Needs From: United Way of South Hampton Roads

Volunteer: Gift Card Drive for Families in Need



Every day, children and families in our community face unexpected crises—and in those moments, the smallest act of support can bring the greatest relief.


The Up Center is collecting gift cards to meet the urgent, immediate needs of those we serve. From a child entering foster care overnight who needs clothing, shoes, and a safe place to sleep, to a mentee in our Team Up Mentoring program who needs school supplies and personal items, or a family facing financial hardship who needs meals or transportation—a gift card provides timely, flexible support when it’s needed most.


Crises don’t wait, and neither can we. Because storage is limited and needs often arise without warning, gift cards allow our team to respond quickly and compassionately—easing stress, removing barriers, and helping families focus on healing and stability during life’s most difficult moments.


Your gift is more than a card—it’s a lifeline. 


Gift cards to places like Walmart, Target, grocery stores, or restaurants are immediately put to use by our team to bring comfort, dignity, and practical support to those in need.


Join us in bringing hope and relief to children and families in crisis. Please use the following link to support The Up Center's Day of Caring Gift Card Drive. Thank you for your support. 


Drop-offs can be designated to:
580 E. Main Street, Ste 400. Norfolk, VA 23510

222 W 19th St. Norfolk, VA 23517

Agency: The Up Center



Every day, children and families in our community face unexpected crises—and in those moments, the smallest act of support can bring the greatest relief.


The Up Center is collecting gift cards to meet the urgent, immediate needs of those we serve. From a child entering foster care overnight who needs clothing, shoes, and a safe place to sleep, to a mentee in our Team Up Mentoring program who needs school supplies and personal items, or a family facing financial hardship who needs meals or transportation—a gift card provides timely, flexible support when it’s needed most.


Crises don’t wait, and neither can we. Because storage is limited and needs often arise without warning, gift cards allow our team to respond quickly and compassionately—easing stress, removing barriers, and helping families focus on healing and stability during life’s most difficult moments.


Your gift is more than a card—it’s a lifeline. 


Gift cards to places like Walmart, Target, grocery stores, or restaurants are immediately put to use by our team to bring comfort, dignity, and practical support to those in need.


Join us in bringing hope and relief to children and families in crisis. Please use the following link to support The Up Center's Day of Caring Gift Card Drive. Thank you for your support. 


Drop-offs can be designated to:
580 E. Main Street, Ste 400. Norfolk, VA 23510

222 W 19th St. Norfolk, VA 23517

Agency: The Up Center

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 23510

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Art, art, and more art! at ForKids-MATERIALS NEEDED

At ForKids, art is a great way for families and children to process trauma. Having a creative outlet enables them to decompress and hopefully focus on taking the necessary steps to stable housing. Being surrounded by art is a great way to be inspired, a great way to escape day-to-day stress AND art is one of the ways that ForKids raises funds to support programs. Last year’s annual Art Auction raised just under 1.8 million dollars (IN ONE EVENT). Your team can support an art session with shelter families. We will provide the artist, you supply the snacks and extra adult hands. Your team can also construct art kits for our art class participants. Art kits will also be shared with our shelter team so children in shelter can be provided with a way to express themselves. Lastly, time dependent, we have a 30-foot section of fence that needs to be repainted with a pollinator themed mural.

Wish list for Day of Caring (Supplies for 100 art kits and snacks for art session)

100 Drawstring backpacks

100 packs of colored pencils

100 packs of colored markers

100 Pink erasers

100 pencil sharpeners

100 pairs of children’s scissors

200 glue sticks

200 mini sketchbooks (4 inches by 4 inches)

200 pencils

Snacks/drinks for 25 people

Agency: ForKids, Inc

At ForKids, art is a great way for families and children to process trauma. Having a creative outlet enables them to decompress and hopefully focus on taking the necessary steps to stable housing. Being surrounded by art is a great way to be inspired, a great way to escape day-to-day stress AND art is one of the ways that ForKids raises funds to support programs. Last year’s annual Art Auction raised just under 1.8 million dollars (IN ONE EVENT). Your team can support an art session with shelter families. We will provide the artist, you supply the snacks and extra adult hands. Your team can also construct art kits for our art class participants. Art kits will also be shared with our shelter team so children in shelter can be provided with a way to express themselves. Lastly, time dependent, we have a 30-foot section of fence that needs to be repainted with a pollinator themed mural.

