Engaging and Recognizing Volunteers

In addition to our four main programs, Pittsburgh Cares coordinates a variety of special events that further engage and recognize volunteers including:

MLK Day: Celebrate the Dream

Pittsburgh Cares believes Martin Luther King Day should be a day on rather than a day off. MLK: Celebrate the Dream, a weekend of volunteerism, aims to realize Dr. King's vision of transforming communities through service. Check our opportunity calendar as MLK Day approaches to see the numerous ways to get involved. Learn More...

Global Youth Service Day

Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) is the single largest service event in the world, with thousands of youth-led community service or service-learning projects taking place in all 50 states and more than 100 countries. Pittsburgh Cares coordinates several special youth service events and highlights youth-friendly service opportunities throughout the month of April. Learn More...

HandsOn Pittsburgh

HandsOn Pittsburgh is an annual initiative that celebrates regional volunteerism and challenges people of all ages to become more engaged in their community. Over the course of a single weekend in May, we place thousands of adult and youth volunteers at dozens of nonprofits around Allegheny Counrt. Corporate and family volunteer teams are also encourage to get involved. To learn more, visit the HandsOn Pittsburgh page.

Make a Difference Day

Make A Difference Day was started by USA Weekend Magazine, Newman's Own, and the HandsOn Network as a way for neighborhoods to band together to make changes in our communities. Inspired by the two cities' longstanding rivalry, Pittsburgh Cares and HandsOn Northeast Ohio decided to promote volunteerism and start the Make a Difference Day Volunteer Challenge, an annual competition in which everyone wins. Learn More...

Seasons of Service (November & December)

A great time to volunteer is during the months of November and December as part of our Seasons of Service campaign. Numerous family-friendly volunteer opportunities and service events take place this time of year. Check our online calendar to see how you can get involved during the holidays.

Toys for Tots (November & December)

Pittsburgh Cares also assists with the Marine Toys for Tots campaign, which distributes toys to over 3,000 families throughout Allegheny County. Visit the Toys for Tots page for information on how to donate, volunteer or request toys for your family.

Pittsburgh Cares’ special events offer volunteers, donors, agency partners and friends the opportunity to create change while networking with others throughout the region! Special events are a great way to get introduced to Pittsburgh Cares!