Opportunities From: Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

The Free Community Market At Montmorenci UMC is a MANNA Partner Agency.  We provide a free choice pantry in a market format every Wednesday for Food Insecure neighbors in Hominy Valley and surrounding communities.  Our goal is to create healthier, happier families and a more productive community by providing access to nutrient dense food for all our neighbors.  We have been in operation since March 2013 and currently serve about 110 households (460 persons weekly.)  Our community is "trilingual": English, Spanish, and Ukrainian.  

In the first shift of the day, volunteers will assist in setting up the Free Community Market.  This involves: unloading food; sorting, arranging, and storing food; setting up shopping stations and parking areas; and beginning client intake process. Indoor and outdoor tasks are available. 

Requirements:

Skills Required: 

Attire:

Location:

Montmorenci United Methodist Church
89 Old Candler Town Rd.
Candler, North Carolina 28715

Health and Safety:

To sign up for this volunteer project, simply

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing us at info@handsonasheville.org.

The Free Community Market At Montmorenci UMC is a MANNA Partner Agency.  We provide a free choice pantry in a market format every Wednesday for Food Insecure neighbors in Hominy Valley and surrounding communities.  Our goal is to create healthier, happier families and a more productive community by providing access to nutrient dense food for all our neighbors.  We have been in operation since March 2013 and currently serve about 110 households (460 persons weekly.)  Our community is "trilingual": English, Spanish, and Ukrainian.  

In the second shift of the day, volunteers will assist clients and other volunteers with the Free Community Market and Clean up. Tasks can include supervising the shopping station, restocking tables, assisting with gatekeeping, assisting with intake, assisting clients with groceries, and assisting with parking lot safety. Everyone assists with cleanup at Market close. Indoor and outdoor tasks are available. 

Requirements:

Skills Required: 

Attire:

Location:

Montmorenci United Methodist Church
89 Old Candler Town Rd.
Candler, North Carolina 28715

Health and Safety:

To sign up for this volunteer project, simply

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonahseville.org

No Group Sign Ups - Our space is small, and is our friends temporary home, so we can not host a lot of volunteers at a time. 

Haywood Street Respite is a safe place our friends who are experiencing homelessness to rest, get three meals a day, and receive all their physical needs met until they “get back on their feet” following hospital discharge from an acute medical need. It is short-term care in a home-like setting for those who are still too vulnerable to recover on the streets after surgery or acute illness. We currently have 12 beds and are in the process of renovating our space to increase our capacity to 25! 

We are looking for people to help in our respite care with cleaning and upkeep, preparing meals, driving friends to run errands or go to appointments, and just be available This opportunity is daily with 4 hour shifts ranging from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The first step is to schedule your Respite orientation to help you get acquainted. This is our friends temporary home, and our core value is Relationships Above All Else. The best thing you can do is to be present and attentive.

Must be 18+

Please sign up or make changes to your registration 48 hours in advance. If you need to make changes, also email jenny@haywoodstreet.org

No Group Sign Ups - Our space is small, and is our friends temporary home, so we can not host a lot of volunteers at a time. 

Volunteer Responsibilities: 

Skills Required:  

Attire:

Location:

To sign for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

At OpenDoors Asheville, our mission is to strengthen community by eliminating opportunity and achievement gaps for students through education.

We provide a range of services including but not limited to tutoring, educational testing, school matching, STEAM enrichment activities, scholarships and college application support and financial assistance. Beginning in kindergarten and continuing through graduate school, we connect students on our roster with the resources they need to thrive in school, graduate, and move into meaningful careers.

OpenDoors AVL is excited to partner with community members who have the desire to serve as tutoring providers and have the skill and presence to support students in K-12. Students request tutors to support them with homework and/or projects in English Language Arts, Math, Science (currently seeking a Biology tutor!) and Civics/Social Studies. Many students benefit from a tutor who can support with organizational skills, as well.

We seek tutors to work with students in-person during the school day or after school. Ideally, a tutor will commit to 1-3 sessions each week. Session length is typically 45 minutes to 1 hour.

For more information, please visit our website or contact the Education Team at OpenDoors AVL.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Confirm tutoring sessions with student prior to each session

Attend sessions on a weekly basis to provide consistent and impactful support to students

Come prepared with materials. OpenDoors has Math Kits and literacy resources to support teaching and learning

Report on student progress using a Google form

Seek guidance from the education team, as needed

Requirements:

Complete a volunteer application form

Complete a background check 

Complete a confidentiality agreement

Participate in virtual or in-person meetings with the education team and other tutors

Provide personal transportation to OpenDoors AVL office or assigned school

Complete a brief Google form following each tutoring session

Skills Required: 

Growth mindset

Asset based language

Strong written, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills

Equity and inclusion approach

Attire:  

Casual comfortable clothing that is appropriate in a school environment.

