Each week, United Way of Southwest Michigan releases a list of volunteer opportunities in the southwest Michigan area. To learn more about these opportunities, visit uwsm.org.

Combat food insecurity

Food insecurity is defined as the disruption of food intake or eating patterns because of lack of money and other resources. Food insecurity may be long term for some or temporary for others. It can be influenced by a number of factors including income, employment, a lack of access, or other factors. United Way of Southwest Michigan has multiple opportunities for volunteers to help people have access to food. Whether it is at a mobile food pantry, a local food bank, or other resource for those experiencing hunger, help is needed. Visit uswm.org/volunteer to find ways to help.

Encourage healthy choices

Encouraging children and teens to be active and make healthy choices from a young age sets good habits early on and helps them develop the skills they need to stay active and healthy throughout their lives. This opportunity is great for those who are passionate about health and fitness. Find opportunities from Girls on the Run to First Tee at uswm.org/volunteer.

Celebrate the arts

Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties have a rich history in the arts. From symphonic music to vibrant art galleries, groundbreaking theater companies, spoken word events and live music of all kinds, the area offers a multitude of ways you can volunteer to help the artist in southwest Michigan communities. Visit uswm.org/volunteer to find a link to opportunities to volunteer in the arts. New needs are added every week.

Take advantage of corporate

volunteerism and team building

Employee volunteer programs can increase employee engagement while creating fun and impactful team building opportunities. United Way of Southwest Michigan can create custom team-building volunteer experiences for companies, groups, teams or organizations. From onsite kit building at the office or workplace to helping an organization in the community realize a dream project, United Way can help get interested parties connected. Visit uswm.org/volunteer to see how a company, business or group can help make a strong impact in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.

Nominate a volunteer for

United Way volunteer recognition

United Way of Southwest Michigan is seeking nominations for three of its annual Volunteer Recognition Awards. Every year, United Way celebrates outstanding volunteers in Berrien and Cass counties. There are three awards for which locals can nominate someone: The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Lifetime Achievement Award is given to one volunteer in Berrien County who demonstrates a longstanding history of volunteerism of more than 10 years and a diverse volunteer background with multiple organizations. The winner will get $3,500 to donate to the nonprofit organization of their choice.

The Sustaining and Emerging Volunteer Awards recognize volunteers from Berrien or Cass County who show a commitment to United Way’s goals in the areas of education, income, health or basic needs. These volunteers have elevated an organization to new levels. The Emerging Volunteer winner can direct $300 to the nonprofit organization of their choice and should have at least two years of local volunteerism. The Sustaining Volunteer can direct $500 to the nonprofit organization of their choice and should have at least five years of local volunteerism. Go to uwsm.org/nominate-a-volunteer for more information.