Thank You to the Volunteer Teams Supporting Local Students

15 April 2026

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Categories: Corporate Giving, Volunteer

March 2026 Volunteers
GFWC Nu-Era Study Club Volunteers

In March, something powerful happened inside the Giving the Basics Kansas City warehouse.

Twenty-four corporate and community volunteer groups showed up ready to serve. Together, 323 volunteers gave 492 hours of their time to help pack hygiene supplies for students across our region. Their work is already making a difference. It’s helping fuel the momentum behind our Spring Showers campaign, which aims to provide 300,000 hygiene items to local schools before the end of the school year.

This kind of impact only happens when a community comes together.

Volunteers Make School Support Possible

Blue Valley North Heart Works Volunteers

BVN Heart Works Volunteers

Every hygiene box packed represents something bigger than a product.

It represents:

a student walking into class with confidence
a counselor able to meet a need immediately
a teacher seeing improved focus and participation
a family receiving relief during a difficult season

When volunteers step into the warehouse, they become part of a system that helps ensure school hygiene shelves stay stocked across hundreds of partner schools.

Their time translates directly into access for students who need the basics to succeed.

24 Volunteer Teams Showing Up for Students

University of Memphis Volunteers

Throughout March, volunteer teams from businesses, universities, faith communities, and civic organizations worked side by side to prepare shipments of essential hygiene items like deodorant, shampoo, and feminine hygiene products.

These teams didn’t just pack boxes. They strengthened a network of support that helps schools respond quickly when students need help most.

One volunteer from the University of Memphis Alternative Break Experience shared:

“I feel inspired! Giving the Basics is doing such incredible work! I am so grateful to have been a part of the process even if it was in a small way. I am so thankful! I pray y’all continue growing and helping.”

Responses like this remind us that volunteering creates impact in two directions—it supports students and inspires the people who serve.

Thank You to Our March Volunteer Teams

Kompass Kapital Volunteers

We are incredibly grateful to the 24 volunteer groups who joined us in March to support students by packing hygiene supplies in our Kansas City warehouse. Your time, teamwork, and energy helped move essential products closer to the schools and students who rely on them every day.

Each volunteer shift helped strengthen our ability to stock hygiene shelves across partner schools and support the success of our Spring Showers campaign, ensuring students can finish the school year with the basics they need.

A Community Effort That Changes Lives

Right now, volunteers are playing a key role in helping Spring Showers succeed.

Spring Showers is a community-wide effort to provide 300,000 hygiene items to students before the school year ends. While businesses are running drives and community partners are amplifying awareness, volunteers are helping ensure those donated products move quickly and efficiently to schools.

Exceptional Humans Volunteers

Packing supplies today means shelves are stocked tomorrow. That connection between volunteers and students is what turns generosity into real, measurable support.

Stocking hygiene shelves in schools doesn’t happen automatically. It takes coordination, partnerships, and volunteers willing to step in and help make it happen.

Every hour served in March helped prepare shipments that schools rely on every week. Together, these 24 volunteer teams helped strengthen a system that supports students’ confidence, attendance, and ability to focus in the classroom.

And they are part of something bigger than a single day of service. They are part of a community making sure students have the basics they need to thrive.

Join the Volunteer Community Supporting Students

If you’ve ever considered volunteering with your coworkers, classmates, or community group, this is a meaningful and hands-on way to make a difference locally.

Whether you join during Spring Showers or later in the year, your time helps ensure students have access to the essentials they deserve.

Learn how your group can get involved at www.GivingtheBasics.org/volunteerkc

A Special Thank You To:

Henderson Engineers Volunteers
ANS Volunteers
Stella Maris Volunteers
Central Bank of KC Volunteers
Oasis Volunteers
Summit Homes Volunteers
Larson Financial Volunteers
KCNC Volunteers
Laminate Works Volunteers
KCYM Volunteers
From the Earth / Illicit Volunteers
McCown Gordon Volunteers
Turner and Townsend Volunteers
Summit Future Foundation Volunteers

KCTV5 News Student Volunteering Story

15 April 2026

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Categories: Press Room, Uncategorized, Volunteer

🎥 Watch the story from KCTV5 and see the impact volunteering makes.

A high school student who volunteered with us this weekend shared something simple but powerful:

“I get to help the community and others who aren’t as fortunate.”

