Get involved with the Center for Basic Needs 

Get Involved

Volunteer with Us 

Our volunteers help keep our doors open! Interested in volunteering at the Center for Basic Needs? If so, please visit the Jones Center for Leadership and Service’s ‘Sign Up to Serve’ website. All individual volunteer opportunities with us are made available through the ServeUTK platform. However, please note that opportunities fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up in advance. Interested in a group service opportunity or have further questions about volunteering with us? Contact us via email at [email protected]

Join the Basic Needs Student Director Team 

Basic Needs student directors assist with the operations of the Big Orange Pantry, Smokey’s Closet, Free Store, and other outreach programs. Student directors are a paid student staff position within the Center for Basic Needs and work scheduled hours throughout the academic year. Interested in applying? Reach out via email at [email protected].

Interested in donating?  

The Center for Basic Needs accepts food, clothing, and hygiene item donations on an as-needed basis. If you’re interested in donating or would like to organize a donation drive, please reach out to [email protected].