Memphis in May is more than music, barbecue, and fireworks – although those things are great! It’s a celebration of everything that makes our city shine. 〽️ While we love a good festival, we’re especially into the ways you can make an impact while soaking up all the fun. 🤝 Check out these four volunteer opportunities that will plug you into the action while supporting our community:
Vesta Home Show with Germantown Education Foundation
Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 25 | Multiple Shifts Available
If luxury homes and smart design are your jam, the Vesta Home Show is the ultimate way to immerse yourself. Hosted in the Wilder at Forest Hill neighborhood, volunteers are needed to serve as parking attendants to guide cars, keep traffic flowing, and help guests start their experience with a smile. Every shift also benefits the Germantown Education Foundation in support of public schools.
Soil & Soul: Building Food for the Future
Friday, May 9 | 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Ready to get your hands in the dirt for a good cause? Join Black Seeds Urban Farms and The Works as they transform vacant lots into thriving community gardens. This project builds healthy futures and stronger neighborhoods. Whether you’re passionate about food justice or just love seeing Memphis bloom, this is a powerful way to make a lasting impact this month.
Celebrate! 2025 with REACH Memphis
Tuesday, May 13 | 4 to 9 p.m.
Celebrate! 2025 honors students, mentors, families, and supporters who are part of the REACH Memphis community. Volunteers help with check-in, ushering, and other event support to keep things running smoothly. It’s a one-night-only opportunity to be part of something heartfelt and inspiring – and to celebrate the power of connection in education and mentorship.
SmokeSlam BBQ Festival Competition Wranglers
Wednesday, May 14 to Saturday, May 17 | Multiple Shifts Available
Memphis = BBQ, and SmokeSlam is where it’s at. This three-day festival in Tom Lee Park brings together pitmasters, live bands, and food fanatics from around the country. As a Competition Wrangler, you’ll help BBQ teams stay on schedule and deliver next-level hospitality. Go behind the scenes of a major Memphis event – and don’t forget to bring your appetite!
Orion Free Concert Series at Overton Park Shell
May to June | Multiple Shifts Available
At the Overton Park Shell’s Orion Free Concert Series, you can enjoy the show while doing good. Volunteer roles include the Bucket Brigade (collecting donations to keep the Shell free) or the Survey Squad (helping gather feedback from guests). Plus, consider volunteering for the Shell’s Sunset Symphony, as a closing to Memphis in May!
Whether you’ve got an hour or a whole weekend, these Memphis in May opportunities make it easy to give back while enjoying everything the season has to offer. ➡️ Explore even more volunteer events on Volunteer Odyssey’s calendar: https://serve.volunteerodyssey.com
Our mission is to amplify the voices of our nonprofit partners, recruit volunteers, support our partners with best practices in volunteer management, and provide quality, transparent data of the positive hours of service and community impact.
