Connecting volunteers to projects is our forte.
Volunteering helps you feel connected, needed, and invested in your community. Even before United Way of Anchorage launched our very first program, Volunteer Services, we’ve championed—and continue to champion—volunteerism in our community and throughout Alaska. We consider our efforts related to volunteering to be a defining characteristic of our nonprofit. Please partner with us to build more effective solutions.
Check out scheduled events, volunteer needs, and the latest news!
This webpage discusses recurring supporter opportunities and urgent requests for our community and our state. Some information is here year-round to help you plan to participate whereas other information becomes available as needs become apparent.
Signature Events
Every day, Alaskans come together to support the people who live here. When you volunteer, you help those efforts continue. United Way coordinates opportunities to make it easier for you to find ways to lend a helping hand. Working in partnership, we can create a stronger, more connected community through the power of service.
Day of Caring
Since the fall of 1993, United Way has partnered with nonprofit agencies, workplaces, and community members to host Day of Caring. From serving meals and painting to doing yard work, there have been many ways for people to show that they care about our community. Please mark your calendar now to attend in 2027.
#GivingTuesday
Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. It was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day encouraging people to do good. Over time, it’s grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Will you pitch in toward your favorite nonprofits?
Partners Events
When people come together to support local projects, resources, and services that address community needs, strengthen organizations, and build meaningful connections, we create a community and state where more Alaskans can thrive.
Free Tax Prep
Between mid-winter and April 15, Alaska 211 helps people schedule to receive free tax filing assistance—which often translates into refunds that make a real difference in lives. We connect qualifying Alaskans with the IRS’s Stakeholder, Partnership, Education, and Communication Relationship (SPEC) Program to access fair and equitable tax services.
HUGSS Back to School Jam
For years, United Way has encouraged community members to donate school supplies and fill volunteer shifts to distribute backpacks filled with paper, pencils, and more to Anchorage School District students. There are several ways you can help: You can sign up for shifts that include material prep, event set-up, backpack distribution, or clean-up. Help us spread the word.