Volunteer with MSDC

Volunteers play an important role in supporting programs and services across Marshall-Starke Development Center. While volunteers do not provide direct care, they help create engaging, welcoming, and inclusive environments by assisting staff, supporting activities, and contributing their time and talents.

Volunteer opportunities are available across several service areas and locations, allowing individuals and groups to get involved in ways that match their interests and availability.

Service Programs Where Volunteers May Serve

Volunteers may support the following program areas, always under the guidance and supervision of MSDC staff:

Day Programming

Available at Plymouth and Manitou and may include:

·       Assisting with performing arts and activity carts

·       Supporting educational and enrichment activities

·       Helping staff with group-based programming

·       Assisting with Second Chance Furnishings projects and organization

Residential Programs

Volunteers may assist with:

·       Group activities and social engagement

·       Special events or celebrations

·       Facility-based projects and support tasks

Volunteers do not provide personal care or medical support in any settings.

Head Start Programs

Volunteers may assist with:

·       Classroom support under staff supervision

·       Reading, learning activities, and group engagement

·       Program or event support

MSDC welcomes volunteers who support early childhood learning environments.

Level 1 Volunteer: Contributor

  • Contributors support MSDC through single-day or occasional opportunities. This level is ideal for individuals, families, schools, or groups looking to give back for a few hours or a day.

    Great for:

    • Special events and community celebrations

    • Donation drives and organizing projects

    • Facility or grounds projects

    • Corporate, school, or group service days

    • No background check required

    • Always supervised by MSDC staff

    • No one-on-one interaction with participants

Person sitting in a chair indoors, smiling, wearing glasses, a blue beanie, black jacket, beige pants, and holding a colorful marble run toy.

Level 2 Volunteer: Champion

  • Champion Volunteers assist with programs and activities on a regular basis for a defined period of time, such as several weeks or a few months.

    Great for:

    • Assisting with group activities

    • Supporting staff during programs

    • Seasonal or recurring projects

    • Local and state criminal background check

    • TB skin test

    • Completion of volunteer paperwork

    • Volunteers work in group settings under staff supervision

Four people riding in a golf cart through a wooded area, with greenery and trees in the background. One person is waving and smiling at the camera.

Level 3 Volunteer: Ambassador

  • Ambassadors volunteer on a regular and ongoing basis and become familiar faces within our programs. This role supports continuity and consistency while maintaining clear boundaries.

    Great for:

    • Ongoing program support

    • Assisting staff with activities and routines

    • Long-term community engagement

    • ·       Local and state criminal background check

      TB skin test

      Agency orientation with Human Resources

      Volunteers may assist alongside staff but do not provide direct personal care to people we serve.

Important Volunteer Guidelines

To ensure safety and quality of care:

·       Volunteers do not perform personal care (toileting, dressing, bathing, etc.)

·       Volunteers do not administer medication

·       Volunteers do not transport individuals

·       One-on-one activities only occur with staff present

·       MSDC does not complete BMV driving checks for volunteers

Some requirements or training elements may be waived based on volunteer duties, as approved by the CEO and Human Resources.

Ready to Volunteer?

Whether you have a single day to give or are interested in ongoing involvement, we’d love to hear from you.