Use your time and skills to empower refugees across Iowa. Volunteers can serve in-person or remotely, for a one-time event or through repeated service. You can:
Tutor in English language or computer skills, or assist community members studying for program exams
Translate or interpret
Help complete food or medical assistance forms
Pick up or deliver donations
Take the first step towards helping refugees statewide. Please apply through the button below. If you have any questions, contact us at volunteer@embarciowa.org.
Report your hours after each shift, and give feedback. Email volunteer@embarciowa.org.
EMBARC offers many volunteer opportunities in Des Moines and Waterloo. We provide orientation and training as well as support throughout your service. Opportunities change based on community needs, so you may not be placed immediately, but every volunteer is appreciated.
INTERNS: Cultivate your skills and earn credit while making an impact on your community! Along with those listed, we offer positions in accounting, development, human resources, information technology, legal, social work, and more. To apply for an internship, send your cover letter and resume to volunteer@embarciowa.org.
Work with an interpreter to answer questions, complete forms, and connect clients to community-based resources. Previous experience or knowledge in applying for public assistance is strongly preferred but not required.
Collect or deliver books, cleaning supplies, meals or other donations that ensure the safety and wellbeing of refugees during their resettlement. Provide transportation to support groups, medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other needs.
This is a vital part of what we do. Work with clients to provide answers in their native language, interpret at meetings, and connect refugees with assistance and community resources that meet their needs. We particularly need volunteers who speak Burmese, Chin dialects, Karen, Karenni, and other languages from Burma.
Practice English conversations with clients, teach computer skills such as using Microsoft Excel, or prepare clients for the HiSET (High School Equivalency Test).
Register participants at local health clinics, assist with physical labor, organize data or help EMBARC identify and apply for new resources. We also coordinate group volunteer activities for church organizations, employee engagement outings, and other groups. Ask about group volunteer opportunities by contacting volunteer@embarciowa.org.
