Federal agency for service and volunteerism. They offer a variety of work programs for adults age 18+ to receive educational scholarships and other benefits in exchange for service. Service opportunities include NCCC environment & disaster response, VISTA alleviating poverty, and much more. Initiatives in Ohio include Teach for America, Ohio State University Extension Public Health, and other programs aimed at improving education, economic prospects, and health in Ohio. Community-based organizations can apply for AmeriCorps grant opportunities.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 728-2916
ServeOhio: serveohio.org
National Service: (800) 942-2677
americorps.gov
A One-to-One Friendship program creating social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities. Programs take place at middle schools, high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with or without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio
Nationally-acclaimed after-school and summer programming for youth ages 5-18. Programs are oriented around Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Character & Leadership, and Mental Health & Wellbeing. Club members have access to tutoring, sports, teen-specific areas, career-readiness opportunities, leadership opportunities, and mentoring. To find a club in your neighborhood, visit the website for a full list of stand-alone and in-school Clubhouses in Columbus, Newark, and Marion. Columbus Clubhouses open to the community are listed below:
(614) 221-8830
bgccentralohio.org
Serves individuals with Down Syndrome by providing engaging activities that help athletic, social, and emotional development. Athletes are partnered with volunteer Buddies to provide support, develop friendships, and reinforce the coaches’ instructions. Coaches are trained to implement the curriculum specifically created for athletes with Down Syndrome. Programs are available across the county and include tennis, pickleball, fitness, Zumba, summer camp, and more. Programs do have fees but scholarships are available. Visit the website to register your athlete or to volunteer as a Buddy.
8000 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 579-8808
buddyupforlife.org/chapter/columbus-oh
A free, week-long summer camp for children and teens who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. Campers enjoy outdoor camp activities including swimming, hiking, games, and crafts. Campers also receive structured group grief counseling sessions with trained, licensed professionals. Campers grieve, learn ways to cope with their loss, make friends, and have fun. The camp takes place at Camp Oty’okwa in Hocking Hills. They also have opportunities for clinical volunteers, non-clinical volunteer, and donations. The camp operates on donations and families are not charged.
(614) 506-7959
camplionheart.org
Offers free summer camps and family retreat experiences for seriously ill children in a safe, medically supervised environment. Medical care is provided by volunteer physicians and nurses coordinated by a full-time medical director. They provide camps for kids with asthma, cancer, cerebral palsy, diabetes, blood disorders, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell, spina bifida and more.
1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Kentucky 42164
(270) 618-2900
courageouskids.org
Every child deserves a birthday cake. This group of volunteers bakes, buys, and delivers cakes and cupcakes free of charge to Columbus children for their birthday. Go online and complete the form to request a cake for your child, or sign up to volunteer.
columbuscakecelebrations.com
Offers free clothing, shoes, diapers, household items, books, toys, hygiene items and diapers at the Free Store. There are no income requirements, all are welcome regardless of circumstances. They also serve hot, prepared meals 5 times a week for carry out or in their dining room. Services are available to residents outside of Franklin County. Programs are largely volunteer-driven. They accept individual or group volunteers, and donations.
Main Location: 193 East Central Avenue, Delaware, Ohio 43015
Donation Drop-Off: 147 East Winter Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 369-3733
commongroundfreestore.org
Provides community programming for families on the South side of Columbus. Programs include a free fresh market, urban gardening, cooking classes, family fitness classes, access to healthcare through OSU Wexner Medical Center Community Care Coach and family gatherings. FACCES Life Ready Urban Gardening Class is a free, weekly program for youth to learn about how to grow their own food, careers in agriculture, and environmental stewardship. They offer additional Afterschool programs and an Afterschool Cafe with free meals for children ages 1-18. Call or go online to register your family for programs. They also accept volunteers for their weekly fresh market.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH 43207
(614) 319-6070
Current Program Bulletin Board: canva.com/design/DAGMY8TT25I/ZTzIlPG1mkJlVENPYa3Mog/view
Website: thefacces.org
Faith-based organization supporting families impacted by poverty and celebrating cultural diversity. They offer free youth and adult programming, including a three generation family English-learning/ESL program for all ages. Youth programs include the Excelerate young entrepreneur program for children K-8, and a free summer lunch camp. Contact the organization for registration details. They also accept youth and adult volunteers.
