Give Something REAL. Volunteer with REAL Services.
Every day, volunteers turn compassion into action — delivering meals, supporting community events, offering a friendly smile, or sharing a much-needed skill. You help us reach further, serve more, and bring hope where it’s needed most.
When you step forward to serve, you become part of something bigger. Your time and care touch lives — from older adults and caregivers to families working to regain stability. Together, we make independence, dignity, and hope possible.
REAL Services volunteers help us provide nutrition, self-sufficiency, education, and protection for more than 30,000 people in Northern Indiana each year. Your commitment ensures that those who need us most aren’t forgotten — that they receive meals, resources, and meaningful human connection.
Volunteer weekly, monthly, or whenever you can. Every moment you give matters. Because when you share your time, your heart, and your humanity, you don’t just make a difference — you GIVE SOMETHING REAL.
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Volunteer Orientation Documents
Volunteer Opportunities
Meals On Wheels Delivery:
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of homebound older adults by delivering a nutritious, hot meal directly to their homes. Your visit provides not only a healthy meal but also friendly smile and a moment of connection that brightens their day. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one delivery day per week, with flexible scheduling available to fit different levels of availability.
Opportunities available in St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties
Adopt-a-Route
A great team building activity! Adopt-A-Routes are Meals on Wheels routes that an organization or business commits to serving by sending members or employees to volunteer. Send one or two members every week or month to fulfill your route. This is an easy and effective way to become more involved with your local community.
Senior Ambassador - Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center
Serve as a welcoming presence and helpful resource for members and visitors at the Portage Commons Senior Enrichment Center located in South Bend. Provide information, answer questions, and help create a friendly, engaging environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Health Education - Lay Leader
Support older adults in maintaining their health and independence by leading a wellness workshop or class such as Matter of Balance, SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life), or Healthy Living with Chronic Conditions. These evidence-based programs are proven to improve well-being and quality of life. Training and certification are provided, and workshops are offered at various times throughout the year ranging from 6-10 weeks depending on the class.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana: ALZNI Caregiver Program Volunteer
Support the mission of Alzheimer's & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana (ALZNI) by assisting caregivers, helping raise program funds, and participating in outreach activities that build community awareness and promote dementia-friendly practices throughout Northern Indiana.
ALZNI Caregiver Support Group Leader
Facilitate a caregiver support group in St. Joseph, Marshall, Elkhart, Kosciusko and LaPorte counties that offers encouragement, shared understanding, and practical strategies for those caring for loved ones with dementia. Leaders help create a welcoming, compassionate environment where caregivers can learn, connect, and find strength together.
Village Volunteer at Milton Village
Enrich the lives of individuals living with dementia and their care partners by sharing time, kindness, and support through meaningful activities, hospitality, and service at Milton Village, the nation's first dementia village, located in Roseland. Your presence helps create a safe, engaging, and joyful community for residents and visitors alike.
Guardian Volunteer Advocate
Serve as a compassionate advocate for an older adult for whom REAL Services serves as the legal guardian. Build a trusting relationship through regular visits, ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being. Monitor their care, listen to their preferences, and advocate for their needs and wishes in all decisions that affect their quality of life. This important work supports older adults throughout St. Joseph, Marshall, Elkhart, and Kosciusko counties.
SHIP Counselor
SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) Counselors help Medicare beneficiaries make informed decisions about their Medicare coverage. SHIP Counselors provide unbiased, confidential guidance to individuals navigating Medicare enrollment, plan selection, and related benefits. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and certification to ensure they can offer accurate, trusted information. St. Joseph, Marshall, Elkhart, Kosciusko and LaPorte counties.