Needs From: Belmont Office of Community-Engaged Learning and Service

Here at Room In The Inn, we provide over 250 meals a day. We are always in need of volunteers Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11am - 1pm to help us provide the best lunch service possible. Our lunch program is a great way to engage with those experiencing homelessness while giving back to our community. 

Please reach out with any questions or to get scheduled!

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations at Dream Streets West.

Please arrive at Dream Streets West by 8:45 a.m. to help unload, weigh, and distribute food donated by our local grocery partners. After all community members are served we ask you help clean up.

(If possible please park on the street to leave the parking lot for community members and food truck.)

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations at Dream Streets North. 

Please meet on the housing side. When you see the food truck, introduce yourself to the driver and help unload, set up and distrubute groceries to community members. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

We are in need of volunteers on Thursdays in one of our ELL classes at The Branch Mondays(6:15-8:15) or at The Southeast Branch of Nashville Public Library (6:00pm-7:45pm). This need would ideally be served by someone who can make a weekly commitment. Meet and greet adults who are taking English classes at The Branch. Direct them to their classes and serve as conversation partners for workbook and conversation activities and assist teacher with reading, writing, and in-class activities. 

We help clients connect to the right person in the right organization fort heir immediate
need, whether it’s housing, immigration, healthcare, job help, or more. We are trusted
connectors to resources, people and, programs. Ideally, but NOT required a resource navigator speaks- Spanish or Arabic to best communicate with many of our neighbors.

How It Works
As a volunteer resource navigator, you will be part of the Comprehensive Care program
at The Branch. You will:
Schedule volunteer shifts with Ashley Smith. The commitment is a minimum of 8
hours a month (that’s either two full volunteer shifts from 10-2 or four, half-time
shifts from either10-Noon or Noon-2)for at least 3 months.
Attend a training during your first navigator session. You’ll learn about the resources
available to clients, the tools we use to help our clients, and the process to follow
when a neighbor comes to the pantry and has needs beyond food.
You will be at the front desk during food pantry hours. You will talk to clients as they
come into The Branch to fill out paperwork; you’ll go out to their cars to see if they
need help navigating to other resources.
Document all referrals you’ve provided clients (this will be part of the training) on the
same day of your volunteer shift.
At the end of your 3-month commitment, meet with Ashley to discuss your
experience and if you would like to continue for another 3 months, or to take a break
for the next 3 months and then come back for another 3 months.

Contact Ashley Smith at ashley@thebranchofnashville.org

Food Delivery Drivers for Senior/Disabled Clients within a 10 mile radius from The Branch:Volunteers are needed to organize contents of the food carts into easy to carry boxes/bags, labeling boxes/bags with delivery client's name, load their own car with boxes/bags for delivery and drive to the client's residence to drop off boxes/bags at their doorstep. Volunteers will need to sign a release form and present a driver’s license before delivering. Each volunteer will receive a delivery list with the names and addresses of the clients they are going to deliver to. The number of clients that you will deliver to is approximately 2-4 clients. Days:Tuesdays Afternoons 10am-1pm and/orSaturdays mornings 9:30am-12pm. 

Signing up on Belmont's Get Connected site ensures you will get your hours credited through Belmont. HOWEVER IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE AND HAVE THOSE HOURS APPROVED IT IS ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL THAT YOU ALSO RESERVE YOUR SHIFT(S) WITH THE CONSERVANCY DIRECTLY. CLICK HERE TO OFFICIALLY REGISTER AND RESERVE YOUR SPOT!!! 

Questions? Contact holly@conservancyonline.com or 615-828-0855

Our Mission:

Centennial Park Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works in partnership with Nashville’s Metro Parks to support Centennial Park and the Parthenon. We preserve, enhance and share the Parthenon and Centennial Park so that all future generations may benefit from these enriching cultural and educational landmarks.

Learn more about the Conservancy here: https://www.conservancyonline.com/about

We need help assisting in the setting up, tearing down and serving in the event room for Senior Adult Social. Will include seating, table decor, snack and information table as well as socializing with senior clients during activity.

When: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month

 Volunteer time needed: 9am-12:30pm

If interested please feel free to email/text Cynthia Thurman- Older Adult Services manager @ 

60plus@thebranchofnashville.org

(615) 913-1858‬

Learn about the benefits of plant-based diets for environmental and social justice. Choose popular meals from on-campus eateries and learn how they can be made plant-based. Research emissions saved from making the recipe plant-based rather than animal-product-inclusive. Communicate and propose the resources and your recipes to dining staff at your university.

Overview: Learn about the relationship between food and the environment, focusing on the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet. Plan and execute an event on campus that highlights the accessibility of plant-based foods, communicates environmental issues through the lens of our food system, and brings the campus community together.

Learn about the current state of food, environmental, and relevant policy, such as the FISCAL Act, the Farm Bill, and other local bills. Then, write a letter to the editor responding to a published article about one of these bills or an op-ed sharing your viewpoint more generally about these policy proposals. Attempt to get your piece published in a school newspaper, a local outlet, or even a regional or national one!

Learn about the benefits of plant-based diets for the environment and environmental justice. Then, brainstorm a campaign aligned with Switch4Good’s mission and branding to push for a more dairy-free world, focusing on environmental motivators. Generate the outline of your proposed campaign and create sample assets. 

Learn about the benefits of a plant-based diet for environmental and social justice. Then, share this information with the public by writing a series of articles elaborating on the connection between food choices and the environment. These articles will be eligible to be posted on the Switch4Good blog. 

Stages:

Investigation

Research and identify potential topics within the broader topic of food choices and the environment. 

Survey your peer group or whoever your target audience is to better understand what information they lack or what they wish they knew more about.

Preparation and Planning

Determine the focus of research and writing based on criteria such as urgency of the issue, level of public awareness, and personal interest. 

Determine the scope of research and writing to cover the subject matter. Each article should be at least 1,000 words long, and the project requires at least 3 articles, but it is up to you if you’d like to write about three topics or write a series about one topic. 

Research the connection between food and environment independently and with the support of Switch4Good materials and team.

Organize research, draft a thesis statement, and write an outline.

Action/Demonstration

Write!

Reach out to personal, professional, and academic connections for edits and revisions. Lucy from Switch4Good is also available for review at any point during these steps.  

Repeat steps up to this point for each article written. 

Overview

Creative Support Peer Team volunteers provide encouragement, guidance, and hands-on assistance to Daybreak Arts artists. Peer Support can be professional artists or community volunteers who want to help emerging artists succeed. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys supporting others, celebrating creativity, and being part of a collaborative learning environment.

Timeline

Responsibilities

Qualifications / Skills

Impact

Peer Support volunteers play a vital role in helping artists build confidence, complete projects, and navigate the program successfully, ensuring that every participant feels supported and empowered.

This is a fun way to celebrate student success and keep them motivated! Students who earn enough credits during the week can shop at the Student Store during lunch. We need an extra hand to pass out the items they purchase, organize materials, and greet our students.

Our High School counselors and Front Office organize student packets every week. We need help from volunteers to sort and stuff these folders.

Occasionally, we may need support with other similar, light tasks.

This support is needed each week on Tuesday. We'll accept a one-time sign up or weekly commitment.

Dress: Please dress comfortable and appropriately for a school setting. Closed-toed shoes are suggested.

Parking: STEM Prep High School is located at 1252 Foster Ave. You can park in the front lot. You'll see a large blue mural.

Check In: Please check-in at the Front Office and have your picture ID ready.

Let us know if you can commit to coming in weekly on Tuesdays or for a one-time sign up. Your initial point of contact is Jeremy Quiñonez, jquinonez@stemprepacademy.org. 

Antioch High School is needing help to refresh and reorganize the Resource Center so that it is efficient and ready to meet the needs of our students and family. Please contact Shatina Marshall if you/your team would like to help give the Antioch Resource Center a Refresh. The space is located on the Antioch High School campus.

When: Ongoing, starting Aug. 4th

Share the Joy of Reading with our Lions of Literacy! 
Are you passionate about storytelling, literacy, and connecting with young minds? Our school is inviting dedicated volunteers to join us in a special reading initiative aimed at inspiring a love of books and boosting student confidence

What’s Involved: 
Join us three days a week from Tuesday- Thursday for an hour blocks to read aloud with students, spark conversation, and build lasting relationships through literature. Your time and presence make all the difference.

Days Needed: Flexible scheduling available—let us know your preferred days! 
Time Commitment: 1 hours per day: Tues. Wed. Thur. 9 am - 1 pm
Location: 455 Rural Hill Rd | Nashville TN 37217 | lakeview@mnps.org

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations in North Nashville in the parking lot of New Covenant Christian Church (2201 Osage Ave.)

1. Please arrive at Costco in West Nashville (6670 Charlotte Pike) at 1:30 pm to help weigh and load the Dream Streets food truck with the grocery donations.

2. Then you will go to the food distribution site at 2201 Osage Ave. Nashville, TN 37208, to help unload, set up, and tear down the free grocery distribution. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

1. You will meet at Trader Joes on White Bridge next to Target at 10:30 a.m. Go to the back of the store, walk up the loading ramp, and help weigh and load the donated food on to the Dream Streets food truck. 

