Why We Need You (And What Volunteering Actually Looks Like)

If you've ever thought about getting more involved with The Purpose of Change but weren't sure what that actually means day to day, this one's for you.

The truth is, what we do every other Saturday doesn't happen by accident. It takes hands — real ones, showing up and doing the work — to make sure that when we pull up to a camp in Cleveland or Akron, we're ready.

And there's more than one way to be those hands.

Behind the Scenes

A lot of what keeps our outreach running happens before Saturday ever arrives. Donations come in regularly and need to be picked up and sorted. Blessing bags — filled with toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, snacks, water bottles, and other essentials — need to be packed. The trailer needs to be organized, stocked, and flipped out seasonally so we're always prepared for whatever Ohio's weather decides to do.

There's also breakfast to make. Every outreach Saturday we serve a hot meal — coffee, pancakes, potatoes — and that doesn't happen without people willing to show up and cook.

None of this is glamorous work. But all of it is meaningful, and none of it happens without volunteers.

On the Ground

A small group of volunteers also joins us on outreach Saturdays. We keep it intentionally small — usually no more than six people total, including board members — because it works better that way. The camps we visit are personal spaces, and showing up as a manageable, familiar group matters.

If there's a spot available, outreach volunteers help hand out donations and breakfast plates, keep the trailer organized during stops, and drive. It's early. It's sometimes cold. And without fail, the people we serve are glad you came.

At Our Fundraisers

Beyond Saturdays, we host fundraisers to support our long-term vision of purchasing land for temporary housing and skills training. We also have tables at events to get our name out there to the public and show our support for other causes. Volunteers help make those events run smoothly too — and it's a great entry point if you're not quite ready for outreach but want to be part of something meaningful in person.

How to Get Started

It's simple. Head to our website and fill out the volunteer form. Let us know what you're interested in, and we'll be in touch when opportunities come up. There's no minimum commitment — even helping once in a while makes a real difference.

The work we do is only possible because people choose to show up. If you've been thinking about it, this is your sign.

Sign Up Here