Between late-night study sessions, part-time gigs, and maintaining a social life, you’re already juggling a lot. But here’s a little secret: volunteering can fit right into your busy life—and it’s worth it. Not only do you get to make a difference, but you’ll also meet cool people, pick up new skills, and maybe even snag a standout story for your next job interview. Plus, volunteering looks great on an academic CV when applying for graduate school.
Luckily, Provo’s got a tight-knit community vibe and plenty of opportunities that are perfect for students like you. Ready to jump in? Let’s explore some awesome ways to get involved.
1. Feed the Community with Provo Food Banks
Love food and helping out? Community Action Services and Food Bank is your spot. Volunteer at their food pantries weekdays sorting donations or packing boxes, or take an overnight shift at the warming centers (October-April) to support folks in need. Got green thumbs? Join seasonal community garden projects. Other cool roles include mentoring or helping with childcare. Solo volunteers can drop in during the day, while groups are welcome at 2 pm M-F or 6:30-8:30 pm Wednesdays.
- Time Commitment: 2-4 hours for pantry shifts; overnight for warming centers
- Perks: Team vibes, hands-on impact, and maybe some gardening swag
- How to Start: Sign up online at their Volunteer Hub on communityactionprovo.org—just pick your area (pantry, warming center, garden, etc.) and go!
2. Get Involved with Utah County Service Projects
If you’re into variety, Utah County Volunteer Services has something for every college student. Love the outdoors? Join the Search and Rescue team with the Sheriff’s Office to assist in emergencies (think rugged terrain and hero vibes). Prefer helping kids? Volunteer at the Children’s Justice Center or serve as a tutor/mentor through the Senior Volunteers program (open to all ages, despite the name). You can also flex your skills with the Health Department—think Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) for health buffs, or youth-focused gigs like Outrage Youth Group and Communities That Care (CTC). Bonus: Become a Poll Worker or Election Judge for a paid gig that fits your schedule.
- Time Commitment: Varies—some are one-off events, others ongoing (like 2-4 hours/week)
- Perks: Real-world experience, community cred, and maybe some cash (poll workers!)
- How to Start: Head to hr.utahcounty.gov/volunteering for applications and details. Some roles, like Search and Rescue, need training—check the Sheriff’s Office site too.
3. Help Out at the Provo City Library
Want to make a difference indoors? The Provo City Library thrives on volunteers—hundreds of hours each month—and they’d love your help. College students can support fun stuff like Children’s programming, assist with special projects in Technical Services or Community Relations, or even manage a Super Smash Bros Tournament (March 22, 2-4 pm). Other gigs include cleaning STEM toys and boxes or dusting shelves—flexible hours after a quick training.
- Time Commitment: 1-3 hours per week (some roles are super flexible)
- Perks: Build skills, hang out in a cozy library, and maybe level up your Smash Bros cred
- How to Start: Grab a Volunteer Application online or at the 1st Floor Reference Desk in the Rogers Wing. Return it there or mail it to the Volunteer Coordinator. Note: You must be 14+, and under-18s need a Parental Consent Form. Allow 2-3 weeks for processing (background check included), and they’ll call you to kick things off.
- Heads Up: Smile, be prompt, wear a badge, and stick to the dress code (no ripped jeans or flip-flops). Track your hours by signing in and out. No court-ordered service accepted.
4. Join BYU’s Service Clubs (Even If You’re Not at BYU!)
Brigham Young University’s Y-Serve program is a goldmine for volunteer gigs—and you don’t always have to be a Cougar to join in. From building homes with Habitat for Humanity to crafting care kits for shelters, there’s something for everyone. Non-BYU students can often tag along through community partnerships.
- Time Commitment: Varies (one-time events or ongoing)
- Perks: Resume boost, tons of student energy, and free pizza (occasionally)
- How to Start: Visit Y-Serve’s website or connect with a friend at BYU.
- Pro Tips for Student Volunteers
- Start Small: Even an hour a month counts.
- Track It: Log your hours for scholarships, CVs, or resumes.
- Have Fun: Pick something you’re into—passion makes it feel less like “work.”
Volunteering in Provo isn’t just about giving back—it’s about growing, connecting, and adding some purpose to your college years. Whether you’re sorting canned goods, planting trees, or reading with kids, you’re shaping this community (and yourself) for the better. So, what’s your vibe? Pick a spot, sign up, and let’s make some good happen—Provo style.
