Volunteer
Community Action of South Mississippi depends on dedicated volunteers to serve families across our three-county region. Whether you have five minutes or a full day, there is a meaningful way for you to make a difference in someone's life.
Volunteers serve in Head Start classrooms, VITA tax preparation sites, senior centers, the food pantry, and at community events throughout the year.
42
Active Volunteers
150+
Staff Members Supported
"Even if you're short on time, we have a spot where you can shine."
Community Action of South MississippiVolunteer Opportunities
We have ongoing volunteer roles across our core programs. Each opportunity is meaningful, flexible, and open to community members of all backgrounds.
Head Start
Classroom and center support
Ways You Can Help
- Read to children in the classroom
- Assist with toothbrushing and hand washing routines
- Help with dual language learners through translation and interpretation
- Serve as a third person in the room to support teachers
- Help with center art projects and bulletin boards
- Chaperone or drive for field trips
- Assist with meal preparation and service
- Help with grounds maintenance and community gardens
- Assist with event and program planning
- Serve on the Board, Policy Council, or Health Advisory Committee
VITA Tax Assistance
Seasonal, January through April
Ways You Can Help
- Prepare and file income tax returns with filers
- Greet filers and manage appointment schedules
- Help filers learn about ways to save and stretch their refunds
- Provide language translation for volunteers and filers
What You Need
- Experience using computers
- Availability from mid-January through mid-April
- Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
What You Get
- Valuable, lifelong financial skills for personal and professional use
- An IRS certification to build your resume
- A direct impact in your community
Community Programs
Senior centers, food pantry, and outreach events
Senior Centers
- Help with daily activities, games, and exercise programs
- Assist with arts, crafts, and special event planning
- Provide companionship and conversation
- Help with congregate meal service
Food Pantry and Outreach
- Sort and distribute food at the food pantry
- Assist with community outreach and awareness events
- Help organize food drives and donation collection
- Support special projects and seasonal programs
Short on Time? You Can Still Help.
No matter how busy your schedule is, there is something meaningful you can do. Here are ways to get involved based on the time you have available.
5 Minutes
- Think about what changes you want to see in your community
- Talk to your child's teacher and ask how you can contribute to the classroom
- Share online petitions on issues that matter to you
15 Minutes
- Talk to other parents about questions or ideas for your Head Start program
- Find out who your legislators are and follow them on social media
- Contact your local representatives about issues important to your family
1 Hour
- Volunteer in your child's classroom or attend a program event
- Join a Head Start Parent Committee or attend a Policy Council meeting
- Write a letter to your local newspaper about a community issue
1 Day
- Volunteer at a family or community event and lead an activity
- Organize a group of families to support children starting a new program
- Start a petition to address a community issue and gather support
Childcare Volunteer Requirements
Mississippi childcare licensure requires specific documentation for all volunteers. Requirements differ based on the number of hours you volunteer per year.
120 or More Hours Per Year
Full documentation required
- Name, date of birth, address, and phone number
- Documentation of education, training, and experience relevant to your volunteer role
- Start date and most recent date of volunteer service
- Mississippi State Department of Health Certificate of Immunization Compliance (Form 121)
- Criminal records check (fingerprinting), child abuse central registry check, and sex offender registry check with Letter of Suitability for Employment
- Documentation of a minimum of one hour of volunteer orientation within one week of volunteering, covering child abuse law and reporting, emergency exits, dangerous situations, and transportation policy
- Records retained for one year after volunteering ends
- Log of dates and hours of volunteer service
Less Than 120 Hours Per Year
Orientation and records required
- Documentation of a minimum of one hour of volunteer orientation within one week of volunteering, covering child abuse law and reporting, emergency exits, dangerous situations, transportation policy, and special needs of children
- Records retained for one year after volunteering ends
- Log of dates and hours of volunteer service
These requirements are set by Mississippi childcare licensure regulations and apply to all childcare facilities in the state. CASOMS staff will guide you through the documentation process when you sign up to volunteer.
Sign Up to Volunteer
Fill out the form below and a member of our team will contact you about volunteer opportunities that match your interests and availability.
Fields marked with * are required.
Thank You for Your Interest!
Your volunteer interest form has been submitted. You will receive a confirmation email shortly. A member of our team will contact you soon to discuss opportunities that match your interests and schedule.
Want to Make a Difference?
Every volunteer makes an impact. Whether you can give five minutes or a full day, your time helps families and individuals across Jackson, Harrison, and George counties build stronger, more stable lives.
Or call us directly at (228) 769-3292