Volunteer Opportunities

"Let us more and more insist on raising funds of love, of kindness, of understanding, of peace. "

- Mother Teresa

The volunteer program at Wesley Acres is an integral part of the retirement community with the purpose of engaging residents, their families, staff and the greater Des Moines community.

Below is a list of volunteer opportunities. Please review the list to select an opportunity that interests you and contact Susan Skinner.

Current Volunteer Opportunities

Friendly Visitor 8a.m. – 8p.m. Monday – Friday	Visit regularly with a resident. We will match you with a resident so you can develop a friendship; read/write mail, learn about mutual interests, share experiences, attend entertainment programs on campus. Please plan on a one-year commitment with weekly or bi-weekly visits.
Browse and Buy 10a.m. - 3p.m. Monday - Friday	Assist in a “department store” featuring previously owned merchandise. Help with pricing, stocking and selling.
Computer Training Flexible days and hours	Assist residents with email, word processing, digital photos and other computer programs.
Gather & Gab 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Monday – Friday 2 - 4 p.m. Monday-Sunday and Holidays	Serve hot chocolate, coffee and free ice cream to residents and volunteers. Sell personal and grocery and gift items. A social “hub” for everyone at Wesley Acres.
Greenhouse Seasonal & flexible times	Help tend to indoor flower and plant care, outdoor gardens and grounds.
Hospitality	Help with birthday parties, socials, special events and holiday parties.
Music Flexible days and hours	Play the piano or lead a group singing hymns or familiar songs. We always welcome weekly singers/piano players for Wednesday chapel (4:15 p.m.) and Sunday worship service (9:45 a.m.)
Read Newspapers 1:00 p.m. Monday - Friday	Read the paper to residents in the Health Center and Assisted Living.
Bingo Flexible days and hours	Assist with Bingo in Assisted Living, John’s Harbor Memory Support and Health Center.
Animal Assisted Therapy Flexible days and hours	Make visits with your certified pet therapy dog. All dogs must be certified through TDI or Delta Society.