Volunteer
We're always looking for volunteers!
Volunteers are vital to the operations of Second Harvest Food Bank and our ability to serve all 18 counties. This past year, our volunteers donated 32,000+ hours of their time, completing mission-critical tasks in our community. Volunteer responsibilities include sorting donated items, packing food boxes, distributing food at Mobile Pantries, and helping at special events. Through the generous gift of your time, you can leave an impact here in East Tennessee.
Twenty-five volunteer slots are available per shift. Two shifts (9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.) are available Tuesday through Saturday each week. A new schedule of 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday will go into effect on April 6th, 2026.
Volunteer FAQ
All volunteers must be at least 10 years old and all volunteers under 16 years old must have a chaperone with them
Yes! Whether you’re a class, business, or faith group, Second Harvest can accommodate your team.
Second Harvest is able to host volunteers of any ability level. A list of possible duties for each shift will be available when you sign up.
Non-violent, non-theft court-appointed volunteers may be accepted by Second Harvest. All volunteers must be approved, may be subject to a background check, and must abide by the safety rules and code of conduct. Any volunteer acting inappropriately will be dismissed immediately.
Visit Volunteer East Tennessee, email volunteer@secondharvestetn.org, or give us a call at (865) 980-8473.
Volunteer shifts at the Second Harvest are available Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Because we are an industrial food-handling and distribution warehouse, our operations follow a production schedule. The facility operates 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., which means our volunteer projects take place during weekday daytime hours.
At this time, we do not have evening or weekend volunteer shifts.
Not at the food bank facility in Maryville. However, many of the food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters we partner with operate on weekends and welcome volunteers.
If you are looking for a Saturday volunteer opportunity for a group, church, or school, volunteering directly with one of our partner agencies is a great way to help neighbors facing food insecurity.
QUESTIONS?
Reach out today to learn more about what we do, get involved, or for additional information about our resources.