Where to Find Community Service Opportunities in College

Many college students have flexible schedules, diverse interests, and a desire to promote community well-being. College community service is the perfect way to grow as a leader alongside your studies. Plan to integrate volunteer programs into your schedule every semester for a well-rounded college experience.

Remember that volunteering comes in many forms. Some volunteer roles directly support community members, while others are more behind-the-scenes, driving engagement and administration. Think about what roles appeal to you and match your goals. Your time and expertise are valuable, so look for opportunities that capitalize on both.

The Best Volunteer Opportunities for College Students in Dallas

Champion Your Favorite Sport

Volunteer programs are an excellent way for college students to share their skills with the community. If you were an athlete in high school or you're passionate about staying active, community service programs featuring sports are a good fit. Sign up with Special Olympics Texas to work directly with athletes, coordinate events, or provide administrative support. If you're passionate about coaching, Dallas Youth Sports is the perfect place to volunteer.

Immerse Yourself in the Arts

Dallas is an arts and culture hub, so take advantage of the volunteer programs that are perfect for college students and relate to creative endeavors. The AT&T Performing Arts Center needs volunteers for various productions and special events, and you might get a chance to engage with your favorite performers on the job.

Put Your Love of Animals to Work

The Dallas community doesn't only include people — animals are part of our ecosystem, too! College students can volunteer to answer phones at the DFW Wildlife Hotline. After some training, you'll be able to connect citizens with trained wildlife experts to keep both humans and animals safe. This is a great volunteer opportunity for college students since the hours are flexible and often include evening shifts. Dallas Pets Alive works with domestic animals and has opportunities for animal care or administrative and marketing tasks essential to the mission.

Connect with Kids and Families

Supporting the most vulnerable populations in our community is at the center of DBU's commitment to service. Many children and families need a range of assistance, from food to transportation. If you'd like to develop a consistent relationship with a local child, Big Brothers Big Sisters is the place to go. To reach a broader group of children and single mothers, volunteer with Arms of Hope. This Christian care organization provides extensive services both onsite and in the community, and the team of volunteers does everything from cooking to landscaping. Are you passionate about education? United to Learn works in Dallas public schools to help accelerate student achievement and develop leaders. Volunteers can lead events, work one-on-one with students, and even refurbish school environments.

Lend a Helping Hand

Interacting directly with local community members can be a very rewarding volunteer opportunity. Organizations like BridgeBuilders and Beautiful Feet Ministries provide various services to vulnerable populations in the Dallas area, including those who are homeless. Volunteers can lead discussion groups, help individuals shop at the free food pantry, and even provide rides for kids to attend weekly ministry meetings.

DBU has partnered with many organizations, such as Mission Arlington, Brother Bill's, Buckner International, the Salvation Army, and various private and public schools, where students can volunteer to show the love of Christ to the community by being the hands and feet of Jesus.

Community and Service on Campus

Joining an organization on campus is one of the best ways to extend your service leadership learning through the DBU community and surrounding neighborhoods. Campus groups often partner with local organizations to fulfill volunteer needs, so it's a simple way to build connections and make a difference.

Food Banks, Special Events, and More

There are hundreds of opportunities for college students to volunteer in Dallas, so if you can't find a long-term arrangement, don't fret. Using sites like Voly to search for current DFW needs is a great way to put some of your free time to good use. The Dallas Park & Recreation division also recruits volunteers in roles, so if you're looking for community service at the heart of DFW action, sign up to be part of the city team.

You can also contact the DBU's Center for Career and Professional Development for assistance finding opportunities nearby. Local churches are also powerful resources for finding volunteer gigs.

Think Outside the Box: Create Your Own Opportunity

Do you have a favorite local organization you'd like to support? Even if they aren't officially looking for volunteers, you can offer services to help further their mission. Many small businesses and non-profits can't afford to hire full-time social media marketing employees, so if you're good at spreading the word online, offer to volunteer several hours a week for the cause.

You can also offer services to help with maintenance, administrative tasks, or special events.

Including volunteer opportunities in your college plans allows you to grow as a community member, meet new people, and put your skills to use in a meaningful way.

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DBU strives to produce servant leaders and partners with numerous service organizations that you can be involved in, as well as many service opportunities on campus to help you find and fulfill your calling.