Volunteer with LCS

Volunteers are indispensable to the work we do at LCS. When you sign up, you can select either a one-time volunteer opportunity or a group volunteer opportunity. We are proud to partner with community members of all abilities and talents in support of individuals experiencing homelessness within our shelter and community.

To get involved, please complete either the Individual Volunteer Interest Form or the Group Volunteer Interest Form using the links below:

Individual Volunteer Interest Form

Group Volunteer Interest Form

Contact Our Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteering Opportunities

Donation Sorting

Clothing Sorting Volunteers contribute to a clean and healthy environment at LCS. The ideal volunteer is organized, efficient, and comfortable with standing and repetitive tasks for long periods of time.

Serving Meals

All meals at LCS are served by our friendly team of servers in a cafeteria-style setting. Servers also wash the dishes and make sure the kitchen is clean before next use.

Breakfast shifts: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun 6 am- 8 am

Lunch shifts: Daily from 12:00-1:30 PM

Dinner shifts: Daily from 6:00-7:30 PM

Garden Volunteer

People experiencing homelessness typically do not have access to fresh produce or productive green spaces. However, at LCS, volunteers help maintain a thriving vegetable garden and bring fresh harvests to the people we serve. Guests will sometimes participate in gardening activities alongside volunteers to reduce stress and learn more about growing food. All experience levels are welcome!

Shifts: Tuesdays and Saturdays 10 am to noon

Volunteer With LCS!

Apolonia Arteaga, LCS Volunteer

“My perspective on the shelter transformed once I began volunteering. I learned about the history and operation of the shelter and trauma-informed care, extending as much evidence-based compassion to those who need it most. Whether organizing the warehouse, cleaning, or working the front desk, I have a newfound appreciation for the work done at the shelter.

“To me, the Lawrence Community Shelter is a testament to a philosophy that I hold very dearly: people contain multitudes. I’ve been fortunate to have conversations with many souls at the shelter: staff, guests, and fellow volunteers. I’ve seen how earnest and gritty the staff are, dedicated to their mission. When I asked about a project’s status, a staff member told me, ‘Oh, we’ll make it happen, and we won’t stop until it’s done. That’s how we work around here!’ And I’ve spoken to guests, who are surprising, funny, kind, and above all, human beings, sometimes experiencing a crisis or just taking the world a day at a time.”