Welcome to our volunteer column sponsored by Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Discover which volunteer position best describes you. Pick a cause and react voluntarily!

Each month, we feature a member of the community who we feel deserves to be recognized for their voluntary contributions. Who do you think should be next? Please email our editor, Elyse Wild, at  [email protected] with your pick for our next Volunteer Spotlight.

The Caring Coach 

Help run the show at Girls on the Run. By becoming a volunteer running coach, you’ll be able to help young participants succeed both physically and emotionally as you provide helpful running tips and support for upcoming 5k events.

Take Action: Contact Girls on the Run at [email protected].

The Groundskeeper

Spring is right around the corner, and John Ball Zoo is gearing up for the new season. Help clean up the park by becoming a horticulture volunteer. Assist in picking up trash around the parking lot, hauling compost bins, planting flowers, weeding gardens and participating in necessary landscape and yard work.

Take Action: Contact the John Ball Zoo at [email protected].

The Party Planner

The West Michigan Environmental Action Council is searching for a few organized and enthusiastic volunteers to help plan the annual Blue Tie Ball in April. By joining the Blue Tie Ball committee, you’ll help brainstorm menu, entertainment and decoration options, solicit live auction items and assist with sponsor development.

Take Action: Contact Mary Robinson at [email protected].

The Club Cohort

Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is always looking for dedicated volunteers to help run and maintain the organization’s free cancer and grief support programs.

Assist by preparing meals, cleaning the property, working in the childcare program, completing administration work at the front desk, decorating for seasonal changes and special events or running errands for program members.

Take Action: Contact the Gilda’s Club Volunteer Department at [email protected].

The Tour Guide

Learn something new at Frederik Meijer Gardens and share your insight with visitors! By becoming a volunteer tram narrator, you’ll be able to learn fascinating information about the artwork and artists featured in the sculpture park and guide visitors through the 45-minute scripted narrated tour.

Take Action: Contact Amber Oudsema at [email protected].

The Avid Reader 

March is National Reading Month. Join The Salvation Army Echelon Grand Rapids for the Fifth Annual Army of Readers to celebrate reading in area schools. Young professional and college-aged volunteers are invited to visit classrooms around Grand Rapids to guide young learners in reading-centric activities.

Take Action: Contact Lauren Hagerman at usc.salvationarmy.org.

The Canine Companion 

Great Lakes Caring Hospice is looking for pet therapy volunteers with a trained and certified therapy dog, willing to donate their time and share their four-legged friend with terminally ill patients in need of extra comfort and love.

Take Action: Contact Nancy Hicks at [email protected].

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