Students understand what it means when someone their age has access to shampoo, deodorant, and other basics—and when they don’t. That’s why it’s so inspiring to see young people stepping up to support their peers.

More than 100 volunteers came together to pack hygiene essentials for local families—items government assistance programs don’t cover, but students need every day to feel confident at school.

Want to be part of it? Sign up to volunteer with us.

How CBIZ Turned Busy Season into a Season of Giving

11 March 2026

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Categories: Corporate Giving, Volunteer

CBIZ Case Study

A Partnership with Purpose

At Giving the Basics, we believe generosity grows when people are invited to participate in meaningful ways. Last month CBIZ exemplified this ideal, by challenging interns to lead a company-wide charity drive in support of Giving the Basics.

The goal? Raising $10,000 through an annual competition that blends team building, networking, and real community impact.

For many on the CBIZ team, the cause already felt personal. As accountants who work with Giving the Basics professionally, they understand the organization’s mission in a unique way.

“It’s also really cool that Giving the Basics is a client of ours,” one intern shared. “We do this work for them regularly, and then we actually get to help them in a different sense.”

Networking for Good Drives High Participation

Accountant Career Matchmaker Roxanne Sabatino-Istas has seen the impact of this annual charity drive year after year.

“It boosts morale, strengthens team relationships, and gives employees a shared goal outside of daily responsibilities,” she said. “The interns get very into it. If they ask, people will donate. It’s great for morale, and great for team building and networking.”

For the trainees leading the effort, the experience pushed them to make more connections.

“I think it’s great for us interns to do this,” one participant said. “It gets us out of our comfort zone. The full-time staff expect it every year, and they know we’re supposed to annoy them a little for donations.”

By the end of the month, interns felt more comfortable around the office. Friendly rivalries formed around fundraising totals, and the entire team rallied around a goal larger than their daily work.

Friendly Competition Fuels Charity

Bowling for charity

The campaign concluded with a celebratory gathering at the Fowling Warehouse in Kansas City, where talk of who would be the ‘Top Fundraiser’ buzzed, even over the excited clattering of bowling pins.

“It’s been really fun because my competitive side has come out,” one Intern said. “I’m going against another girl for most individual funds raised. It’s gotten me out of my shell and helped me reach out to more people than I normally would.”

This tradition has become something CBIZ looks forward to every year. More than a single celebration, it’s now part of the company’s culture, showing young professionals that their voices and networks can be used for good.

Bowling for charity

By the end of February, the CBIZ team surpassed their goal, raising over $11,149 through 133 donations. As for their internal competition, the cleverly named “Audit like it’s Hot” intern group claimed gold for most cash collected.

Fueling the Mission

Partners like CBIZ help ensure Giving the Basics can continue distributing essential hygiene products to schools, pantries, shelters, and community organizations.

Every charity drive strengthens our mission to ensure individuals and families have access to the basics they need to live healthy, dignified lives.

Charity drives do even more than raise funds, they help fuel the mission here at Giving the Basics. Each campaign introduces new people to the issue of hygiene insecurity, spreading awareness and growing the number of supporters committed to ensuring everyone has access to the basic products they need.

Considering Hosting a Charity Drive?

Giving the Basics hygiene products on shelves
Giving the Basics helped make participation simple by collecting donations online, even sharing a campaign “thermometer,” which allowed for teams to visually track their progress live throughout the month.

When asked what advice she would give to another company considering a fundraiser, Roxanne’s answer was simple.

“Do it! Especially with an organization that gives so much to the community and fills a need where there’s a void. Just do it… and get employees involved.”

If you’re ready to follow Roxanne’s lead, our upcoming campaign makes it simple to rally your team and make a real impact.

Spring Showers: The Corporate Hygiene Challenge

This spring, hosting your own charity drive has never been easier.

Spring Showers is a ready-to-run campaign designed to bring teams together, raise funds, and help provide essential hygiene products to those in need.

Learn more and sign up today! Join us in stocking the shelves for students this April.