2. Drive to Cumberland View Apartments (2424 25th Ave. N by building 13) where you will help unload donated groceries, help set up tables, and distribute groceries to the community members. After everyone has received food you will tear down, pick up, and load any extra food back on the food truck. 

3. After food has been distributed, please help clean up and reload the food truck. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations in West Nashville at Richland Hills Apartments.

Please arrive at 3:45 pm at Richland Hills Apartments, 5800 Maudina Ave., Nashville, TN 37209. We meet by building B and the playground. Once the food truck arrives, you will help unload, set up, distribute, and help community members. After you help clean up and reload the food truck. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations in North Nashville at Cheatham Place Apartments.

Please arrive at 2:15 pm to Cheatham Place Apartments, 1536 Delta Ave. 37208 beside building 59, and park on the street. Wait for the Dream Streets mobile food truck to arrive and introduce yourself to the driver. You will help unload, set up, distribute and clean up after the free grocery distribution. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

You will help facilitate the distribution of free grocery donations in West Nashville at Preston Taylor Housing.

Please arrive at 40th & Albion, Nashville, TN 37209 by 9:45 a.m. to help unload, set up, and distribute fresh groceries. Please help clean up and reload the food truck after. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

You will meet at our food site: Boys & Girls Club, 916 16th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208

There you will help with fresh grocery distribution. Help unload, set up, distribute food to community members and help clean up after the free grocery distribution. 

IMPORTANT: We require background checks for all adults 18 and over before you can serve. Please be on the lookout for an email with a link to fill out a background check through Checkr. If your check has not cleared before the day of your service, you will not be able to serve.

Help keep Shelby Park beautiful! Join Friends of Shelby and your friends and neighbors as we do a park wide sweep of trash to restore the natural beauty of this public space and keep litter off the ground and out of our streams and rivers. This is a great opportunity for everyone of all ages!

What will volunteers be doing at this event?

Volunteer will use trash grabbers and reusable trash bags to collect litter from the grounds of Shelby Park and Bottoms. Most volunteers will be asked to stray off the cement path to locate litter under leaves, wrapped into fences, and around picnic shelters. Volunteers will be split into smaller groups after the check-in and orientation portion, and will return to the starting point for their trash to be weighed.

What is the community impact of this event?

The Cumberland River traces along the eastern edge of Shelby Park and Bottoms, and it is Nashville's #1 drinking water source. When weather washes litter down into the river, this can place extra strain on the water processing plants. By removing this trash from Shelby Park and Bottoms, volunteers will actively improve the water quality for all of Nashville and reduce strain on our processing plants. Also, putting trash where it belongs keeps it out of the mouths of local animals and protects our forests!

What should volunteers bring to this event?

Volunteers should wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing, as they might be moving up to 2 miles throughout the event. Bringing a reusable water bottle is always recommended but not required. Friends of Shelby will provide all of the necessary grabbers, bags, gloves, safety vests, and directions for those that need them.

Accessibility/safety:

This event will require volunteers to hold and squeeze trash grabbers to pick-up litter, as well as carry bags of trash that could weigh up to 40 pounds `each. Volunteers may always return to the starting location to drop off heavy trash. Volunteers will be walking along some roadways; they will be provided orange safety vests to make them more visible, but awareness of your surroundings is important to staying safe at this event.

If you sign up for this opportunity, you will receive a pre-event email with more information on parking, weather, and clothing recommendations. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our Community Outreach and Volunteer Leader, CD Paddock (cd@friendsofshelby.org)!

--

Founded in 2008, Friends of Shelby is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, enhancement, and promotion of Shelby Park and Bottoms for everyone to appreciate and protect. Friends of Shelby works to protect the natural and historical integrity of the park by supporting recreational activities, maintaining and enhancing park features, promoting programs that inspire appreciation and conservation, and advocating for a level playing field for all user groups.

Senior Ride Nashville is growing our volunteer driver team! Drivers use their own vehicles to transport seniors to community centers, medical appointments, grocery stores, beauty/barber shops and more. Help a senior get where they need to go and make a friend in the process! Volunteer shifts are flexible and scheduled at your convenience using an easy online tool. SRN provides rides Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Complete the on-demand volunteer training on our website to get out on the road soon!

Find it at: 

https://www.seniorridenashville.org/volunteer

It is Senior Ride Nashville’s mission to connect older adults to community by providing essential transportation and support services.

Transportation is a challenge for many seniors in Nashville and providing a ride is a meaningful way to help our older neighbors get where they need to go. Senior Ride Nashville connects older adults to community by providing essential transportation and support services. We are looking for caring, reliable volunteer drivers to provide transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, beauty/barber shops, community centers and more!  Your time can make a big difference in the lives of older adults in Nashville.

SRN drivers use their own vehicles and select rides based on their availability, location, and interest using an online scheduling tool. Volunteer drivers must complete an orientation and a background and motor vehicle record check before driving responsibilities begin. Records are checked on a recurring basis.

Join us every Friday for a nursery rhymes and phonics class with preschool kids at our Rolling Hills community. These children are refugees and immigrants from Spanish speaking countries, so learning English at a young age is crucial to their academic success!

Please make sure you are signed up on civic champs here in order for me to approve your hours!

Are you ready for an experience that challenges you, fosters growth, and leaves a lasting impact? The Center for Courageous Kids (CCK), a summer camp for children with disabilities and lifelong illnesses, is looking for young men to volunteer and experience the joy of camp.

Located in Scottsville, Kentucky, just an hour from Nashville, volunteers will create unforgettable memories, inspire young campers, and join a supportive community making a difference.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit https://www.courageouskids.org/volunteer.

#VolunteerOpportunity #SummerCamp #CampVolunteers #CouragousKids #DisabilityAwareness

Are you a certified lifeguard looking for a meaningful opportunity this summer?

The Center for Courageous Kids (CCK), a summer camp for children with disabilities and lifelong illnesses, is currently recruiting lifeguards to be a part of their paid summer staff. Located in Scottsville, Kentucky, just an hour from Nashville, CCK provides a secure and empowering environment for campers with pool time being a fun activity for all campers.

To learn more about staff recruitment opportunities visit https://courageouskids.isolvedhire.com/jobs/

#Summercamp #Summerjobs #Lifeguards #Summerstaff

Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am-12pm CST

Join us for a stream cleanup along Sycamore Creek with Ashland City Marina! By removing litter and debris from riparian areas and streams, we’ll help restore thriving streamside habitats for Tennessee’s wildlife while safeguarding water quality. We’ll collect trash and debris and learn more about how to be a life-long clean water advocate and river steward.

All necessary tools and equipment will be provided. Please wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing. And please bring your own water, nutrition, and medications as needed.  

Thank you for helping us protect clean water and rivers in Tennessee!

Accessibility: Please reach out to the Event Contact for more information. 

Meet-up location: Sycamore Creek Recreation Area – 592 Chapmansboro Rd, Ashland City, TN 37015 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/6zjSt6f1VmpfwACh7

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 10am-12pm CST

Join us for a stream cleanup along the Mill Creek at Whitsett Park! By removing litter and debris from riparian areas and streams, we’ll help restore thriving streamside habitats for Tennessee’s wildlife while safeguarding water quality. We’ll collect trash and debris and learn more about how to be a life-long clean water advocate and river steward. 

All necessary tools and equipment will be provided. Please wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing. And please bring your own water, nutrition, and medications as needed.  

Thank you for helping us protect clean water and rivers in Tennessee!

Accessibility: Please reach out to the Event Contact for more information. 

Meet-up location: Whitsett Park – 375 Wimpole Dr, Nashville, TN 37211  

https://maps.app.goo.gl/mTkVJ686AoXmFiGa7

Volunteer at Waterfest, a free, family-friendly festival at Goodlettsville’s Peay Park that celebrates our local streams and rivers. You’ll help Cumberland River Compact staff greet and check in families, direct parking, monitor waterslides, and keep the party atmosphere going all morning long!

Three volunteer shifts are available, and they all end by 1 PM – making it a quick and easy way to support a local community festival and, if you need them, earn community service hours (TN Promise scholarship, anyone?). Sign up to support a beloved annual tradition!

AVAILABLE SHIFTS

8:30 AM - 11:30 AM (3 hours)
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (2 hours)
8:30 AM - 1:00 PM (4.5 hours, full event)

PICK YOUR SHIFT

In partnership with the Nashville City Cemetery, the Friends of the William Edmonson Homesite Park and Gardens are hosting an event to paint field stones to honor the enslaved people who are buried in the city cemetery. 

In 2026 the Nashville City Cemetery Association (NCCA) launched the Nashville City Cemetery Enslaved Memorial Project to honor the memory of approximately three thousand enslaved men, women, and children who were buried in the Nashville City Cemetery between its founding on January 1, 1822, and the arrival of emancipation in Tennessee in 1865.

