Lend A Hand In Apple Valley: Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Near You

The holiday season is about more than lights and celebrations — it’s also a meaningful time to give back and make a difference right here at home. We’ve rounded up a few organizations in and around Apple Valley that could use a helping hand this season. This isn’t an all-inclusive list, but a starting point — be sure to contact each group directly to learn about their current needs, requirements and how you can best support their efforts.

360 Communities

360 Communities supports safety, stability and long-term well-being for families across Dakota County through programs that address domestic violence, food insecurity, housing challenges and school success. Volunteers stock shelves at local food shelves, support families at the Lewis House shelter, mentor students, organize donation drives, assist at community events or help lead neighborhood initiatives that strengthen the region.
Learn more: 360communities.org/volunteer

Apple Valley Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

Apple Valley Beyond the Yellow Ribbon assists local military members, veterans and their families with practical short-term support when everyday needs become overwhelming. Those interested in supporting can assist with a range of activities, including but not limited to home maintenance and repairs, transportation to appointments, financial or legal guidance and respite care.
Learn more: applevalleybeyondtheyellowribbon.org/Volunteer.cfm

DARTS

DARTS supports older adults and caregivers across the southeast metro with programs that promote independence, connection and everyday stability. Featured volunteer opportunities include The Breathing Space group respite program, where volunteers provide companionship to individuals with early to mid-stage memory loss, and Fall Yard Cleanup, which pairs groups with older homeowners who need help preparing their yards for winter.
Learn more: dartsconnects.org/volunteer

Lifeworks

Lifeworks partners with people with disabilities to expand access to community life, employment and daily enrichment throughout Minnesota. The organization is seeking volunteers to engage individuals in one-to-one or small-group settings. In the Apple Valley location, you can volunteer to spend time with small groups during local community outings.
Learn more: lifeworks.org/volunteer

Pet Haven

Minneapolis-based Pet Haven is the state’s oldest foster-based rescue, creating safe futures for cats and dogs. As a volunteer, you can assist with animal care and adoption prep, write pet bios, support intake coordination, help with training programs, manage front desk shifts, clean cat rooms or even foster animals needing a temporary home.
Learn more: pethavenmn.org/volunteer

Reaching Up

Reaching Up is an Eagan-based organization that strengthens students academically and socially through after-school enrichment and community engagement. Volunteers can tutor children one-on-one, help with reading and math practice, assist with activities or serve as van drivers transporting students between school and program sites during weekday afternoons.
Learn more: reachingupmn.org/volunteer

Rosemount Area Arts Council (RAAC)

RAAC strengthens the Rosemount community by bringing people together through theater, music, visual arts and year-round cultural events. Volunteers can support the arts by helping plan and run events, assisting with publicity and communications, or managing behind-the-scenes needs like costumes, props, set support and technical equipment.
Learn more: rosemountarts.com/volunteer

Whether you volunteer for an hour or all season long, your time can make a real difference right here in Apple Valley.

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