Where to volunteer as a family in Indianapolis
It’s something we hear pop up often with our CityMoms members: Where can our family volunteer together in the greater Indianapolis area? And after years of watching them discuss it on our private, member-only community, we know Indy has tons of options and we couldn't keep them to ourselves.
Below are seven volunteer opportunities in and around Indianapolis that are perfect for families.
1. Families First
Since 1835, volunteers have been an integral part of Families First, helping them grow from a small society of “Friendly Neighbors,” to an organization that serves individuals and families across Central Indiana. Families are more than welcome to volunteer in their Vistas program, visiting older and challenged adults, who could use more friendly faces in their lives.
Call 317.644.7237 or visit familiesfirstindiana.org.
2. School on Wheels
School on Wheels’ mission is to provide one-on-one tutoring and educational advocacy for school-aged children impacted by homelessness. after school tutors provide one-on-one homework assistance to school-aged children experiencing homeless in Indianapolis through Tutors in Action. Youth can be 11 and up to volunteer with a family or 14 to volunteer on their own.
Call 317.202.9100 or visit indyschoolonwheels.org.
3. Conner Prairie History Park
Youth volunteer opportunities are open for students ages 10-18 including dressing up in costume for character portrayal, working with behind-the-scenes operations, assisting in the museum shop or helping with special events.
Call 317.776.6000 or visit connerprairie.org.
4. Humane Society of Indianapolis
The Humane Society offers several different ways for families to get involved: Parents and kids ages eight and older can work onsite directly with the animals in the Parent & Me program. The Paws & Claws Club gives students ages 10-15 the opportunity to meet animals and learn more about the care they need. Families are needed to foster animals as they wait for a permanent home as well.
Call 317.872.5650 or visit indyhumane.org.
WHILE WE'RE TALKING FAM-FRIENDLY IDEAS, HOW ABOUT: Indiana water parks worth the drive
5. Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank
Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank staff will help families organize neighborhood food drives by delivering barrels and materials, and will pick up all donated items. Other opportunities available as outlined on their website.
Contact volunteer@hcfoodbank.org or visit hchfoodbank.org.
6. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
It's true! The world’s largest children’s museum has volunteer opportunities for families and children ages 8-17, and the more people we tell about this, the more who can't believe it. Opportunities include enhancing community initiatives and greeting visitors. Families always work together as a team; a great chance to spend quality time with each other.
Call 317.344.4000 or visit childrensmuseum.org.
7. Indy Urban Acres {an Indy Parks Foundation program}
This organic farm donates 100% of the fresh fruits and vegetables harvested to local food pantries thanks to a partnership with Gleaners Food Bank. Families may sign up for any number of jobs onsite including weeding, harvest, cleaning produce or planting.
Call 317. 654.4217 or visit indyparksfoundation.org/indy-urban-acres/.
Not quite what you're looking for? That's ok! Here are a few other thought-starters for your family:
Hand out water at a race
Ask your local church what help they need
Offer to organize a donation drive for your school, community center or for our friends at the Indiana Diaper Bank
Help a elderly neighbor by raking leaves, shoveling snow, bringing in mail {especially in cold winter months!} or other errands
Spend a few extra minutes at the playground picking up nearby litter
What other volunteer opportunities do you know of for families in the Indianapolis community? Sound off with us on Twitter or Facebook!
