As everyone starts to settle into the 2025 winter semester, welcome the new year by giving back to the community. From donating clothing and food, to volunteering around OU, there are several opportunities for community service, whether it’s for volunteer hours or just for fun.
For a head start on giving back to the community in 2025, check out these volunteer opportunities happening around the Oakland University community.
Meadow Brook Hall
For those interested in the Meadow Brook Estate, Meadow Brook Hall offers several volunteer opportunities such as giving tours, hosting events, catering, gardening and more. The estate welcomes volunteers who are interested in the history and architecture of the building, and those who are unfamiliar with the estate. To apply, fill out their volunteer application form online. meadowbrookhall.org.
OUCARES
The Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services, also known as OUCARES, is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people living with Autism. OUCARES offers programs involving holiday events, sports, employable skills and social skills, and the volunteers help make these programs possible. To apply, go through a national background check, and fill out their online form. oakland.edu.
Golden Grizzlies Pantry
Oakland University has its own free food and clothing pantry for all members of the Oakland University community. Volunteers can help with sorting, cleaning, inventory and other duties needed at the pantry. Looking to donate instead? Golden Grizzlies Pantry accepts non-perishable food items, refrigerated perishables, hygiene products, OU spirit-wear and business casual clothing. To apply, submit the volunteer agreement form. To donate, make an appointment by emailing [email protected], or calling 248-370-2731. oakland.edu.
Alternative Spring Break
Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a non-profit student led organization that works on community service projects around the country during spring break. This year, OU will be going to Kissimmee, Florida, to volunteer at Give Kids the World Village — a village where children with terminal illnesses can experience a special week away from the hospital visits and medical procedures. To apply, check out ASB’s GrizzOrgs page and fill out the ASB trip interest form. gktw.org.
Over the course of the winter semester, the Office for Student Involvement (OSI) will be hosting several volunteering events on and off campus. Jean Ann Miller, the senior director for the OSI, explains her reason why it’s a good idea to volunteer during this upcoming winter semester.
“It’s a new year, so it could be a new year’s resolution to give back to the community, locally or globally,” Miller said. “It makes you feel good and we’re doing good for others that are in need of assistance.”
For students who want to volunteer and none of the above events work with your schedule, the OSI can set up projects to count towards volunteer hours.
“If students are looking for something, and they have an hour or two to spend in our office, the OSI can set up projects,” Miller said. “We have projects that are readily available if you need a couple hours to submit to your classes.”
For more on other volunteer opportunities coming in the Winter 2025 semester, visit the OSI GrizzOrgs page for more information.
