Grinnellians of all ages can get involved in the community in a variety of ways. Whether you're interested in animals, healthy living and gardens, quilting, cars or arts and culture, there is a group or organization for you!
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year for those interested in giving back to the community. View our list of opportunities!
Volunteer Pen Pal
Posted: 7/29/2026 Organization & Contact: Volunteer Iowa - RSVP Program · Ashley Sorensen · 641-888-0989 · ashley.sorensen@volunteeriowa.org Location: You can volunteer from home!
Looking for a fun and meaningful way to make a difference? Become an RSVP pen pal for a Grinnell Elementary School student! RSVP Pen Pal Program connects caring community members 55 and older with students who are excited to receive letters, learn about others, and practice their writing skills. Just a simple note or short story from you can brighten their day and help them grow. As a volunteer pen pal, you’ll: • Write friendly letters each month to an elementary student in Grinnell. • Encourage curiosity, confidence, and connection. • Help students build reading and writing skills in a fun and supportive way. • Make a positive impact - one letter at a time. If you enjoy writing, love supporting kids, or want a small way to give back, this is a wonderful volunteer opportunity.
Skills & Requirements
Volunteers should be over the age of 55.
Time Commitment
30 minutes once a month
Location
You can volunteer from home!
Louis Sullivan Building Greeter
Posted: 2/10/2026 Organization & Contact: Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce · Nikki Armstead · 641-236-6555 · admin@getintogrinnell.com
The Chamber office is located in the Louis Sullivan Merchant's National Bank and we do our best to keep it open to visitors on the weekends but doing this takes volunteers! Would you consider volunteering with us? Our weekend docents are responsible for welcoming visitors to the Merchants National Bank building. You will be given a short training on information about the building's history/architecture and key features.
If you love Grinnell, you will be excellent at promoting our community. Visitors are often curious about good places to eat, things to do, or directions around town. This is a very low-stress opportunity and it's so much fun to meet people from all over the country. Plus, you get to spend time in our jewel of a building. It's a great time to catch up on reading or to hop on the wi-fi and get some work done.
Skills & Requirements
You may volunteer as frequently or as little as you wish, whatever your schedule allows. Shifts are Saturdays from 10 AM-1 PM, and 1-4 PM, as well as Sundays from 1-4 PM. Please help us welcome visitors to Grinnell and the jewel-box building!
Are you ready to lend a hand and bring warmth to families in need? Renewed Hope, a ministry of the Grinnell Friends Church, is on the lookout for energetic volunteers to help us turn houses into homes!
What We Do: At Renewed Hope, we believe that everyone deserves a place to call home. Our mission is to assist families by providing essential furniture and home items, ensuring they have the comforts they need. This vital work is powered by the generosity of volunteers and funded through freewill donations.
We Need Your Help! We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who can help lift and move furniture. If you have a positive attitude and a willingness to serve, we want you on our team!
When: Join us on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 8 AM to 1 PM.
Why Volunteer? Make a tangible impact throughout Grinnell. Meet new people and work alongside a dedicated team. Experience the joy of helping families create a loving home. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference, please reach out to ashley.sorensen@volunteeriowa.org Together, we can help turn houses into homes and spread hope throughout our community.
Join the Grinnell Historical Museum Team! Volunteer Opportunities Await!
Are you passionate about history and community engagement? The Grinnell Historical Museum is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help us bring the stories of Grinnell to life! Whether you love interacting with visitors, diving into research, or helping with exhibits, we have a variety of volunteer opportunities for you!
Opportunities Available:
Front Desk Assistants: Be the friendly face that welcomes visitors and provides
them with information about our exhibits and events.
Research Assistants: Help uncover Grinnell's rich history through research,
archiving, and organizing historical materials.
Exhibit Helpers: Assist in the setup and maintenance of exhibits, making sure
our displays are engaging and informative.
Special Events Coordinators: Get hands-on experience planning and executing
events that bring the community together.
Training Provided: Don’t worry if you’re new to museums! We offer training for all
volunteers, ensuring you feel confident in your role.
Flexible Options: Some volunteer tasks can be done remotely, making it easier than
ever to get involved, no matter your schedule!
Why Volunteer with Us?
Gain valuable hands-on experience in museum operations and public
engagement.
Learn about Grinnell’s history and heritage while sharing it with others.
Develop new skills and expand your professional network within the community.
If you have a knack for listening, problem-solving, and a desire to make a difference, we’d love to have you on our team! Join us in preserving the past and engaging with our vibrant community. Ready to make history? Contact ashley.sorensen@volunteeriowa.org today to learn more about how you can get involved!
Location
Grinnell Grinnell, IA
Submit Your Opportunities
Do you have an organization or event in the Grinnell community that needs volunteers? All Chamber Members are welcome to submit volunteer listings.
