and children ages birth to five, inclusive of children with disabilities. We provide comprehensive child development and family support services, including education, social, emotional, health, nutrition, family support, and disability services. Head Start 0 to 5 is committed to building strong children and families. Our goals are:  to promote healthy prenatal outcomes for pregnant women to enhance the development of children ages birth to five to promote healthy family functioning.

FIRM logo

Website: firminc.org

Contact: Salim Syoufi, 559.487.1500, salim@firminc.org

FIRM exists to build communities of hope with New Americans.   Our staff and communities speak many languages, including Arabic, Dari, Hmong, Khmer, Lao, Pashto, Russian, Spanish,Thai, and Ukrainian.                  

Students can volunteer with a number of programs at FIRM: 

  • Family Literacy Center (M, W, F: 10am to 2pm) a child+adult drop in early literacy program  
  • ESL tutoring for adults (Flexible hours)
  • Homework help for children (afternoons)  
  • Transportation assistance for new arrivals (mornings) 
  • Childcare for ESL Classes (parents remain on site) (T, Th, mornings)  
  • Set up and tear-down for FIRM donation days (monthly)
  • Special Events (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, World Refugee Day, etc.)

Website:  yfcnow.org

Contact: Lauryn Fifer, 559.433.5087, leaders@yfcnow.org

YFC is a movement that reaches young people everywhere with the hope of Christ. We work with the local church and other like-minded partners to raise up lifelong followers of Jesus who lead by their godliness in lifestyle, devotion to the Word of God and prayer, passion for sharing the love of Christ, and commitment to social involvement. Join the movement of ministry leaders who are passionate about introducing 11-19 year olds to Jesus. We’re not looking for perfect people or superstars; just those who are willing to listen well, to be themselves, and to be present in a young person’s life. Volunteers serve 1-2 hours per week, are vetted and receive training.

Volunteer opportunities are to follow: We serve on a combined number of 23 middle school and high school lunch time clubs created by us called Campus Life. We go into 32 boy and girl group homes in the Fresno Madera area called group life and share the gospel, mentor, and build relationships. We also go into the Fresno and Madera juvenile detention facilities to share Christ and be the light/mentor to teens who are in jail. Here at the downtown office we have a group called 701 that offers kickboxing classes, workout classes, and art therapy classes to any youth. as a non-profit we hold annual fundraisers that can always use the help of volunteers to do set-up, registration tables, hospitality, tear down, and event specifc needs. Some fundraisers are the Frozen 5k run in May, and a Golf tournament in April!Youth for Christ image

 Fresno Metro Ministry food distribution images

Website: fresnometmin.org

Contact: Christopher DeLeon, 559.485.1416, info@fresnometmin.org

Fresno Metro Ministry is a multicultural, multi-faith, cross-sector community organization that is "Learning, Connecting and Engaging to achieve healthy people and healthy places. With over a 50-year history of community action, we continue our work with residents to advocate for positive change in the community and institutional systems and policies.

We have several volunteer opportunities throughout the year with the following programs:
Community Gardens: Come volunteer with us to help us maintain community gardens in Fresno. Volunteer days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Summer Schedule: 8am-11pm, Winter schedule 2-5pm. Contact us for the location and details!
Cooking Matters: Volunteer to assist us with hosting cooking classes at community centers around Fresno. Contact us for more information on dates of classes. 
Gleaning: Help us recover food from fruit trees and donate it to the food bank to help feed families in need. Gleaning dates and times vary. 

Website:  girlscoutsccs.org

Contact: Paula Hanlon, 800.490.8653, phanlon@girlscoutsccs.org

Looking for a way to impact the lives of girl in your community? Girl Scouts offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Whether you can give a few hours, a few weeks, or a few months, volunteering with Girl Scouts is flexible and fun. We have volunteer opportunities from office assisting to volunteering at our fun event.

hands holding a heart image

Website: hnconline.org

Contact: Lester Moon, 559.625.3822, hncvisalia@gmail.com

Hands in the Community of Tulare and Kings County is a volunteer driven organization that serves those in need. Our objective is to assist people in becoming self-sufficient and, more specifically, to strengthen the ability of individuals and families to care for themselves. We assist with access to services towards improved care and well-being. The majority of those we serve are low-income, children, families, disabled, at-risk youth, and elderly. Since 2009, we've helped over 6,500 families.

