Volunteers create lasting change and provide invaluable support for the nonprofit community.

National statistics from the Independent Sector show that in 2019, a volunteer’s time was valued at an average of $25.43 per hour. United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region alone worked with 6,259 volunteers just last year.

“Volunteers are transforming our community on the front lines. They are providing valuable services and time that we and our partners need to continue to create impact for those in need,” said Jamie Rugg, Director of Engagement at United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region. “Our volunteers are filling needs for support, which allows for staff to work on more involved projects to create strategic change.”

For a need that is ever growing, our volunteers fill the gaps in crucial services that directly help individuals in need. Many organizations have limited staff capacity and rely heavily on volunteers to provide direct services.

The South Michigan Food Bank, a United Way funded partner, understands the impact that volunteers have on their own daily operations. With just a handful of full-time employees, the organization relies on volunteers to be able to provide services.

“Serving over 6.5 million meals each year, volunteers are vital in providing food security for families. Our volunteers provide support in many different areas,” said South Michigan’s Volunteer Manager, Michelle Boudreau. “Our volunteers are truly the heart of our Food Bank community.”

Volunteerism is at the core of our mission. Our mission states: Drive impact by leading shared efforts that engage diverse people, ideas and resources. Volunteers are helping to make this mission reality by engaging their hearts, hands and minds. They give their valuable time and create impact that cannot be replaced.

With the help of individuals and groups, we have been able to tutor young readers; improve homes and neighborhoods; and collect food, clothing and other essentials for those in need. In October, more than 300 volunteers joined us for United Against Hunger, packing 100,000 meals in just two hours.

Joining our community of volunteers is easy. Check out our volunteer page to learn how you or your organization can join us in helping to change the story for those in our region.

If you know a great individual volunteer or organization who is contributing to our region, we would love to hear about it. Nominations for the 2020 community volunteer STAR Awards are open!