In-Person Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer with the VOASCLA Geaux Groups-Empower, Engage, and Explore

The Day Habilitation Center at Volunteers of America South Central Louisiana is on the move—and we want YOU to be part of the journey!

Our program is now rooted in the community through our exciting VOASCLA Geaux Groups—small, dynamic teams of adults with developmental disabilities, accompanied by caring facilitators. These groups are exploring local experiences, learning new skills, and building independence—and they thrive through meaningful connections with people like you.

Ways You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re an individual, business owner, school group, or civic organization, we offer fun, flexible, and rewarding opportunities to make a real impact.

🎳 Be a Community Buddy

• Meet up with a VOASCLA Geaux Group for bowling, mini golf, a festival, or a museum visit
• Share a meal, a snack, or just a good conversation
• Hang out and make new friends in casual, relaxed settings

🖌️ Teach & Create

• Lead a fun DIY craft or interactive learning activity
• Teach a hobby, life skill, or unique talent—anything from cooking basics to music or photography!
• Host a short, engaging workshop or hands-on session

🍔 Offer a Behind-the-Scenes Experience

• Restaurants: Host a tour and introduce different job roles
• Businesses: Offer a mini-workshop or tour to help participants learn about your industry
• Community spaces: Partner with us to offer a welcoming spot for activities or meet-ups

🤝 Volunteer Side-by-Side

• Work alongside VOASCLA Geaux Groups on community service projects
• Help beautify parks, support local nonprofits, or join cleanup efforts
• Collaborate and give back while making new friends

🎉 Sponsor an Experience

• Fund a group outing, special event, or art session
• Provide supplies for a creative or educational project
• Make an unforgettable day possible for our participants
  
  Let’s Make Something Great Together!
  Have an idea? Ready to volunteer? We’re excited to hear from you!
• 📞 Emily Kelly
• 📍 Volunteer Coordinator, Day Habilitation Center
• 📱 225-228-2690
• 📧 emily.kelly@voascla.org

Volunteer with the elderly:

Host a monthly birthday party or a bingo game for our residents – volunteers are responsible for bringing prizes and refreshments along with paper products – staff can guide on appropriate prizes and food options. 

Celebrate Mother’s/Father’s/Grandparent’s Day with our residents – make cards/crafts

Host a Holiday Party – purchase the supplies and host a party with our residents.

Donation/Collection Opportunities

Community Care Closet Item Donation

The elderly residents living at our Oak Park Plaza Senior Community are on fixed incomes and have difficulty affording the basics towards the end of the month. Volunteers can purchase paper towels, facial tissue, toilet paper, disinfecting wipes, spray cleaner, trash bags, light bulbs, bar soap, and full-size toiletries. Drop-offs are accepted Monday through Thursday. Contact development@voascla.org

Mobile Outreach Bag Collection

Volunteers of America operates a mobile outreach unit that is on the go each day offering assistance to those living on the streets. Through our outreach staff, we can do an intake with the consumer, schedule telehealth appointments, and start the process of helping them obtain affordable housing. The outreach bags are great for a corporate project where a collection can take place and staff could assemble the bags at their leisure. A large Gallon zip lock is best so that the items are protected from the rain. Items should be travel size and non-perishable food should be individually wrapped. Our team will hand these out as they travel to largely populated areas where the street homeless have set up encampments. Contact development@voascla.org to get involved.

Mobile Outreach Supplies Needed:

Everyday Supplies

• Soap
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hand Sanitizer
• Socks
• Water
• Power Aid or Sports Drinks
• Non-perishable food
  • Crackers
  • Chips
  • Vienna Sausages
  • Beef Jerky
• Backpacks (optional)

Fall and Winter Supplies

• Thermal Wear
• Blankets
• Gloves
• Hats
• Hand and feet warmers

Spring and Summer Supplies

• Ponchos
• Sunscreen
• Insect Repellents