 

Website: hindshospice.org

Contact: Sven Hamilton, 559.317.6016, volunteer@hindshospice.org

The mission of Hinds Hospice is to uphold the dignity and ease the suffering of the terminally ill while supporting their loved ones and those who are grieving.   Opportunities: Hospice Home Patient Care, Circle of Friends, Flower Power, Thrift Stores, Special Events. Find more information here.

 

Website: hopehorizon.org

Contact: Anna Ferreira, 559.686.9772, aferreira@hopehorizon.org

ABOUT US:
Hope Horizon Mental Health (HHMH) is a non-profit mental health clinic that provides mental health services throughout Tulare County. No family should have to suffer through the effects of mental health issues. Through school-based mental health, individual and group therapy, we strive to create an environment where children and families can thrive.  Our services included mental health assessments, individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, psychiatry, case management, Sexual Abuse Treatment (SAT), equine therapy, Full-Service Partnership (FSP) services, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Building Bridges Perinatal Wellness, and so much more! 

OUR MISSION:
To provide children and families compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health services that nurture hope, strengths, and healthy relationships at home, school and in the community.

OUR VISION
That children and families are happy, healthy, and empowered to achieve their highest potential; becoming self-reliant, accomplished, and able to determine and shape the future.

SERVICE/VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
We were founded in 1971 as a children's mental health clinic and in the years since we have expanded the range of services we provide as well as the populations we serve. Because of this, we recently changed our name from Tulare Youth Service Bureau (TYSB) to Hope Horizon Mental Health. We have already done work with a marketing company who created our new logo and website, but there will be continued marketing opportunities including updating our flyers and creating new marketing materials, creating a PSA-type video to share around the County, planning an open house event, and planning a first annual fundraiser. We don't have a dedicated marketing person at this time and are excited about students having the opportunity to partner with our admin team and utilize their knowledge and skills. 

hope horizon logo

Website: icantriclub.com

Contact: Todd Waldner, coachtodd@icantriclub.com 

We are a Youth and Junior triathlon club, introducing young people between the ages of 6-18 to the sport of triathlon. We also have a high performance traveling junior team. We are seeking athletes/coaches that have experience with swimming, cycling or running. We are also looking for someone who would help us organize a Triathlon Skills Camp at Fresno State. We would also like to look at the possibilities of restarting the FSU Triathlon Club.

children on bikes

 

 fluffy white dog

Website: innocentangelssanctuary.org

Contact: Shannon Escobedo, 559.549.4673, innocentangelssanctuary@gmail.com

We provide a safe haven for any sick, injured, abused, and or abandoned pet in need of immediate care. Many animals are misunderstood and or unwanted due to their medical condition, temperament, and or financial need. We service California's Fresno and Madera counties by assisting with the homeless pet population by rescuing and rehoming the pets that cross our path.

We need volunteers to help with transport of pets to vet visits and adoption events, cleaning and socializing at our shelter, and taking photos and videos of our pets for social media, Petfinder, and our website. We also need help uploading pet vaccination records to their files, creating pet profiles on Petfinder and Adopt a Pet, managing/creating content for our social media accounts, and creating opportunities for off site adoption events. 

 

Website: kcao.org

Contact: Savino Perico, 559.415.7213, sperico@kcao.org

Working as a team, KCAO will seek and provide programs that develop self-sufficiency in individuals, families, and communities within Kings County. KCAO is looking for interns to assist with social media, preschool centers, crisis support services, and to do research on poverty. KCAO is located in Kings county about 45 minutes from Fresno. The internship opportunities are available virtual or in person. More information can be found here.

For more information please reach out to Savino Perico, sperico@kcao.orf or (559) 415-7213.   

kings water alliance flyer

Website: kingswateralliance.org

Contact: Megan Powers, 559.237.5567 x 124, mpowers@krcd.org

Kings Water Alliance is our non-profit program whose mission is to provide rural residents with safe drinking water solutions. We offer free well tests to see if residents have unsafe levels of nitrate in their drinking water. If their test results show unsafe levels of nitrate, we provide free bottled water deliveries their homes.