The memorial site will feature an engraved granite bench, interpretive engraved stone markers, and a memorial garden. At the heart of the project is the creation of approximately 1,800 small field stones, each individually decorated with the name of an enslaved person buried in the cemetery. Because interment records from 1822 to 1846 are missing, only those who were buried between 1846 and 1865 can be identified by name. It is the NCCA’s hope to honor each of these individuals from the historic record with a dedicated fieldstone, ensuring their legacy endures.

Context will be provided about the lives and stories of those being remembered, fostering education, empathy, and reflection. By joining this effort, you will help create a space of dignity and remembrance for those who endured enslavement, ensuring their lives and contributions are never forgotten.

During the weekdays, we offer community and enrichment classes for adults impacted by disability. Volunteer opportunities include:  Supporting students (one-on-one or small groups) during day classes. You can provide help in a classroom with a trained teacher on one of several topics: Music, Dance, Art, Fitness, Bible, or Service Projects. 

On Sunday mornings, our one-on-one buddies provide supports that allow our friends to be engaged either in their age-appropriate ministry and/or our Special Needs Ministry area. We offer support during the Sunday morning services from 9:15am - 10:45am and 10:45am - 12:15pm while parents attend Worship, Bible Studies, or Choir. We serve all ages, but the classrooms/groups are separated by Preschool/Kids/Students/Adults. We can find the right age range and level of care you are comfortable with assisting. 

On Sunday mornings, our one-on-one buddies provide supports that allow our friends to be engaged either in their age-appropriate ministry and/or our Special Needs Ministry area. We offer support during the Sunday morning services from 9:15am - 10:45am and 10:45am - 12:15pm while parents attend Worship, Bible Studies, or Choir. We serve all ages, but the classrooms/groups are separated by Preschool/Kids/Students/Adults. We can find the right age range and level of care you are comfortable with assisting. 

You will not need to assist anyone in the bathroom, but you may color or build with legos or read a book or even push a swing. We share the gospel in all of these ways so that they can learn about God in the way that best suits their learning style. 

Want to hit the road to make a difference? The Nashville Food Project is recruiting volunteers to deliver meals to our community partners across the city. Each week, TNFP distributes thousands of meals, and with your help, we hope to reach more plates than ever this year! To help us achieve this goal, we are recruiting volunteers for weekly or bi-weekly shifts to deliver meals across Nashville using our distribution vehicles.

When: We're looking for volunteers that can commit to delivering meals on a weekly or bi-weekly basis through the summer. Right now, we are looking for drivers for Tuesday and Thursday mornings primarily from 9am-11am.

Location: Volunteer drivers will leave from our headquarters at 5904 California Ave Nashville, TN 37209

Requirements: Valid driver's license, comfortability driving a van, ability to commit to a set schedule. No CDL required!

Help us bring some cheer to isolated seniors, seniors in nursing homes and/or disabled individuals in our communities by sending them heartfelt letters, letting them know that we care and haven't forgotten about them.

We are looking for uplifting letters that will bring their recipients some joy!

This month the theme for the letters is "Summer". We encourage you to share about your favorite summer activities and summertime memories, summer vacation spots or summer reads. You can incorporate the theme through art, by making your own themed cards and within the message of your letter.

We are looking to have this round of letters completed and received by their recipients by 07/31/2026. Please allow a couple of days for mailing and distribution. 

If you are interested in sending letters and/or art to seniors in the community, please click on sign up and include in your response (in the notes) how many letters you would like to write. I will contact you with specific instructions for the letters and the address to send them to.  

Younger children are welcome to participate with their parents or a guardian/caregiver (an adult is required for minors younger than 13 to sign up). 

Volunteers will be required to have their own materials for the letters and any additional artwork you'd like to add, as well as stamps to mail the letters on hand (or you must be able to take them to the post office). I will try my best to provide you with one address for your letters so you can mail them together in a large envelope. 

Please allow 48 hours for me to get back to you with the instructions. 

If you are in need of community service hours, I am happy to confirm your hours for you. Please submit pictures of your letters as proof. We will be tracking and logging the actual time you spent working on the letters/cards and do NOT assign a specific number of letters per hour. Please check with your institution if they have specific requirements of how many letters you need to complete to get your hours approved.

Thank you so much for considering this opportunity! 

The Arts Build Communities (ABC) grant program is designed to provide support for arts projects that broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life issues through the arts, or enhance the sustainability of asset-based cultural enterprises. The program seeks to build communities by nurturing artists, arts organizations (including local arts agencies), and arts supporters in Tennessee.

Are you part of the Arts community and familiar with the local art scene?

Volunteer to judge on the TN Arts Builds Communities grant review panel. The panel review will take place on Monday, August 10, 2026, beginning at 9:30am. The panel will meet VIRTUALLY via Microsoft Teams.

Volunteers must review all grant applications between July 27 and August 9 at 11:59pm and be available at the time of the panel review on August 10. The estimated time commitment per volunteer is around 12 hours between the application review (6-7 hours) and the panel (5-6 hours).

Volunteers must reside and have an arts background in Davidson County to participate on the panel.

Please express interest in participating in the panel by July 1. GNRC staff will reach out to conduct interviews with prospective panelists. Panelists will be selected and confirmed among those who sign up by July 8. 

Advisory panels reviewing grant applications for this program assign scores based on how well the proposed project addresses ABC program objectives and use the following evaluation criteria on a 100-point scale:

Artistic/Cultural Merit (35 points)
Applications should provide evidence of how the proposed arts/cultural project shows value to the community being served. Competitive applications may demonstrate artistic/cultural merit by showing how projects will accomplish one or more of the following:

Competitive applications may also demonstrate that proposed project supports the work of artists through payment of fees, services or appropriate benefits.

Community Engagement and Participation (35 points)
Applications should provide evidence of how organizations understand and are responsive to diverse interests and needs of communities served. Competitive applications will demonstrate the engagement and participation of their communities by not only showing how proposed projects advance organizational missions, but also by showing to what extent community members are involved in planning, executing and evaluating the projects.

Additional evidence includes: needs assessment research; formal partnerships that advance project goals through resource and responsibility sharing; and demonstrated support from local community leaders.

Competitive applications may also demonstrate goals and objectives that are designed to address social issues or build economic sustainability through the arts.

Budget and Financial Support (20 points)
Applications should include realistic project budgets with accurate cost and income estimates.
Competitive applications will show that organizations are actively raising funds through requests to individual contributors, private corporations, foundations, government sources, AND/OR through viable earned revenue projections.

Operational Practice (10 points)
Applications should provide evidence that planning procedures are clear, inclusive and include discussion on past project results (when appropriate). Competitive applications will address all application questions and provide correct and complete information. 

The Arts Build Communities (ABC) grant program is designed to provide support for arts projects that broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life issues through the arts, or enhance the sustainability of asset-based cultural enterprises. The Tennessee Arts Commission offers the ABC program through a decentralized decision-making and distribution process in partnership with regional designated agencies. Through ABC, the Commission seeks to build communities by nurturing artists, arts organizations (including local arts agencies), and arts supporters in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties.

ABC funds may be used to:

The Arts Build Communities (ABC) grant program is designed to provide support for arts projects that broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life issues through the arts, or enhance the sustainability of asset-based cultural enterprises. The program seeks to build communities by nurturing artists, arts organizations (including local arts agencies), and arts supporters in Tennessee.

Are you part of the Arts community and familiar with the local art scene?

Volunteer to judge on the TN Arts Builds Communities grant review panel. The panel review will take place on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, beginning at 9:30am. The panel will meet VIRTUALLY via Microsoft Teams. 

Volunteers must review all grant applications between July 22 and August 4 at 11:59pm and be available at the time of the panel review on August 5. The estimated time commitment per volunteer is around 11 hours between the application review (5-6 hours) and the panel (5 hours)

Volunteers must reside and have an arts background in one of the following counties: Trousdale, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson.

Please express interest in participating in the Panel by July 1. GNRC staff will reach out to conduct interviews with prospective panelists. Panelist will be selected and confirmed among those who sign up by July 8.

Advisory panels reviewing grant applications for this program assign scores based on how well the proposed project addresses ABC program objectives and use the following evaluation criteria on a 100-point scale:

Artistic/Cultural Merit (35 points)
Applications should provide evidence of how the proposed arts/cultural project shows value to the community being served. Competitive applications may demonstrate artistic/cultural merit by showing how projects will accomplish one or more of the following:

Competitive applications may also demonstrate that proposed project supports the work of artists through payment of fees, services or appropriate benefits.

Community Engagement and Participation (35 points)
Applications should provide evidence of how organizations understand and are responsive to diverse interests and needs of communities served. Competitive applications will demonstrate the engagement and participation of their communities by not only showing how proposed projects advance organizational missions, but also by showing to what extent community members are involved in planning, executing and evaluating the projects.

Additional evidence includes: needs assessment research; formal partnerships that advance project goals through resource and responsibility sharing; and demonstrated support from local community leaders.

Competitive applications may also demonstrate goals and objectives that are designed to address social issues or build economic sustainability through the arts.

