Make a Difference in Your Community

Reading, Pennsylvania is a city built on the strength of its people—and there’s no better way to connect with your neighbors and make a meaningful impact than by volunteering. Whether you’re passionate about helping others, supporting local causes, or simply want to give back, there are countless ways to get involved throughout the community.

Featured Volunteer Organizations

Berks Encore – Focus: Meals on Wheels Delivery to Seniors
Due to an increased number of homebound seniors, volunteers are needed to deliver meals using their own vehicles. Shifts are available weekdays between 9:30 a.m. and noon from six locations across Berks County. View Opportunity

Big Brothers Big Sisters – Focus: Club of Unmatched Littles (COUL) Activities
Perfect for volunteers with limited time. Attend at least six group activities per year for children awaiting one-on-one mentorship. Activities are fun, educational, and designed to build life skills. View Opportunity

Connections Work – Focus: Pardon Coach Volunteer
Help individuals with past convictions apply for pardons, empowering them to move beyond barriers to jobs, housing, and more. Volunteers assist with storytelling and application essays. View Opportunity

NAMI Berks County – Focus: Office and Event Support
Assist with mailings, organizing brochures, copying program materials, preparing for events, and sorting merchandise. Bilingual skills are a plus. View Opportunity

Reading Area Firefighters Museum – Focus: Documentation Assistant
Support the museum by entering item data into their software system using information provided by curators. Flexible scheduling, including Thursday and Saturday mornings. View Opportunity

Reading Science Center – Focus: Visitor Engagement and Support
Greet guests, assist with ticketing, guide crowd flow, and answer questions. Volunteers should be customer-service oriented and able to multitask in a dynamic learning environment. View Opportunity

Hope Rescue Mission – Focus: Kitchen Helpers at Hope and LightHouse
Serve meals or donate ingredients for 250+ individuals daily. Volunteers can help cook, serve food, bus tables, or clean. Shifts available every day of the week.
Website: hopeforreading.org/volunteer-opportunities
Contact: Sheri Golembiewski, volunteer@hopeforreading.org | 610-375-4224 x205

VOiCEup Berks – Focus: Youth-Led Service Learning Projects
Empowers youth to lead service initiatives that promote equity and positive change in the community. Ideal for students looking to make an impact through hands-on projects.
Website: voiceupberks.org

Why Volunteer in Reading?

Volunteering not only benefits those in need, but it also enriches your own life. By offering your time and skills, you’ll:

• Build stronger connections with your community.
• Learn new skills or apply your talents in meaningful ways.
• Support causes that make Reading a better place to live for everyone.

From lending a hand at local shelters to helping out at community events, there’s something for everyone.

Types of Volunteer Opportunities

Here are some of the most common ways residents can volunteer in and around Reading:

1. Food Pantries & Meal Services

• Help prepare or distribute meals to those in need.
• Assist with food drives and pantry organization.

2. Community Clean-Ups & Beautification

• Join efforts to clean parks, plant gardens, or revitalize public spaces.
• Participate in seasonal citywide clean-up days.

3. Youth & Mentoring Programs

• Support local schools, after-school programs, or mentoring initiatives.
• Help with tutoring, coaching, or arts programs.

4. Animal Shelters

• Assist with the care of animals at local shelters or adoption events.
• Volunteer for fundraising events or awareness campaigns.

5. Senior Services

• Spend time with seniors through companionship programs.
• Help with transportation or assist at local senior centers.

6. Special Events & Festivals

• Volunteer at local fairs, races, and community events.
• Support event logistics, setup, and hospitality.

Stay Updated on New Opportunities

Reading Magazine features new and ongoing volunteer initiatives at the top of this page. Be sure to check back regularly, or follow us on social media for the latest updates on how you can get involved.

Submit a Volunteer Opportunity

Are you part of an organization looking for volunteers? Contact us here to have your opportunity featured on this page.