We need volunteers to connect with residents at different community events by giving out our flyers and telling them about our free community resources. Volunteers must find their own transportation to and from events. All volunteers will receive a KWA volunteer hat and go through volunteer orientation training. 

 

Website: MAPS

Contact: Paige Olson, 559.278.2811, polson238@mail.fresnostate.edu

Through the MAPS program students who experience challenges with executive functioning, in particular those students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, are offered mentoring and support specifically in the areas of college transition, academic goals, and campus life. We are looking for empathetic and energetic student volunteers to mentor our MAPS students. This is a great opportunity to enhance your resume and gain experience working with diverse populations.

For more information, click here.  

marjaree mason center logo

Website: mmcenter.org

Contact: Jennifer Lor, 559.487.1323, jenniferl@mmcenter.org

Marjaree Mason Center is Fresno County's only dedicated provider of domestic violence shelter and support services, including education for victims and youth. Marjaree Mason Center supports and empowers adults and their children affected by domestic violence, while striving to prevent and end the cycle of abuse through education and advocacy.

 

Website: martinpark.org

Contact: Carissa Contreras, 559.797.7587, carissa@martinpark.org

Mission:
The mission of Martin Park is to impact urban communities, care for lives, and stand in the G.A.P. (Guiding, Accepting, and Providing) through parks with a purpose in Fresno, CA. 

Vision:
Our vision at Martin Park is to be a constant presence in overlooked neighborhoods by providing safe parks where the community is engaged, and the residents' needs are met. 

Martin Park is a faith-based community organization dedicated to community transformation in the 93701 neighborhoods of Downtown Fresno. We provide year-round after-school programming, weekly food drives, and monthly community events to connect residents to resources to improve their social, emotional, economic, and spiritual well-being.

We are always open to bright and community-focused volunteers from Fresno State and can accommodate your course schedule! 

Programs & Services:

*Year-round educational enrichment programming L.E.A.R.N. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, and Sports on Saturdays. 

*Weekly Food Drives are every Thursday at rotating locations in the 93701 area. 

*Monthly Community Events are usually held on Saturdays at one of our sites or in the greater Fresno Area

Learning Enrichment Activities Reaching Neighborhoods (L.E.A.R.N.):
Provides a safe, nurturing environment for elementary school students from Lowell and Webster to receive tutoring, engage in enrichment and recreational activities, and improve their reading, math, and social-emotional skills.

Martin Park volunteers assist, facilitate, and support staff in the following ways:

After-School L.E.A.R.N. Programming Volunteers:
Prepare sites and organize learning activities for participating students. 
Mentor/ tutor elementary and middle school-aged students in literacy and mathematics. 
Assist site staff in leading engaging enrichment activities for students. 
Welcome and provide guidance to students and residents. 
Maintain accurate records of student attendance and participation. 
Participate in periodic staff team meetings for reporting and training purposes. 
Communicate with Martin Park staff regarding schedule changes and team meetings. 
Regularly communicate with Site Leads, parents, and teachers about students' progress. 
Availability 3-5 pm Monday, Wednesday, and Friday- or- 3-5 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. 
Saturday Sports 10 am-1 pm. 

Weekly Food Drive Volunteers: 
Ability to stand and guide residents through the food line.
Ability to lift,carry, and move boxes up to 35 lbs.
Comfortable working with residents in the community. 
Comfortable with working outdoors. 
Thursdays 10 am- 2 pm. 

Monthly Community Events Volunteer: 
Engage and interact with residents.
Facilitate games, raffles, and booths. 
Share information and resources with attendees.
Set up & Break down event equipment (tents, tables, chairs).
Serve food, drinks, and snacks.
Prep site before and clean site after events. 
Various dates and times.

