Volunteer Opportunities at CAER

Volunteers are the heart of CAER. Join us in making a difference right here in our community.

Why Our Volunteers Matter

At CAER, volunteers are more than helpers. They’re the reason we can do what we do. From stocking shelves to loading up grocery carts, picking up fresh food from our grocery rescue partners, and checking in shoppers at our front desk, our volunteers make sure our neighbors get the support they need with kindness and respect.


Whether you're here once a week or just for a special event, your time makes a big difference. With dozens of people pitching in every year, CAER truly runs on community. 

150+

Volunteers in 2024

13,218

Hours

$427K+

Value

Get Started: Apply to Volunteer

Hear What Our Current Volunteers Have To Say 

CAER is my favorite place to volunteer. The atmosphere is upbeat, the pace is steady, and the staff and volunteers are a lot of fun to be around.

I have been blessed in this life and CAER gives me one way to help others. Also, I have made some great friends at CAER.

My first season with CAER was enjoyable. The staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly. CAER provides amazing services for people in the community, and I was proud to contribute my time.

I’m so happy to be helping clients & their families (including their pets!) get the food & basic necessities, enabling them to provide for their families or themselves. 

It’s like being a part of an extended family & a great feeling to be part of a nonprofit that helps the community in so many ways 

I am always amazed at the friendliness and positive attitudes of everyone at CAER. It is an incredible organization.

Volunteering at CAER has been very rewarding. Witnessing the many programs available for the community is heartwarming. The programs vary from groceries, kids kits, winter coat and school supplies with backpack distribution, plus many more. Most important are our fellow volunteers who give their time with joy.  

Not only do we do a great service for our community, but the volunteers and the CAER staff could not be more helpful, friendly, and kind. I am always amazed by the number of programs CAER is involved in and amazed by the number of volunteers and by all of the different jobs that are offered and assigned. CAER staff does a great job!!!

I enjoy volunteering at CAER because it is a great team of volunteers and staff. They all work together to see that those in need are receiving our best service and supplies for their families. Most of the clients are so appreciative.

CAER is my favorite place to volunteer. The atmosphere is upbeat, the pace is steady, and the staff and volunteers are a lot of fun to be around.

I have been blessed in this life and CAER gives me one way to help others. Also, I have made some great friends at CAER.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I filled out a volunteer application, now what?

    CAER operates with a robust base of dedicated volunteers. It is possible there are no unfulfilled volunteer needs at the time of your application. Applications are processed once per month, and as an applicant you are kept on an email list until you ask to me removed. Volunteer applicants are first to hear of new volunteer opportunities.  

  • Can I volunteer my professional skills?

    CAER welcomes pro bono volunteers who are interested in sharing professional skills to support our mission and strengthen our operations. Pro bono support may include areas such as photography, videography, legal, marketing, communications, accounting, IT, design, translation, or other specialized expertise.


    Pro bono opportunities are occasional, sometimes event based, and reflect current organizational needs; submitting an inquiry does not guarantee placement.


    If you are interested in offering professional services, please send an inquiry email to info@caerfoodshelf.org and note your area of expertise. A staff member will follow up.

  • How do I join the CAER Board of Directors?

    The CAER Board of Directors welcomes applications from those interested in serving as Board Members. Board members attend and participate in all board meetings, help guide organizational decisions, and support CAER’s mission through leadership and community engagement. The ideal candidate is engaged, understands the value of community connections, and is comfortable offering advice and leadership in a working board environment. Strong community, business, or church ties in the Elk River, Otsego, and Zimmerman area are important.


    To apply, fill out the form found on this page. You can also direct any questions you may have to Heather Kliewer, Executive Director. 

  • Can anyone volunteer with CAER?

    Volunteers opportunities are open to anyone 18 and older.


    Schedules are flexible. There is no minimum requirement, though preferred candidates can commit to 2-4 volunteer shifts per month. 


    We’re looking for kind, versatile, and team-minded volunteers who show up with a welcoming spirit and a willingness to help wherever needed—no judgment, just compassion.

  • What can I expect as a volunteer?

    Due to the nature of our work, there are some physical demands: the ability to lift 20+ pounds and stand for most of the duration of your shift. 


    Less physically demanding roles are limited but available. 


    Volunteer shifts are primarily during the day, mainly: 

    • Monday and Wednesday, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. or 12:00–2:30 p.m.
    • Thursday, 4:00–6:30 p.m.
    • Friday, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. 

    Dress code consists of functional clothing for working in a warehouse, including closed-toe shoes. You’ll receive more information before your first shift. 

  • Can I volunteer with my group?

    Due to space constraints, group volunteer opportunities are very limited. 


  • What kind of opportunities are available?

    • Food shelf helper
    • Board and Committee members
    • Food rescue driver
    • Event support

  • Are there weekend opportunities?

    Volunteer opportunities are primarily during daytime shopping hours.


    Main volunteer shifts are:

    Monday and Wednesday, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. or 12:00–2:30 p.m.

    Thursday, 4:00–6:30 p.m.

    Friday, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. 


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