Budget and Financial Support (20 points)
Applications should include realistic project budgets with accurate cost and income estimates. Competitive applications will show that organizations are actively raising funds through requests to individual contributors, private corporations, foundations, government sources, AND/OR through viable earned revenue projections.

Operational Practice (10 points)
Applications should provide evidence that planning procedures are clear, inclusive and include discussion on past project results (when appropriate). Competitive applications will address all application questions and provide correct and complete information. 

The Arts Build Communities (ABC) grant program is designed to provide support for arts projects that broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life issues through the arts, or enhance the sustainability of asset-based cultural enterprises. The Tennessee Arts Commission offers the ABC program through a decentralized decision-making and distribution process in partnership with regional designated agencies. Through ABC, the Commission seeks to build communities by nurturing artists, arts organizations (including local arts agencies), and arts supporters in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties.

ABC funds may be used to:

Volunteers are needed to help distribute groceries and greet clients.  This is a great opportunity for Spanish speakers and students interested in working with the immigrant and refugee community! We are in the Glencliif area of Nashville and will send you our exact location when the shift is confirmed. If you would like to sign up or have any questions please contact us at glencliff@nourishfoodbanks.org or (615) 972-5020

All shifts must be confirmed in advance by our food bank coordinator. Please do not come without prior approval because our space is limited. Thank you!

Providing individuals and families with food is the simplest way to help those struggling with rising costs in Nashville. The Martha O'Bryan Center is seeking compassionate volunteers to serve the public with dignity at one of the busiest food pantries in Nashville.  Volunteer responsibilities include:

Belmont University - Student ALS Ambassador:

As a Student ALS Ambassador, you help inspire others to take action through fundraising and community outreach initiatives. Student Ambassadors are key to helping drive our mission forward, increase awareness, and make a difference in the lives of those touched by ALS.  You will work closely with the local ALS Association Staff Partner to identify ways to grow and reach new audiences to encourage them to take steps with the ALS Community by attending the Walk to Defeat ALS - Nashville. In addition to helping support Advocacy efforts.  Student ALS Ambassador      

Walk to Defeat ALS - Nashville 

- Identify ways to engage with students on Campus.(Tabling events, community awareness/fundraiser nights at local establishments, etc)

- Encourage Students to take action and support the ALS Association’s mission; to make ALS a livable disease and cure it.

- Recruit Student Leaders to form a Walk to Defeat ALS Nashville Team. (I.e. Sorority President be the Team Captain and encourage other sorority sisters to join the team.)

- Identify potential sponsor/partnership opportunities within the Murfreesboro area. You do not have to make the "ask" unless you feel comfortable. (Staff Partner and Student ALS Ambassador will work together to make the ask.) 

- Assist with Event Day executions of Walk to Defeat ALS Nashville

Tennessee Advocacy

- Encourage students to take action and advocate for patients & families living with ALS.

- Participate in Tennessee Advocacy Day

You and the local staff partner will also meet on a regular bases to discuss obstacles, local initiatives, activations, etc. The Local Staff Partner and Student Ambassador will work closely together to engage student involvement to drive The ALS Association's mission forward. 

Belmont University - Student ALS Ambassador:

As a Student ALS Ambassador, you help inspire others to take action through fundraising and community outreach initiatives. Student Ambassadors are key to helping drive our mission forward, increase awareness, and make a difference in the lives of those touched by ALS.  You will work closely with the local ALS Association Staff Partner to identify ways to grow and reach new audiences to encourage them to take steps with the ALS Community by attending the Walk to Defeat ALS - Nashville. In addition to helping support Advocacy efforts.  Student ALS Ambassador      

Walk to Defeat ALS - Nashville 

- Identify ways to engage with students on Campus. (Tabling events, community awareness/fundraiser nights at local establishments, etc)

- Encourage Students to take action and support the ALS Association’s mission; to make ALS a livable disease and cure it.

- Recruit Student Leaders to form a Walk to Defeat ALS Nashville Team. (I.e. Sorority President be the Team Captain and encourage other sorority sisters to join the team.)

- Identify potential sponsor/partnership opportunities within the Murfreesboro area. You do not have to make the "ask" unless you feel comfortable. Staff Partner and Student ALS Ambassador will work together to make the ask. 

- Assist with Event Day executions of Walk to Defeat ALS Nashville      

Tennessee Advocacy 

- Encourage students to take action and advocate for patients & families living with ALS.

- Participate in Tennessee Advocacy Day at State Capital

Expectations: 

You will be supported by the local staff partner and have accessibility to contact them as questions or concerns come up. The Staff Partner and Student ALS Ambassador will meet periodically to discuss initiatives, activations, and walk alongside you to grow student engagement.

If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Student ALS Ambassador, please reach out to Cody.Filbert@als.org

Do you enjoy spending time in nature? What about serving public lands?  Join us for both at the same time! Miles upon miles of trails wind through Shelby Park and Bottoms, allowing park visitors to exercise and connect with nature. To maintain this invaluable shared asset, we will venture into the park to provide maintenance for the natural surface trails.
 
What will volunteers be doing at this event?
Volunteers will be transporting and spreading mulch on the primitive trail to smooth areas that fill with water and/or get muddy when it rains. Using shovels and rakes, we will lay mulch over these areas to make them passable for trail users. We'll also occasionally clean off interpretive signs of any debris and trim back plants to make the trailheads more visible.

What is the community impact of this event?
By keeping trails dry and visible, we increase access to the outdoors to visitors who are unfamiliar with the layout of the park and bottoms. Clearing off debris, evening out the walking path, and cleaning off signs allows visitors to autonomously enjoy the park without feeling uncertain of where they are or unsafe on the terrain.
 
Accessibility:
This event will include walking with tools in hand over a mixture of paved and unpaved surfaces. We will be pushing wheelbarrows of mulch down the trail to unload and spread on the trail using hard rakes. Porta-potties are typically located near the starting location of the event.
 
What to bring?
Volunteers should be sure to wear long pants and close-toed shoes. I recommend bringing your own water bottle and hat/sunscreen, but Friends of Shelby will provide extra water and sunscreen, as well as all of the necessary tools and gloves.
 
What’s next?
Once you sign up, you will receive a reminder email before the event with specific instructions regarding parking and any other necessary information.
---
 
Founded in 2008, Friends of Shelby is a private, nonprofit organization working to preserve, enhance, and promote Shelby Park and Bottoms for everyone to appreciate and protect. We work to protect the natural and historical integrity of the area by supporting appropriate recreational activities, maintaining and enhancing its features, promoting programs that inspire appreciation and conservation of the Park and Bottoms, and advocating for a level playing field for the various user groups.

Looking for a transformative experience that fosters personal growth while making a difference? The Center for Courageous Kids (CCK), located in Scottsville, Kentucky, an hour from Nashville—invites volunteers to help children with disabilities and lifelong illnesses experience the joy of camp.

As a CCK volunteer, you’ll create lasting memories, join a supportive community and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re guiding kids through canoeing adventures, demonstrating archery or having a dance party, your impact will be unforgettable.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities visit https://www.courageouskids.org/volunteer.

#VolunteerOpportunity #SummerCamp #CampVolunteers #CouragousKids #DisabilityAwarenes

ATTENTION: Signing up here on the Belmont site will insure you receive your Belmont credit. To get complete credit for this service, additional registration is required though our Volunteer Registration Portal, POINT. Please click HERE to sign up for a date! 

Centennial Park Needs You!

Help preserve our shared verdant oasis of natural beauty, history and fun in the heart of Nashville! 

Our Green Sweep Squad will meet up in the PARKING LOT outside the Parthenon entrance The First Saturday of the Month from 9am to noon to lend Metro Parks a hand in defeating our mutual arch-nemesis: LITTERBUGS

Join us and you will:

Questions? Contact holly@conservancyonline.com or 615-828-0855

Our Mission:

Centennial Park Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works in partnership with Nashville’s Metro Parks to support Centennial Park and the Parthenon. We preserve, enhance and share the Parthenon and Centennial Park so that all future generations may benefit from these enriching cultural and educational landmarks.

Learn more about the Conservancy HERE!

Special Olympics Tennessee Fitness Program is a wellness initiative focused on fitness, nutrition, and mental health for teens and adults (ages 13+) with intellectual disabilities. Through goal-setting and measurable outcomes, we aim to empower athletes to take control of their health and reduce the disparities often faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities.

One of our key programs, Train 4 Life, is a 12-week fitness, nutrition, and wellness series. Each session lasts 60 minutes and is designed to help athletes build healthy habits in a supportive, inclusive environment. Weekly workout sessions starting May 4th through July 20th. Train 4 Life programs take place statewide. Click Here to Learn More

Train 4 Life Volunteer Info:

Volunteers assist head coaches and athletes during weekly workouts. You can sign up for any individual sessions you’re available to attend.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

No experience is needed, just bring your energy and enthusiasm!

SIGN-UPS:
We use a third-party website for shift registration. After signing up, our Volunteer Coordinator will email you a link to officially select your desired shifts. “Signing Up” on Get Connect does NOT confirm your shift. The number of spots listed on Get Connect may not reflect real-time availability.