Volunteer Requirements  include, but are not limited to, the following:
Passion for community advocacy and supporting youth.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with staff and students.
Attend volunteer orientation and training. 
Background check clearance in accordance with organizational policies. (Free Livescan Screening through Martin Park)
Access to reliable transportation for commuting to the program locations.

children doing art

mothers against drunk driving logo

Website: madd.org

Contact: Jasmine Rivas, 559.785.2600 x6658, jasmin.rivas@madd.org

At Mothers Against Drunk Driving, we’re focused on one goal: ending impaired driving for good. Since our founding, we've served as a lifeline for thousands of victims and survivors, and drunk driving fatalities have been cut in half — but we refuse to stop there. Together, we can end this 100% preventable crime. EMPOWER TOMORROW’S DRIVERS Inspire youth, train parents or mobilize community activities to prevent underage drinking and reduce alcohol access to youth. 

 

Website: offthefront.org

Contact: Mike Slayden, mike@offthefront.org

Helping prepare for bike builds, Bike Unboxing & Bike Building (mid-late April/early May), potential Bike Repairs - these are all hands on opportunities - no experience required.

Website:  plannedparenthood.org

Contact: Volunteer Services, volunteer@ppmarmonte.org

The first step to become a PPMM volunteer is to sign up for the monthly Volunteer Newsletter, which has information about local volunteer needs. Since we have limited volunteer roles available this will ensure students can apply for a role that suits your interests and availability.

Sign up for the newsletter! 

Once you sign up, you’ll begin receiving email newsletters from our team about volunteer needs!

  • Check out the PP Mar Monte Volunteer webpage for current needs. Use the links to complete the interest forms or RSVPs and we’ll email you more info.
  • If none of those opportunities work for you at the moment, you can also take action on your own time using our Take Action Volunteer Toolkit. Click on each of the links on the page for details on how to take action: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-mar-monte/get-involved-locally/volunteer
  • You can also sign up to receive updates from Planned Parenthood Advocates Mar Monte (PPAMM) to learn how you can make a difference in this upcoming election. Not to be confused with PPMM, PPAMM is the political arm that works diligently to elect candidates that support PPMM’s mission.If you’re also interested in careers, check out our careers page: https://www.ppmmcareers.org/

Poverello house logo

Website: poverellohouse.org

Contact: Nathaniel Schench, 559.498.6988, nschenck@poverellohouse.org

Believing in the dignity of every person, at Poverello House we work to enrich the lives and spirits of all who pass our way by stewarding the resources made available to us through providential and community support.          

Below are current volunteer opportunities:

Clothing Closet Volunteer

Kitchen & Meal Services Volunteer

Donation Warehouse Volunteer

 

 

 

 Website: cathaven.com

Contact: Dale Anderson, 559.338.3216, info@cathaven.com

Project Survival’s Cat Haven is a 501c3 non-profit conservation facility dedicated to the preservation of wild cats. It specializes in education and is engaged in both captive and range country conservation. It is this link to the conservation of cats in their native habitat which makes the work of the Cat Haven especially meaningful.

Volunteers are the backbone of a non-profit organization. Cat Haven is no exception. With the constant incurrence of expenses, it is important to gain the support of our community in promoting the success of our facility. Our work must be top-notch. That means our volunteers will be asked to learn new things, do uncomfortable tasks, and work intensely to foster an atmosphere that is educational, efficient, clean, and safe. We want to present a welcoming day adventure for everyone involved.

Volunteering at the Cat Haven is all about teaching and working with the public. It is an excellent opportunity to be involved with the conservation of wild cats. It also provides work experience and an introduction to the jobs associated with a zoological facility.

The Cat Haven relies on volunteers to assist with the educational goals of the facility as well as cover routine duties like manning the gift shop. Prospective volunteers should enjoy working with people and come prepared to learn and disseminate information with enthusiasm.

Some specific volunteer roles, include but are not limited to, Docent, Zookeeper, Landscaper/Gardener, Painter, Welder, Handyman.

thank you and images of big cats 

Reading and beyond image

Website: readingandbeyond.org

Contact: Karina Olaguez, 559.342.8619, kolaguez@readingandbeyond.org

The mission of Reading and Beyond is to empower children and families to achieve productive, self-reliant lives.  We have several in-person volunteer opportunities at our sites. 

