VOLUNTEER
United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties is connecting people who care with causes that matter.
Connecting Volunteers
When people come together to help their neighbors, our whole community grows stronger.
Through our Volunteer Initiative, we connect individuals, workplaces, and civic groups with opportunities to make a lasting impact in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties, from year-round volunteering to community-wide events that celebrate giving back.
Why Volunteer with United Way
We make it easy to get involved, whether you have an hour, a day, or a lifelong commitment to give. United Way partners with nonprofits, businesses, and civic groups to:
Match volunteers with community needs
Coordinate special volunteer events
Celebrate and recognize those who make a difference every day
Volunteer Opportunities
United Way connects people to volunteer experiences that create lasting impact, from supporting food pantries to lending professional skills or joining community events.
If you’re a local nonprofit seeking volunteers, or an individual or group wanting to give back, we can help make the match.
Days of Caring: A Year-Round Celebration of Volunteerism
Our Days of Caring celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that makes our communities stronger. Rather than focusing on a single day of service, United Way’s Days of Caring represent the ongoing effort to connect volunteers with causes that matter all year long.
“Every day someone gives their time to help a neighbor, they create a new Day of Caring.”
Through this initiative, United Way highlights local volunteer stories, promotes community needs, and inspires others to get involved. Together, we’re building a culture of caring one volunteer at a time.
Project Guidelines & Info For Agencies
You may submit as many volunteer projects as you want or need. There is no limit! Please complete one form per project and provide the coordinator's name and contact information.
Projects do not have to be traditional building and yard work projects. We encourage agencies to use their creativity to meet agency and community needs. Keep in mind you will be working with Adult volunteers who have a wide range of abilities.
Agencies are exclusively responsible for their projects, the materials, the equipment and any permits necessary to complete their projects. Volunteers may agree to bring personal household items, such as rakes and garden gloves. A list of such items must be on your Volunteer Request Form.
At no time should volunteers be asked to work with equipment that may prove dangerous. The use of heavy machinery and power equipment such as tractors, backhoes, chain saws, wood chippers, jack hammers etc. Volunteers may not climb a ladder or lift higher than 5 feet.
Agencies must be able to provide restrooms and refreshments for volunteers. Lunch should also be provided for full day (6 hour) volunteers.
Community Day: Volunteers in Action
Community Day is one of United Way’s longest-running volunteer traditions – and one of the most visible.
Each year, volunteers gather across the region to sell special Community Day newspapers that feature stories of local impact and nonprofit success. All proceeds support United Way programs that help our neighbors thrive.
When you see volunteers on the street with Community Day papers, you’re seeing our mission in motion: people giving their time and energy to strengthen their community.
Volunteer Fairs
Each spring, United Way partners with local libraries to host volunteer fairs bringing together nonprofits from across the region to share their missions and recruit volunteers.
It’s a casual, one-stop event where community members can explore opportunities to give back in ways that fit their interests and schedules.
The next Volunteer Fair will be:
6 - 8 p.m., April 22, 2026 at the Olean Public Library
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support United Way’s year-round effort to connect people with purpose.
Sponsorships help fund volunteer outreach, recognition events, and materials that make it easier for local nonprofits to find the help they need.
Sponsorship Levels Include:
Community Champion
Days of Caring Partner
Neighbor Supporter
More information will be available soon!