Individual Volunteer Opportunities

COVID-19 update: At this time we do not recommend that seniors (65+) or anyone with a chronic health condition volunteer. If you are sick please cancel your shift – any volunteer that is showing signs of illness will be asked to leave and return when well. For more information on how we’re keeping our facilities and distributions safe, click here.

We need people like you

Thank you for your interest in volunteering for Second Harvest. We couldn’t do what we do without the generous support of people like you. Below are the ways you can help.

Court-ordered community service hours: Before registering and starting your volunteer service, you must apply for pre-approval.

Sort food in our warehouse

Help us sort and box the fresh produce and healthy groceries we provide to neighbors in our community. Shifts are available at our Cypress Center in San Jose.

Sort food

Distribute food to the community

Help your neighbors get the nutritious food they need by volunteering at one of our community food distributions. They are located in nearly every neighborhood in Silicon Valley.

Distribute food

Host a virtual food drive

Virtual food drives – a.k.a. fundraisers – are a great way to support the cause. Create a customized fundraising page, spread the word and raise critical support.

Organize a drive

Volunteer on a regular basis

We rely on committed, dedicated volunteers who can support our efforts on an ongoing basis, both at distribution sites and in our warehouse. Make a difference by becoming a recurring volunteer.

Learn more and apply

Share resources and nutrition education

Spread the word about our services and other food resources. Help clients learn about how nutritious food can improve their lives and ways to incorporate the food they receive from us in everyday recipes.

Inform and educate

Join us for the Turkey Trot

The race will be virtual this year! We still need volunteers to prepare remote runner packets and to assist at Sports Basement’s socially distant EXPO. There won’t be any opportunities on Thanksgiving Day this year.

Registration opens October 17

Help out in our office

If you like working in a friendly office environment, there are a number of opportunities available. Our highest need is for front desk and light admin coverage. Click below for openings or email Alicia Ontai at aontai@shfb.org.

Help us in the office

Are you a returning volunteer?

Go to the calendar

Need to cancel or change your registration?

Go to your personal page

Have questions about volunteering?

Read our FAQs