Family Volunteering: How to Get the Kids Involved

19 February 2026

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Categories: Volunteer

Family Volunteering at Giving the Basics

Volunteering can be a powerful way to grow closer as a family — and it’s also one of the best ways to teach children about empathy, responsibility, and community service. As research shows, when kids and teens volunteer they often develop stronger social skills, increased empathy, and a sense of purpose that carries into adulthood. In fact, studies indicate young volunteers are more likely to feel they can make a difference in their community, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and build confidence in themselves and others. (Kids Mental Health Foundation)

Volunteering as a family doesn’t just help the people you serve — it benefits every family member. Shared service experiences can strengthen family bonds, foster communication, and create lasting memories. Families who volunteer together often report feeling a stronger sense of connection and accomplishment because they are working toward something meaningful alongside one another. (Points of Light)

Why Family Volunteering Matters

Teaches empathy and compassion: Children learn to see the world from others’ perspectives when they help those in need.
(Points of Light)
Builds life skills: Volunteering nurtures teamwork, communication, and problem-solving in every age group.
(Hugs From Hunter Foundation)
Creates shared memories: Doing good together gives families positive “team moments” that strengthen relationships.
(Points of Light)
Instills lifelong values: When kids see parents giving back, they are more likely to continue serving as they grow up.
(userve.utah.gov)

Most importantly, volunteering helps children develop a sense that they matter — that they can make a real impact on the world around them.

Ways Families Can Get Involved with Giving the Basics

If you’re looking for meaningful opportunities that are great for kids and adults, here are three ways to make volunteering a family experience:

Join a Community Night
Every second Tuesday of the month, Giving the Basics hosts a Community Night where volunteers of all ages are welcome to help sort, organize, and prepare hygiene products for distribution. This monthly evening opportunity is perfect for families who want a regular, hands-on way to serve together.
Volunteer with School or Youth Groups
School groups, clubs, scouts, sports teams, and other youth organizations can schedule weekday volunteer sessions to work together packing or sorting products. It’s a great way to introduce students to community service and give them a structured, impactful volunteer experience.
Host a Drive Together
Hosting a hygiene drive at your school, church, club, or neighborhood is a tangible way for families to team up and rally their networks behind a cause. Kids can help with planning, promotion, and donation collection — and feel proud watching the results of their efforts.

What to Expect When You Volunteer

If you’ve never volunteered before — or you’re bringing kids for the first time — you might be wondering what the experience looks like.

At Giving the Basics, our team makes it simple.

When your family or group arrives, staff will welcome you and walk you through the process step by step. You’ll learn how products are sorted, packed, and prepared for distribution to local schools and partner agencies. Every task is clearly explained and age-appropriate, so kids and adults can work side by side with confidence.

Before you begin, you’ll also see a short video that shares the real impact of your work, hearing directly from people who rely on these essential items. It’s a powerful reminder that every deodorant stick sorted and every hygiene kit packed represents someone in our community who will benefit.

By the time you leave, your family won’t just have volunteered — you’ll understand exactly how your time translated into dignity for someone else.

And that’s what makes the experience meaningful for kids: they can see, hear, and understand the difference they’re making.

Getting Started

Volunteering doesn’t have to be complicated — and it doesn’t have to take all weekend. Starting with even a single Community Night or neighborhood drive can make a real difference in the lives of local students and families. And as children see the impact of their work firsthand, they’ll gain confidence, empathy, and a deeper connection to the community around them.

If you’re ready to get the kids involved, find opportunities and sign up here:
👉 https://givingthebasics.org/volunteer-kc/

Volunteering as a family is not just about giving time — it’s about making memories, raising compassionate leaders, and showing kids exactly what it means to care for others.

Corporate Volunteering Trends for 2026

12 February 2026

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Categories: Corporate Giving, Uncategorized, Volunteer

Why Companies Are Investing in People and Purpose

As we plunge forward into 2026, corporate volunteering continues to evolve from a “nice-to-have” perk to a strategic cornerstone of workplace culture. Across industries, companies are deepening their commitment to community engagement, not just through financial support, but by encouraging hands-on participation that benefits both employees and the communities where they live and work.

At Giving the Basics, we’re seeing this shift firsthand.

1. Volunteerism Is on the Rise and More Personal Than Ever

Corporate volunteering participation continues to grow year after year. According to the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals (ACCP), 77% of companies reported increased employee engagement in volunteer activities in 2024 (accp.org), continuing a multi-year upward trend. This growth reflects more than participation, it reflects connection.

That personal connection was evident during January volunteer shifts at Giving the Basics.