Interested in planning a group volunteer day?
Email the volunteer coordinator and we’ll be happy to help coordinate!
Come be part of an incredible day of competition, community, and impact!

Questions? Email rboscaljon@specialolympicstn.org

Special Olympics Tennessee Fitness Program is a wellness initiative focused on fitness, nutrition, and mental health for teens and adults (ages 13+) with intellectual disabilities. Through goal-setting and measurable outcomes, we aim to empower athletes to take control of their health and reduce the disparities often faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities.

One of our key programs, Train 4 Life, is a 12-week fitness, nutrition, and wellness series. Each session lasts 60 minutes and is designed to help athletes build healthy habits in a supportive, inclusive environment. Weekly workout sessions starting May 4th 19th through July 20th. Train 4 Life programs take place statewide. Click Here to Learn More

Train 4 Life Volunteer Info:

Volunteers assist head coaches and athletes during weekly workouts. You can sign up for any individual sessions you’re available to attend.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

No experience is needed, just bring your energy and enthusiasm!

SIGN-UPS:
We use a third-party website for shift registration. After signing up, our Volunteer Coordinator will email you a link to officially select your desired shifts. “Signing Up” on does NOT confirm your shift. The number of spots listed may not reflect real-time availability.

Interested in planning a group volunteer day?
Email the volunteer coordinator and we’ll be happy to help coordinate!
Come be part of an incredible day of football, community, and impact!

Do you find Medicare interesting?

Would you enjoy being a popular resource on all things Medicare for your friends, family and the community?

Then this opportunity is for you! Volunteers with the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) will learn how to break up the complicated issue of Medicare into bite size pieces for others and provide assistance to them in choosing the Medicare plans and assistance options (if applicable) that are right for them. You will learn to provide unbiased and accurate information to anyone you assist. 

SHIP Volunteers will be able to give clients peace of mind and can witness first-hand the impact they are making in the beneficiary's life with the information they provide. 

This training is designed for new volunteers to the program. Attendance of all activities are required to become certified as a counselor. The classes will build on each other, so it is important not to miss a session.

For volunteers who'd like to attend events to share Medicare information and do plan comparisons or administrative work for the program but NO direct client counseling there is the option to attend just up to the second-class session.

Any volunteer who would like to be a full counselor will need to attend the full curriculum (12 hours of class sessions). Additional mentoring will be provided until the volunteer is able to provide counseling on their own. 

Medicare Volunteer Certification Curriculum

Class 1: Thursday, May 7 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm (virtual via Microsoft Teams)

Class 2: Friday, May 15 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (in-person at GNRC's offices)

Part of your training is hands-on experience. You can participate in a variety of different events. The event schedule will be provided during the first session. In addition, we will schedule counseling calls for you to observe. Please be ready to provide your availability for shadowing counseling calls.

We will go over the training schedule with you to determine what level of training and commitment is best for you. Application forms and initial conversation with the Volunteer Manager are required for participation. Volunteers who can be involved regularly usually do best with this type of volunteer opportunity as it is very knowledge based. Please reach out with any questions to Rebecca at rnofi@gnrc.org.

Classical 615 is partnering with Nashville Humane to launch a musical enrichment program for their shelter animals. Auditory enrichment can have a profound impact on the well-being of shelter animals, and they're looking for musicians who would be interested in sharing their talents to create a calming environment for these residents. 

Details:

When: Monday afternoons starting in May (timing is flexible) 

Time: No longer than one hour per session (approx 30-45 min of playing around the shelter)

Where: Nashville Humane, 213 Oceola Ave, Nashville, TN 37209

Who: Solo string, woodwind, vocal, and brass (if you can promise to play quietly)

Please indicate which instrument you play when you respond in Get Connected to be sure it is within shelter parameters.

Contact Kaitlyn Raitz, kaitlyn@classical615.com, to confirm your time or if you have questions.

Volunteer for Exposition of Excellence: Classic Cars at Cheekwood show! Great for car enthusiasts and friendly volunteers who serve as car hosts and greeters. Event is rain or shine.  Volunteer registration is required on our online volunteer portal, in advance, at this link:

https://cheekwood.org/support/volunteer/classic-cars-at-cheekwood-volunteer-registration/

We are looking for dedicated and passionate volunteers to help support our mission of guiding refugees as they move on a path from surviving to thriving by tutoring high school students in English, Science, and Math. 

Our youth program meets in person every Thursday afternoon. No previous experience in tutoring is needed, but a basic understanding of high school level English, Science, and Math is necessary.

We are looking for dedicated and passionate volunteers to help support our mission of guiding refugees as they move on a path from surviving to thriving through our mentorship program.
We'll match you with a client to meet with as a mentor at least once a month for 3-6 months. Mentorship could include opportunities such as helping a client schedule appointments, providing transportation to a store or food bank, or simply sitting in their home to have tea and practice English. 

A background check is required and orientation provided.

Conversations to Remember is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated towards combating loneliness and isolation felt by senior citizens. Our virtual visit program matches 2-3 college students with residents of long-term care, assisted living, and memory care communities for virtual video visits. These residents have been suffering from isolation, and students really brighten their days just by speaking with them. We provide training to the students in the program about the best ways to interact with the seniors, as well as additional support throughout their service. Since these visits are virtual, students can do it without any travel. This is both convenient and allows more of the volunteers' time to be spent volunteering, rather than commuting to their volunteering location. We provide this program free of charge to seniors across the country, and have students from around the country as well. Typically, students volunteer 1-2 hours per week. Each call lasts up to one hour, based on the senior's attention span and mood on each day. We expect students to volunteer for approximately 16 weeks, so that they can build a friendship with the senior. This does not need to coincide with the start of a semester, as we have new seniors starting all the time and train new volunteers weekly. The students are matched based on the times that they're available with a senior who is available at the same time, and they will have a regular, weekly appointment for their visit. Students wishing more visits or other opportunities that allow them to volunteer more hours can be accommodated with different ways to volunteer, such as assisting us with our social media, call support, or marketing. Please register to volunteer on our website, at https://conversationstoremember.org/volunteer.

Interested in a career in special education, occupational therapy, social sciences, or psychology? We are seeking peer mentors and volunteers to support our program both on-site and through our community partnerships, with opportunities available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. In this role, you will participate alongside trainees to model positive behaviors, encourage engagement, and help foster communication, problem-solving, and social connections within an inclusive, supportive environment.

Join us on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 - 6:30pm as we partner with the Hispanic Family Foundation to provide after school tutoring to refugee and immigrant children in East Nashville (no prior tutoring experience required)! For those that don't have homework, they need help with grammar and practicing conversational English! 

This will take place at the tables in the middle of Plaza Mariachi (3955 Nolensville Pike).

Volunteers who can come a minimum of twice per month for 2 hours each day and a maximum of twice per week (or more if you are able!). Volunteer roles include Session Leaders (leading mentorship sessions either on a one-on-one or small group basis), "RA"s Ranch Assistants (helping with Sessions and completing chores during), and Horse Care (feeding, watering, mucking out, and giving hay to the Session horse herd). 

Waiver required: https://form.jotform.com/221726866114154

No horse experience necessary. After applying to volunteer, you will be invited to a "Round-Up" (a tour of the Ranch) to learn more about volunteering, asked for 2 letters of recommendation and a background check, and then signed up for training dates. Amount of training days vary depending on role selected.

Reach out to see when our next Round-Up is!

More dates available in the Summer! Feel free to email with inquiries!

Become a Freedom Reigns volunteer for a day! You’ll get to meet the horses, enjoy fellowship, and help with some of our special Ranch projects. Children above the age of 5 are welcome. For children age 10 and under, we require a one-parent-per-one-child ratio. We also require a liability waiver for each Ranch visitor.

Hello wonderful potential volunteers!

Madison Branch Library is gearing up for our “Twice as Nice” Book Sale, and we’d love your help to make this event a success! This is a special, once-a-year opportunity to support the branch, connect with the community, and enjoy a fun, book-filled atmosphere.

What We’re Looking For:
Enthusiastic volunteers to assist with:
• Merchandising and organizing sale items
• Helping customers browse and find great reads
• Collecting payments and providing friendly customer service

Shift Details (2-hour shifts):

We’re hoping for 5–10 volunteers, and those willing to work multiple shifts are especially appreciated—but any availability helps!

If you enjoy helping others, love the energy of a book sale, or simply want to support Madison Library, we’d be thrilled to have you join us!

ABOUT THE STORE: The Store operates as a free grocery store allowing people to shop for their basic needs. Our mission is to nourish communities and cultivate hope by providing nutritious food choices and access to supportive services in a dignified, loving environment. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a tangible impact upon the local community. You'll be helping provide wholesome food to families and the food insecure in a welcoming environment while protecting dignity and fostering hope.

ABOUT THE SHIFT: Every Wednesday and Thursday morning we have volunteers help us with restocking shelves and preparing the store for customer shopping. Volunteers will be stocking shelves, deep cleaning the produce sections, restocking the produce, stacking pallets, organizing the storage room, or other miscellaneous tasks. You should be able to lift over fifty pounds, as this shift involves physical labor. 

