Richmond’s volunteer culture reflects the city’s combination of historic institutions, river conservation organizations, and a growing community that values civic engagement. The compact geography means volunteer opportunities are close to wherever you live. Here’s how to get involved.
Food Security Organizations
FeedMore (formerly the Central Virginia Food Bank and Meals on Wheels of Central Virginia) is the region’s primary hunger-relief organization. Volunteers sort and pack food at the distribution center, deliver Meals on Wheels to seniors and homebound individuals, and assist at community food distributions. The Meals on Wheels program is particularly meaningful — volunteers build personal connections with recipients through regular delivery routes.
Richmond Food Hub works with local farms and food producers to increase food access in underserved communities. Volunteers assist with food distribution, community events, and the organization’s kitchen programs.
Housing and Community Development
Richmond Habitat for Humanity builds and renovates homes throughout the metro. The organization’s work in Richmond’s historically underinvested neighborhoods — Church Hill, East End, Highland Park — provides both housing and community development impact.
Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity’s A Brush with Kindness program provides exterior painting and home repair for homeowners who can’t afford the work — a volunteer opportunity that creates visible neighborhood improvement.
Youth and Education
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Richmond matches mentors with youth from across the metro. Communities In Schools of Richmond provides support services in Richmond Public Schools, and volunteers serve as mentors, tutors, and classroom assistants.
ReadRVA focuses on childhood literacy, training volunteers to serve as reading coaches in elementary schools.
River and Environmental
James River Association is one of Richmond’s most important environmental organizations, coordinating river cleanups, watershed education, and advocacy for the James River — the natural resource that defines the city’s identity. The annual James River Cleanup is one of Richmond’s largest volunteer events.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden welcomes volunteers for garden maintenance, educational programming, and special events. The garden’s community programs serve diverse populations across the metro.
How to Find Opportunities
HandsOn Greater Richmond serves as the region’s volunteer clearinghouse, and United Way of Greater Richmond and Petersburg coordinates community-wide campaigns and volunteer matching. The annual Richmond Day of Giving provides a structured entry point for newcomers.
For more on Richmond community life, explore our free things to do guide and best neighborhoods.