Wish list for Day of Caring (Supplies for 100 art kits and snacks for art session)

100 Drawstring backpacks

100 packs of colored pencils

100 packs of colored markers

100 Pink erasers

100 pencil sharpeners

100 pairs of children’s scissors

200 glue sticks

200 mini sketchbooks (4 inches by 4 inches)

200 pencils

Snacks/drinks for 25 people

Agency: ForKids, Inc

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23324

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Golden Care Bag Donation Drive

Support Homeless Older Adults & Homebound Clients

Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults served by Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia. By donating essential care items, you’ll help ensure that every senior in our care receives the dignity, comfort, and support they deserve.

Many older adults in our region struggle to maintain their health, independence, and quality of life due to limited access to basic necessities. Without hygiene products, nutritional support, weather-appropriate clothing, or first aid supplies, homebound and homeless seniors are especially vulnerable to illness, isolation, and hardship.

Your donation helps meet these critical needs—empowering older adults to age safely and with dignity.  Our goal: 100 care bags, 100 chances to make a difference—will you help us get there?!


How You Can Help

We are collecting new, individually packaged, small or travel-size items in the following categories:

Personal Hygiene

Body wash Deodorant Face & body wipes Toothbrushes Toothpaste Hand sanitizer Toilet paper

Clothing & Weather Protection

Socks Winter gloves Disposable rain ponchos

Food & Nutrition

Individually wrapped crackers Ready-to-eat items in easy-to-open cans or tear-open pouches

First Aid & Safety

Band-aids Mini flashlights (with batteries, if needed)

Packaging & Convenience

Drawstring bags 1-gallon or 2.5-gallon Ziploc bags

These items can be found at most local retailers, including Target, Walmart, Dollar Tree, and similar stores.


Together, we can bring comfort, care, and connection to some of our community’s most vulnerable seniors.

 

Agency: Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia

Support Homeless Older Adults & Homebound Clients

Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults served by Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia. By donating essential care items, you’ll help ensure that every senior in our care receives the dignity, comfort, and support they deserve.

Many older adults in our region struggle to maintain their health, independence, and quality of life due to limited access to basic necessities. Without hygiene products, nutritional support, weather-appropriate clothing, or first aid supplies, homebound and homeless seniors are especially vulnerable to illness, isolation, and hardship.

Your donation helps meet these critical needs—empowering older adults to age safely and with dignity.  Our goal: 100 care bags, 100 chances to make a difference—will you help us get there?!


How You Can Help

We are collecting new, individually packaged, small or travel-size items in the following categories:

Personal Hygiene

Body wash Deodorant Face & body wipes Toothbrushes Toothpaste Hand sanitizer Toilet paper

Clothing & Weather Protection

Socks Winter gloves Disposable rain ponchos

Food & Nutrition

Individually wrapped crackers Ready-to-eat items in easy-to-open cans or tear-open pouches

First Aid & Safety

Band-aids Mini flashlights (with batteries, if needed)

Packaging & Convenience

Drawstring bags 1-gallon or 2.5-gallon Ziploc bags

These items can be found at most local retailers, including Target, Walmart, Dollar Tree, and similar stores.


Together, we can bring comfort, care, and connection to some of our community’s most vulnerable seniors.

 

Agency: Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23513

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Paint a Patient's Room! - MATERIALS REQUESTED

We have a patient who is very excited to have her room painted! We need a small team of volunteers to cover furniture, move small belongs, and paint the walls.

Agency: EDMARC

We have a patient who is very excited to have her room painted! We need a small team of volunteers to cover furniture, move small belongs, and paint the walls.

Agency: EDMARC

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23464

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Fix a Family's Fence! - MATERIALS REQUESTED

We have a family in need of some volunteers to fortify or replace their fence!

Agency: EDMARC

We have a family in need of some volunteers to fortify or replace their fence!

Agency: EDMARC

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23434

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Build a Garden to Feed Shelter Pets - Donations and Volunteers needed!

Join Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center this Day of Caring as we roll up our sleeves to build something truly special — a vegetable and pollinator garden for the small animals at Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC)!

NACC is the City of Norfolk’s open-admission shelter, providing compassionate care for nearly 4,000 animals each year — including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, bearded dragons, geckos, and more small pets. These small pets rely on fresh vegetables to stay healthy and happy while they await adoption.