SIGN UPS: We utilize our own website to organize sign ups for our volunteer opportunities. In addition to responding to this Need in Get Connected, volunteers must go to The Store's volunteer website to sign up for specific days and times, linked here.

Please do not show up to volunteer without having first signed up for a shift on our website.

ABOUT THE STORE: The Store operates as a free grocery store allowing people to shop for their basic needs. Our mission is to nourish communities and cultivate hope by providing nutritious food choices and access to supportive services in a dignified, loving environment. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a tangible impact upon the local community. You'll be helping provide wholesome food to families and the food insecure in a welcoming environment while protecting dignity and fostering hope.

ABOUT THE SHIFT: Every Wednesday and Thursday morning we have volunteers help us with restocking shelves and preparing the store for customer shopping. Volunteers will be stocking shelves, deep cleaning the produce sections, restocking the produce, stacking pallets, organizing the storage room, or other miscellaneous tasks. You should be able to lift over fifty pounds, as this shift involves physical labor. 

SIGN UPS: We utilize our own website to organize sign ups for our volunteer opportunities. In addition to responding to this Need in Get Connected, volunteers must go to The Store's volunteer website to sign up for specific days and times, linked here.

Please do not show up to volunteer without having first signed up for a shift on our website.

ABOUT: The Store operates as a free grocery store allowing people to shop for their basic needs. Our mission is to nourish communities and cultivate hope by providing nutritious food choices and access to supportive services in a dignified, loving environment. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a tangible impact upon the local community. You'll be helping provide wholesome food to families and the food insecure in a welcoming environment while protecting dignity and fostering hope.

ROLES: We are dependent on an excited and passionate volunteer base to help our customers shop. These volunteer shifts will mainly involve checking people out at the register, ensuring customers do not exceed specified item limits, bagging their groceries in a timely and efficient manner, and escorting customers to their vehicles with their groceries. At the start of the shift, you will have an orientation and brief training; to ensure that we can process as many customers as possible, please be on time. During this shift you may also be greeting customers at check-in, helping people with questions while they shop, cleaning and tidying, stocking shelves and produce, unloading pallets, or other miscellaneous tasks. You will be able to take a break during your shift, so you are welcome to bring a snack and drink for break time. 

SIGN UPS: We utilize our own website to organize sign ups for our volunteer opportunities. In addition to responding to this Need in Get Connected, volunteers must go to The Store's volunteer website to sign up for specific days and times, linked here.

Please do not show up to volunteer without having first signed up for a shift on our website.

ABOUT THE STORE: The Store operates as a free grocery store allowing people to shop for their basic needs. Our mission is to nourish communities and cultivate hope by providing nutritious food choices and access to supportive services in a dignified, loving environment. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a tangible impact upon the local community. You'll be helping provide wholesome food to families and the food insecure in a welcoming environment while protecting dignity and fostering hope.

GARDEN HELPERS: The Store has partnered with the Edgehill Community Gardens and has a dedicated garden plot for us to grow produce. We use this to stock our fresh produce section. We are looking for volunteers who can help with general garden bed maintenance, which could include weeding, tilling, planting, watering, harvesting and other miscellaneous garden tasks.

SIGN UPS: We utilize our own website to organize sign ups for our volunteer opportunities. In addition to responding to this Need in Get Connected, volunteers must go to The Store's volunteer website to sign up for specific days and times, linked here.

Please do not show up to volunteer without having first signed up for a shift on our website.

ABOUT: The Store operates as a free grocery store allowing people to shop for their basic needs. Our mission is to nourish communities and cultivate hope by providing nutritious food choices and access to supportive services in a dignified, loving environment. This volunteer opportunity will allow you to make a tangible impact upon the local community. You'll be helping provide wholesome food to families and the food insecure in a welcoming environment while protecting dignity and fostering hope.

ROLES: We are dependent on an excited and passionate volunteer base to help our customers shop. These volunteer shifts will mainly involve checking people out at the register, ensuring customers do not exceed specified item limits, bagging their groceries in a timely and efficient manner, and escorting customers to their vehicles with their groceries. At the start of the shift, you will have an orientation and brief training; to ensure that we can process as many customers as possible, please be on time. During this shift you may also be greeting customers at check-in, helping people with questions while they shop, cleaning and tidying, stocking shelves and produce, unloading pallets, or other miscellaneous tasks. You will be able to take a break during your shift, so you are welcome to bring a snack and drink for break time. 

SIGN UPS: We utilize our own website to organize sign ups for our volunteer opportunities. In addition to responding to this Need in Get Connected, volunteers must go to The Store's volunteer website to sign up for specific days and times, linked here.

Please do not show up to volunteer without having first signed up for a shift on our website.

Pawster is looking for volunteers to help transport pets and supplies! Pet Chauffeurs are volunteer drivers who bring pets to their foster homes, to veterinary appointments, and anywhere else a pet may need! You will also help bring supplies to fosters. You make Pawster's mission possible.

All you need is a valid driver's license, a vehicle, and a love of pets. Once you sign up and complete orientation, you'll be on the Pet Chauffeur list. When a pet or supplues needs to be transported, we'll send the request to pet chauffeurs. If you're available to help, great! If not, just wait on the next one!

This is a flexible, easy way to volunteer.

Finish out the spring semester and start summer with a fun, furry friend! Fostering a dog is the perfect way to get out and enjoy the outdoors, without the long-term commitment of owning a pet.

Pawster provides all training, supplies, veterinary care and transportation. You just give them love, attention and lots of cuddles! Plus, it's flexible - you get your volunteer hours just by giving your foster pet a safe and loving home.

When you foster with Pawster, you help people too! Pawster provides "Crisis Foster Care." That means the dog or cat you are fostering already has an owner, but they are temporarily unable to care for their pet. You take care of their pet until the owner is back on their feet and ready to be reunited. Don't worry, your information is confidential, but Pawster Fosters say the most rewarding part is when they get to see their foster pet go home to their family.

Sign up today! If you love dogs, then you are fully qualified to be a Pawster Foster!

**NOTE: Belmont, Fisk and Trevecca Universities, do NOT allow pets in on-campus housing. This opportunity is only available to students who live off-campus and whose landlords allow pets. All students should verify with their landlords that pets are allowed before signing up to foster.

Finish out the spring semester and start summer with a fun, furry friend! Fostering a cat is the perfect way to relax and have fun with a temporary cuddly companion, without the long-term commitment.

Pawster provides all training, supplies, veterinary care and transportation. You just give them love, attention and lots of cuddles! Plus, it's flexible - you get your volunteer hours just by giving your foster pet a safe and loving home.

When you foster with Pawster, you help people too! Pawster provides "Crisis Foster Care." That means the dog or cat you are fostering already has an owner, but they are temporarily unable to care for their pet. You take care of their pet until the owner is back on their feet and ready to be reunited. Don't worry, your information is confidential, but Pawster Fosters say the most rewarding part is when they get to see their foster pet go home to their family.

Sign up today! If you love cats, then you are fully qualified to be a Pawster Foster!

**NOTE: Belmont, Fisk and Trevecca Universities, do NOT allow pets in on-campus housing. This opportunity is only available to students who live off-campus and whose landlords allow pets. All students should verify with their landlords that pets are allowed before signing up to foster.

Join our trainees in preparing activity kits at the Adventure Science Center! You will be paired with a trainee to provide support while they cut, glue, and create activities. You will work alongside staff from ACT.

You will meet us at the Adventure Science Center @ 9:45 am- 11:00 am.

We have ongoing needs for volunteers to support our patients and their loved ones. Patients at home often need someone to sit with them, so that their caregiver can leave the home to run errands or attend appointments. Patients who live alone benefit from companionship visits and even a volunteer who may help tidy their home or cook for them. Patients who have pets may wish for a volunteer to spend time with their animals (dog walking or playing with pets). Musicians can play/sing for patients. Volunteers who enjoy arts and crafts can guide patients in creating.

Patients in nursing homes often don't have anyone to visit them or their loved ones worry because they aren't able to visit as often as they'd like. Volunteers who visit patients in facilities talk with or read to patients, help their patients participate in facility activities like Bingo or meal times.

Most patients who want a volunteer only need a once a week visit. The visits are typically between 2-4 hours, depending on volunteer availability. Depending on a patient's condition, a volunteer may only visit once or they may have a long-term relationship. 

Note to students: Weekly shifts are not guaranteed for these types of visits; there are times when patients do not need support.

Volunteering is typically flexible with the volunteers' availability.
If you are interested, please apply here (you must complete an application, interview, and complete onboarding before volunteering).

Thank you!

We have two roles for volunteers at our Murfreesboro In-Patient Unit. This is an hour from Belmont campus.

The first role is at the front desk. A shift there is 3-4 hours, once a week or once every-other-week. It involves sitting at the desk and welcoming guests, showing them how to sign in, and if they need additional assistance, walking them to the room they're there to visit. Students are able to bring a laptop or books to study during this time.

