Volunteer Opportunities

Eligibility

Eligibility to volunteer in your community typically includes a willingness to contribute your time and skills, but specific requirements may vary by organization.

Requirements:

• Must be 13 years of age or older.
• Minors must have parental permission to volunteer.
• Must be willingly to offer, be accepted, and provide voluntary services.
• Must be in an off-duty status, if active duty or a civilian employee.
• Cannot count any fundraising activity as volunteerism.

Getting Started

Getting started with volunteering is easy! Begin by identifying your interests and skills, then explore local organizations or programs that align with your passions. Reach out to volunteer coordinators for information on opportunities, and don’t hesitate to ask questions to find the best fit for you. Your journey to making a difference starts today!

Explore Volunteer Opportunities

• Browse the volunteer webpage and calendar for available volunteer roles that match your interests and skills.

Connect with the Volunteer Office

• Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more information about specific opportunities and application processes.

Complete a Volunteer Application

• Fill out the volunteer application form, providing necessary details such as your availability, interests, and any prior experience.

Orientation or Training Session

• Attend the required orientation or training to familiarize yourself with the program, expectations, and guidelines. Orientation and training may not be available at all locations.

Complete Background Check (if applicable)

• For certain roles, especially those working with children or sensitive information, a background check may be required.

Get Assigned

• After your application is approved, you’ll be matched with a volunteer position that suits your skills and interests.

Begin Volunteering!

• Start your volunteer journey, making a positive impact on your community while gaining valuable experience.

Volunteer opportunities are available at each installation and also through Single Marine Program, L.I.N.K.S., MCFTB and more. Contact your volunteer coordinator for more information about how you can support your military community.

Volunteer Application (NAVMC 5380.2)

Volunteer Hours (NAVMC 5380.1)

Why Volunteer?

• Community support
• Develop lasting relationships
• Enhances resumes 
• Grow networks
• Personal growth and development
• Professional development
• Receive on-the-job training 
• Teen volunteer opportunities
• Work flexible hours 

Life Skills Developed:

• Communication
• Empathy and Compassion
• Strengthening Relationships
• Leadership
• Personal and professional development
• Problem-solving
• Networking
• Teamwork
• Time management

• Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) 
• President's Volunteer Service Award (PVSA)
• Volunteer Service Award (VSA)

On-Base Volunteer Opportunities

Looking for a rewarding way to connect with your community and make an impact right here on base? Volunteering offers fantastic opportunities to lend your skills, support vital programs, meet fellow service members and families, and even gain valuable experience.

If you have any questions reach out to your volunteer coordinator. 

L.I.N.K.S.
Do you have valuable experience and knowledge about the military lifestyle? Or is it fairly new to you and you want to learn more? L.I.N.K.S. stands for Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge, and Skills. The L.I.N.K.S. program was originally created by volunteers and still holds the vision of a volunteer-based program that assists others in the community who face similar challenges such as deployments, frequent moves, making new friends, finances, etc. The L.I.N.K.S. program is always looking to build their team with new spouses and offers a number of diverse opportunities from administrative and logistical support to planning and decorating. L.I.N.K.S. also offers a mentorship program where individuals are given professional development opportunities by teaching others during the monthly L.I.N.K.S. class. For further information to become a L.I.N.K.S. volunteer or mentor, please contact MCFTB at (928) 269-6550 or mcftbyuma@usmc-mccs.org.

Navy Marine Corps Relief Society
Volunteers are needed in all areas at NMCRS. Training is provided and childcare is paid while volunteering. Please contact the office via e-mail yuma@nmcrs.org or phone at (928) 269-2373 or stop by BLDG 645 on the first floor for more information.

Single Marine Program
SMP has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to choose from each month. Times, days, and locations vary to meet the needs of our diverse community. Whether you want to help give back to the local community at the food bank or shelter, have a love for animals, or just want to get out of the barracks and have fun doing something respectable, SMP has something for you! Stop by the SMP Rec Center for details or to sign up for an upcoming opportunity. PoC: SMP Assistant Coordinator, (928) 269-2075.

