King County — Today, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced the launch of Volunteer Corps, a new program led by his administration that aims to harness the power of motivated residents to meet the pressing needs of the county and local non-profit organizations.
As part of his Be in Community value, Volunteer Corps will connect King County nonprofits with a dedicated network of residents who are ready to volunteer and help meet time-sensitive needs. The program will make it easier for organizations to reach people who want to give back while creating more opportunities for residents to participate in their communities through service activities.
“The Volunteer Corps aims to capture the incredible spirit of service that exists throughout our region and turn it into meaningful opportunities to give back,” said Executive Zahilay. “We’ve seen firsthand how much King County residents want to show up, lend a hand, and make a difference. From helping neighbors in times of need to restoring the natural places that we cherish, volunteers bring their time, energy, and compassion to the challenges our communities face. By connecting ready and willing volunteers with local nonprofits and organizations that have immediate needs, the Volunteer Corps creates a bridge between people who want to help and the organizations doing vital work on the ground every day.”
How Volunteer Corps Works
Residents who wish to respond to local needs can join the Volunteer Corps by registering their email address at the Volunteer Corps website.
When local organizations have urgent or time-sensitive volunteer needs, they can submit a request for a Call to Action on the Volunteer Corps website. Selected opportunities will then be shared directly with the list of subscribers, helping organizations quickly connect with residents who are ready to help.
The program will help residents find consistent volunteer opportunities that match their interests, skills, and availability, while helping local organizations reach people who are eager to contribute their time.
Regional Day of Service on October 17
As part of his effort to expand volunteerism, Executive Zahilay is also announcing a Regional Day of Service and inviting residents to join him at Duwamish Alive! on Saturday, October 17 for a day of making an impact through stewardship of the Duwamish River Watershed.
Celebrating its 20th year, Duwamish Alive! features volunteer events throughout the watershed with community partners, including a site hosted by King County Parks at White Center Heights Park. This year’s volunteer activities include kayak river cleanups, planting native plants, and removing non-native species to improve this vital waterway for people and wildlife.
Through Volunteer Corps and the Regional Days of Service, King County is creating opportunities for civic engagement through volunteering, helping residents feel more connected to their communities and to one another.
What People Are Saying
Alissa Humbert, Volunteer Coordinator, OSL Serves
“Through OSL Serves, we’ve seen firsthand how much our community wants to show up and serve when there is a meaningful opportunity to help. The Volunteer Corps Initiative gives organizations like ours an exciting new way to mobilize that spirit of service, connecting ready and willing volunteers with local nonprofits where support is needed and appreciated. OSL is thrilled for the opportunity to be part of an initiative that makes it easier for people to contribute their time and talent.”
Dana Fialdini, Director of Philanthropy, Akin
“At Akin, we see every day how much our community wants to show up for children and families. The Volunteer Corps will create a meaningful bridge between community who want to help and nonprofits with immediate, time-sensitive needs. We are excited about the opportunity to connect more people with meaningful ways to serve their community and support families when they need it most.”