Giving back by volunteering fuels you and your community.
Supporting one another defines Alaskans. Across our state, it often shows up as volunteering. Since United Way of Anchorage’s first Community Campaign in 1956, we’ve recruited and organized boots on the ground. Alongside you, we’re helping to meet people’s needs, create flourishing neighborhoods, and further nonprofits’ work.
Volunteering over the Years
In 1983, United Way began running a volunteer program when Municipality of Anchorage entrusted us with an effort that it had been managing. In fact, our founding that year of United Way Volunteer Services was the first program that we operated. For almost 10 years, it was our only program because we put volunteerism first—just like other Alaskans. For more than four decades, we’ve nurtured volunteer opportunities in our community. We love collaborating to coordinate volunteer opportunities and need your help to develop and complete community projects.
Day of Caring
During the tenth year of our volunteer program, United Way kicked off our first Day of Caring. On September 15, 1993, 1,254 volunteers from 22 workplaces participated by assisting 114 projects across 50 Anchorage-area programs. In just five years, United Way helped nearly double the number of Day of Caring volunteers. In 1998, around 2,000 Alaskans from 84 workplaces tackled more than 350 projects. Community members, like you, make those achievements possible.
Community-Driven Events
While our volunteering efforts have taken different shapes over United Way’s history, they always make a difference. Consider 2002 when more than 3,500 walkers raised $122,000 for nonprofits with our Alaska Visitor Industry Charity Walk. Then, there’s 2009 when Alaskans participated in a record-smashing Day of Caring food drive, resulting in 619,000 pounds of food donated for our neighbors. Volunteering time and donating items strengthens our community and your connection to it.
Volunteering Now
Alaska will always have people with needs—that’s the reality of humankind. The good news is that our communities will always have people, like you, offering support. United Way is ramping up its volunteer opportunities, and our call for involvement extends to everyone. Whether you want to help or need help, we’re here for you.
Community Members
Did you know research shows that volunteering makes you happier? No matter what you’re experiencing, participating in volunteer opportunities gives your life a burst of fulfillment—which we all need. Carve out a few hours each week or a couple times a month, pick your passion, and lend a helping hand. The options are limitless: Foster pets, stock shelves at a food bank, assist with trail grooming, and much more.
Groups
A great way to bond with people is by doing meaningful work together. The cherry on top is knowing that your team-building accomplished goals so others can thrive. Are your classmates, congregation members, colleagues, or teammates looking for a project? Do your family and friends want to grow closer? Work with United Way to plan a one-time or recurring opportunity or find scheduled projects on BeTheChange907.org.
Nonprofits
United Way knows that nonprofits are the lifeblood of Alaska. Since 1956, we’ve had your back as you do the work that changes community members’ lives—and that’s not going to change. What do you need? Deep cleanings? Simple repairs? Paperwork processing? Skills-based expertise? Foster families? Our Communications and Engagement Coordinator can coordinate projects and direct volunteers to you.
Councils, Committees, and Initiatives
Do you serve on or represent a community-focused cause that doesn’t fall into one of these other categories? United Way has room for you too. Volunteer opportunities are for everyone! If you’re recruiting participants, announcing events, or advancing your cause, there are community members who will want to get involved. Post your needs on Be the Change 907 so that Alaskans can find out who you are and what you’re doing.