Upper Arlington Lutheran Church (UALC) at Mill Run
3500 Mill Run Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 586-7939
wearefesta.org
Provides recreational fishing opportunities for all regardless of age, race, gender, or disability. They host fishing events each spring and summer in Grove City, Jamestown, and West Mansfield Ohio. Fishing events offer an opportunity for people with disabilities to connect in community and participate fully in the world of fishing. These events are hosted entirely by volunteers.
fhnbcentralohio.org
A medical specialty camp providing transformative experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families, free of charge. Campers range from 7-21 years old and have diagnoses including cancer, heart conditions, rheumatologic diagnoses, blood disorders, lung conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, craniofacial diagnoses, spinal cord diagnoses, and mental health conditions. Campers are given the opportunity to embrace new experiences like exploring the ropes course, archery, and swimming. Professionals can find opportunities to volunteer as camp counselors, kitchen crew, and medical and psychosocial team members. Families must visit the website and apply to attend camp.
5260 State Route 95, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338
(419) 751-7077
flyinghorsefarms.org
Café and catering kitchen providing empowering survivors of sex trafficking in Central Ohio. Anyone can go online to view their Café Menu, place a Catering order, or purchase a gift card. Their programs include a 2 -year comprehensive workforce development program, CATCH Court Support for victims involved in the justice system, and affordable housing. The Butterfly Program is a peer-to-peer program for women healing from trauma and substance use disorder to work towards a GED or high school diploma, participate in counseling, receive assistance with paperwork, get record expungement, and other supports. They also offer community events, speaking engagements, and volunteer opportunities.
123 East Spring Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 992-3252
freedomalacart.org
Helps girls ages 5-17 build strong self-esteem and learn skills such as teamwork, respect for the environment, STEAM and arts appreciation, financial literacy, and advocacy. Programs include regular events, after school programs, summer camps, and service project opportunities. High schoolers can experience leadership development, explore career opportunities, and apply for college scholarships. Girls can register as part of a troop or individually. Adults can volunteer as troop leaders or seasonally. Membership dues are low-cost and are paid annually.
Girls Scouts Ohio: gsoh.org
Girl Scouts National: girlscouts.org
Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their job training programs. Services include 1:1 career coaching, job training courses, and job placement. They offer training for basic work readiness, Roads2Work commercial driver training, STNA and medical coding; digital skills technology classes, and CompTIA IT program. They also offer AMP for young adults 18-24 to access additional wraparound services. I/DD services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities include access to Goodwill Columbus Art Studio, work readiness, adult day and residential services, and transportation.
671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Main Office: (614) 294-5181
Career Coaching: (614) 966-9283
goodwillcolumbus.org
This website is a social-impact job board. Job seekers can find jobs or internships with non-profits and social-impact businesses. Local organizations also list volunteer opportunities, ranging from one-time events to ongoing volunteer positions. Search by location, cause area, or job type to find your next opportunity.
idealist.org/en
Serves those struggling with homelessness and/or substance use on the west side of Columbus. Services include daily meals and Narcan distribution, clothing, documentation/ID assistance, laundry and shower services, cooling and heating stations, bicycle program, and additional wraparound services.
342 North Hague Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(380) 219-8950
jordanscrossingcolumbus.org
Volunteer organization serving kids in the Upper Arlington/Northwest region of Columbus. They host several youth programs including; Kiwanis Soccer Buddies for children K-6 with special needs, Kindergarten Soccer, Youth Soccer for Grades 1-6, Builders leadership program for ages 12-14, Key Club for Upper Arlington high schoolers, and Aktion Club for adults with disabilities. They host events and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. They award college scholarships for high school seniors graduating from Upper Arlington, Marble Cliff, or Grandview Heights.
northwestkiwanis.com
Provides food, clothing, toiletries and hygiene items, emotional support, and community events for veterans, active duty personnel, reservists, military families and survivors. The MASH Pantry has no income or zip code requirements, but ID is required. Families or individuals can visit the pantry once per month in Grove City or Delaware, Ohio. The organization accepts donations and volunteers.
