Every smile at the front desk. Every cup of coffee served. Every conversation shared. Every event made possible. It all begins with someone choosing to give their time.
At the USO, volunteering is about so much more than helping with daily tasks, it’s about creating a place where service members and their families can feel at home, even when they’re miles away from the people they love.
Imagine a Soldier walking through our doors after a long day of training. They’re tired, far from home, and just looking for a place to relax. They’re greeted by a friendly volunteer who welcomes them with a smile, offers them a snack or a hot cup of coffee, and makes them feel like they belong. That small moment may seem simple, but it can completely change someone’s day.
Behind every successful event, holiday celebration, game night, family program, or care package is a team of volunteers who chose to make a difference. Whether they’re decorating for an event, serving lunch, welcoming guests, helping children with activities, or simply listening to someone’s story, our volunteers help create the experiences that make the USO feel like home.
But volunteering doesn’t just impact those we serve, it changes the lives of our volunteers, too.
Many of our volunteers join hoping to give back, only to discover they gain just as much in return. They build lasting friendships, develop new skills, grow as leaders, and become part of a supportive community that shares a common purpose. For military spouses, retirees, students, veterans, and community members alike, volunteering is an opportunity to connect with others while making a meaningful impact.
Every hour donated helps strengthen our military community. Every act of kindness reminds our service members that they are appreciated, valued, and never alone.
No matter your background, experience, or schedule, there is a place for you here. Whether you can volunteer once a month or several times each week, your time has the power to brighten someone’s day and leave a lasting impression.
When you volunteer with the USO, you’re not just giving your time, you are creating moments of comfort, connection, and hope for the people who sacrifice so much for our country.
Together, we create smiles. We build community. We serve those who serve. Join us, and become part of a mission that changes lives, one moment, one conversation, and one volunteer at a time.
Continue on volunteers.uso.org