We’re looking for donations of gardening supplies and plants, as well as volunteers to help bring the garden to life!

By helping us create this garden, you’ll support their well-being and provide a sustainable source of enrichment and nutrition.

No gardening experience required, just bring your heart and helping hands!

Agency: Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center

Join Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center this Day of Caring as we roll up our sleeves to build something truly special — a vegetable and pollinator garden for the small animals at Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC)!

NACC is the City of Norfolk’s open-admission shelter, providing compassionate care for nearly 4,000 animals each year — including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, bearded dragons, geckos, and more small pets. These small pets rely on fresh vegetables to stay healthy and happy while they await adoption.

We’re looking for donations of gardening supplies and plants, as well as volunteers to help bring the garden to life!

By helping us create this garden, you’ll support their well-being and provide a sustainable source of enrichment and nutrition.

No gardening experience required, just bring your heart and helping hands!

Agency: Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23502

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Deliver meals with Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake!

We need help delivering fresh meals, as well as shelf-stable meals for winter weather closures, to our homebound older and disabled neighbors! Our volunteers report that delivering meals, performing safety checks, and connecting with seniors in our community is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Nearly 40% of MOW Chesapeake participants would see no one for a week or more if it weren't for their delivery volunteer, and 97% look forward to seeing their volunteer each day.

Come and deliver lunch, dinner, shelf-stable meals, social connection, and safety checks to our wonderful and worthy participants!

Every volunteer gets a swag bag with a t-shirt, lanyard, some program literature, and a lunch for the road.

Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will need to drive your own car or ride with someone in your group. Every volunteer is expected to fill out a volunteer application, release of liability waiver, non-solicitation policy, and photo release (attached here).

Note for teams and groups: when registering for this opportunity, only register your team once, and only register your *drivers*. For example, if you are a small team of 3 and would like to ride together, only register 1 volunteer. If you are a large team of 30 and would like to ride in groups of 3, only register 10 volunteers.

When MOWC staff reaches out to you to confirm registration, they will ask for the total number of volunteers, and confirm that the number of drivers is the same as you registered on Galaxy Digital. If you are unsure of how to register, reach out to megan.mann@mealsonwheelschesapeake.com or call 757-312-6458 for further assistance.

Agency: Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake Inc

We need help delivering fresh meals, as well as shelf-stable meals for winter weather closures, to our homebound older and disabled neighbors! Our volunteers report that delivering meals, performing safety checks, and connecting with seniors in our community is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Nearly 40% of MOW Chesapeake participants would see no one for a week or more if it weren't for their delivery volunteer, and 97% look forward to seeing their volunteer each day.

Come and deliver lunch, dinner, shelf-stable meals, social connection, and safety checks to our wonderful and worthy participants!

Every volunteer gets a swag bag with a t-shirt, lanyard, some program literature, and a lunch for the road.

Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will need to drive your own car or ride with someone in your group. Every volunteer is expected to fill out a volunteer application, release of liability waiver, non-solicitation policy, and photo release (attached here).

Note for teams and groups: when registering for this opportunity, only register your team once, and only register your *drivers*. For example, if you are a small team of 3 and would like to ride together, only register 1 volunteer. If you are a large team of 30 and would like to ride in groups of 3, only register 10 volunteers.

When MOWC staff reaches out to you to confirm registration, they will ask for the total number of volunteers, and confirm that the number of drivers is the same as you registered on Galaxy Digital. If you are unsure of how to register, reach out to megan.mann@mealsonwheelschesapeake.com or call 757-312-6458 for further assistance.

Agency: Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake Inc

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23320

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Mow and weed our elderly and disabled neighbors' yards with Meals on Wheels!

Some of the seniors we serve need help with yard work on this Day of Caring! Please come and help us mow and weed some yards for the people we serve. They will be so thankful!

Every volunteer gets a swag bag with a t-shirt, lanyard, some program literature, and lunch, sponsored by a local restaurant like Taste or Chick-fil-a, for the road.

Please dress appropriately for the weather and the work. You will need to drive your own car or ride with someone in your group. Every volunteer is expected to fill out a volunteer application, release of liability waiver, and photo release.

Our volunteers report that delivering meals, performing safety checks, and connecting with older homebound adults in our community is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Nearly 40% of MOW Chesapeake participants would see no one for a week or more if it weren't for their delivery volunteer, and 97% look forward to seeing their volunteer each day. 