Opportunities includes, Preschool Teacher Aide, Afterschool Aide, Computer Lab Assistant, and Front Office Assistant

 

 Website: rmhccv.org

Contact: Melvis Mendoza, 559.507.1384, melvis@rmhccv.org

The mission of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley is to provide a “Home Away from Home” and resources to children and their families.

 

Saint Agness image

Website: samc.com

Contact: Brandon Miller, 559.450.5623, brandon.miller002@samc.com

We have opportunities for volunteers to sit with patients who are on hospice and keep them company, read to them, watch tv with them and give the family a chance to get out for a couple of hours.

 

Website: shinzenjapanesegarden.org

Contact: Faith Martin, 559.478.4848, faith.martin@shinzenjapanesegarden.org

Our mission is to create and grow a North American Japanese Garden that engages and inspires. 

Volunteer Opportunities include: 

  • Becoming a docent and improving your communication skills by give tours of our garden or our bonsai garden.
  • Get your hands dirty by coming out every 3rd Saturday of each month for landscape volunteering.
  • Work with experienced gardeners every Wednesday and learn how to maintain a garden.
  • Volunteer at any of our upcoming events. 

 

shinzen garden volunteer images

 

sierra foothill logo

Website: sierrafoothill.org

Contact: Allyson Brooks, 209.742.5556, allyson@sierrafoothill.org

SFC Mission Statement The grasslands, foothills, and forests between Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks provide land for farms and ranches, a home for native plants and wildlife, and a source of clean water. Sierra Foothill Conservancy honors our natural and cultural heritage by protecting these resources and ensuring that present and future generations will continue to experience and enjoy the land in this region. 

Volunteer opportunities include trail work, fence building and repair, plantings, invasive species removal, assisting with youth field trips, and assisting with hikes. 

 

Sierra meadows logo

Website: sierrameadowsfoundation.org

Contact: Megan Tatum, 559.900.7110, megan.tatum@sierrameadowsfoundation.org

The Birdie Lou Counseling Center is the first counseling center opened by the Sierra Meadows Foundation nonprofit organization. We provide entirely free mental health services to our community, prioritizing those with low income and without insurance. We are always looking for volunteers to help us with general office tasks, prescreening new clients, social media, business development, fundraiser planning, and other important tasks that help us continue to serve our community. 

 

 step up tutoring logo

Website: Step Up Tutoring

Contact: Erin King, 805.991.7039, onboarding@stepuptutoring.org

Overview
Step Up Tutoring is seeking volunteers to provide virtual tutoring to 3rd-6th grade students in California. Currently, there are 200+ students on the waiting list for a tutor. All tutoring takes place virtually! Join us as a volunteer tutor today and help close the opportunity gap. 

Impact
Step Up Tutoring’s mission is to drive student success by providing virtual high-impact tutoring and mentorship to elementary and middle school students in under-resourced communities. We recruit, train, and support mission-driven high-value tutors to provide individualized academic support and boost habits of success. By combining an innovative human capital solution with the effective use of technology, we provide a scalable and cost-effective tutoring model that drives meaningful academic gains, builds student confidence, and fosters positive relationships for students and tutors alike. Ultimately, we envision a world where all young people have the support they need to learn, develop, and access their dreams.

Responsibilities:
Meet with your student 1:1 a minimum of twice a week and use a research-backed online math curriculum tailored to students' individual needs
Act as a resource and mentor, to impact their academic career, gain a meaningful relationship, and get us another step closer to equity in the education system.

