Make an Impact. Build Skills. Connect with Your Community.
Volunteering is a meaningful way to give back, explore your interests, and gain real-world experience that can benefit your personal and professional growth. Whether you’re seeking to support a cause you care about, meet new people, or to build your resume, volunteering offers valuable opportunities to learn and lead.
Many students assume they need prior experience to make a difference, but in reality, many nonprofits and campus organizations welcome students with all levels of experience. Volunteering can help you discover what you’re passionate about while developing transferable skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork.
UNLV students have access to a variety of community and campus-based volunteer opportunities. Whether you want to volunteer once a semester or commit to a long-term role, there’s a place for you to get involved.
Why Volunteer?
- Gain practical experience and build your resume
- Explore new interests and career paths
- Grow your network and meet people who share your passions
- Strengthen your community and make a difference
- Develop soft skills like leadership, teamwork, time management, and communication
How Do I Find Volunteering Opportunities?
- Identify Your Interests – What causes or communities matter most to you?
- Tap Your Local Community – Check local libraries, schools, community centers, and libraries for bulletin boards or volunteer fairs.
- Research Opportunities – Use online platforms and social media to find organizations and events that align with your values, interests, and goals.
- Network & Reach Out – Ask people you know, contact groups, or sign up through portals to learn about available roles.
UNLV Service Learning & Leadership
- Find volunteer opportunities on and off campus
- Participate in Alternative Break programs
- Join service events and community partnerships
- Attend the UNLV Service Fair
- View SLL community partners here
UNLV Student Involvement & Activities
- Join or lead service-based RSOs (Registered Student Organizations)
- Participate in student-led volunteer initiatives
- Get involved with CSUN Student Government or join a Fraternity or Sorority
Check with Your Academic Program
Many colleges and departments at UNLV partner with local organizations to offer service-learning, internships, and volunteer opportunities related to your field of study.
- Ask your academic advisor or professors about community partnerships
- Search for courses with a service-learning component
- Consider volunteering with organizations relevant to your major (e.g. health clinics, legal aid centers, STEM outreach, arts programs)
Handshake
- Search for volunteer opportunities and connect with nonprofit organizations.
Nevada Resources
- Nevada Volunteers – Nevada’s statewide volunteer portal connecting individuals with nonprofit service opportunities.
- United Way Southern Nevada Volunteer Connect – Connect with local community organizations by finding volunteer opportunities in Southern Nevada.
- American Red Cross – Nevada – Offers in-person and virtual volunteer roles in disaster response, blood drives, armed forces support, and administrative services.
- HELP of Southern Nevada – Provides volunteer opportunities in housing, youth outreach, and job support – with roles for both adults and teens.
- Spread the Word Nevada – Promotes children’s literacy through book preparation and mentoring programs in Clark and Washoe Counties.
- Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) – Outdoor volunteer roles focused on wildlife surveys, education programs, and conservation support.
- Friends of Nevada Wilderness – Coordinates volunteer trips for trail work and habitat restoration – training and gear provided.
National Resources
- Catchafire – Remote, skills-based volunteer projects for professionals to support nonprofits.
- Idealist – Nationwide platform listing volunteer roles, nonprofit jobs, and internships by cause and location.
- JustServe – Community-driven platform offering short-term and long-term volunteer projects near you.
- VolunteerMatch – One of the largest databases for finding volunteer opportunities based on location and interest.
Tips for a Great Volunteer Experience
- Be professional: Show up on time, follow through, and communicate clearly.
- Ask questions: Understand the mission, your role, and the impact of your work.
- Set goals: Consider how volunteering fits into your academic or career goals.
- Keep track: Log your hours and experiences – you can add them to your resume, cover letter, and/or LinkedIn profile.
- Reflect: What did you learn? What skills did you use or grow?
Need Help Getting Started?
Volunteering can be a great first step into the world of work, leadership, or social change. If you’re unsure where to begin or want to find service opportunities that align with your career path, Career Services can help. Please contact us at CareerLifeDesign@unlv.edu.