What you will do:

Each Wednesday, we distribute food and toiletries through our Drive-Thru Food Pantry.

Additional details:

Your impact:

Receiving food and toiletries helps alleviate some financial burden as well as hunger.  Families are able to reprioritize limited funds to meet other needs.

Pets are an important part of people's lives.  By providing pet food we help ensure people don't have to choose choice between feeding themselves and feeding their pet.

Volunteer Requirements:

To volunteer at Catholic Charities, onboarding is required.  This includes a background check and a 1.5 hour training, creating in a volunteer account, and additional food-pantry related trainings.

Volunteers must be 18+ to volunteer alone.

Interested in this opportunity?

Click the blue "respond" button to contact Hilary and share your interest.

Meher Archive Collective works to preserve and share artifacts and items related to Meher Baba, and share his mission and message with the public. We are currently renovating an old school building to use as our headquarters, and have recently moved in to the second floor. We are seeking able-bodied volunteers to help our team clean our building. This is a flexible role, allowing for varying hours during the week from 10am-3pm. Cleaning help will be needed starting 6/16. If interested, please click the "respond" button and fill out a volunteer application. To get more information about our organization and building, visit our website https://www.meherarchive.org/ and watch the YouTube video on our Hands On Asheville page. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sweeping

Cleaning windows

Dusting

Vacuuming

Cleaning Bathrooms

Requirements:

Must fill out volunteer form prior to doing volunteer work, which will be sent to you once you hit the "respond" button and follow the next steps.

Skills Required: 

Must be able to stand or kneel for varying periods of time

Attire:

Closed-toe shoes

Comfortable, yet appropriate, clothes

Location:

Meher Archive Collective Building is located at
53 Red Oak School Road, Weaverville NC, 28787

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Born in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Valley Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established to provide direct assistance to the families and communities of the Swannanoa River Valley.

Our mission is to restore hope and rebuild lives in North Carolina and surrounding communities by providing vital assistance, fostering community collaboration, and promoting preparedness for future disasters.

The Valley Hope Foundation is seeking volunteers for aid and food distribution in our Black Mountain Warehouse. Each week we process and distribute food to between 5,000 and 8,000 families impacted by Hurricane Helene - and we need your help! Come help us sort pallets of food and produce, and serve it to the public. Our weekly scheduled volunteer hours are Tuesday from 10:00Am-3:00pm, with ample flexibility! We would love for you to come for all or part of a shift - just let us know your schedule and we can work to accommodate you.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sorting and organizing supplies & aid 

Loading vehicles with supplies & aid

Delivering supplies

Requirements:

16+

Skills Required: 

Be able to lift 25lbs

Compassion and patience when dealing with filling families requests

Be able to stand for long periods of time

Be able to move, twist, and bend

Communication and teamwork skills

Attire:

Work Gloves

Close toed shoes

Comfortable weather appropriate work clothing

Location:

1035 Old US Hwy 70W, Black Mountain, NC 28711

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Meher Archive Collective is seeking volunteers to join our Transcription Team! Audio transcription involves two roles: Transcriber and Proofreader. Transcribing involves typing out what is being said, as accurately as possible, in the 5-10 minute long MP3 files made from tapes in our collection. Proofreading involves listening to the MP3 files and reviewing the typed transcriptions, identifying and correcting any errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, formatting, and content. These are detail-oriented positions involving tedious work that requires focus, patience, and a commitment to producing high-quality, error-free transcripts. Volunteers may need to listen to audio several times over to ensure they are getting all the details as accurately as possible. Some tapes have damage or poor audio quality, and thus it's more difficult to get a full transcription. Volunteers are asked to make their best guess, but to mark anywhere they cannot understand what's been said so that others may try to fill in. Our audio files can be talks, singing, prayer, poetry and more.

What you will do:

Each Tuesday afternoon, we prepare client-specific "special orders" for our Food Pantry clients.  We package hygiene items, diapers, and pet food.   

Additional details include:

Your impact:

Food stamps don't cover hygiene items and pet food; by sharing these items we alleviate some financial burden.  Receiving these items also support the mental and physical well-being of our clients.  

Pets are an important part of people's lives.  By providing pet food we help ensure people don't have to choose choice between feeding themselves and feeding their pet.