The other role is for anywhere between 1-4 hours, depending on volunteer availability. It involves pushing our hospitality cart from room to room, offering snacks and other comfort items to patients and their guests. Some guests only want a treat and others want the volunteer to spend time with them, talking about their lives.

There is also the additional opportunity for a musical volunteer to visit patients and play/sing for them.

If you are interested in this, please apply here (you must complete an application, interview, and training before volunteering).

Thank you!

Find a purpose, develop new skills, share your time... You can make a difference!!

accentCare Hospice is looking for Musically Talented Volunteers to visit patients throughout Middle TN in Davidson, Williamson, Cheatham, Dickson, and Hickman Counties.

As a Hospice Music Volunteer, you will collaborate with our full-service medical and psycho-social care team to help patients and their family members. You will have the opportunity to offer music to patients in their home, assisted living, or skilled nursing facility while adhering to current health and safety guidelines. Volunteer time is flexible to work with your schedule.

Volunteer activities with patients include: Listening to a patient's stories, playing your musical instrument of choice, singing, discussing music, writing a song together, bringing a device/speaker to play music on, but most of all, supporting someone dealing with a terminal illness.

Volunteers DO NOT provide any hands-on care such as changing a patient, feeding a patient, bathing, giving medications, etc.)

No previous hospice experience is needed, accentCare Hospice will provide training and support throughout your time as a volunteer. Our volunteers are part of our team that provides excellent care to those at the end of life. Your gift of compassionate presence is valued! Have questions let us know. 

If you are looking for a deeply rewarding volunteer opportunity, then this is for you!!

Requirements:

Monday 4:45-5:25pm- 1-2 VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDWeekly 1:1 dance buddy for an energetic dancer who needs a lot of redirection to stay on task and engaged. A volunteer with ABA/behavior/special education experience would be beneficial. Use of a token board and reinforcement system is used. May use physical, gestural & verbal prompting.Thursday 5:30-6:10pm- TWO VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDWeekly 1:1 dance buddy for a 21 year old male dancer with autism who may need redirection/verbal prompting to have a quiet voice and stay engaged in class.Weekly 1:1 dance buddy for a 19 year old male dancer with autism who may need reminders to stay engaged in class.If you are interested, express interest and take a tour and an orientation at the Franklin Studio!

Wednesday 5:45-6:25 pm- TWO VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDWeekly 1:1 buddy for a 9 year old male dancer with ADHD. This dancer needs verbal reminders to stay engaged, have a quiet voice, and listen to the teacher. Weekly Floater to support the dance teacher in the class as well as the different elementary school aged dancers in the classThursday 4:45-5:25pmWeekly 1:1 buddy for a 6 year old female dancer with autism. This dancer needs hands on and verbal reminders to stay engaged and participate in the class. Saturday 11:15-11:55amWeekly 1:1 buddy with a 20 year old male dancer with autism. This dancer needs verbal reminders to stay engaged, have a quiet voice, and listen to the teacher. Express Interest for more information and to come get a tour and orientation at the Bellevue Studio!

Share your time and talents with Caris Hospice through Special Projects volunteering. This opportunity is perfect for volunteers who want to support hospice patients and families in creative, practical, and behind-the-scenes ways without direct patient interaction.

Special Projects Volunteers may help by donating needed items, creating handmade gifts, assisting with legacy or remembrance projects, arranging flowers, helping with gardening or yard work, or supporting other meaningful tasks that bless patients and families. Opportunities can include crafting, collecting supplies, assembling gifts, or helping with seasonal and community-based projects.

This role is flexible and can be a wonderful fit for individuals, groups, clubs, churches, or community partners who want to make a tangible impact through service.

Support Caris Hospice behind the scenes by serving as an Administrative Volunteer. This role is a great fit for volunteers who enjoy staying organized, helping with office projects, and supporting meaningful work in a practical way.

Administrative Volunteers may assist with tasks such as clerical work, assembling information packets, making calls, answering phones, organizing medical supplies, computer-based projects, creating bulletin boards, helping with holiday decorations, and assisting with community events, projects, or presentations. This role helps our team serve patients and families more effectively every day.

Volunteers typically serve in or through our Nashville office during weekday business hours. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who want to make a difference in hospice care without providing direct patient care.

Volunteer as a blood donor ambassador to help our blood donors have a pleasant experience. Locations include Hendersonville, Brentwood, and Murfreesboro.  

Purpose: To assist blood donors and blood collection staff at local blood drives. 

You must create a volunteer account with the Red Cross, which tracks hours for approval.  Apply at:

https://redcross.org/volunteer

Key Responsibilities:

Locations:
Blood drives take place in Hendersonville, Brentwood, and Murfreesboro.

Time Commitment:

Questions?
Contact us at GiveTime@redcross.org

Become a volunteer reading tutor with the YMCA today! Y-Literacy provides free one-on-one tutoring to students grades K-5 who are assessed as reading below grade-level. Our volunteers undergo a straightforward training process to ensure they are comfortable before beginning-- All it takes is a willing heart and a smiling face!

At this time almost all tutoring is conducted VIRTUALLY! No need to worry about your commute, parking, or Nashville traffic. If you would like to read with a student in-person with a supervised Y-staff, let us know! 
 
Volunteers commit to working with their student once per week for 1 hour. Volunteer opportunities are available Monday-Thursday starting between 3-7pm. Volunteers are paired with a student based on compatible availability. 

Fall Semester: September - December
Spring Semester: February - May
Summer Semester: June & July

 
*Must be at least 16 years old. Background screening required*

Carehack Cares is a caregiver matching and training model designed to connect families with consistent, trained, and vetted care providers for children, teens, and adults with disabilities. 

Reach out for more information! 

Are you looking for an opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of others? Caris Hospice is seeking dedicated individuals like you to become Patient Care Volunteers. Together, we can bring comfort, support, and joy to those facing life-limiting illnesses. Join us and become an integral part of our compassionate team!

As a Patient Care Volunteer, you will embark on a journey that will touch hearts and make a lasting difference. Your generosity and selflessness will provide immeasurable comfort and companionship to patients and their families during challenging times. Every act of kindness counts, from lending a helping hand with household chores or mowing a patient's lawn. You might even have the chance to walk a beloved furry friend!

* Household Chores: Assist patients and families with light household tasks, such as organizing, cleaning, or meal preparation. Your support will alleviate the burden and create a nurturing environment.

* Community Events and Hobbies: Accompany patients to community events, such as Bingo, at Long Term Care Facilities. Help patients with hobbies such as building model cars or painting a picture.

* Outdoor Assistance: Extend a caring hand by mowing a patient's lawn or tending to their garden. Your efforts will brighten their surroundings and bring a sense of peace and beauty.

* Furry Friends: For those who have pets, offer to take their beloved companions for a walk or assist with their care. The love and comfort animals provide are truly invaluable.

By becoming a Caris Hospice volunteer, you have the power to create cherished memories and bring hope to those who need it most. Your kindness will resonate far beyond the tasks you undertake; it will touch the lives of patients, families, and the entire community.

As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." Your commitment to making a difference will not only enrich the lives of others but also inspire a sense of fulfillment within your own heart.

Join us today and be the light in someone's life!

Together, we can make a meaningful difference and bring comfort to those who need it most.

Help us bring some cheer to isolated seniors, seniors in nursing homes and/or disabled individuals in our communities by sending them heartfelt letters, letting them know that we care and haven't forgotten about them.

We are looking for uplifting letters that will bring their recipients some joy!

This month the theme for the letters is "Welcome summer" or "Independence Day" later in the month. You can incorporate the theme through art, by making your own themed cards and within the message of your letter.

If you are interested in sending letters and/or art to seniors in the community, please sign up below and include in your response (in the notes) how many letters you would like to write. I will contact you with specific instructions for the letters and the address to send them to. Children are welcome to contribute also (an adult is required for minors to sign up).

 
We are looking to have this round of letters completed and received by their recipients by 06/30/2026. Please allow a couple of days for mailing and distribution. 
 
Volunteers will be required to have their own materials for the letters and any additional artwork you'd like to add, as well as stamps to mail the letters on hand (or you must be able to take them to the post office). I will try my best to provide you with one address for your letters so you can mail them together in a large envelope. 

Please allow 48 hours for me to get back to you with the instructions. 

If you are in need of community service hours, I am happy to confirm your hours for you. Please submit pictures of your letters as proof. We will be tracking and logging the actual time you spent working on the letters/cards and do NOT assign a specific number of letters per hour. Please check with your institution if they have specific requirements of how many letters you need to complete to get your hours approved.

Younger children are welcome to participate with their parents or a guardian/caregiver. 

 
Thank you so much for considering this opportunity! 

Help us bring some cheer to isolated seniors, seniors in nursing homes and/or disabled individuals in our communities by sending them heartfelt letters, letting them know that we care and haven't forgotten about them.

We are looking for uplifting letters that will bring their recipients some joy!

This month we are looking for Flower Power themed letters and cards. You can incorporate the theme through art, by making your own themed cards and within the message of your letter.

If you are interested in sending letters and/or art to seniors in the community, please sign up below and include in your response (in the notes) how many letters you would like to write. I will contact you with specific instructions for the letters and the address to send them to. Children are welcome to contribute also (an adult is required for minors under 13 to sign up).