“There was a point in my youth when I didn’t have the basics. It was embarrassing and hard to be around others. Doing this makes me appreciate that one less person will be like that.”
— Children’s Hospital Association Volunteer

As companies expand volunteer programs in 2026, many are prioritizing experiences that allow employees to see themselves—and their stories—reflected in the work.

2. Employees Are Seeking Purpose, Not Just Participation

Research from platforms like Benevity shows significant growth in corporate volunteering, with global employee participation rates rising 57% year-over-year and volunteer hours increasing as well. Employees increasingly want opportunities that feel meaningful, human, and aligned with their values.

That desire for purpose came through clearly from our January volunteers:

“Having known and grown up with many families who could have had their worlds changed by a resource like this, and having my wife teach many kids who would love to not have to worry about something this simple, I’m incredibly grateful for this place and what you do for families and communities.”
— Bernstein-Rein Advertising Volunteer

For many employees, volunteering is no longer just about giving time—it’s about addressing real barriers and restoring dignity in tangible ways.

3. Corporate Volunteering as a Strategic Culture Builder

Corporate volunteer programs are about more than hours logged—they build tangible connection. Benevity data shows that companies that actively promote volunteering initiatives empower more employees to participate, with flexible and team-based opportunities driving deeper engagement. This philosophy plays out in workplaces across the country, where employees increasingly report that structured volunteer opportunities not only enhance community impact but also promote team cohesion and strengthen employee satisfaction.

But beyond metrics, volunteers are looking for experiences that feel thoughtfully designed and genuinely impactful.

“I am so impressed by the visionary minds who saw this need but also orchestrated a beautiful way for many hands to contribute in meaningful ways.”
— Bernstein-Rein Advertising Volunteer

This reflects a growing trend for 2026: employees want to know their time matters—and that nonprofits are creating systems that allow them to contribute effectively.

4. Team-Based Volunteering Continues to Grow

Team volunteering remains one of the most effective ways to engage employees. Serving alongside coworkers builds relationships, creates shared memories, and reinforces company culture, while also increasing the likelihood that volunteers will return.

“I have volunteered here before and loved it. I’m positive I will be back because this work is so important.”
— Bernstein-Rein Advertising Volunteer

As companies plan for 2026, repeatable, team-based volunteer experiences are becoming a cornerstone of strong corporate engagement strategies.

January at Giving the Basics: Trends in Action

Corporate volunteering trends aren’t just data points—they’re people showing up. In January 2026, 217 volunteers from 12 companies joined Giving the Basics to help prepare and distribute hygiene essentials to students, families, and seniors across our community. Together, they helped ensure that thousands of individuals had access to the basics they need to feel clean, confident, and dignified.

These experiences demonstrate how corporate volunteering can strengthen workplace culture, create meaningful employee experiences, and deliver measurable community impact.

Here’s a look at some of the companies who showed up for dignity in January:

Looking Ahead in 2026

As we move further into 2026, the future of corporate volunteering is clear. Companies that prioritize purposeful, hands-on service, especially in partnership with trusted nonprofits, are investing not only in their communities, but in their people.

At Giving the Basics, we are grateful for the companies and volunteers who show up, share their stories, and help ensure that no one has to go without the basics. Together, we’re building a future where dignity is not a privilege, but a given.

Bernstein Rein Advertising
Bernstein-Rein Advertising

Children's Hospital Association
Children’s Hospital Association

Joco Dept of Health
JoCo Dept. of Health

Lockton Kansas City

Mid America Rehab
Mid-America Rehab

Spotlight

Westin Sheraton Crown Center

KC Mavericks Volunteering
The Kansas City Mavericks<

Cerris Systems

How Our Volunteers Made the Holidays Brighter

8 January 2026

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Categories: Volunteer

How Our Volunteers Made the Holidays Brighter

Corporate Volunteers Sort a Donation Drive

The holiday season is often described as a time of generosity, reflection, and community. At Giving the Basics, that spirit came to life in a powerful way thanks to the 480 incredible volunteers from 38 organizations who gave their time, energy, and hearts to serve others.

Together, these volunteers helped package 307,755 essential hygiene items—items that mean comfort, confidence, and dignity for individuals and families facing hygiene insecurity. Behind every bar of soap, bottle of shampoo, and box of detergent was a person who chose to show up and make a difference.

More Than Volunteering—A Tradition of Impact

For many, volunteering with Giving the Basics has become a meaningful tradition.

