Interested in learning more about the Red Cross or getting trained for local disasters? The Red Cross will be providing hands-on training in opening and operating shelters. The Mass Care Expo will be at Bay College on May 12 from 9am to 3pm. For more information contact Lee at lee.borofka@redcross.org

The Rotary Club of Marquette is seeking volunteers for MDOT’s spring cleanup on May 16 from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM.

Help pick up litter along a two-mile stretch of US-41 starting at the corner of US-41 and M-95 in Marquette County.

Please bring water, insect repellent, and gloves. Wear long pants and boots.

Interested? Sign up and we’ll send more details.

Thank you for helping keep Marquette County clean!

Be Part of Something Meaningful - 

This is your opportunity to learn, engage, and directly influence how we create impact together. Whether you’re new to the community or have lived here your whole life, your voice matters in this process.

Join us—and help shape the future of our community.

Do you want a direct voice in how local dollars create real change in our community?

Join United Way of Marquette County’s Community Impact Panels—a unique, engaging volunteer experience where community members like you help determine how funds from our annual campaign are invested in local programs.

Each year, our partner agencies submit funding proposals for programs addressing critical needs across Marquette County. As a volunteer, you’ll review these applications, hear directly from the agencies, ask questions, and ultimately help recommend how funding should be allocated.

Think of it as a community-focused version of Shark Tank—but instead of businesses, you’ll hear from nonprofits working to improve lives right here at home. And instead of profits, the goal is meaningful, measurable impact.

Why Participate?

• Make a real impact – Help guide funding decisions that directly affect local families and individuals.
• Learn more about your community – Discover programs and services you may not even know exist.
• Engage in meaningful discussion – Collaborate with other community members to evaluate needs and opportunities.
• No prior experience required – Just bring your perspective, curiosity, and desire to give back.

Volunteers consistently say this is one of the most rewarding experiences they’ve had—leaving with a deeper understanding of our community and a strong sense of connection to the work being done.

What is required:

• Attending the Community Investment Panels, April 29th, approximately 5-9 p.m.

• Attending a 45-minute training session (available April 21st & 22nd). This is required for first-time volunteers and recommended for everyone.

• Allocating the time to thoroughly review 5-6 funding proposals on your own time April 22-29th.

• Completion of the CI Volunteer Code of Ethics, Confidentiality Agreement, and Conflict of Interest form: https://form.jotform.com/260465276842160.

• Professionalism, confidentiality, and a desire to improve our community well-being.

 For more information on the Community Investment Panels and volunteer expectations, please email Andrew Rickauer arickauer@uwmqt.org 

Please note: In addition to responding to this volunteer opportunity for the Community Investment Panels themselves, you will also need to Register for Training separately.

Here is the schedule for this activity:

5-5:35 - Check-in and dinner

5:35-5:50 - Welcome, reminders, and questions

6:00 - up to 9:00 Agency presentations and funding discussions

At the end of the evening, your panel’s recommendations are combined to determine how funding is distributed—ensuring decisions are community-driven and locally informed.

Join the Fun! Volunteer for Half-Day Youth Adventures!

When: March 12, 13, 16th 12pm-6:00pm       

Shifts available from       12:00–2:00 PM      2:00–4:00 PM         4:00–6:00 PM

What You’ll Do: Help launch the day with a warm welcome, lunch service, and set up fun activities. Lead games, creative projects, and keep youth engaged through the afternoon. Serve after-school meals, support structured activities, and end the day with smiles!

Why Join: Two hours of your time can make a big difference for kids in our community. It’s fun, fulfilling, and all about building connections and confidence!

Our Days will all have special visitors Thursday March 12th we will have First TEE  joining us, and Friday and Monday will have MSU-extension 4-H joining us for some Coding and STEM activities.

Shift 1 — Midday Mingle & Meal Crew 12:00–2:00 PM

What You’ll Do: Welcome youth, help with lunch, lead icebreaker games, and get everyone ready for an exciting afternoon. Be the spark that kicks off the fun! Your energy sets the tone for the day. Sign Up: Choose “Midday Mingle & Meal Crew – 12:00–2:00 PM”

Shift 2 — Creative Connections Crew   2:00–4:00 PM W

hat You’ll Do: Lead crafts, guide team games, and keep spirits high during our most active hours.  Love creativity and laughter? This shift is your chance to inspire and make memories with our youth! Sign Up: Pick “Creative Connections Crew – 2:00–4:00 PM”

Shift 3 — Afternoon Wrap-Up Warriors    4:00–6:00 PM

What You’ll Do: Help serve after-school meals, lead relaxing games, and make sure every youth leaves happy and supported. The perfect way to wrap up the day! You’ll help end the afternoon on a high note, full of smiles and gratitude! Sign Up: Select “Afternoon Wrap-Up Warriors – 4:00–6:00 PM”

More Info: For questions or to complete volunteer paperwork, contact Regan Cook, Program Coordinator of the Lake Superior Village Youth & Family Center, at, office 906-225-1900 ext. 6, or cell 906-458-7550.

Before You Volunteer: All volunteers must complete a Volunteer Packet, including a background check, before beginning any assignment. Volunteers will also participate in an orientation and training session with a staff member prior to their first shift.

Paperwork Hours: Paperwork and forms can be completed in person at the Lake Superior Village Youth & Family Center (1901 Longyear Ave, Marquette, MI 49855) during regular business hours: Monday – Friday, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

Thank You: We appreciate your time, energy, and commitment to supporting our youth and families!

Help our staff at the Warming Center located 447 W Washington. Volunteers are needed to help cook, clean, prepare, and serve meals. This is a wonderful experience for those looking to get face to face interaction with our guests, staff, and fellow volunteers as well as a first-hand look at the fulfilling work we do at our shelter.

Licensed mental health professionals are needed to support individuals and families who have been impacted by disasters and provide support to other volunteers. For those able to travel outside of their local area, a commitment of at least 14 consecutive days, working 8- or 12-hour shifts is required. Travel and lodging are provided. Contact Lee at lee.borofka@redcross.org for more information. 

Ensure people in disaster impacted areas do not go hungry by safely preparing and / or serving meals to individuals, families and communities. For those able to travel outside of their local area, a commitment of at least 14 consecutive days, working 8 to12 hour shifts, is required. Travel and lodging are provided. Contact Lee at lee.borofka@redcross.org for more information. 

Provide a vital link to mission delivery by ensuring needed shelter materials and supplies are procured in a timely and cost-efficient manner. For those able to travel outside of their local area, a commitment of at least 14 consecutive days, working 8 to12 hour shifts, is required. Travel and lodging are provided. For more information, contact Lee at lee.borofka@redcross.org.