 
We are looking to have this round of letters completed and received by their recipients by 05/31/2026. Please allow a couple of days for mailing and distribution. 
 
Volunteers will be required to have their own materials for the letters and any additional artwork you'd like to add, as well as stamps to mail the letters on hand (or you must be able to take them to the post office). I will try my best to provide you with one address for your letters so you can mail them together in a large envelope. 

Please allow 48 hours for me to get back to you with the instructions. 

If you are in need of community service hours, I am happy to confirm your hours for you. Please submit pictures of your letters as proof. We will be tracking and logging the actual time you spent working on the letters/cards and do NOT assign a specific number of letters per hour. Please check with your institution if they have specific requirements of how many letters you need to complete to get your hours approved.

 
Thank you so much for considering this opportunity! 

Belmont Music Connections is a student organization that partners with Our Place Nashville to share the joy of music. Through group and one-on-one lessons, residents have the chance to explore different instruments and build their musical skills. At the same time, Belmont students gain hands-on teaching experience in a supportive environment. Everyone gets to learn, grow, and make meaningful connections through music!

Can you play an instrument or sing? Would you be interested in being a part of Belmont Music Connections? If so, reach out to us! If you are interested, DM us on Instagram @belmontmusicconnections OR email belmontmusicconnections@gmail.com.

Raise Your Hand Tutoring provides free academic intervention to students in Montgomery, Robertson, and Williamson Counties. We serve several local elementary and middle schools that would benefit from your help as a volunteer tutor. As a volunteer tutor, you will work alongside a teacher to provide small-group reading intervention to our students.

We offer flexible scheduling with several locations either in the morning before school or after school. Our sessions are year round with a Spring, Summer, and Fall session - You only have to sign up for one hour a week for the duration of the session. 

To apply to become a tutor, please click this link: https://www.unitedwaygreaternashville.org/raise-your-hand-volunteers/

We will contact you and help find the best placement depending on your location and availability. Morning tutoring is generally 7:30a-8:30a and afternoon tutoring is generally 3:30p-4:30p. 

Joelton Elementary's kindergarten friends are in need of monitors to help with their computers during their WIN time ("What I Need" - this is a personalized learning time). Kindergarten WIN time is Monday-Friday from 10:15am-11:00am.

This is a daily occurrence in their schedule, but volunteers can support at their desired frequency - one time, weekly, whenever you are available!

Please contact Sarah Finney at sfinney@fcsnashville.org for more information.

Come serve our families on Tuesday nights by helping with childcare during our adult English class for Hispanic adults! Make sure to sign up on our volunteer platform HERE if you are coming!

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_paOWDifn-y2npTo2fmiPdpbSDhNWG3ztZgOCQTuLvc/edit?usp=sharing

Volunteer & Mentorship Opportunities

Share your expertise and inspire our interns through hands-on engagement:

Guest Industry Expert: Lead a specialized workshop in Prompt Engineering (AI), HTML/CSS Coding, or Audio Production during our Monday technical sessions.

Tech Visit Host: Host our interns at your creative agency, software firm, or studio for a Tuesday "Industry Engagement" tour.

Pitch Coach: Help youth refine their professional elevator pitches and digital career portfolios for their final showcase.

Beyond financial sponsorship, we welcome "heroes in the field" to support our mission:

Guest Mentors: Share your professional "superpower" during our Educational Rotations.

Lemonade Lunch: Prepare for the lunch hour. Distribute healthy breakfast or lunch options to ensure our campers are fueled for their mission. Lead clean-up to transition out of lunch time

STEM Supplies: Donate kits, electronics, or tools to help youth dream big and turn goals into reality.

The Sweetener Plan: Help fund customized support for students on the autism spectrum or with diverse cognitive abilities

Our Vision: A world where no young person has to fight alone, and every individual feels seen, heard, and empowered to live as their authentic self.

Contact: Kaymi Butler

Email: info@blacklemonade.org | Phone: 615-200-7351

Website:www.blacklemonade.org

Payments can be made payable to/at: www.blacklemonade.org/donate

✨ THE SPARKLING PARTNER (In-Kind & Volunteer)VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Mentors: Support homework hours to ensure students qualify for the "Earn & Shop."

Conference Speakers: Facilitate a workshop on self-love or mental health.

Chaperones: Ensure safety on field trips.

Project Supervisors: Assist students during service days.

Most of our students do not have access to one-on-one or small-group academic support at home.

A student who works with a consistent tutor at least once a week is more likely to improve their test scores and classroom participation.

The presence of caring adult volunteers reinforces our mission to make each child feel seen, heard, and academically capable.

Time: 4 days/week, between 3:45 PM – 5:25 PM (Monday–Thursday)

Location: School-based afterschool program sites in Nashville and Evansville

Training & Support: Orientation provided; no teaching experience required—just patience, consistency, and a heart for youth

Assist Davidson county residents in responding to the recent winter ice storm. We are working with multiple local organizations to respond. Projects range in scope from distributing food, to canvassing, to debris removal. To see a full list of partner projects, visit our winter projects listing page here.

You will need to make a Hands On account to join any of these projects. You will not sign up for these projects via the GetConnected platform but you can log your hours after serving here on Get Connected.

The Nature Discovery Program is a partnership between Friends of Warner Parks, the Warner Park Nature Center, and Metro Parks Community Centers to reach youth who lack direct access to, and are often underrepresented in, traditional environmental education and outdoor recreation programs. The Nature Discovery Program is activated in a number of ways including:

Nature Detectives Club: an after-school program for youth at Metro Nashville Community Centers. This program provides science-based teachings and empowers kids to explore nature. This program takes place at more than 20 Community Centers throughout Davidson County. 

P.E.N. Pals (People Exploring Nature) Summer Camp: brings youth from Metro Parks Community Centers to the Warner Parks for a full day of nature exploration and outdoor adventure! Youth follow their curiosity as they explore the meadow, pond, and garden ecosystems, hike through the forest, observe wildlife, kayak, learn outdoor skills, search for crawdads in the Little Harpeth River, and create lasting memories in nature. 

P.E.N. Pals (People Exploring Nature) Fall Campfire & Night Hikes: Community Center youth experience the Warner Parks during the fall season. Earlier sunsets and cooler temperatures mean it's time to roast hot dogs, make s'mores, and enjoy time around the bonfire. Youth take a crepuscular hike through the meadows and forests of the Warner Parks and view the night sky while learning about nocturnal creatures. 

*We are looking for college-aged volunteers to participate in any of these branches of the Nature Discovery program, as the youth often find it easier to connect with this age group. This opportunity is wonderful for those who are interested in education, biology, sustainability, or environmental studies.*

Please see below for approximate date ranges throughout the year: 
Nature Detectives: school-year. Typically on a weekday between 3:00pm-5:00pm
P.E.N. Pals Summer Camp: June and July
P.E.N. Pals Fall Campfire & Night Hikes: October

If you are interested in volunteering with any of these opportunities, please contact Arabella Pagan at apagan@warnerparks.org for next steps. A background check may be required.

Meal of Hope is our weekly meal for the homeless & inner-city community! Join us for live music, prayer, an encouraging word, and fellowship with a loving community over a hot meal. Volunteers arrive at 5 PM and we welcome guests at 5:30 PM.

There are opportunities to serve during and after the meal is served. Once we finish cleanup, we'll conclude the night with testimonies! See below for a few service options!

Service Roles During the Meal: 

- Wash Dishes

- Serve Food, Desserts, Coffee, or Water

- Ministry Team

- Resource Table

Service Roles During Cleanup:

- Sweep

- Mop

- Wipe Tables and Chairs

- Clean Bathrooms

What will I be doing?

What should I wear?

Instructions Upon Arrival:

In addition to responding to the need in get connected, please register for a specific date and time through the Hands On Nashville link below:

Hands On Nashville | Food Pantry Volunteer #sharing

Come join us in a fun way to serve the community! Join us in the Cul2vate Farm Store. Sell Cul2vate produce, flowers, honey, merchandise, and more! This is a great way to engage in community for a great cause. 

Wilson Rides is looking to expand our Volunteer Driver team!

Make a difference in the lives of adults 55+ in Wilson County by providing friendly, reliable transportation to local destinations like medical appointments, grocery stores, and senior centers. All rides are given in Wilson County.

Volunteer Driver

Delivery Volunteers

Deliver food boxes monthly and spread holiday cheer with Christmas stockings, gifts, and Easter bags. 

Student Volunteers (Ages 16+)
Help wrap water bottles and small gifts for quarterly outreach projects.

Every role supports dignity, connection, and independence for Wilson County’s older adults.
Join us and volunteer on your terms!

We are in need of a people loving personality to be the face and voice guest and parents see when they call and visit Salama! You would greet people at the door and direct them to their appropriate classroom, take phone calls, and spread joy!

Volunteers needed to help K-8 students with Reading and Math on Monday-Thursday afternoons from 3:30 to 4:30. 

Please see this page for more information, including our volunteer application.