Requirements:
Must be 18 or over
Must reside in the US
Mandatory background check
Once matched with a student, we ask that you commit to tutoring your student for at least 90 minutes per week at regular time slots, for a minimum of 3 months 
Access to the internet and to a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone
Passion for the Step Up Tutoring mission

To apply, please visit: Application

Benefits
​Flexible schedule with weekday hours 
Professional growth and development opportunities
Opportunities for additional coaching, learning, and career exploration
Learn new skills! All training, and materials provided
Make a positive impact on a student’s life

 

cartoon cat drawing

Website: cathouseonthekings.com

Contact: Beth Caffrey, 559.443.9124, beth@cathouseonthekings.com

The Cat House on the Kings is California's largest no-cage, no-kill, lifetime cat sanctuary and adoption center. Our mission is to place rescued cats and kittens into loving, permanent homes; to provide a safe, happy and healthy home for unwanted cats and kittens in a unique, no-cage facility; to prevent pet overpopulation through spaying and neutering; and to educate the public about responsible pet ownership. Come to The Cat House and help us care for the cats! The Cat House couldn't operate without our wonderful volunteers, and we always need more! We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities and try to match each person's skills with the activities they most enjoy. Opportunities include fostering, adoption support, daily kitten care, greeter, etc. 

 

 Junior League of Fresno invite to join

Website: jlfresno.org

Contact: Kylie Nesgis, 559.240.5853, membership@jlfresno.org

The Junior League of Fresno is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. We value Diversity, Collaboration, Community, Empowerment, Leadership, Respect, and Service. 

Junior League of Fresno is committed to developing the next generation of female civic leaders in the Central Valley. Whether their leadership is in the boardroom, classroom, courtroom, or conference room, Junior League values and understands the importance of providing women with opportunities to prepare for leadership through community service and leadership training. Junior League of Fresno is part of an international organization of more 125,000 women across 4 countries, in 295 communities.

Our current volunteer opportunities include setting up for our events, serving our guests at the events, and cleaning up after our events. 

If you are interested in joining the Junior League of Fresno, here are the multitude of benefits:
 - Develop your leadership skills. JLF offers members a variety of leadership training opportunities.
 - Make an impact in the community. JLF volunteers support local nonprofits in a variety of hands-on opportunities.
 - Meet like-minded women. JLF is composed of about 80 members with diverse backgrounds, interests, and professions and connections.  
 - Build lasting relationships. JLF connects members through volunteering, committee work, and social events.
 - BE INSPIRED & HAVE FUN!

The Junior League of Fresno Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must be 21 at the time they sign the Membership Agreement to be eligible for membership.

 

 

ride foundation logo

Website: theridefoundation.org

Contact: Sarah Muzquiz, 559.281.5674, sarah@theridefoundation.org

The specific purpose of this corporation is to provide equine centered education, training, rescue,rehabilitation and adoption of at risk horses while at the same time, using this activity and process as a means of delivering equine based therapy to those persons suffering from traumatic stress, social anxieties, and emotional disorders. 

We have several volunteer opportunities. Ranch hand, handling horses and miniature donkeys, event support, promotions and marketing.

 

troy center logo

Website: troycenter.org

Contact: Nicholas Butler, Sr., 559.473.7332, nbutlersr@troycenter.org

Our Mission is to mentor Central Valley youth, breaking down barriers to opportunity, while empowering them to reach their full potential and inspiring them to make a positive impact in their communities. We will provide emotional support with positive reinforcement and promote effort in an inclusive learning environment. If we can keep youth off of the streets through various educational programs and sports. As a community, we can help keep our youth in school and create success in their lives. We have volunteer opportunities for individuals looking to tutor, mentor and/or coach. 

 

Website: usgbccc.org

Contact: Alexis Valadez, 559.630.4696, alexis@usgbccc.org

Our mission is to engage San Joaquin Valley communities in the transformational development and promotion of ecologically healthy built environments. Service opportunities would be volunteering at Circle V to maintain the property and helping in outreach events. 

 

 

food bank volunteers

Website: upcfresno.org

Contact: Linda Jean Voth, 559.417.7504, lindajeanvoth34@gmail.com

Community Food Pantry once a month that feeds 180+ families - volunteer opportunities available midweek assisting with organizing food, packing grocery bags and other prep work.  The 3rd Saturday morning of each month we need volunteers to assist with handing out and loading groceries into cars of recipients.

 

 

Website: va.gov

Contact: 559.225.6100 x 5006, v21freddceprocessing@va.gov

A Central California  Health Care System depends on the goodwill of donors and volunteers who want to give something back to America's heroes. Volunteers provide much-needed help throughout the health care system and make patients' experiences more enjoyable. A wide range of volunteer opportunities are available, and each volunteer's talents are closely matched with one of our assignments. For more information, click here.

