Spring Into Service: Volunteer Opportunities for Students
For students looking to make a difference, volunteering opens opportunities for them to give back to the community and serve others. Volunteering not only benefits those in need but also allows students to gain valuable experience, build connections and make a meaningful impact. With several ways to serve, students are sure to find a service opportunity that uses their gifts and talents.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is more than just fulfilling service hours—it’s an opportunity to:
- Gain hands-on experience.
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills.
- Strengthen your resume for future job or graduate school applications.
- Connect with professionals and organizations that align with your career goals.
- Make a difference in your community and beyond.
Top Volunteer Opportunities for Students
1. Hospitals & Clinics
Many hospitals and health care facilities welcome student volunteers to assist with patient support, administrative tasks and even hands-on medical experience (depending on qualifications). Check with local hospitals, clinics or nursing homes to see how you can contribute. Baptist Health offers several opportunities for student volunteers. Visit https://www.baptist-health.com/volunteer for a full list of opportunities.
2. Community Health Fairs
Spring is a popular season for health fairs, offering free screenings, wellness education and resources to underserved communities. Students can volunteer to help with setup, registration, health screenings and patient education. For more information about Baptist Health Community Outreach, visit https://www.baptist-health.com/community-outreach.
3. Food Banks & Shelters
Hunger and homelessness remain year-round challenges and barriers in communities across America. Volunteering at food banks, soup kitchens or shelters can help provide meals and resources to those in need. Many organizations also offer mobile food distributions where volunteers assist in delivering meals. In Little Rock, there are several organizations addressing these needs such as Our House, Immerse, Arkansas Food Bank and Salvation Army.
5. Blood Drives & Donation Centers
Blood donations save lives and organizations like the Arkansas Blood Institute and the Red Cross are always in need of donors to give blood and volunteers to help coordinate blood drives.
6. Tutoring & Mentorship Programs
Many nonprofit organizations offer tutoring and mentorship programs for children and young adults. Whether it’s helping with homework, providing career guidance or leading enrichment activities, your time can make a huge difference in a student’s success. A few organizations in Central Arkansas include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas, Every Arkansan, and STEP Ministries.
How to Get Started
- Research Local Organizations – Look for nonprofit groups, hospitals and community centers in your area that align with your interests.
- Sign Up & Commit – Find a volunteer role that fits your schedule and interests, and commit to showing up consistently.
- Bring Friends – Volunteering can be more enjoyable and impactful when done with classmates or friends.
- Reflect & Share – Document your experiences, share them on your resume and inspire others to get involved!
No matter where you choose to volunteer, your time and effort can positively impact the lives of others and the community you are located in. Take time to serve those who often go underserved and overlooked!