Volunteer Requirements:

To volunteer at Catholic Charities, onboarding is required.  This includes a background check and a 1.5 hour training, creating in a volunteer account, and additional food-pantry related trainings.

Volunteers must be 18+ to volunteer alone.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button to contact Hilary and share your interest.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by email us at info@handsonasheville.org.

One of the largest humanitarian organizations is seeking Spanish Speaking Individuals to assist with community mobilization and recovery efforts in Avery County.  Trained provided.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Requirements:

Personal transportation to Avery County

Speaks Spanish as a primary or secondary language

Available 10-20 hours a month

Skills Required: 

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work independently with access to people to answer questions

Location:

Avery County

Volunteer Position Description – Front Desk Greeter - Advanced Manufacturing Center

Department Description:
The Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC) is the Economic and Workforce Development Department's central hub of activity offering continuing education classes for students who are seeking short-term training. Companies and their employees also come to AMC for customized training to strengthen the skills of the workforce.

Volunteer Opportunity:
The AMC volunteer position will support the AMC faculty and staff. The department will provide volunteer training to prepare them to assist the students, staff, and faculty.

Volunteer Responsibilities:
• Staff the Front Desk
• Assist training participants/students as needed in classes with instructor supervision to complete specific class projects (i.e., during layup, work with GE molds, precision measurement tools, and using ply cutter).
• Assist office staff with administrative tasks: filing, labeling, scanning, copying, reviewing marketing materials, answering phones, staffing the front desk, cleaning/dusting, etc.
• Assist with inspection of building, classrooms, labs, shops, exterior areas, and other spaces to ensure industry standards for safety and cleanliness are met.
• Performs tasks to meet 5S cleaning method that helps the workplace get and stay organized.

Requirements:
• An application, background check and orientation/brief training are required before starting this position.
• Must be able to commute to A-B Tech in Asheville NC. This position is in-person.
• Must have a social security number, be over the age of 18. This position is not eligible for community service.

Skills Required:
• Communication - verbal and written
• Technology - use of computers, email, MS Office
• Able to support instructors with equipment specific to classes
• Teamwork

Specific Competencies:
1. Be able to focus on the tasks at hand and complete all projects as directed
2. Personal phone use for breaks and emergencies
3. Able to follow supervisor instructions

Times:
• Able to work a shift (2 hours of more) between 9:00 – 5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.
• Times will vary in the Summer and visits will not occur when the college is closed for school holidays, breaks and between semesters.

Attire:
• Comfortable and appropriate attire is required.
• Room temperatures are variable – please dress accordingly.

Location:
Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC)/Maples Building – A-B Tech, 41 Fernihurst Dr., (off Victoria Rd) Asheville NC 28801

All volunteers are required to maintain a professional relationship with students, staff, and peers, modeling professional interaction and adhere to academic integrity, and privacy guidelines. Volunteers are to model behavior that respects the rights of all people and protects others from abuse by assisting in the creation
of an environment free from fear, harassment, gender and racism discrimination or exploitation.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Volunteer Teacher Assistant – Advanced Manufacturing Center

Department Description:
The Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC) is the Economic and Workforce Development Department's central hub of activity, offering continuing education classes for students who are seeking short-term training. Companies and their employees also come to AMC for customized training to strengthen the skills of the workforce.

Volunteer Opportunity:
The AMC volunteer position will support the AMC faculty and staff. The department will provide volunteer training to prepare them to assist the students, staff, and faculty. The Volunteer Teacher Assistant will support instructors in machining, electrical, automation, and robotics classes. This role helps create an organized, safe, and engaging lab environment by applying 5S principles (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) and demonstrating strong attention to detail. Volunteers will assist instructors with class preparation, student support, and lab maintenance.

Volunteer Responsibilities:
• Assist instructors in setting up classrooms and labs for machining, electrical, automation, or robotics activities.
• Provide guidance and support to students during hands-on learning exercises.
• Help maintain clean, organized, and safe labs by applying 5S practices.
• Monitor tools, equipment, and supplies to ensure readiness for instructional use.
• Reinforce safety practices and proper equipment handling.
• Assist with demonstrations, practice exercises, and project work as directed.
• Support instructors with administrative tasks such as attendance or organizing materials.

Requirements:
• An application, background check and orientation/brief training are required before starting this position.
• Must be able to commute to A-B Tech in Asheville NC. This position is in-person.
• Must have a social security number, be over the age of 18. This position is not eligible for community service.