Headquarters: 648 Clymer Road, Marysville, Ohio 43040
(614) 522-1555
mashpantry.org
Teens can volunteer at Nationwide Children’s Hospital Main Campus to complete meaningful tasks under the supervision of hospital staff and experience the pediatric hospital setting during the summer. Teens must be 15 or older, enrolled in high school, and be able to commit to a consistent weekly schedule. Spots are limited, teens must apply in the spring season and complete an interview to be considered.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-3635
nationwidechildrens.org/giving/ways-to-give/volunteering/teen-volunteers
Volunteering for Groups, Adults, and More: nationwidechildrens.org/giving/ways-to-give/volunteering
This website helps match families in need with businesses, volunteers, and organizations in their community for help with food, clothing, or other needs. Go online to find a Bridge in your community, request help, or fill a request for help.
neighborhoodbridges.org/state/ohio
Serves residents of Columbus who live at or below 200% of the federally designated poverty level. Families can visit NNEMAP once per week to receive food pantry items, as well as hygiene items, baby supplies, and holiday gifts as available. They offer locker pick-up options and home delivery for senior citizens or those who medically qualify. Visit their website for pantry hours or to request a locker. They also offer access to preventive healthcare services through their community partners, vaccine clinics and blood pressure checks. Volunteers are welcome.
677 East Eleventh Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
(614) 297-0533
nnemappantry.org
This national organization helps people and organizations hold coat drives and donate coats. Their mission is to help provide free coats to children and adults in need. Visit the website and use the searchable map to find local coat drives near you. They also have information on where to donate coats and how to organize a coat drive.
(415) 718-1887
www.onewarmcoat.org
Provides free, expertly-trained service dogs and handling training for Blind individuals ages 16 and up. They offer an Orientation & Mobility program for Blind individuals looking to improve white cane and traveling skills. They also have many opportunities for volunteers, including Co-Pilots who volunteer to raise puppies until they are ready for advanced training. Find program details and apply for a Pilot Dog online.
625 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-6367
pilotdogs.org
This website lists opportunities for volunteering around the world. Search by area of interest or location to find volunteer opportunities in your community.
engage.pointsoflight.org
Survivor-created organization helping women caught in human trafficking, addiction, and homelessness. Each Sunday, their volunteers provide hygiene bags, meals, and clothing to women on Sullivant Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. They accept volunteers, financial donations, and hygiene item donations. Visit the website to contact the organization.
635 Whitethorne Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43223
theshiningstarz.org
Serves: Single Adults & Families
Offers faith-based services for Central Ohio families. Housing Services include finding housing, financial assistance, and case management. They also offer youth programs, food assistance, emergency utility assistance, support for human trafficking survivors, and addiction recovery. Their thrift stores offer items at bargain prices to fund programs. You can find thrift store, church locations, and program details on their website.
easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southwest-ohio/central-ohio/home
Offers service learning programs in Columbus. They create year-long service learning projects with schools in Central Ohio for grades K-8. Their programs provide positive outcomes for students in areas of critical thinking, research and observation skills, civic engagement, leadership and teamwork. Visit the website and complete an Interest Form to explore bringing a service learning program to your school or organization. They also accept adult volunteers to help with their programs and events.
1515 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 429-3244
seekidsdream.org
Teaches and inspires kids to engage in service, social action, and community-building. They partner with local non-profits to provide free or low-cost monthly service projects, learning opportunities, and events for families to participate in. They host in-person events as well as Anywhere Projects for families to complete at home. Kindness Corps is an in-school program for grades 2-4 and interested educators can sign up for an educator training session. Visit their website to register for an upcoming project, event, or training.
355 East Campus View Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 219-9467
seedsofcaring.org/columbus
Faith-based organization that partners with Columbus City Schools to provide homework help, after-school programs, and summer day camps for elementary students at Leawood, Lindbergh, Scottwood, and Shady Lane. They also host community fellowship at their community house. They accept volunteers and donations of food or school supplies to support their programs.
