About Us

The Volunteer Center has been serving the Lehigh Valley and surrounding communities for over 35 years as a capacity builder, resource provider and connector for the nonprofit and business communities as well as individuals who want to give back. Our core focus includes volunteer coordinating for individuals, teams and businesses. We provide extensive training programs that include board service, volunteer coordination training and nonprofit skill building. Each year, we connect over 25,000 volunteers with 450+ nonprofit organizations and partner with over 100 businesses We coordinate volunteer service days for United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, as well as National Service Days including MLK Day, 9/11 Day of Service, Family Volunteer Day, Global Youth Service Day and more. 

Our programs also include our annual Volunteer Challenge which is a collaboration between businesses and nonprofits for completion of sustainable projects and host recognition events in both the spring and fall to celebrate the many achievments and impact that volunteers have made. 

Our Mission

To be the premiere resource to connect, empower, and transform an inclusive and engaged diverse culture within the Greater Lehigh Valley by partnering with people, businesses, and non-profits through volunteer coordination, leadership development, and recognition. 

Our Vision

To be the premiere resource on volunteerism for the benefit of the community and organizations we serve. 

Our Values

Collaboration, community, integrity, diversity & continuous improvement.

Our History

The Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley grew out of a 1982 community initiative lead by local businesses and agencies. In 1985, incorporated as an independent nonprofit organization. Originally charged with recruiting, screening and placing volunteers in local nonprofit organizations, our mission has evolved over the years as a capacity builder to meet the drastically changing needs of Lehigh Valley nonprofit organizations and the corporate focus on community support and engagement. Through our programs, we offer opportunities for individuals, companies and nonprofit agencies all with the collective goal to create educational and human service partnerships that will enhance and enrich the Lehigh Valley by developing leaders and providing resources to nonprofits.

Our Staff & Board of Directors

The Volunteer Center is affiliated nationally with The Points of Light Institute, HandsOn Network, The Corporation for National & Community Service, and is a member of the following: United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley; and Society of Volunteer Administrators of the Lehigh Valley. 

The Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley is an affiliate of the Points of Light Global Network, which includes volunteer-mobilizing organizations located in nearly 40 countries around the world. To learn more about the Points of Light Global Network, visit www.pointsoflight.org/global-network.