Skills Required:
• Communication - verbal and written
• Technology - use of computers, email, MS Office
• Able to support instructors with equipment specific to classes
• Teamwork
• Interest in machining, electrical systems, automation, or robotics.
• Willingness to learn and follow instructions carefully.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with instructors and students.
• Prior technical or shop experience is helpful but not required.

Specific Competencies:
1. Be able to focus on the tasks at hand and complete all projects as directed
2. Personal phone use for breaks and emergencies
3. Able to follow supervisor's instructions

Times:
• Able to work a shift (2 hours of more) between 9:00 – 5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.
• Times will vary in the Summer, and visits will not occur when the college is closed for school holidays, breaks and between semesters.
Attire:
• Comfortable and appropriate attire is required to include Close-toe shoes and long pants
• Room temperatures are variable – please dress accordingly.

Location:
Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC)/Maples Building – A-B Tech, 41 Fernihurst Dr., (off Victoria Rd) Asheville NC 28801

All volunteers are required to maintain a professional relationship with students, staff, and peers, modeling professional interaction and adhering to academic integrity and privacy guidelines. Volunteers are to model behavior that respects the rights of all people and protects others from abuse by assisting in the creation
of an environment free from fear, harassment, gender and racism discrimination or exploitation.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Community Nights featuring Homework Diners are a welcoming family engagement event at the Reynolds Middle School campus that includes a free, catered meal for families and students, time for relationship building between school staff and families, academic tutoring support and connections to community resources.

Community Nights are open to any family in the Reynolds community, whether they have a child attending the school or not. 

The Reynolds Middle Community Nights occur on Tuesdays from 5:00-6:30 pm. Each week has 6 slots available for a 2-hour shift. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 4:45 pm and leave at 6:45 pm to assist with setting up and breaking down the event. Additionally, volunteers will receive a meal and are welcome to bring their family.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity:

Community Nights featuring Homework Diners are a welcoming family engagement event at the Enka Middle School campus that includes a free, catered meal for families and students, time for relationship building between school staff and families, academic tutoring support and connections to community resources. 

Enka Intermediate and Enka Middle will host Community Nights together.  We will alternate monthly between Enka Intermediate School and Enka Middle School. Each event will offer something unique and exciting, from hands-on activities to themed celebrations.

To sign up to volunteer when Community Nights are at Enka Intermediate, please click here. 

Community Nights are open to any family in the Enka community, whether they have a child attending the school or not.

The Enka Intermediate & Enka Middle Community Night occurs twice a month on Monday from 5:00-6:30 pm. Each week will have 5 slots available for a 2-hour shift. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 4:45 pm and leave at 6:45 pm to assist with setting up and breaking down the event.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity:

Community Nights featuring Homework Diners are a welcoming family engagement event at the school that includes a free, catered meal for families and students, time for relationship building between school staff and families, academic tutoring support and connections to community resources. 

Community Nights are open to any family in the Erwin community, whether they have a child attending the school or not.

The Erwin Middle Community Night occurs on Monday from 5:00-6:30 pm. Each week will have 6 slots available for a 2-hour shift. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 4:45 pm and leave at 6:45 pm to assist with setting up and breaking down the event.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity:

Hood Huggers Foundation grew from the creative and community-building work of co-founders DeWayne Barton and Safi Mahaba, best known for the iconic Hood Tours. To carry their vision forward, they expanded under the Hood Huggers umbrella, which now includes both a nonprofit and a social enterprise branch. The Hood Huggers Foundation works to restore the grassroots regenerative well-being of our communities through the arts, the environment, and social enterprise. We bring this mission to life through micro-farming initiatives, workforce development programs, and the building of Blue Note Junction. We're a proud grassroots organization—and we do a lot! Stay tuned for the launch of our new website.

We need volunteer drivers who are willing to transport participants in our workforce development programs to and from job sites or classes.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Please do not show up unless you have personally spoken with a Volunteer Coordinator, training is required.

You are invited to help out at our Crisis Ministry by organizing our clothing room and helping individuals "shop" for the things that they need.

Shifts are generally Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-12:30PM or 12:30PM-4:30PM but we will gladly work with your schedule.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sort and stock donations (hygiene items, clothing, household goods).

Restock shelves and organize clothing room to keep it tidy and accessible.

Monitor inventory and report low-stock items to staff or the coordinator.

Attire:

Every Day Casual

Location:

ABCCM North Crisis Ministry | 403 Weaverville Hwy; Asheville, NC  28804

Please do not show up unless you have personally spoken with a Volunteer Coordinator, training is required.

