Compiled by Kelly Martin, ASID, RID

 Volunteer Opportunities in East Alabama (Montgomery, Auburn/Opelika)

There are many nonprofit organizations in East Alabama that need volunteers, so please note that the list below is in no way, exhaustive; however, a variety of organizations have been selected that may be of particular interest to our ASID Alabama members:

Looking for opportunities to give back in Montgomery?

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)

MMFA is looking for volunteers. There is a training program for docents who lead regular tours, and there are other opportunities to help behind-the-scenes. The museum needs volunteers to help office staff with programs and events and to help with a variety of needs surrounding art festivals, fundraisers, and other events held throughout the year. Click the link to sign up: https://mmfa.org/support/volunteer/

Society of Arts and Crafts (SAC’s)

The mission of this volunteer-only organization is, “the advancement of art education and art appreciation for all ages and stages of life.” They work toward this mission by offering art and craft classes, sponsoring art shows and competitions, and providing local artists with an outlet for their work in the organization’s gallery. Since this organization has no paid employees, volunteers are needed for everything from planning shows, giving demonstrations at local nursing homes or assisted living and schools, painting screens for events, doing graphic work, photography of art, etc. To sign up click the link:  https://sacs.gallery/join-sacs/volunteers/

Montgomery Ballet

You may be familiar with the performances offered by the Montgomery Ballet, but another arm of this organization supports local children by offering low cost or no-cost classes, which has led to some local children who may not otherwise have been exposed to dance, being accepted to magnet schools. To donate to this organization, click here: https://montgomeryballet.org/donate/ Volunteers are also needed throughout the year for help with cleaning, painting the facility, taking inventory, and keeping records. Click here to sign up as a volunteer: https://montgomeryballet.org/volunteer/

Alabama Shakespeare Festival

The Alabama Shakespeare Festival is known throughout the state for its outstanding performance offerings. Volunteers are needed for working the gift shop, helping patrons find their seat, helping when school groups visit for matinee shows, and more. As a benefit to volunteers, working four shows earns them a set of complimentary tickets! To sign up, click this link: https://asf.net/support/volunteer/

Cloverdale Playhouse: The Elizabeth Crump Theater

This community theater “is dedicated to presenting entertaining, challenging, and innovative theatrical productions, as well as Special Performances, a regular music series, and educational programs to enhance the cultural life of the city of Montgomery and the surrounding River Region.” Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks, sewing costumes, working on props, painting backdrops, and more. View this list of opportunities https://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/volunteer and reach out this email address to volunteer: volunteer@cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Looking for opportunities to give back in Auburn/Opelika?

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a well-known nonprofit housing organization. “Habitat’s vision is of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.” They work toward this vision by “building and improving homes in partnership with individuals and families in need of a decent and affordable place to live.” To volunteer for a variety of needs, visit this site: Get Involved – Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity You can also donate financially by clicking here: Donate – Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity

Opelika Art Haus

“Opelika Art Haus is a non profit organization located in Opelika, Alabama that operates by partnering with local and regional artists to build art as a foundation for community. Our vision is to create working studio space, gallery exhibits and educational opportunities for those who love and appreciate the arts.” Reach out via the contact form to indicate your interest in serving as a volunteer: https://opelikaarthaus.com/contact-us/ Donations are accepted via this site: https://opelikaarthaus.com/donate/

Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project

The Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project is housed in the Department of Psychology in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University. “The APAEP gives people incarcerated across the state of Alabama access to inclusive, student-centered spaces for creativity, exploration, and the cultivation of lifelong relationships with learning.” To volunteer, click here: https://apaep.auburn.edu/get-involved/assist.php Donations are accepted via this site: https://apaep.auburn.edu/donate/

Gogue Performing Arts Center

“The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University engages audiences across the University, the State of Alabama and beyond with curated arts experiences that inspire, enlighten and unite.” To give to the GPAC, with opportunities such as becoming a sponsor or naming a seat, click here: https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/