Ways to Volunteer
Our regular weekly volunteer opportunities include Food Pantry and General Volunteer shifts, along with occasional additional roles as needs arise. Throughout the year, we also host special events and offer opportunities for group and corporate volunteers.
Below are brief descriptions of our regular shifts and examples of past special events. Available opportunities may vary and are subject to change.
Click below to create an account or log in to view and sign up for available opportunities.
Please note:
Regular volunteer opportunities are posted two months at a time, usually about two weeks before the first month begins. Special event opportunities are added throughout the year, typically about one month prior to the event. Once opportunities are posted, an email notification will be sent. If shifts are full, please check back often, as cancellations occur frequently
Questions: Check our our FAQ page or email us at Volunteercoordinator@families4families.com
Regular Volunteer Opportunities
🥫 Food Pantry
Ages: 16+
Help with: Guiding families as they shop in the food pantry. Many families are Spanish-speaking. Volunteers may also assist with check-in and stocking shelves.
When: Friday afternoon & Sunday morning (except the first Friday and Sunday of the month)
🤝 General Volunteer Opportunities
Ages: 16+
Help with: Shelving donations, answering phones/emails, and light administrative tasks.
When: Tuesday & Thursday mornings and afternoons
🗂️ Administrative Support
Ages: Adults only
Help with: Phones, emails, filing, and data entry.
When: As needed
🚚 Furnishing Great Starts
Ages: 14+
Help with: Moving families into new homes and picking up furniture donations.
Requirement: Must be able to lift 50 lbs
When: As needed
🌟 Special Events
May – Mother’s Day Brunch (Ages 12+)
Help with baking, set-up/clean-up, serving food, crafts, photos, gift table, or Spanish translation.
July – Family Picnic (Ages 12+, Family-friendly)
Help with set-up/clean-up, games, face painting/tattoos, and serving food.
August – Adopt a Student (Ages 13+)
Assist with backpack drop-off or help deliver supplies (adult drivers needed – mostly in Paterson).
October – Trunk or Treat (Ages 12+, Family-friendly)
Decorate a table/car, hand out candy, help with coats/costumes, or assist with pumpkin painting/tattoos.
November – Thanksgiving Drive (Ages 14+)
Help with meal drop-offs or assist drivers delivering dinners (mostly in Paterson).
December – Holiday Match (Ages 12+, Family-friendly)
Help with gift drop-off, baking, decorating, check-in, crafts, photos, or assisting families during visits with Santa.