You are invited to help out at our Crisis Ministry by organizing our clothing room and helping individuals "shop" for the things that they need.

Shifts are generally Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-12:30PM or 12:30PM-4:30PM but we will gladly work with your schedule.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sort and stock donations (hygiene items, clothing, household goods).

Restock shelves and organize clothing room to keep it tidy and accessible.

Monitor inventory and report low-stock items to staff or the coordinator.

Attire:

Every Day Casual

Location:

ABCCM Hominy Valley Crisis Ministry | 1914 Smokey Park Hwy; Candler, NC  28715

Are you looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity that involves working with a team, being active, learning new skills and requires NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE? Volunteer alongside our experienced construction staff to help us build and repair homes. Full day shifts (8:30-3:30) are available year round, Monday-Thursday and Saturday. Half-day (AM) shifts on Friday.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and healthy work environment.

Follow instructions from site supervisor — assisting with the process of constructing a new home or completing a series of home repairs, which may include but is not limited to one or a variety of the following tasks:

New Home: Framing, siding, setting trusses, landscaping, shed assembly, painting, trim, cabinet installation, cleaning, deck building

Home Repair: Building/installing accessibility modifications, roof/ceiling repair, drywall replacement, deck building, weatherization, porch-skirting, floor replacement, brush/debris cleanup, etc.

Requirements:

Complete Shift Registration/Liability Waiver

Appropriate Work Attire

Personal transportation to site.

Skills Required: 

N/A

Attire:

Closed toe shoes and comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing suitable for hands-on work.

Location:

Work occurs primarily in Asheville and Buncombe County. Details about location will be shared upon registering to volunteer.

Health and Safety:

Each shift begins with a safety briefing.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required and provided on site.

2026 Request for Proposals - Robert Ellis Simon Foundation.docx - Google Docs

2026 Request for Proposals - Robert Ellis Simon Foundation.docx - Google Docs

Brief Overview

National Emergency Child Care Network (NECCN), a 501c3 nonprofit, is launching a PTSD Mental Health Home Visit Program. The program will send a licensed Mental Health Worker to the home of families impacted by a major disaster, in order to provide (immediate psychological support, assist in identifying and managing trauma-related symptoms, and connect families with ongoing community resources) at no cost to the family

How it will Work

This is an incredible opportunity for a volunteer to give back to their community after a major disaster, using their expertise and skillset. Our PTSD Mental Health Home Visit Program is 100% volunteer based.  The volunteer will first work with the parents to identify any PTSD concerns, and then listen to the parents if they are concerned about the health and well-being of the children. The Mental Health Workers will visit the family up to 3 times. Each visit will be 60-90 minutes long

The total amount of volunteer time per family will only be roughly 6 hours.

The goal of the site visits are as follows:
1. Assessment and Support:

Mental Health Workers will assess the mental health needs of parents and children impacted by disasters. They will help survivors recognize signs of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenge.

2. Treatment Interventions:

Mental Health Workers will utilize various evidence-based treatments for PTSD, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy.

3. Collaboration, Coordination and Long-Term Recovery:

Mental Health Workers will help survivors develop coping strategies, rebuild their lives, and reconnect with their communities. They will also provide referrals to counseling, support groups, and other psychosocial interventions to help individuals cope with their trauma and regain a sense of normalcy.

Home-based services are more cost-effective with added benefits to families who have transportation, insurance and financial barriers, which is the case for many families displaced, who lost their vehicles or for families facing other financial hardships due to disasters. In addition, following a disaster, receiving care at home can restore a sense of stability and control. It also avoids the stress of navigating new or institutional settings when families are already vulnerable and suffering from the crisis.

One of the most innovative designs to this program is that it will provide support to the whole family together, meaning, a mental health worker comes out to assess the parents, then can assess the children so everyone feels comfortable and supported by the same person. For example, Hurricane Helene has had significant impact on mental health for many families, with PTSD being a prominent concern. The National Institutes of Health reports that nearly one-third of disaster-affected people experience PTSD. According to this site  approximately 30-40% of direct victims of disasters encounter PTSD, with women being more likely to develop PTSD after a disaster compared to men. 

