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.

Help Berrien County kids get school supplies

United Way will be joining forces with Walmart, Honor Credit Union and the local law enforcement’s National Night Out event in Benton Harbor to get backpack supplies to children in Berrien County. On May 17 and 18, United Way will seek help to collect school supplies at a local Walmart. Come volunteer and help spread awareness at the event and run items to the school bus. Help United Way Stuff a School Bus for kids in need. For more information, or to sign up, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

Stock local food pantries

Every year, across Southwest Michigan, food pantries see themselves fully stocked in the winter months and holiday season. However, when summer hits, food donations go down and their shelves are harder to keep stocked. United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Christmas in June event asks local businesses and community members to help stock local food pantries. On June 12, volunteers will help sort and assemble the donated food to prepare for delivery. For more information, or to sign up, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

Girls on the Run seeking volunteers

Girls on the Run 5K is a non-competitive event celebrating the culmination of our Girls on the Run 2019 Spring program. As girls from across Berrien County come together on 5K day, the girls depend on volunteers in order to have a safe and meaningful experience. Whatever a volunteer’s special skills and talents, Girls on the Run has a role for everyone. Background checks required. Register by May 13. For more information, or to sign up, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

Be a part of a fun festival

Lake Michigan Shore Wine Fest is seeking volunteers for the annual wine festival that takes place June 15. Volunteers will help with various jobs including check in table, parking, front gate and more. Be part of this growing network of volunteers needed for this wine festival on the shores of Lake Michigan. For more information or to sign up, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

Help veterans at the annual VA2K

The VA of Benton Harbor Community Based Outpatient Clinic is hosting the annual VA2K on May 17. This event not only encourages veteran and employee physical activity by walking a 1.2-mile course that day, it also brings in needed donations for the VA Homeless Veteran Program. To participate or donate items like coats, shoes, full size toiletry items, and blankets visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

Become a volunteer board member

Berrien County Cancer Services is looking for a volunteer board member to fill the secretary role. The secretary takes notes at the board meetings and executive committee meetings. BCCS is looking for someone who is enthusiastic and supportive of the BCCS organization. For more information or to apply, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.