Bellingham, Washington, is a city that thrives on community spirit and civic engagement. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident looking to give back, there are countless ways to make a meaningful difference in our community. From environmental stewardship to supporting vulnerable populations, volunteer opportunities in Bellingham offer something for everyone.
Why Volunteer in Bellingham?
Volunteering enriches both the community and the volunteer. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded neighbors, develop new skills, and contribute to causes you care about. Bellingham’s strong volunteer culture means you’ll be joining a network of dedicated individuals working together to make our city a better place for all.
Where to Start: The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County
The best place to begin your volunteer journey is the Volunteer Center of Whatcom County. This organization serves as a hub connecting volunteers with nonprofit agencies across the county.
Website:whatcomvolunteer.org
Browse their online portal to discover opportunities that match your interests, availability, and skills. The center regularly updates their listings and provides accessible volunteer opportunities for people of all abilities.
Parks and Environmental Stewardship
Bellingham Parks Volunteer Program
The City of Bellingham Parks Department hosts regular community work parties throughout the year, offering hands-on opportunities to maintain and enhance our beautiful parks and natural areas.
Current Opportunities:
- Saturday work parties at various locations including Sehome Arboretum, Cornwall Park, Cordata Park, Whatcom Falls Park, and more
- Volunteer Park Steward positions for ongoing park maintenance
- Typically held 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Saturdays or 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM for select locations
How to Get Involved: Visit volunteerbellingham.org to view the complete schedule and register for upcoming work parties. The work is accessible for most fitness levels and provides a great way to enjoy the outdoors while contributing to our community green spaces.
Contact: Check the website for the most current volunteer coordinator contact information.
Helping Those in Need
Bellingham Food Bank
The Bellingham Food Bank relies on at least 140 volunteers each week to provide free, high-quality groceries to community members in need.
Volunteer Requirements:
- Must be at least 16 years old for most positions (18+ for home delivery program)
- Available for the entirety of a shift (no shift begins after 1:45 PM)
- Able to perform standing, bending, lifting, and twisting
- Shifts available Monday-Friday (no weekend opportunities)
How to Apply:
- Complete the volunteer interest form at bellinghamfoodbank.org/volunteer
- You’ll receive an auto-reply confirmation
- Within a week, staff will review your application and invite compatible applicants to a 1-hour virtual orientation
Contact:
- General inquiries: [email protected] or (360) 676-0392
- Volunteer coordinator: [email protected]
- Group opportunities: Contact Melanie at [email protected]
Location: 1824 Ellis Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
Lighthouse Mission Ministries
Since 1923, Lighthouse Mission has provided shelter, meals, and compassionate services to people experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County, operating 24/7, 365 days a year.
Volunteer Opportunities:
- Meal service and kitchen support
- Front desk assistance
- Facilities maintenance
- Special events and community outreach
- Various support roles at Base Camp and recovery programs
Age Requirements:
- Not all opportunities are available for volunteers under 18
- Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
How to Get Involved: Contact Director of Community Engagement Bailee Barz:
- Phone: (360) 733-5120 ext. 107
- Email: [email protected]
Location: Base Camp at 1312 F Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
Opportunity Council
Opportunity Council offers diverse volunteer opportunities aimed at ending poverty and creating a more equitable community.
Programs Seeking Volunteers:
Maple Alley Inn – A free homestyle hot meal program welcoming all community members
Volunteer Chore Program – Help seniors and adults with disabilities remain independent through housekeeping, grocery shopping, yard work, dog walking, and transportation to medical appointments. Create your own schedule based on your availability and preferred services.
Economic Security for All (EcSA) Mentors – Volunteer 5 hours per month to help participants develop financial goals and provide social and emotional support
East Whatcom Regional Resource Center (EWRRC) – Located at 8251 Kendall Road in Maple Falls, offering volunteer opportunities for events and ongoing center assistance
How to Apply: Visit oppco.org/howtohelp/volunteer to learn more about specific roles and apply online.
Animal Welfare
Whatcom Humane Society
Whatcom Humane Society operates three facilities caring for approximately 4,500 domestic, wild, and farm animals annually, including a domestic animal shelter, wildlife rehabilitation center, and farm facility.
How to Get Started:
- Read through volunteer requirements online
- Complete the volunteer application at whatcomhumane.org/volunteer
- Follow the “How to Get Started” steps provided on their website
Contact:
- Phone: (360) 733-2080
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: 2172 Division Street, Bellingham, WA 98226
Alternative Humane Society
The Alternative Humane Society is a 100% volunteer organization with no paid staff or physical shelter. All animals are kept in foster homes.
Volunteer Opportunities:
- Foster home volunteers
- Case managers for adoption coordination
- Community event support
- Administrative assistance
How to Apply:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: alternativehumanesociety.com/volunteer
- General Contact: [email protected] or (360) 671-7445
Mailing Address: PO Box 2321, Bellingham, WA 98227
Healthcare and Hospice
Whatcom Hospice
Whatcom Hospice provides compassionate end-of-life care and bereavement support services to Whatcom County residents.
