Help local students start the school year ready to learn! United Way of Greater St. Joseph and several of our community partners are seeking volunteers to support upcoming school supply, backpack and shoe distribution efforts.

Whether you have a few hours to greet shoppers, organize donated supplies or help families find what they need, there are several ways to make a difference this back-to-school season.

Volunteer at United Way STUFF THE BUS!

United Way STUFF THE BUS! School Supplies Drive Presented by Mosaic Life Care

Friday, August 7 | 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
Saturday, August 8 | 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Both St. Joseph Walmart locations

United Way STUFF THE BUS! collects new school supplies to help local students begin the school year prepared and confident.

Volunteer activities may include:

  • Greeting shoppers
  • Inviting customers to purchase school supplies while shopping
  • Accepting donated items
  • Inventorying, sorting and organizing donations
  • Creating encouraging greeting cards for students and educators
  • Assisting with other event needs

Join the United Way Caring Connection Crew

Saturday, August 15 | 9:30–11 a.m.
United Way of Greater St. Joseph office

Help sort, organize and prepare donated school supplies for distribution to students throughout our community.

This hands-on Caring Connection volunteer opportunity is a great way for individuals, families, coworkers and groups to support local children as they return to the classroom.

Help with Back-to-School Distribution at United Way

August 17–20 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
August 21 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
United Way of Greater St. Joseph office

Volunteers are needed to help distribute school supplies and assist with office projects throughout the week.

Volunteer responsibilities may include:

  • Greeting students and families
  • Helping families receive school supplies
  • Organizing and replenishing supplies
  • Preparing United Way mailings
  • Assisting staff with additional office needs

More Back-to-School Volunteer Opportunities

Two United Way Partner Agencies are also seeking volunteers to assist with backpack and shoe distribution programs.

Northwest Missouri Community Services Soles for Christ Shoe Program

Help provide local children with shoes for the upcoming school year.

To learn more or volunteer, call 816-364-1131 or visit Northwest Missouri Community Services on Facebook.

The Salvation Army Backpack Distribution

Support The Salvation Army as it distributes backpacks and school supplies to local students.

To learn more or volunteer, call 816-232-5824 or visit The Salvation Army on Facebook.

Make a Difference for Local Students

Back-to-school volunteer opportunities are a meaningful way to support children, educators and families in the Greater St. Joseph area. Every donated item sorted, every family greeted and every volunteer hour helps prepare students for a successful school year.

Sign up today and help United Way power possibility for students across our community.