UIDN is seeking dedicated volunteers to help with both onsite operations and remote inventory coordination. Whether you prefer hands-on work in the pantry or behind-the-scenes organization from home, your time and care can make a meaningful difference. If — after reading the descriptions below — you have questions or would like to discuss next steps, please email Beth at strum_b@hotmail.com.

UIDN pantry volunteers.
UIDN pantry volunteers.
UIDN pantry offerings.
UIDN pantry offerings.
UIDN pantry volunteers.
UIDN pantry volunteers.
UIDN pantry offerings.
UIDN pantry offerings.
UIDN pantry volunteers.
UIDN pantry volunteers.

Photos by Amy Wu.

1. Volunteer Pantry Assistant (Onsite)

Commitment: Four Wednesdays a month, 2 p.m. until 6 or 7 p.m.

Reports to: Volunteer Pantry Coordinator

Role Summary:

The Volunteer Pantry Assistant helps with the onsite operation of the pantry playing a vital role in supporting volunteer teams and welcoming community members who visit the pantry.

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist with market set-up, making volunteer assignments, supporting teams, answering questions, and welcoming suggestions.
  • Orient new volunteers to the operations of the market-style pantry.
  • Assist with overseeing the distribution of food, household goods, and children’s clothing.
  • Assist in supervising clean-up at the close of the market. Restock pantry shelves, recording inventory levels and expiration dates.
  • Keep storage and work areas clean, safe, and well-organized, following local health codes and food safety guidelines.
  • Share constructive comments from volunteers with the coordinator.

Skills & Qualities We’re Looking For:

  • Reliable, organized, and friendly.
  • Comfortable lifting boxes (up to 40 lbs) and standing for periods of time.
  • Work well with others in a team setting.
  • Treat all visitors and fellow volunteers with kindness and respect.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required
  • Interest in helping neighbors and supporting food security in our community.

2. Volunteer Inventory & Ordering Assistant (Remote)

Commitment: 5-8 hours per week of flexible remote work with occasional in-person check-ins or pantry visits.

Reports to: Volunteer Pantry Coordinator

Role Summary:

The Volunteer Inventory & Ordering Assistant helps the pantry stay organized by managing basic spreadsheets and tracking what comes in and out of our food supply. Working from home, this volunteer ensures our pantry has the right items in stock and assists with ordering supplies when needed.

What You’ll Do:

  • Keep simple inventory spreadsheets up to date.
  • Record donation and distribution information shared by onsite volunteers.
  • Coordinate with food suppliers, and colleagues to create and submit orders weekly.
  • Recommend culturally relevant food items for our community when possible.

Skills & Qualities We’re Looking For:

  • Comfortable using Excel spreadsheets.
  • Detail-oriented and organized.
  • Reliable communication and follow-up.
  • Works independently and keeps good records.
  • Interest in food access, community support, or nonprofit service.