Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park

Daily in November | Multiple Shifts Available

Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park’s annual light show has been a Memphis family tradition for more than a decade – and it wouldn’t shine nearly as bright without volunteers. You can help greet guests, direct traffic, and spread cheer to visitors from all over the Mid-South. Every shift supports Shelby Farms Park and Greenline, helping to keep these beloved green spaces clean and safe.

Room in the Inn “Serving with a Smile” Lunch or Dinner

Daily | Multiple Shifts Available

Come help the staff of Room in the Inn in the kitchen! During these shifts, you will help set up, clean up, serve guests, and do a little bit of everything in between to offer up some Memphis hospitality with a smile! Your volunteer efforts help push forward their mission of sheltering those experiencing homelessness in a safe environment of hospitality.

Mid South Toys For Tots 2025

Wednesdays in November | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Want to make sure every child experiences the joy of the holidays? Volunteer with Mid-South Toys for Tots! Each week in November, volunteers unpack, count, sort, and bag toys for children ages 0 to 12. It’s the perfect way to combine the spirit of giving with the excitement of knowing your work will light up hundreds of little faces this season.

November Weed Wrangle on V&E Greenline

Saturday, November 8 | 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Looking for an excuse to get outdoors before winter sets in? Join your neighbors on the V&E Greenline and remove invasive plants that threaten the trail’s native trees and wildflowers, ensuring this Midtown treasure stays healthy and beautiful for everyone to enjoy. Gloves, tools, and guidance are provided; all you need to bring is energy, water, and a willingness to get your hands a little dirty.

Volunteer at the Girls on the Run Fall 5K

Sunday, November 9 | 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Girls on the Run Fall 5K is a celebration of empowerment, confidence, and community. As hundreds of girls cross the finish line after weeks of training, volunteers help make the day unforgettable. You can assist with setup, check-in, or even cheer from the sidelines. This noncompetitive event is all about fun, encouragement, and celebrating every girl’s pace.

VOLUNcheers! with Wolf River Conservancy

Wednesday, November 19  |  5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Raise a glass for good at this happy hour with a purpose! Each month, Volunteer Odyssey (Memphis’s hub for volunteer connection) spotlights a local nonprofit doing incredible work in our city. This month, we’re meeting on the Greenway to explore the story and impact of the Wolf River Conservancy and pitch in on a small project to support their mission. Connect with new friends, learn something new about your city, and sip local beer and wine while you give back.

Crop Drop 2025

Saturday, November 22 | Multiple Shifts Available

Crop Drop, hosted by Project Green Fork, Recover Food Feed Hope, and the Society of St. Andrew, delivers more than 40,000 pounds of locally donated sweet potatoes to Memphis-area nonprofits. Volunteers unload, bag, and distribute the spuds at this upbeat event. This is a hands-on way to fight hunger while celebrating one of fall’s most comforting foods.

Community Clean-Up With Memphis Rox

Saturday, November 22 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Round out your month of gratitude with Memphis Rox in Soulsville. Volunteers help clean up the neighborhood, picking up litter and beautifying streets and green spaces. Meet your neighbors, enjoy the fresh air, and make a tangible impact on one of Memphis’s most vibrant communities.

November reminds us to pause and give thanks – not just for what we have, but for the chance to give back. Your time and energy can make a real difference. 

Find even more ways to find your pathway to purpose this season at Volunteer Odyssey’s full volunteer calendar.