During National Volunteer Week, we’re stepping aside to let the voices of our volunteers take the lead. These are the people behind the smiles—individuals and groups who give their time, energy, and heart to children who need it most.
Let’s hear from them.
The Stories
For some, volunteering with Operation Warm is a community tradition—one that’s grown over the years.
- “I’ve been organizing [our Operation Warm program] since 2009. We have handed out thousands of coats locally… Seeing the look of a child receiving their own, brand-new coat makes my heart warm and full.” -Community Partner, 2024
- “Watching children receive a new pair of shoes is a win-win!!! It brings them joy, it brings my volunteers joy.” -Community Partner, 2024
Others come to volunteer through work—but leave with a renewed sense of purpose.
- “I volunteered to run the signing of the thank you posters! I loved getting to interact with every child and see every smile! It was literally one of the best days I’ve had this year!”- Corporate Employee Volunteer, 2024
- “This is my very favorite of all the service to other work I do. My favorite was a little guy who loved his coat so much he didn’t want to give it up to put his name in it. He was all smiles!”- Corporate Employee Volunteer, 2024
Our Community Impact Volunteers (CIVs) often serve year-round—leading events, building connections, and creating moments kids will never forget.
- “I love seeing the students smile when it's their turn to pick a pair of shoes. A shopping experience they will remember and a shoes to allow them to play and walk to school. This is why I love Operation Warm.”- CIV, Lindsey
- “It was hot in the gym, but this little guy wouldn’t take his new coat off. We were telling him he could—but he just kept it on. You could tell it meant the world to him to have something that was his.” - CIV, Jessica
We Couldn’t Do It Without You
Every child’s smile is made possible by volunteers like these. To all of our volunteers: thank you for driving our impact forward.
Want to hear more volunteer stories like this? Check out our social media!
Interested in having your own volunteer experience? Head here to learn all the ways you can get involved with Operation Warm.