Please note: most participants do not have mowers. You/your team will need to bring a mower and other implements for yard work. We will reach out in advance to coordinate.

Agency: Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake Inc

Some of the seniors we serve need help with yard work on this Day of Caring! Please come and help us mow and weed some yards for the people we serve. They will be so thankful!

Every volunteer gets a swag bag with a t-shirt, lanyard, some program literature, and lunch, sponsored by a local restaurant like Taste or Chick-fil-a, for the road.

Please dress appropriately for the weather and the work. You will need to drive your own car or ride with someone in your group. Every volunteer is expected to fill out a volunteer application, release of liability waiver, and photo release.

Our volunteers report that delivering meals, performing safety checks, and connecting with older homebound adults in our community is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Nearly 40% of MOW Chesapeake participants would see no one for a week or more if it weren't for their delivery volunteer, and 97% look forward to seeing their volunteer each day. 

Please note: most participants do not have mowers. You/your team will need to bring a mower and other implements for yard work. We will reach out in advance to coordinate.

Agency: Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake Inc

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23320

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Salvation Army - Big Field Cleanup & East Lot Cleanup


 for the Annual Day of Caring, 2025 EventThis year, we’re inviting you to be part of our Big Field Cleanup Project. Help us keep our community beautiful by joining in a landscaping and outdoor project that will involve walking and bending.

 We need help with:

We’ll provide the tools, but we kindly ask volunteers to bring:

Together, we can create a meaningful impact in our community. Let’s roll up our sleeves, take action, and make a difference—we’re excited to see you there!



Agency: The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command


 for the Annual Day of Caring, 2025 EventThis year, we’re inviting you to be part of our Big Field Cleanup Project. Help us keep our community beautiful by joining in a landscaping and outdoor project that will involve walking and bending.

 We need help with:

We’ll provide the tools, but we kindly ask volunteers to bring:

Together, we can create a meaningful impact in our community. Let’s roll up our sleeves, take action, and make a difference—we’re excited to see you there!



Agency: The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23502

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: ERT Trail Beautification Day

Get your hands dirty on the Elizabeth River Trail! Join us Friday, September 26, from 9 AM to 11 AM to help with trail beautification. We'll weed, pick up litter, and paint some fun stencils on the trail. No previous gardening experience needed! We'll be working with Norfolk Master Gardeners to identify the invasive plants that need to be removed and the beneficial plants to leave. 


Some weeding tools and garden gloves will be provided, but bring your own if you have them. Don't forget your water, bug spray, and sun protection. Closed-toed shoes are required and long pants, versus shorts, along with long sleeves, are recommended. The ERT will have some water and snacks available as well. 


We will meet at the trailhead shelter at Plum Point Park. Type "Parking for Plum Point Park" in your maps app. Limited parking is available at the park, but there is a parking garage at 301 Riverview Ave.

Agency: Elizabeth River Trail Foundation

Get your hands dirty on the Elizabeth River Trail! Join us Friday, September 26, from 9 AM to 11 AM to help with trail beautification. We'll weed, pick up litter, and paint some fun stencils on the trail. No previous gardening experience needed! We'll be working with Norfolk Master Gardeners to identify the invasive plants that need to be removed and the beneficial plants to leave. 


Some weeding tools and garden gloves will be provided, but bring your own if you have them. Don't forget your water, bug spray, and sun protection. Closed-toed shoes are required and long pants, versus shorts, along with long sleeves, are recommended. The ERT will have some water and snacks available as well. 


We will meet at the trailhead shelter at Plum Point Park. Type "Parking for Plum Point Park" in your maps app. Limited parking is available at the park, but there is a parking garage at 301 Riverview Ave.

Agency: Elizabeth River Trail Foundation

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 26, 2025

Zip Code: 23514

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Community Outreach Volunteers Needed

We’re seeking volunteers who are excited to represent YWCA-SHR at local events, speak with community members, and share important information about the services and support we offer. These dedicated volunteers will play a vital role in spreading awareness and making sure our mission reaches those who need us most.

In addition to community outreach, volunteers may also lend a hand with shelter beautification projects and help with tabling at various events — all meaningful ways to help create a safer, stronger community for everyone.

If you have a heart for helping others and want to make a real difference, we’d love for you to join our team. Together, we can empower, educate, and inspire hope.


