Helping Hands Volunteer Program

The United Way of Southeast Arkansas's "Helping Hands" program is a community-driven initiative aimed at providing assistance and support to those in need within the region. With a volunteer base predominantly composed of mature individuals, the program embodies the spirit of compassion and service that is essential for fostering a strong and resilient community.

This program emphasizes the United Way's commitment to addressing various needs within the community, recognizing that assistance comes in many forms beyond just financial aid. Whether it's offering a helping hand, providing companionship to seniors, or organizing community events, "Helping Hands" strives to make a positive impact in numerous ways.

Volunteerism plays a crucial role in the success of initiatives like "Helping Hands," particularly in a small community where resources may be limited. By leveraging the time, skills, and dedication of volunteers, the program not only extends its reach but also strengthens community bonds and fosters a sense of unity and belonging among residents.

Through the collective efforts of volunteers and the United Way, the "Helping Hands" program embodies the transformative power of community involvement, demonstrating that together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.

1.  Food distribution:  Our volunteers will work at food distribution sites for low-income persons at risk of food insecurity.  United Way Helping Hand volunteers will perform the daily operations including some or all of the following:  food distribution, stocking shelves, registering clients, and packaging food.
2. Food Pantry Support:  In an effort to meet the demand, local food pantries, local community action groups together with local area agencies will join together to explore ways to combine efforts to feed and educate the low-income and senior families in need of emergency assistance.  The collaborative effort is seen as a community effort to address food insecurity in Jefferson County through direct service, education, and advocacy.
3. Helping Hands volunteers are committed to reducing, reusing, repurposing, and recycling.  Volunteers may assist the recycling center site by managing various duties, such as assisting patrons and keeping sites clean.  Volunteers will work at community outreach events that collect items such as old eyeglasses and prescription drugs.  Our volunteers will also help to educate the public through local radio station programs and newspaper articles on the importance of recycling.
4. Day of Service Reading Program:  Helping Hands volunteers will participate in a reading program in elementary schools to educate the children on the importance of giving back to their communities.    This service will be focused on three (3) specific days:  September 11^th, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Earth Day.

Helping Hand's objectives are to meet critical community needs and provide a high-quality experience that will enrich the lives of our volunteers and provide needed services to non-profit organizations