Memphis is packed with concerts, festivals, patios, and weekend plans. But if you’re looking for a different way to experience the city this season, consider giving a few hours of your time. One of the biggest things we hear from people moving to Memphis, or even longtime residents looking for deeper connections, is that they’re searching for community. Volunteering is one of the fastest ways to find it.
Whether you’re passionate about helping families, supporting local neighborhoods, mentoring young people, or fighting food insecurity, Memphis is full of organizations making a difference every day. Here are some of the best ways to get involved this summer.
Delivering meals Through Mifa
If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity where you can see the impact immediately, meal delivery through MIFA, a great place to start.
Volunteers help deliver meals to seniors throughout Memphis, providing not only food but also connection and support. Several Memphians we spoke with said serving through MIFA was one of the most meaningful volunteer experiences they’ve had in the city. Best for: First-time volunteers/Individuals looking for direct impact Small groups
Help Fight Hunger at the Mid-South Food Bank
Every meal starts with volunteers. At Mid-South Food Bank, volunteers sort and inspect donated food, pack emergency food boxes, and prepare meals for distribution across the region. Groups, families, and individuals are all welcome, making it an easy opportunity whether you’re volunteering by yourself or with coworkers. In just a few hours, you can help provide thousands of meals to neighbors experiencing food insecurity throughout the Mid-South.
More Than a Climb: Volunteering at Memphis Rox
Memphis Rox is much more than a climbing gym—it’s a community center built around the belief that everyone deserves access to opportunity. Volunteers can help with youth programs, after-school activities, gardening projects, fitness classes, neighborhood events, and community outreach. If you’re looking for a place where you can build relationships while investing in South Memphis, Memphis Rox offers opportunities that go well beyond climbing.
Support Whole-Person Care at Church Health
Church Health has been caring for the Memphis community for decades by providing affordable healthcare, wellness programs, and whole-person care. Volunteers help with patient hospitality, administrative support, fitness events, gardening, educational programs, and special community events. Whether your background is in healthcare or you simply enjoy serving people, Church Health offers meaningful ways to support one of Memphis’ most impactful nonprofits.
Volunteer at MoSH and Make a Difference
Want to get more involved in Memphis while learning something new? The Museum of Science & History (MoSh) offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for people interested in science, history, nature, animals, and connecting with the community.
Volunteers can help visitors explore museum exhibits, assist with hands-on activities, care for wildlife and plants at Lichterman Nature Center, or lend a hand at special events like the Pink Palace Crafts Fair. Whether you have a few hours to give or want to take on a regular volunteer role, MoSH has opportunities to fit a variety of interests and schedules.
Their Pink Palace Crafts Fair is coming up from September 25-27! It takes hundreds of volunteers to make it successful, and you could be one of those people! Volunteers are needed for just about everything. Click here to sign up.
Invest in the future with Youth Villages
Youth Villages works with children, teens, and families facing some of life’s biggest challenges. Volunteers often support fundraising events, mentor young people, prepare care packages, or help with seasonal projects throughout the year. If you’re passionate about investing in the next generation, this is a chance to encourage and support youth while helping strengthen families across the Mid-South.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Memphis
When families travel to Memphis so their child can receive medical care, Ronald McDonald House becomes a place to rest, recharge, and feel supported. Volunteers prepare home-cooked meals, organize donations, greet families, assist with activities, and help maintain a welcoming environment. Even something as simple as cooking dinner can provide comfort during one of the most stressful seasons of a family’s life.
Find the Right Fit with Serve901
The best volunteer opportunity is the one you’ll actually show up for. Whether you have an hour, an afternoon, or you’re looking for a long-term commitment, Memphis has organizations that can match your interests and schedule.
Serving doesn’t just strengthen nonprofits, it strengthens neighborhoods, introduces you to people you might never have met otherwise, and reminds us that Memphis is built by neighbors who care for one another.
Looking for even more opportunities? Browse Serve901‘s volunteer calendar to discover service projects happening across Memphis all summer long, and find the opportunity that’s right for you.