Spouses of Yuma Area Kickball Association
Active Duty volunteers are needed to assist with umpiring games during Spring and Fall seasons which run concurrent with WTI. Background knowledge of baseball/softball rules is a plus, but not required. Training will be provided on the rulebook by the commissioning team. Games are held on Sundays beginning late morning/early afternoon and are one hour long. LOAs are provided at the conclusion of the season. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, please contact syakacommissioner@gmail.com.

USO
USO provides various opportunities throughout the year to support our service members and their families both on and off installation. Sign up, reach out to our local USO representative, or call (928) 701-7892 for more information.

Youth Sports
Do you have a love for sports? Can you remember a coach who taught you valuable skills and helped mentor you? Youth Sports is always looking for coaches. There are a variety of sports available. For more details or to become a Youth Sports coach, contact the Youth Sports Coordinator at (928) 269-2324.

Off-Base Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering off-base offers rewarding opportunities to support important local causes, grow your network, and gain a deeper understanding of the surrounding area. Find out how you can support and make a positive impact.

If you have questions about volunteer opportunities listed below please reach out to your volunteer coordinator.

Amberly's Place
Volunteer opportunities include cleaning and organizing donations for re-sale at the Thrift Shoppe. Volunteer application is online or call (928) 373-0849.

AZ Game & Fish
Opportunities include hunting, education, community outreach, wildlife conservation, donating water, watching wildlife, scholastic programs, wildlife care, and providing transportation. Volunteer application is online or call (928) 342-0091.

Compassus
Volunteer opportunities include patient support, bereavement, administrative, veteran-to-veteran, 11th hour/vigil, or supplementary services. Application is online or call (928) 238-2576.

Cross Roads Mission
Daily help is needed in the kitchen preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. Volunteer application is online or apply in person at the main office: 944 S Arizona Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364.

CASA
Volunteers are appointed by judges to watch over and advocate for abused and neglected children to make sure they don't get lost in the overburdened legal and social service system or languish in inappropriate group homes or foster care. Volunteer application can be found online or by calling (928) 314-1830 and asking for the CASA Coordinator.
Volunteers must be at least 21 years old.

Cub Scouts/Girl Scouts/Venturing Crew
Volunteers are needed to be a troop or service unit volunteer. Volunteer applications are available in person at (928) 750-0442.

Healing Journey
The Healing Journey is a safe place where survivors find peace, hope, and compassion to begin their healing journey. They provide health-based therapeutic counseling for trauma survivors. To learn more about their mission, visit The Healing Journey. For volunteer opportunities, call (928) 920-6220 or email.

Helping Hands of Yuma
Volunteering includes medical transportation, shopping assistance, yard sales, social events and activities, office help and senior encouragement. Volunteer application is online or apply in person Monday-Thursday from 7:30am - 11am at 11776 South Sheryl Drive, Yuma, AZ 85367.

Hospice of Yuma Nonprofit
Volunteers aid alongside nurses and physicians, including home care, respite for the caregiver, supporting staff within the office setting, or working in their thrift shop. We Honor Veterans Team seeks active-duty military and/or veterans who can provide the last opportunity for veterans to feel they are appreciated and their service was not in vain. Volunteer information can be found online. The Volunteer Manager can be reached via phone at (928) 343-2222 or email.

Humane Society of Yuma
Volunteer opportunities include dog walking, cleaning, kennel support, events, admin and fostering. Volunteer application is online or contact the volunteer department at (928) 782-1621. Ongoing volunteer opportunities with the HSOY are available through the Single Marine Program. View the SMP calendar for dates.