Volunteer Roles:
Indirect Care Volunteers (3 hours of training)
- Delivery services
- Sewing quilts and teddy bears
- Knitting/crocheting comfort shawls
- Landscaping
- Singing and other non-patient activities
Caregiver Volunteers (32 hours of training)
- Respite care in patients’ homes
- Companionship and visiting
- Meal assistance
- Light chores and driving
Camp Kaleidoscope Volunteers (14 hours of training)
- Support for grieving children ages 6-12 at weekend camp
- Big Buddy roles
- Activity support
- Pet therapy (for certified therapy dog teams)
Info Session Schedule: Check their website for upcoming volunteer information sessions, typically held monthly.
Contact:
- Volunteer Coordinator: Amie Carr at [email protected]
- Website: whatcomhospice.org/volunteer
- Address: 2901 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98225
Youth Development and Recreation
Whatcom Family YMCA
The YMCA offers volunteer opportunities that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Current Opportunities:
- Ambassadors – Create welcoming environment, light cleaning, flexible hours
- Girls on the Run Coach – Coach girls grades 3-5, 8-week season (April-June)
- Child Watch Volunteer – Play with children during parent workout times, Monday-Friday 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (pick your schedule)
- Rock Climbing Belay Assistant – Support during youth classes and events, training provided
- Fitness Class Volunteer Instructor – Lead specialized classes (past classes include juggling, belly dancing)
- Family Adventure Guide – Help families explore the outdoors
Application Process:
- Review current opportunities at whatcomymca.org/volunteerism-giving
- Complete the online volunteer application in Paycom
- Complete background check and child abuse prevention training
- Connect with your program supervisor
Contact:
- Volunteer Coordinator: Jillian Politz, Volunteer and Community Enrichment Coordinator
- Phone: (360) 733-8630
- Location: 1256 N State Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
Wild Whatcom
Wild Whatcom connects children with nature through outdoor education programs.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Field Volunteer (Weekday) – Work with K-2 students in the Neighborhood Nature program, Monday-Thursday 2:00-5:00 PM. Commitment: once weekly for a three-month season (Fall, Winter, or Spring)
Field Volunteer (Weekend) – Support grades 2-3 in Explorers Club, weekends 9:30 AM-2:30 PM. Commitment: once monthly for eight outings (September-June)
Committee Volunteers:
- Fundraising Committee (monthly meetings)
- Finance Committee (monthly meetings)
- Grant Writing Committee (remote, 1-2 times quarterly)
- Community Outreach – event tabling, posting flyers, preparing materials
Orientation Schedule: Volunteer orientations held up to three times per year. Check website for upcoming dates.
How to Apply: Complete the volunteer form at wildwhatcom.org/volunteer
Contact:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (360) 389-3414 or 711 (TTY/WA Relay)
- Address: 1015 Girard Street, Bellingham (across from WTA bus stop)
Senior Services
Bellingham Senior Activity Center
The Bellingham Senior Activity Center, operated by Whatcom Council on Aging, offers programs for people age 50 and over, including over 100 activities each month.
Volunteer Opportunities: While specific volunteer roles vary, the center welcomes volunteers to support various programs, classes, and events that serve the senior community.
Contact: Visit whatcomcoa.org/bellingham-senior-activity-center for current information on volunteer opportunities and membership.
Library Support
Friends of the Bellingham Public Library
The Friends of the Bellingham Public Library is a nonprofit organization that supports the library primarily through fundraising via book sales.
How to Get Involved: Visit the Friends of the Bellingham Public Library webpage or check with the Volunteer Center of Whatcom County for current opportunities.
General Library Volunteer Information: Visit bellinghampubliclibrary.org/volunteer or the City of Bellingham volunteering page for more information.
Tips for Successful Volunteering
- Start with your passion – Choose opportunities that align with your interests and values
- Be realistic about time – Consider your schedule and commit to what you can sustain
- Ask questions – Don’t hesitate to reach out to volunteer coordinators with questions
- Be patient – Background checks and training may take time, but they ensure safety for everyone
- Stay flexible – Organizations’ needs may shift, and being adaptable makes you a valuable volunteer
- Communicate – If your availability changes, let your coordinator know as soon as possible
Accessible Volunteer Opportunities
Many Bellingham organizations are committed to accessibility and welcome volunteers with disabilities. The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County maintains a list of accessible opportunities, including information about:
- Physical accessibility (parking, ramps, restrooms)
- Sensory-friendly environments
- Opportunities for volunteers using mobility aids
- Remote or flexible options
Visit whatcomvolunteer.org/accessible-volunteer-opportunities for detailed information.
Making the Most of Your Volunteer Experience
Volunteering in Bellingham isn’t just about giving back—it’s about becoming part of a compassionate, engaged community working together toward common goals. Whether you have two hours a month or ten hours a week, there’s a place for you in Bellingham’s vibrant volunteer network.
The connections you make, the skills you develop, and the knowledge that you’re making a real difference in people’s lives make volunteering one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in our community.
Ready to get started? Choose an organization that resonates with you, reach out to their volunteer coordinator, and take that first step. Bellingham’s community is waiting to welcome you!
For the most current information on volunteer opportunities and to discover additional organizations seeking volunteers, visit the Volunteer Center of Whatcom County at whatcomvolunteer.org or call (360) 733-5120.