“This is my fourth year working with Giving the Basics. It has become a tradition for us. We love the staff and how organized they are. Always very friendly. It is also a great time to connect with your friendly volunteers. Smiles all around. Thank you, you all are truly blessing our communities.”
— Heartland Coca-Cola Volunteer

These moments of connection—between volunteers, staff, and mission—are what turn a single shift into something lasting.

Seeing the Impact Firsthand

Hallcon Volunteers

Several volunteers shared how personal experiences deepened their understanding of why access to hygiene products matter.

“I worked closely with low-income students in a school where GTB is donated. I personally got to see how much the kids relied on these resources coming in and getting access to these resources to get them through the day.”
— Delta Dental Volunteer

For educators and caregivers, the basics aren’t abstract—they’re essential tools that help students focus, feel confident, and succeed.

“I was a KS teacher and once a month I would help to place these items in my students’ backpacks. They were always so grateful to give them to their parents and help save money.”
— Hallcon HR Volunteer

Rethinking the Basics We Take for Granted

Volunteering also sparked reflection—reminding many just how essential hygiene is to mental clarity, confidence, and self-worth.

“I realized how much I take the basics for granted. Sometimes I can’t think clearly or focus until I’ve had a shower. I am now thinking about all those who don’t have that luxury to help get a clear mind. I won’t be taking the basics for granted any longer.”
— Experis Volunteer

“If I didn’t have the basics, I wouldn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. I wouldn’t be my authentic self… can you imagine… not having these things?”
— Hallcon HR Volunteer

These reflections are at the heart of our mission: hygiene is not a luxury—it’s a foundation for dignity.

A Place to Give, Even on Hard Days

For some volunteers, serving others became a source of healing.

“My heart is heavy today. My dad just had a major stroke this week. Coming here today has lifted my spirits and has helped feel like I could help do something meaningful at a time in my life where I couldn’t help a loved one. The basics are vital! Thank you for all that you do for our community and the impact you are making.”
— Ryan Lawn & Tree Volunteer

Moments like these remind us that volunteering gives back to the giver, too.

Dignity Through Choice and Trust

Volunteers also shared appreciation for the way Giving the Basics delivers impact—through dignity, choice, and transparency.

“What I liked about Giving the Basics is not only their mission to help communities, but specifically the way they give people a choice instead of doing kits. I like how they want to make people feel like they’re ‘shopping’ and get to choose which products, scents, and brands they get. I hope it allows people to feel independent.”
— Henderson Engineering Volunteer

“I love that 90% of every dollar given goes towards the purchase of products. 10% operational cost is awesome. People who donate know that the money donated really does go towards what they donate it for.”
— Henderson Engineering Volunteer

“In a world of abundance, those that fall into unfortunate circumstances become forgotten. Giving the Basics serves an invisible and overlooked need. This is the most direct and impactful giving organization I’ve seen.”
— ProAthlete Volunteer

Ready to Make an Impact?

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do—and there’s always room for more hands and hearts. Whether you’re an individual, part of a business, or organizing a group, we offer meaningful volunteer opportunities that make a real difference for families in our community.

Volunteer with Giving the Basics and help provide dignity through access to essential hygiene items.

Learn more and sign up to volunteer

Thank You for Making the Holidays Brighter

KBP Brands

Beyond The Door

Guest Supply

Guest Worldwide – A Sysco Company

H&H Group

Cerris Systems

KC Ski Club Group

Kansas City Ski Club

NFM

Northpoint Development

Stuppy Greenhouse

KCMY

KCYM

Notre Dame de Sion

Shawnee Mission NW

Dehaemer Family

Cub Scout 3184

Cub Scout Pack 3184

Foster & Wallace

BVN HS Heart

BVN Heart Work

Experis

Heartland Coca Cola

Charles Schwab

KC Business Travel Association

Mariner Wealth Advisors

Mariner

Commerce Bank

Pro Athlete

ProAthlete

Studio North

studioNorth Architecture

Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts Troop – Cure A

Associated Wholesale Grocers

October 2025 Corporate Volunteers Pack 165,831 Items

20 November 2025

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Categories: Corporate Giving, Volunteer

Corporate Volunteers October 2025

Here’s Why Businesses Choose Giving The Basics

Kansas City businesses made a big impact through volunteering last month. In October, 16 corporate groups rolled up their sleeves across 18 volunteer sessions at Giving the Basics’ Hygiene Hub, packing an incredible 165,831 essential hygiene items—from shampoo and soap to deodorant and toothpaste. That’s 165,831 fresh starts for local students, families, and seniors facing hygiene poverty, where 1 in 3 low-income households can’t afford these basics.