Jessie's Closet
Volunteers are needed in the thrift store so that more than 300 foster children across Yuma County have a place where they are able to come in and get practical needs met. Volunteer application is online or apply in-person Tuesday-Friday: 9am - 5pm and Saturday: 9am - 2pm at 2301 South Ave A, Yuma, AZ 85364. Store number: (928) 248-5053.

Kids at Hope
Opportunities to volunteer include support at various fundraising events. Volunteer application is online or call the main office at (928) 210-4000 or email kidsathopeyuma@gmail.com.

Red Cross
Volunteers are needed to engage donors by greeting and registering, answering questions, and providing information and support through recovery. Volunteer application online or by calling the local office at (928) 248-8220 Monday-Friday: 10am - 4pm.

Saddles of Joy
Volunteers are needed for various tasks, including mucking stalls, and feeding animals. Visit Saddles of Joy or contact (928) 287-1148. You can also apply in person at the main office, 2749 West County 14th Street, Yuma, AZ 85365. Ongoing volunteer opportunities with SOJ are available through the Single Marine Program. View the SMP calendar for dates!

Safe House (Catholic Community Services of Southern AZ, Inc.)
Volunteers are needed for sorting donations. Opportunities are available by contacting 928.782.0077 or by email.

Salvation Army
Volunteers are needed to support their programs. Visit their website or call (928) 783-0181 and select option 4. Volunteer applications are also available via email and in-person Monday-Thursday: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 2:30pm and Friday: 9am-12pm at 445 South 4th Avenue, Yuma, AZ 85364.

Travis Manion Foundation
Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) Dedicated to 1stLt Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007, TMF empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. Volunteer opportunities include youth mentorship for local schools, youth organizations, or TMF-hosted workshops through TMF's “Character Does Matter” program, your own community service/project ideas (Op Legacy) in honor of fallen heroes, local TMF Yuma chapter/national events supporting TMF's mission, local veterans, families of the fallen, or any civilians/organizations in need in the Yuma community. TravisManion.org | Email | Facebook

“If Not Me, Then Who...”

Yuma Food Bank
Yuma Food Bank needs assistance with packing food and preparing grocery bags for their clients. Volunteering opportunities are Monday-Friday: 7am - 12:30pm. Application is online. They are located at 2404 East 24th Street, Yuma, AZ 85365. Phone number is (928) 343-1243. Ongoing volunteer opportunities with the YFB are available through the Single Marine Program. View the SMP calendar for dates!

Special Olympics
Volunteer to be a coach, trainer official, or event organizer. You could also be a unified partner playing alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities or fans cheering in the stands. Visit Special Olympics. For local volunteer opportunities, contact (928) 210-3362 or email for an application.

Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area
Volunteering for the Heritage Area allows you the opportunity to preserve and maintain historical landmarks, State Parks, and trails along the Riverfront that are used by our community. Volunteer application is online or by email at yumacrossing@yumaaz.gov.

L.I.N.K.S

• Our Corps, Our Culture
• Events & Etiquette
• Navigating Resources
• Pay & Entitlements
• Deployments
• Safe and Sound All Around
• The Place You Will Go
• Building Your Network
• Investing in Your Community
• Kids Readiness
• Mentor Training

Single Marine Program

Volunteering with the Single Marine Program (SMP) supports the community, events, and helps enhance the quality of life for Marines and their families.

The Single Marine Program offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities each month with flexible times, days, and locations to meet the needs of our diverse community. Whether you’re passionate about giving back through local food banks or shelters, love working with animals, or just want to get out of the barracks and have fun doing something meaningful, SMP has the perfect opportunity for you! 

Volunteer opportunities are available for single and geo-bachelor Marines. 

Learn more about the volunteering opportunities through the Single Marine Program.

Marine Corps Family Team Building

• Host/Greet at Sessions
• Food Angel – Help to Feed our Participants.
• Administrative Support
• Present L.I.N.K.S. Session Topics
• Information Booth Support
• Event Support

Coach Youth Sports

• Tee-Ball
• Baseball
• Basketball
• Flag Football
• Soccer
• Track 

Not all sports listed are available at all locations.
Explore volunteer opportunities with Youth Sports.

