Get involved. Make a difference. Strengthen your community.
At the University of Montana, learning goes beyond the classroom. Volunteering in your community gives you the chance to spark meaningful conversations, grow your leadership skills, and bring your classroom knowledge to life through real-world projects. Whatever your passions or schedule, UM offers countless ways to make an impact.
Dive into this page to explore local volunteer opportunities, connect with student groups driven by service, discover community-engaged courses, spend your Spring Break making an impact with Alternative Breaks, and learn how to join VolunteerUM – our student-led initiative dedicated to building a stronger Missoula through teamwork and service.
However you choose to serve, your time and talents make an impact. Start here…and start making a difference.



There is something truly magical about hiking through a forest, or swimming in the ocean, when you know you have contributed to the restoration of it.
VolunteerUM
VolunteerUM is a vibrant, student-led volunteer group that makes meaningful differences in the Missoula community and beyond through its signature programs, Service Saturdays and Alternative Breaks. During the 2024–2025 academic year, VolunteerUM organized 25+ events and two major fundraisers, contributing a total of 2,846 service hours to communities in need. Students can be apart VolunteerUM by joining us for a single volunteer event or serving with us all year!
Join the VolunteerUM Newsletter today and get ready to make new friends while making a difference!
Ready to Serve?
Follow these simple steps to begin your volunteer journey, connect with local nonprofits, and find the perfect way to engage your skills and passions.

Volunteer with VolunteerUM
VolunteerUM is a vibrant, student-led volunteer group that makes a meaningful difference in the Missoula community and beyond through its signature programs. Learn more about VolunteerUM here.

Find Local Volunteer Opportunities
Explore local nonprofits that align with your interests. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, education, social justice, or animal welfare, you’ll find meaningful ways to make a difference right here in Missoula!

Join a Student Organization
Get involved with student organizations that are making a difference on campus and in the community. Groups like the UM Advocates, Alpha Phi, and others integrate service into their missions. Explore ASUM student groups here.

Support a Community Drive
Join one of UM’s community drives this year, such as Stuff the Bus – Beat the Bobcats or Holiday Helpers. More information will be available soon!

Take a Service-Learning Class
Make your coursework count for more. Service-learning classes combine academic content with real-world experience, connecting you to community organizations where you can apply what you’re learning while making a tangible impact.

Get Funding for Your Service Project
Want to turn your passion for community service into real projects? UM students can access funding to support community service and leadership projects through two key programs: The Experiential Learning Scholarship Fund and The College Leaders Cohort program.

Serve Nationally with AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps provides a unique chance to serve those in need, build connections, and gain hands-on experience that can shape a rewarding career in public service or nonprofit work. The University of Montana will provide $1000 matches to AmeriCorps alums using the Education Awards.

Serve Abroad with Peace Corps
Peace Corps is a service opportunity that immerses volunteers in a community abroad, working with local leaders to tackle pressing challenges. UM offers the Peace Corps Prep Program to give students an advantage in the competitive application process for Peace Corps service.

Contact
Jenah Mead, Experiential Learning Program Manager
Experiential Learning & Career Success
University of Montana
jenah.mead@mso.umt.edu