But here’s the real story: Why do forward-thinking companies choose Giving the Basics for corporate volunteering? It’s not just about giving back—it’s about team-building, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and creating shared purpose that strengthens culture and boosts morale. When employees pack and sort hygiene items together, they’re not just filling boxes; they’re building trust, sparking empathy, and walking away prouder of the company they represent.

Why Corporate Volunteering at Giving the Basics Works

Smart businesses know that CSR isn’t a checkbox—it’s a competitive edge. According to Deloitte, 77% of employees want to work for socially responsible companies, and hands-on volunteering is one of the most effective ways to deliver. At our Hygiene Hub:

Team-Building in Action: Assembly lines require communication, problem-solving, and collaboration—skills that translate directly to the workplace.
Tangible Impact: Every item packed has a destination—local schools, shelters, and pantries—making the ROI on time crystal clear.
Employee Engagement Boost: Volunteers leave energized, connected, and aligned with a mission that matters.

This October, 239 corporate volunteers experienced exactly that. Here’s what they had to say:

“Today I felt like I was making a tangible difference in my community. Providing access to ‘Basic’ necessities for people in my community is impactful for both the recipients and me personally!” — CC Capital Advisors (Turnstone)

“To know that after playing sports in school that I could not be clean affects not only the way you feel but affects your health. It is wonderful to know Giving the Basics is stepping in this gap.” — Searcy Financial

“I’ve walked in the shoes of not having the basics at certain points in my life. It’s been reassuring to know there are organizations like this filling the gap and providing support. I’m thrilled to be able to volunteer and give back now. In my Arnold Schwarzenegger voice… I’ll be back!” — Oasis Senior Advisors KC

“I personally have been homeless in the past. I went times without the basics. Hygiene is important for everyone. I am so happy to hear that this place exists and for being able to be a part of this.” — DOCF

These aren’t just quotes—they’re proof that corporate volunteering builds empathy, strengthens teams, and drives real change. When employees connect their work to a cause like dignity through hygiene, they return to the office more engaged, collaborative, and proud.

A Big Shoutout to Our October Corporate Groups

kcbpu

KCBPU

Kincaid Group

The Kincaid Group

CC Capital Advisors

Citywide Facility Solutions

City Wide Facility Solutions

Country Club Bank

Crema

Hallmark

Laminate Works

NCM

NCM Associates

Opus Build

Opus Build LLC

Searcy

Searcy Financial

Oasis Senior Advisors

Kansas Gas Service

Ready to Level Up Your CSR?

Whether you’re planning 2026 team-building or want to deepen your Corporate Social Responsibility impact, Giving the Basics makes it easy:

Flexible Scheduling: Morning or afternoon shifts for groups up to 30.
Custom Impact Reports: Post-session stats (like “Your team packed 8,200 items!”) to share internally.
Pair with Giving: Many companies amplify impact by combining volunteer days with product drives or financial matches.

Book your 2026 corporate volunteer session today at
givingthebasics.org/volunteer.
Let’s turn your next team outing into a movement.

September Community Service Spotlight

30 October 2025

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Categories: Volunteer

Community Volunteering September

Fun Volunteering Adventures at Our Hygiene Hub

Hey there, community champions! As the leaves start turning and kids head back to school, September at Giving the Basics was all about rallying together for some seriously impactful (and super fun) community service. This month, we welcomed 7 amazing community groups, bringing in 120 enthusiastic volunteers who packed a whopping 70,000 hygiene items! From soap and shampoo to toothpaste and deodorant, these essentials are heading straight to families, students, and seniors who need them most. If you’re on the hunt for meaningful volunteer opportunities that blend fun, family time, and real advocacy for hygiene poverty, stick around—we’ve got fresh ideas and stories to inspire your next adventure.