Requirements 

Next Steps

Apply to the Program here: https://emergencychildcare.org/volunteer-now/

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

The American Red Cross Long Term Recovery provides financial assistance, partner support and community assistance services in hurricane affected areas including Henderson County. As an overview, a volunteer partner works with the Community Recovery Manager to broaden the reach and increase the Red Cross presence in a community.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Represent the Red Cross at Henderson County community events, meetings, and outreach activities alone or with others

Assist in building and maintaining relationships with community leaders, organizations, and stakeholders

Promote awareness of Red Cross services and volunteer opportunities

Gather feedback from the community to inform Red Cross programs and services

Requirements:

Located in Henderson County

Committed to at least 10 volunteer hours per month

Skills Required: 

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Public speaking and event coordination experience preferred

Ability to work independently and as a team

Interest in on-line training

National Emergency Child Care Network provides free child care services to families in western North Carolina who are experiencing hardship. Many of these families have experienced Hurricane Helene and still need care in the long-term recovery of the disaster. 

You will be deployed to help families with trauma-informed child care. Many families contact us when they are in desperate need of relief and respite.  Once a family fills out a web form for help, an alert goes out to all volunteers within the local 60-mile radius. Most deployments are 5-10 miles from where you live. We have helped 60 families and 100 children  with emergency child care from North Carolina to Los Angeles, CA. Most deployments will be at the home of the family in need -- and ALL volunteers have absolutely loved the families.  

When a family calls, we deploy volunteers. When a partner calls, we deploy volunteers. We are a local NC organization helping families in North Carolina. 

Shifts can be up to 4-8 hours per day. Multiple days. It's up to you!

Requirements:

All volunteers are required to attend a 2-hour virtual training on Psychological First Aid

Must be 18 years or older. We will ask you to sign two documents:

Background check approval

Volunteer Agreement

Attire: Professional attire includes a logo t-shirt and name badges. We buy t-shirts and ship them to you.

Location:

We do not know yet where the location will be.  We have 400 volunteers already registered, of whom, 150 have gone through the full training. :-) We deploy 2-4 volunteers every week to help 1-2 families with child care. And, those families are GRATEFUL! 

Health and Safety:

Volunteers are deployed in two's or more

Bring your own snacks and drinks

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization.

An employee from National Emergency Child Care Network will contact all interested volunteers and give them the next steps.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Please do not show up unless you have personally spoken with a Volunteer Coordinator, training is required.

You are invited to help out at our Crisis Ministry by organizing our food pantry and creating food boxes for those who need them.

Shifts are generally Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-12:30PM or 12:30PM-4:30PM but we will gladly work with your schedule.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sort and stock donations (food, hygiene items, clothing, household goods).

Check expiration dates and ensure food safety standards are met.

Assemble food boxes for distribution.

Restock shelves and organize pantry areas to keep them tidy and accessible.

Monitor inventory and report low-stock items to staff or the coordinator.

Attire:

Every Day Casual

Location:

ABCCM Hominy Valley Crisis Ministry | 1914 Smokey Park Hwy; Candler, NC  28715

Please do not show up unless you have personally spoken with a Volunteer Coordinator, training is required.

You are invited to help out at our Crisis Ministry by organizing our food pantry and creating food boxes for those who need them.

Shifts are generally Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-12:30PM or 12:30PM-4:30PM but we will gladly work with your schedule.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Sort and stock donations (food, hygiene items, clothing, household goods).

Check expiration dates and ensure food safety standards are met.

Assemble food boxes for distribution.

Restock shelves and organize pantry areas to keep them tidy and accessible.

Monitor inventory and report low-stock items to staff or the coordinator.

Attire:

Every Day Casual

Location:

ABCCM North Samaritan Crisis Ministry | 403 Weaverville Rd; Asheville, NC  28804

Overview:

The IT Support volunteer will help maintain and support our organization's technology infrastructure and assist staff with day-to-day technical needs remotely. This role is ideal for someone looking to apply their technical skills in a non-profit or organizational setting, or for an individual interested in gaining experience across a wide range of common business technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

The volunteer may be asked to assist with tasks across the following areas:

Meetings are remote and occur 2-3 time a week:

Tuesdays: 10:30-11:30 am est
Wednesdays: 11:00 am -12:00 pm est
Saturdays: 10:15-11:15 am est

*Schedule can be flexible, and you would not be required to attend every meeting. 