Community House: 1635 South Hamilton Road, Columbus, Ohio 43227
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 65, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 406-2548
seven-baskets.org
Provides learning opportunities and resources to promote community wellness, environmental sustainability, and conscious consumer culture. Use their directory to find locally-owned and sustainable restaurants, retailers, refilleries, wellness services, and more. They host regular free and low-cost community events including yoga, bird-watching, and mindfulness. They also offer opportunities for internship or volunteering.
659 High Street, Worthington, OH 43085
(614) 447-0296
Business Directory: directory.simplyliving.org
Main Website: simplyliving.org
Faith-based community center operated by Holy-Rosary-St. John and St. Dominic Catholic Church offering a variety of services. Click here for a program flyer.
640 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
stjohncommunitycenter.wordpress.com
Faith-based community center serving the Linden-area community. Programs include rental and utility assistance, childcare for children 6 weeks to 5 years at Christ Child Early Learning Center, afterschool and summer programs, Kinship Aftercare, Family to Family empowerment program for families with open cases with FCCS, senior food and transportation, and more. They also provide a food pantry with Mid-Ohio Food Bank. Find program details online.
1500 East Seventeenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 294-6347
saintstephensch.org
A philanthropic organization working to fund non-profits, arts programs, and other community initiatives. Individuals and organizations can use their website to apply for grants, small business funds, and a scholarship directory for high school and college students. They also offer a fellowship program for college students. Go online to find details and apply.
1234 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio
(614) 251-4000
columbusfoundation.org/students/scholarships
Non-profit offering school-based mentoring to youth in grades K-3 at Stevenson Elementary in Grandview Heights and Greensview Elementary in Upper Arlington. The weekly program is run by their Mentoring Coordinator and volunteer teenage mentors. TVML awards two college scholarships each year to volunteer mentors who are graduating seniors from Grandview and Upper Arlington.
3600 Tremont Road, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 255-7942
tvml.org
Faith-based nonprofit helping neighbors with essential needs. Services include Choice Food Pantry, clothing boutique, cooking classes, and Christmas food and gift help. They offer connection to job readiness and placement assistance through community partners. Health services include eye exams and no-cost glasses to those who qualify, breast and cervical cancer screens for women who are uninsured or underinsured, and mental health counseling with board-licensed counselors at the Hope Counseling Center. Appointments are required services, including food pantry and clothing boutique. Call to schedule an appointment.
3964 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43213
(614) 252-2500
victorycoh.org
Faith-based charity supporting income-eligible residents of the Westerville City School district. The Choice Market food pantry allows families to shop online every two weeks for curbside pickup. They deliver food to children on weekends and during school breaks. The Kids Lunch Club offers free summer lunches and enrichment activities for ages 1-18 each May through August. Employment support services include online and in-person courses on job skills, personalized coaching, career exploration sessions, and financial education. They offer resource referrals to help individuals and families access rent and utility assistance, clothing, and more. They also offer spiritual care services and supportive services for seniors. Families must call or visit the office to register for services.
150 Heatherdown Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Main Office: (614) 889-0196
Food Assistance Scheduling: (614) 568-8700
warmwesterville.org
Distributes food and personal items to individuals and families in the Worthington School District (zip codes 43016, 43035, 43065, 43081, 43085, 43229, 43235, and 43240) who meet income guidelines. The pantry uses an indoor express service model, where customers park outside and are greeted by a volunteer for check-in. The pantry stocks meat, dairy, dry goods, produce, personal care items, and more. No appointment needed. Find eligibility requirements and program details online.
6700 Huntley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 985-1766
worthingtonresourcepantry.org
A website for youth to find resources, opportunities, and inspiring stories that empower them to make a difference in their lives and in the world around them. The website has a searchable directory with opportunities across the country for internships, scholarships, professional development, and volunteering. The Topics section of the website has helpful toolkits, blog posts written by teens, and important information on topics like mental health, relationships, disabilities, foster care, finances, and more.
instagram.com/youthengaged4change