Why September Volunteering Hits Different: Back-to-School Boost

September isn’t just about crisp notebooks and new sneakers; it’s prime time for community advocacy around education and well-being. Did you know that hygiene poverty affects 1 in 3

low-income families, often leading kids to miss school due to embarrassment or discomfort? At our Hygiene Hub, volunteers dove into packing sessions that directly support back-to-school success—think fresh starts with clean hair and confident smiles. This month’s groups turned what could be routine community service into a lively hub of laughter, teamwork, and purpose.

Spotlight on Our September Stars

Our 120 volunteers came from diverse corners—faith groups, schools, foundations, neighborhood clubs, social clubs and more looking for bonding time.

KC Christian School

Exceptional Humans

The Ripple Effect: 70,000 Items and Endless Impact

Those 70,000 packed items? They’re not just numbers—they’re lifelines. Distributed through schools, shelters, and pantries, they help combat hygiene poverty by ensuring no one skips a day due to lacking basics. Imagine a student acing a test because they felt fresh and focused, or a family advocating for change in their community after receiving support. This September’s haul means thousands more can show up as their best selves, proving that community service at our Hygiene Hub creates waves of dignity and hope.

Looking for family volunteering ideas? Try our Community Night, where all are welcome to join in on the fun! Or, organize a product drive, post about it on your neighborhood page, or get your school involved. Our Giving the Basics team can provide you with all the tools you need to make your drive a success!

Join the Fun: Your Next Volunteer Spot Awaits

Ready to dive into community service that’s equal parts fun and fulfilling? Whether you’re a solo volunteer seeking connection, a family craving quality time, or a group advocating for change, our Hygiene Hub has spots open!

Spring Hill Volunteer Club

Summit Future Foundation

KCMY

KCYM

Lakeview Village

Top Royals Prospects Volunteer at Giving the Basics

24 September 2025

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Categories: Press Room, Volunteer

On Friday, September 20 2025, several Kansas City Royals Organizational Award Winners started their Futures Night by lending a hand to help families in need. Thank you to KMBC 9 News for covering the event and for sharing the experience of one local star, Carter Jensen.

August Community Group Volunteering

10 September 2025

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Categories: Volunteer

August Volunteers

Brain Science: The Powerful Benefits of Community Service

QHR Christian Family Movement Volunteers

Have you ever noticed how good it feels to help someone else? Whether you volunteer your time, donate essentials, or simply lend a hand, acts of community service spark something powerful inside of us. Science confirms what our hearts already know—helping others is good for the brain.

The Science Behind the “Helper’s High”

When you engage in community service, your brain releases a surge of “feel-good” chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. This rush is often referred to as the “helper’s high.” Researchers have found that volunteering activates the brain’s reward centers in the same way eating your favorite food or hearing your favorite song does. (Source)

In other words, when you volunteer, your brain thanks you.

Stress Reduction Through Giving Back

Serving others doesn’t just make you feel happier—it also lowers stress. Studies show that individuals who regularly participate in community service have lower blood pressure and reduced levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. (Source)

When we take time to step outside of our own worries and focus on helping others, our nervous system calms, and our perspective shifts. The act of giving reminds us of the bigger picture, creating space for gratitude and resilience.

Volunteering Strengthens Connection and Purpose

Humans are wired for connection. When you volunteer, you’re not just giving your time—you’re building meaningful bonds with others. Whether it’s packing hygiene kits, serving meals, or tutoring students, acts of community service foster teamwork and belonging.

Brain science shows that social connections are key to long-term happiness. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and community, which research links to longer life expectancy and improved mental health.

A Win-Win for Everyone

The beauty of community service is that it benefits both the giver and the receiver. When you volunteer, you’re restoring dignity and hope to others, while also improving your own well-being. It’s one of the rare activities in life where everyone wins.

At Giving the Basics, we see this every day. Volunteers leave our warehouse with smiles, laughter, and a renewed sense of joy—because their brains (and hearts) are experiencing the benefits of giving.

Happy Helpers in August

KC Athenaeum Volunteers

We are so thankful to the community groups who volunteered with us in August. In addition to corporate volunteer groups, we hosted a total of 300 volunteers who packed 303,889 hygiene items for people in need. Volunteers are essential to our ability to provide hygiene access to more than 3.4 million people every single month.

Ready to Experience the Science for Yourself?

If you want to boost your mood, lower your stress, and find deeper purpose, try volunteering. Your brain will reward you—and so will your community.

👉 Sign Up to Volunteer with Giving the Basics Today