Established by statute in 1983, the North Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program has been serving abused and neglected children for more than 30 years. When a petition alleging abuse or neglect of a juvenile is filed in district court, the judge appoints a volunteer Guardian ad Litem advocate and an attorney advocate to provide team representation to the child—and this team has full party status in trial and appellate proceedings. All Guardian ad Litem advocates are trained, supervised, and supported by program staff in each county of the state. The collaborative model of GAL attorney advocates, volunteers, and staff ensures that all North Carolina children who are alleged by the Division of Social Services to have been abused or neglected receive GAL legal advocacy services.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Requirements:

The main qualification for becoming a GAL is to have a sincere concern for the well-being of children. There are no education or experience requirements. There are a few things we do request prior to volunteers beginning with us:

Skills Required: 

Attire:

Location:

Health and Safety:

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, simply

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Our Volunteers meet us at a new client home each day to implement energy-efficiency upgrades like replacing light bulbs, adding water aerators to sinks, sealing windows and doors (with caulk and door weather stripping), and much more. Work with a small team of staff and volunteers on any day(s) of your choice - Tuesday-Friday 10am - 3pm. All experience levels are welcome - we appreciate "handy" helpers but we're always happy to teach new skills too!

To learn more, signup for this opportunity and we will get in touch with you to schedule a day of your choice on our website calendar (includes a map option to show locations near you)! Come learn new skills and enjoy meeting new people in the process!

What to Wear:

What to Bring:

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by completing our Volunteer Experience Form.

Community Nights featuring Homework Diners are a welcoming family engagement event at the Enka Intermediate School campus that includes a free, catered meal for families and students, time for relationship building between school staff and families, academic tutoring support and connections to community resources. 

Enka Intermediate and Enka Middle will host Community Nights together. We will alternate monthly between Enka Intermediate School and Enka Middle School. Each event will offer something unique and exciting, from hands-on activities to themed celebrations.

To sign up to volunteer when Community Nights are at Enka Middle, please click here. 

Community Nights are open to any family in the Enka community, whether they have a child attending the school or not.

The Enka Intermediate & Enka Middle Community Night occur on Monday from 5:00-6:30 pm. Each week will have 5 slots available for a 2-hour shift. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 4:45 pm and leave at 6:45 pm to assist with setting up and breaking down the event.

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity:

Born in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Valley Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established to provide direct assistance to the families and communities of the Swannanoa River Valley.

Our mission is to restore hope and rebuild lives in North Carolina and surrounding communities by providing vital assistance, fostering community collaboration, and promoting preparedness for future disasters.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org

Born in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Valley Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established to provide direct assistance to the families and communities of the Swannanoa River Valley.

Our mission is to restore hope and rebuild lives in North Carolina and surrounding communities by providing vital assistance, fostering community collaboration, and promoting preparedness for future disasters.

Volunteers with experience in heavy equipment operation are desperately needed to help the residents of the Swannanoa River valley and the people of Western North Carolina recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Volunteers will be using various machinery and equipment to remove storm debris.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Assess debris cleanup needs

Cleanup and remove debris using equipment

Assist in general care of equipment during operations

Work with volunteers and staff

Requirements:

Background check

Personal transportation

Orientation

Skills Required: 

Experience and/or training with heavy equipment

Ability to lift heavy objects

Ability to stand/sit for long periods

Positive and compassionate communication skills

Harsh weather conditions

Attire:

Comfortable work wear

Safety glasses

Work gloves

Close toed shoes

Location:

1035 Old US Hwy 70W, Black Mountain, NC 28711

To sign up for this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to secure your spot and receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org

BBBSWNC is looking for volunteers to serve as one-to-one mentors to youth aged 7-15. Volunteers must have availability for two-to-four (2-4) hours two (2) times a month. Volunteers must be available on weekends and occasionally on weeknights.

Asheville City and Buncombe County are diverse communities with students of all backgrounds, including many BIPOC students. BBBS encourages volunteers of color and male volunteers to apply for this opportunity. 

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers must commit to volunteering for one (1) calendar year.

Volunteer Requirements

Please "RESPOND" to this opportunity above

18 years of age or older

Personal transportation

Complete BBBS application and interview

Complete a background check

Experience working with youth encouraged

Skills Required: 

Demonstrate Reliability: Meet with your Little for 2 - 4 hours biweekly for one calendar year. Showing up for your Little is vital.

Foster Aspirations/Mentorship Relationship: Support your Little in thinking about their hopes, dreams, and future goals while fostering your connection and mentorship.

Encourage Academic Growth/Personal Sparks: Help your Little build confidence, skills and personal sparks.

Remain Flexible: Be flexible when outings are occasionally disrupted or need to be rescheduled. 

Maintain Program Communication: Stay in regular monthly contact with your Program Coordinator and your Little's family to ensure a strong mentorship.

Attire

Use your best judgement to dress appropriately for a school setting.

Location:

Where you live or work will be heavily considered when matching you with your Little. The address listed on this site is our office location in the United Way Building.