Agency: YWCA South Hampton Roads

We’re seeking volunteers who are excited to represent YWCA-SHR at local events, speak with community members, and share important information about the services and support we offer. These dedicated volunteers will play a vital role in spreading awareness and making sure our mission reaches those who need us most.

In addition to community outreach, volunteers may also lend a hand with shelter beautification projects and help with tabling at various events — all meaningful ways to help create a safer, stronger community for everyone.

If you have a heart for helping others and want to make a real difference, we’d love for you to join our team. Together, we can empower, educate, and inspire hope.


Agency: YWCA South Hampton Roads

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 23502

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Advisory Board Service | Advisory Board Committee

Are you passionate about creating meaningful change in our community? The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command is seeking dedicated leaders to serve on our Advisory Board . Individuals must be ready to share their time, talents, and influence to help us meet urgent needs and uplift lives across the region. Our Advisory Board members play a critical role in guiding the mission and strategic direction of The Salvation Army locally. From supporting fundraising initiatives to providing community insight and advocacy, our advisory board members serve as ambassadors for hope, compassion, and service.

By joining the Advisory Board, you can:

Help shape programs that serve thousands of families each yearAdvocate for solutions to hunger, homelessness, and povertyUse your professional skills to strengthen organizational impactNetwork with other community-minded leaders

If you are ready to make a difference and want to learn more about becoming an Advisory Board member, we invite you to reach out today. We also have committee opportunities. You can start by completing our Advisory Board Interest Form

Agency: The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command

Are you passionate about creating meaningful change in our community? The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command is seeking dedicated leaders to serve on our Advisory Board . Individuals must be ready to share their time, talents, and influence to help us meet urgent needs and uplift lives across the region. Our Advisory Board members play a critical role in guiding the mission and strategic direction of The Salvation Army locally. From supporting fundraising initiatives to providing community insight and advocacy, our advisory board members serve as ambassadors for hope, compassion, and service.

By joining the Advisory Board, you can:

Help shape programs that serve thousands of families each yearAdvocate for solutions to hunger, homelessness, and povertyUse your professional skills to strengthen organizational impactNetwork with other community-minded leaders

If you are ready to make a difference and want to learn more about becoming an Advisory Board member, we invite you to reach out today. We also have committee opportunities. You can start by completing our Advisory Board Interest Form

Agency: The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 23502

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Be a Board Member for Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads!

Board Member – Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads Location: Virginia Beach, VA | Duration: Ongoing | Commitment: 2 hours/every other month (5–7 PM meetings) 

About Us The Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads strengthens military families through programs that nurture resilience, promote early childhood development, and provide critical support during times of transition. We serve those who serve—because behind every service member is a family that serves too. 

We are seeking dedicated, community-minded individuals to join our Board of Management. As a Board Member, you will help guide the strategic direction of our organization, advocate for military families, and support efforts to expand our impact across Hampton Roads. 

Key Responsibilities  Champion the mission and values of the Armed Services YMCA, provide strategic oversight and governance, support fundraising and partnership development, serve as an ambassador in the community and among stakeholders  Attend bi-monthly board meetings and participate in committee work 

Ideal Candidates  Have a passion for supporting military families  Bring experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, education, military service, or community development  Are collaborative, mission-driven, and ready to make a difference 

Contact To express interest or learn more, please contact: Laura Baxter

Agency: Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads

Board Member – Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads Location: Virginia Beach, VA | Duration: Ongoing | Commitment: 2 hours/every other month (5–7 PM meetings) 

About Us The Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads strengthens military families through programs that nurture resilience, promote early childhood development, and provide critical support during times of transition. We serve those who serve—because behind every service member is a family that serves too. 

We are seeking dedicated, community-minded individuals to join our Board of Management. As a Board Member, you will help guide the strategic direction of our organization, advocate for military families, and support efforts to expand our impact across Hampton Roads. 

Key Responsibilities  Champion the mission and values of the Armed Services YMCA, provide strategic oversight and governance, support fundraising and partnership development, serve as an ambassador in the community and among stakeholders  Attend bi-monthly board meetings and participate in committee work 

Ideal Candidates  Have a passion for supporting military families  Bring experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, education, military service, or community development  Are collaborative, mission-driven, and ready to make a difference 

Contact To express interest or learn more, please contact: Laura Baxter

Agency: Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads

Need Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 23455

Allow Groups: No