Volunteers are the backbone of CUMAC. Over 30 years ago, CUMAC was run entirely by a group of volunteers dedicated to fighting hunger in our community. Though our operations have grown since then and we now have a staff of over 20, volunteers remain a critical part of our work. Each year thousands of people donate countless hours of their time to CUMAC, allowing us to keep costs down and reach thousands of families in need. However, with hunger affecting over 1 million people in New Jersey, the need for support is constant. That's why we are always searching for people who are invested in our community and ready to make a difference!
From one-time events to weekly projects, CUMAC has volunteer opportunities that fit all schedules and age groups. Join our team today!
Volunteer Requirements
Individuals and groups must schedule their visit with our Volunteer Coordinator before volunteering. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be supervised by an adult. At least one adult for every five youth is strongly recommended. To speed up the check-in process, we ask first-time volunteers to print and sign our volunteer waiver or youth volunteer waiver form. See our FAQ page for more info about our work and volunteering.
Individuals
Opportunities are available for those who would like to volunteer with CUMAC once or on an ongoing basis. There are plenty of volunteer roles around our building, from packing grocery bags and sorting clothing to office projects and event assistance.
COMMUNITY CLOSET
Help out our Community Closet by separating and sorting clothing, assembling and testing items, or assisting in our thrift shop.
FOOD PANTRY
Give vital assistance to our food pantry and warehouse by sorting incoming donations and helping pack food bags for our clients.
FOOD DRIVES AND COLLECTIONS
A great way to support CUMAC's mission is to organize a food drive or clothing collection. There's never a bad time to help restock our shelves! Contact our office or visit our Hold a Food Drive or Collection page for more information.
EVENTS
CUMAC events are always in need of volunteer support. Make our next fundraiser or community project a success by volunteering with us! See our upcoming opportunities on CUMAC's Events page or reach out to our Event Coordinator for more details. See our Opportunities page for other ways you can get involved.
Groups
The CUMAC team offers several fun and engaging volunteer projects for small and large groups. If you are interested in arranging a group trip to CUMAC please contact our Volunteer Coordinator. See a full list of opportunities on our Groups & Companies page.
Hours
Regular volunteer hours are held Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm, but some projects allow for alternative arrival and departure times. Special openings are also held two Saturdays a month, as well as one Tuesday evening a month. Please see our Hours page for additional details.
Get Started
To join our team fill out our volunteer application or contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@cumacecho.org or 973-742-5518.
Special Volunteer Opportunities
- Provide independent consultation & support
- Assist or coordinate a painting project
- Join our Board
- Hold a clean-up project
- Host an event or fundraiser
- Parking lot restoration
