Volunteer FAQ

Begin by filling out the online volunteer form or email volunteer@ymow.org. All new volunteers must complete an application, training materials, and volunteer orientation. Volunteer orientations occur on a monthly basis, depending on availability. All potential volunteers must undergo a background check, provide proof of auto insurance and a valid driver’s license.

Volunteers drive to the YMOW offices at 1110 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti, to pick up 8-10 meals stored in an easy-to-carry thermal container. You will be provided with a designated route including detailed driving and delivery instructions for each client. Once you complete your visits, return your supplies to the YMOW office.

• Ride-alongs with a YMOW Client Care Associate are available for those who are fully vaccinated! Shift time is 11am-2pm. 

• DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, MEALS ARE BEING DELIVERED ON MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS ONLY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Food pickup time is 11:30 a.m.

As often as you would like. You can choose one day a week, one day a month, or you can ask to be called as needed.

While finding volunteers to fill delivery routes is our biggest need, there are other ways to get involved, including:

• Support our office staff by answering phones, filing and more.
• Take photos or video at one of our fundraising events.
• Volunteer to help make our fundraisers successful.
• Create and write greeting cards for the seniors. (This is a great youth project.)
• Join a committee. (Fundraising, Finance or Communication & Marketing)
• Serve on our Board of Directors.

Please call (734) 217-4450 or send an email to volunteer@ymow.org to let us know how you would like to help.

Requests for court-ordered community service will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All potential YMOW volunteers must undergo a background check before serving our organization.

Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels serves a vulnerable population. For their protection, people with certain offenses are not  allowed to assist with our program. Those offenses include, but are not limited to:

• Violent crimes
• Theft
• Financial fraud
• Elder abuse of any kind

If you have a history of any of these crimes, or others that might risk our clients’ comfort and safety, please seek other opportunities to fulfill your service hours.