Build a Better Food System
Every year, billions of pounds of fresh, nutritious food go to waste—but together, we can change that.
Volunteers are the heart of this effort. Whether you're sorting fresh produce, assisting at events, or lending your unique skills in other ways, your thyme and energy create a direct impact on food access in our community.
How You Can Get Involved
Volunteering with us is a hands-on way to make a real difference in food access and sustainability. We offer a wide range of weekly opportunities at our warehouse and office to fit different skills and interests:
Warehouse:
Sort, pack, and distribute fresh produce
Ensure food reaches the people who need it most
Office:
Support administrative projects
Assist with outreach efforts
Complete behind-the-scenes tasks that keep our mission moving
You’ll be taken to our volunteer system to create an account and sign up for shifts.
Looking for Volunteer Events?
Need to Know Before You Volunteer
Shoes: Please wear closed-toe shoes to stay safe and comfortable.
Gloves: Provided for your protection—usually not latex.
Lifting: Some tasks involve lifting, so come ready to move a bit!
Kids: We welcome helpers ages 8+ (children under 8 need to sit this one out).
We’re committed to making our volunteer experience welcoming and accessible for everyone. If you or your group need accommodations to participate, please contact:
volunteer@kanbesmarkets.org
Organizing a Group or Corporate Volunteer Day?
We’d love to host your team for a meaningful, hands-on experience!
Fill out this [form]
Contact Isabel Miller, Volunteer Engagement & Impact Manager, at isabelm@kanbesmarkets.org
SNAP Work Requirements
We are a qualifying volunteer site for the SNAP 80 hour work/training requirements for Missouri Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD). Volunteering with us can help individuals gain skills in product assessment, transportation logistics, inventory management, time management, interpersonal skills, and opportunities to network with other food focussed organizations in the region. Kanbe’s Markets also operate a workforce development program through our driver positions.
Volunteer Spotlight
Raul Sanchez
Raul started volunteering at Kanbe's this spring and has quickly become one of our most dedicated volunteers.
As a member of our BIPs, Berry Important People, Raul has stepped up in so many ways to support the work at Kanbe's. From joining us almost daily in sorting and at so many of our special events, Raul has been one of our strongest champions!
Thank you for all you do Raul; we're so glad you're here!
VOLUNTEER EVENTS!
Frequently Asked Questions
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We have a few different ways individuals can join us to volunteer. Produce for the People sorting shifts currently occur Monday through Friday mornings 9-11:30am and Monday/Tuesday & Wednesday/Friday afternoons 1-3pm. We also have office volunteering, community food partner assistants, and vehicle information collection assistants. Please be aware most activities require heavy lifting.
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Once you have created your CERVIS account, you can easily select the volunteer opportunity and shift time of your choosing. Details on all roles can be found on our CERVIS site.
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For groups of 5 or less, please have each member create their own CERVIS account and register for your desired volunteer shift. For groups of 5+ please email volunteer@kanbesmarkets.org to receive a private registration code.
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Children 8-12 can join us with a 1:1 adult ratio. We have lots going on in our warehouse so to ensure safety and ability to sort quality produce we ask that an adult joins. Children 13-16 we ask for a 5:1 adult ratio and 16-18 year olds may join us without adult supervision so long as they have a waiver signed by a legal guardian and are in groups smaller than 5.
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Close toed shoes are required when volunteering in our warehouse. We recommend dressing in comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty and encourage you to bring a water bottle. Layers are also a good choice.
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Our warehouse and offices are located at 3119 Terrace St., KCMO 64111. On the day of your volunteer shift, look for the Kanbe's parking signs posted on Terrace Street. Drive through the two sets of gates and park in a Visitor Parking spot along the south fence. Parking is limited, so we encourage car-pooling. Please access our Volunteer Center through the double doors to the right of the loading bays with the large "Welcome Volunteers" sign. When you arrive please check in via the link emailed to you or the tablets in the Volunteer Center.
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Yes, we close with Kansas City Public Schools weather closures.