Health/Safety:

Once accepted, volunteers will be interviewed, get background and reference checks, and complete a virtual 60-minute safety training.

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to receive next-step instructions from our organization

Please DO NOT SHOW UP IF YOU DID NOT RESPOND!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina’s mission is to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. As part of the United 4 Youth network, we supervise mentorship programs across Asheville City & Buncombe County School Districts. 

BBBS is looking for volunteers to serve as one-to-one mentors to an elementary school student. Volunteers must have availability for one (1) hour during the typical school day (8:30am-3:30pm).  

Asheville City and Buncombe County are diverse communities with students of all backgrounds, including many BIPOC students. BBBS encourages volunteers of color and male volunteers to apply for this opportunity. 

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers must commit to one hour weekly at an ACS, BCS or charter school.

Volunteers must commit to volunteering for one (1) calendar year.

Volunteer Requirements

Please "RESPOND" to this opportunity above

18 years of age or older

Personal transportation

Complete BBBS application and interview

Complete a background check

Experience working with youth encouraged

Skills Required: 

Demonstrate Reliability: Meet with your mentee for one hour each week during the school year. Showing up for your mentees is vital.

Foster Aspirations: Support your mentee in thinking about their hopes, dreams, and future goals.

Encourage Academic Growth: Help your mentee build confidence and skills in reading, math, and other school subjects.

Follow School Procedures/Adapt to School Schedules: Sign in at the school office and ensure your mentee returns to class after each session. Be flexible when sessions are occasionally disrupted by field trips, testing, or other events.

Respect Confidentiality: Honor the privacy of your mentee and keep all shared information confidential.

Maintain Program Communication: Stay in regular monthly contact with your Program Coordinator and appointed school staff member to ensure strong support.

Attire

Use your best judgement to dress appropriately for a school setting.

With thousands of families displaced from their homes by the storm, we have been able to provide both temporary and permanent housing solutions to residents of the Swannanoa River valley. We continue to provide building materials and facilitate infrastructure development efforts throughout Buncombe County. 

Volunteers with experience in skilled trades and general contracting are desperately needed to continue this good work. Most work will happen on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. 

Work may include but is not limited to:

1. Demolition

2. Carpentry

3. Electrical

4. Plumbing

5. General Home Repair

If you or someone you know has experience and technical know how please reach out to us at the Valley Hope Foundation.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina’s mission is to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. As part of the United 4 Youth network, we supervise one-to-one mentorship programs at elementary schools across Asheville City & Buncombe County School Districts. 

BBBS is looking for High School volunteers 16 years or older to serve as one-to-one mentors to an elementary school student. Volunteers must have availability for one (1) hour during the typical school day (8:30am-3:30pm) or during aftercare (3:30-5pm).

Asheville City and Buncombe County are diverse communities with students of all backgrounds, including many BIPOC students. BBBS encourages volunteers of color and male volunteers to apply for this opportunity. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Volunteers must commit to one hour weekly at an ACS, BCS, or charter school

Volunteers must commit to volunteering for one (1) calendar year.

Requirements:

Please "RESPOND" to this opportunity above

Must be 16 years of age or older and attending high school in Buncombe County

Must have personal transportation unless attending a high school with a middle or elementary school within walking distance

Complete BBBS application and interview

Complete a background check

Skills Required: 

Demonstrate Reliability: Meet with your mentee for one hour each week during the school year. Showing up for your mentees is vital.

Foster Aspirations: Support your mentee in thinking about their hopes, dreams, and future goals.

Encourage Academic Growth: Help your mentee build confidence and skills in reading, math, and other school subjects.

Follow School Procedures/Adapt to School Schedules: Sign in at the school office and ensure your mentee returns to class after each session. Be flexible when sessions are occasionally disrupted by field trips, testing, or other events.

Respect Confidentiality: Honor the privacy of your mentee and keep all shared information confidential.

Maintain Program Communication: Stay in regular monthly contact with your Program Coordinator and appointed school staff member to ensure strong support.

Attire:

Use your best judgement to dress appropriately for a school setting

Location:

School site will be determined during the enrollment process based on your preferences and school partnerships 

Health and Safety:

Once accepted, volunteers will attend a 60-minute training with BBBS staff that will review health & safety policies.

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, simply

Click the blue "respond" button above to receive next-step instructions from our organization!

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is not responsible for opportunities managed by partner agencies. If you are onsite at a volunteer opportunity and don't feel safety guidelines are being followed, please connect with onsite project organizers and if not addressed, please let us know by emailing info@handsonasheville.org.