Base Schools

Marines and their families have valuable opportunities to volunteer at schools located on Marine Corps bases, contributing positively to the educational environment and fostering community engagement.

Here's how you can get involved:​

• Explore Volunteer Opportunities
  There are a variety of volunteer opportunities that connect military personnel, their families, retirees, veterans, and civilians with local schools. These programs are designed to empower individuals to share their time and talents in support of the military community.

Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering provides numerous advantages, including:

• Personal Growth: Develop new skills and gain experiences that can enhance personal and professional growth.​
• Community Connection: Strengthen ties within the military community by supporting local schools and educational programs.​
• Recognition: Eligible volunteers may receive awards such as the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Award or the President’s Volunteer Service Award. ​

Volunteer Roles
Volunteer roles in base schools can vary but often include:

• Classroom Assistance: Supporting teachers with instructional activities and classroom management.​
• Tutoring: Providing one-on-one or small group academic support to students.​
• Extracurricular Activities: Assisting with clubs, sports, and other after-school programs.

Initiate the Application Process
To begin volunteering:

• Contact the Volunteer Coordinator: Reach out to the Installation Volunteer Coordinator at your base to express interest and learn about available opportunities.
• Complete Necessary Forms: Fill out the required volunteer application forms, which may include background checks and other necessary documentation.​

Commit to a Schedule

• Determine a volunteer schedule that aligns with your availability and the needs of the school. Consistency is often appreciated, but many programs offer flexibility to accommodate varying schedules.​

Maintain Communication

• Stay in regular contact with the school's volunteer coordinator to ensure a positive and effective volunteer experience.​

Not all installations offer volunteer opportunities with base schools. For volunteering opportunities reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator.

Navy Marine Corps Relief Society

• Must have base access
• Be available between Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 

• Client services - reception duties
• Casework - providing one-on-one financial education and assistance
• Budget for Baby - teaching workshops to military families expecting a child
• Well Baby Clinic - working with our visiting nurses to administer health checks and clothing exchange

All volunteers will be properly trained to support and assist with confidence.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society.

Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is for members of the armed forces and reserve components. Service members will want to volunteer in their civilian and military communities for normally a period of three years, which do not need to be consecutive years. The volunteering should be significant, tangible, sustained, and of a direct nature.

Learn more about the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal by contacting the Volunteer Coordinator.

Behind the Camouflage Spouse and Community Awards

The Marine Corps Association is excited to announce the launch of the Behind the Camouflage Awards Program to highlight the exceptional work Marine Corps spouses and community members are doing within their communities.

There are three opportunities to nominate spouses and community members who contributed to building the community and driving positive change.

Spouse Spotlight
Celebrating Marine Corps Spouses who excel in building community and driving positive change. Do you know an amazing Marine Corps Spouse who is an everyday hero working tirelessly behind the scenes to improve our community?

Nominate a spouse today at Spouse Spotlight!

Changemaker
The Changemaker of the Year Award honors individuals who have made a significant, tangible impact within the Marine Corps community. This award recognizes those who have driven meaningful change by identifying challenges and implementing solutions that positively affect the lives of Marine Corps families, spouses, and the broader community. The recipients of this award are innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who leave a lasting legacy of improvement and progress.

Learn about eligibility and requirements, and nomination process at Changemaker.

Community Catalyst
The Community Catalyst of the Year Award recognizes a member of the Marine Corps community who has shown exceptional dedication to building and nurturing a supportive environment. This award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to create inclusive, welcoming spaces that foster connections, collaboration, and mutual support among Marine Corps families. The recipient of this award demonstrates leadership and initiative in enhancing the quality of life for those within the Marine Corps community.

Learn about eligibility, requirements, and nomination process at Community Catalyst.