Website: valleychildrens.org

Contact: Janet Sabbatini, 559.353.5222, volunteerservices@valleychildrens.org

Volunteers are at the very heart of Valley Children’s Hospital, providing crucial support services to patients, families and staff. Each year Valley Children’s volunteers generously donate their time and energy to support our mission to provide high quality comprehensive health care to children regardless of their ability to pay, and to continuously improve the health and well-being of children. 

Due to our extensive training and dedication to quality, all Hospital volunteers are asked to make a six-month commitment on a weekly or biweekly basis (eight hours a month). We offer flexible scheduling and will work with you to determine a schedule that meets your needs, as well as ours.  
 
If you are unable to make a six-month commitment, you might be interested in being one of George's Helpers. George's Helpers are community volunteers who assist with supervised events and activities for Valley Children's. We created George's Helpers to provide opportunities for people who are interested in volunteering for Valley Children's but cannot make the 6-month commitment we ask of our regular volunteers, as they need or want to make a short volunteer commitment for classes, scholarships, etc.  

George's Helpers can volunteer for a maximum of 50 hours per year, but there is no minimum commitment.

Website: kremen.fresnostate.edu

Contact: Jada Beacom, 559.278.0224, jbeacom@mail.fresnostate.edu

There are exciting opportunities for students at Fresno State to get involved in this program! We are currently accepting applications for Peer Mentors. Peer Mentors is a program where Fresno State students are connected with students in the Wayfinders program to create a meaningful impact.

Peer Mentors are volunteers who can help improve Wayfinders student outcomes related to: Motivation and self-esteem, Friendship, Communication and assertiveness skills, Problem-solving and decision making, Conflict resolution, Coping and Adjusting Resiliency.

For more information, click here.

woman behind counter

Website: wesleyfresno.org

Contact: Pastor Robin, 559.224.1947, robin.mathewsjohnson@cnumc.org

We strive to love alike, even if we don’t always think alike.

Like John Wesley, our namesake and founder of the United Methodist Church, we understand Scripture in the context of experience, tradition and reason.  We never park our brains at the door.  We believe in rolling down justice, being a part of creating a world governed not by might, power and judgment, but rather by love, mercy and grace. As United Methodists, we live by three simple rules: Rule #1.  Do no harm. Rule #2.  Do good. Rule #3. Stay in love with God.

Today we declare that all persons are individuals of sacred worth. 

Here at Wesley, we offer second chances, forgiveness and hopefully a friendly, supportive presence.  Or at least, that’s our goal. Wherever you are, this is holy ground!

westcare logo

Website: westcare.com

Contact: Chrlens Shields, 559.251.4800 x 20914, chrlens.shields@westcare.com

WestCare, a family of tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, provides a wide spectrum of health and human services in both residential and outpatient environments. 

Our services include substance abuse and addiction treatment, homeless and runaway shelters, domestic violence treatment and prevention, and mental health programs. These services are available to adults, children, adolescents, and families; we specialize in helping people traditionally considered difficult to treat, such as those who are indigent, have multiple disorders, or are involved with the criminal justice system.

 

 

Zachary Horton Logo

Website: zacharyhortonfoundation.org

Contact: Jim Horton, 559.906.9856, horton_jim@gmail.com

The mission of the Zachary Horton Foundation:

We aim to break stigma of addiction by offering love, hope and acceptance to individuals and families suffering from this disease. We accomplish this through education, outreach, support and scholarships.

Volunteer Opportunities:
1)  We deliver care packages to 17 Sober Living Homes in the Fresno/Clovis area every month. The preparation of these packages and delivery means the world to these young people working on their recovery.
2)  We are in need of a tech savvy individual to answer basic computer issues. Assistance with website management and social media interface are also strong needs.
3)  We have an information booth and present at many events and venues in the Fresno/Clovis area.  Help setting up and taking down the booth along with providing support and manning the booth.
4)  Basic administrative support such as data entry, correspondence, volunteer organization, etc.