United Midcoast Charities has launched the Community Volunteer Hub, a new online portal designed to make it easier for community members to find volunteer opportunities that match their interests, skills, and availability.

The idea for the Community Volunteer Hub originated from conversations at Middle Ground, according to UMC, in a news release. This group of Midcoast residents meets weekly on Wednesday mornings at 8:30 a.m. in the lobby of the Tradewinds on Park Street in Rockland to discuss community challenges and solutions. During those discussions, as well as conversations UMC was having with current grantees, local nonprofits consistently raised the same challenges: the limited organizational capacity and finding volunteers who were a good fit for their organizations. The new hub was created to address that gap by helping volunteers and nonprofits connect more efficiently and intentionally.

“Nonprofits told us they were not just looking for more volunteers, but for the right volunteers,” said Becca Gildred, Executive Director of United Midcoast Charities. “At the same time, many people in our community want to help but are not sure where to start. The Community Volunteer Hub brings those needs together in one simple place.”

“This new Community Volunteer Hub is a powerful example of how listening to community voices can lead to practical, lasting solutions,” said Rockland Mayor Adam Lachman. “What began as an idea at the Middle Ground community conversations has been thoughtfully developed into a practical, countywide tool that strengthens the fabric of our region and makes it easier for people to give back in meaningful ways. This kind of innovative vision enabled by UMC will help build a more connected and resilient Midcoast."

Community members use the hub by completing a short online questionnaire about their interests, skills, and availability. Participating nonprofits can then search and filter volunteer profiles to identify people who may be a good match for their programs and outreach. The hub is designed to support and enhance existing volunteer recruitment efforts, not replace them.

The Community Volunteer Hub is now open to volunteers and nonprofit subscribers who want to try the platform. There is currently no cost to participate. To learn more about the Community Volunteer Hub or to sign up, visit unitedmidcoastcharities.org/volunteer.

United Midcoast Charities plays a pivotal role in providing financial support, strategic guidance, and tangible resources to Midcoast nonprofits providing services in our four focus areas of food, housing, health & safety, and economic security. UMC strengthens these community-focused organizations to achieve their missions more effectively and have a greater impact.