Lunch or Dinner Service @ Central Iowa Shelter & Services

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Our community kitchen provides fresh and healthy meals to those in need using a combination of ingredients and produce grown on-site, donated or purchased. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner & a snack, with both lunch and dinner meals including a fresh salad.

The community kitchen serves more than 750 meals each day and is projected to serve 270,000 meals in 2024.

The program is operated by kitchen staff and a network of volunteers, all working together to provide and serve meals. About 55–65% of meals are donated by volunteers, which expands our budget by at least $20,000 per month.

Volunteers & Community Partners interested in helping support Mulberry Street Café can register for either Lunch or Dinner services and denote whether they will be providing the meal, providing and serving the meal, or serving the meal. We ask that any groups or individuals preparing to provide a meal plan for 250 persons. Both groups and individuals are welcome to assist in serving meals.

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Food Pantry Volunteer

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Student Volunteer: Food Pantry Assistant
Make a Difference. Gain Experience. Serve Your Community.

Are you a student looking to make a real impact while earning service hours, building your resume, or simply giving back? Join us as a Food Pantry Volunteer and be part of a mission that matters.

In this role, you’ll help provide food and support to families experiencing food insecurity. Whether it’s stocking shelves, assisting with bagging groceries, or warmly guiding families through the pantry, your time and energy will directly help people in your community.

What You’ll Do:

Greet and assist families as they navigate the food pantry

Stock, organize, and maintain pantry shelves

Bag groceries and help carry items to vehicles as needed

Create a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for all

Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:

Earn volunteer or Silver Cord hours

Gain real-world experience in service and teamwork

Make a direct, visible impact in your community

Flexible shifts that fit your school schedule

Opportunities to grow into leadership roles like Volunteer Ambassador

No prior experience needed—just a heart for service and a willingness to learn. Join us and help ensure no family goes hungry.

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Front Desk Receptionist Volunteer

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Student Volunteer: Front Desk Receptionist
Be the First Smile. Build Your Skills. Support Your Community.

Looking for a meaningful way to earn service hours, gain office experience, or strengthen your communication skills? Join our team as a Front Desk Reception Volunteer and become the welcoming face of our organization.

In this role, you’ll greet visitors, check in families for appointments, and help schedule services—ensuring each person feels supported from the moment they walk through the door.

What You’ll Do:

Welcome families and visitors with warmth and professionalism

Check families in for appointments and assist with scheduling

Provide general information about programs and services

Help with filing, organizing, and other front office tasks

Maintain a calm, friendly, and respectful environment

Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:

Earn Silver Cord or volunteer hours

Gain valuable experience in customer service and administrative support

Build communication, organization, and scheduling skills

Add professional experience to your resume or college applications

Flexible scheduling available to work around school and activities

No experience necessary—just bring a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and a passion for helping others.

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