To fulfill our mission View The roles below.

Mainspring relies on a committed group of volunteers. Our volunteers come from a variety of ages and backgrounds, but they all share a common interest in helping others. Thanks to their help, Mainspring is able to operate with only  four full time equivalent paid positions.  This has a direct impact upon our ability to serve members of our community in need.

Here's what some of our volunteers have to say about their experience, when asked what brings them to Mainspring each day:

" I feel that I am helping people who need help. Being at Mainspring is an important part of my week."
-Lee S.

"I have what I need, so I want to help others get what they need."
-Ray M.

" What brings me here each day? The people I work with are the best. The feeling that I am giving back. My motto is,'I give and I get back'".
-Yvonne C.

Mainspring Ambassadors at the Rocky Butte Farmers Market.

Mainspring Community Food & Clothing Pantry

Volunteer Opportunities at Mainspring

Join the volunteer family at Mainspring Community Food & Clothing Pantry and help us serve our Portland neighbors with dignity, compassion, and care. No matter your availability, there’s a role that fits your time, interests, and skills.

Mainspring Ambassador

A new volunteer position created in 2024 for those who want to give back but have limited weekday availability.

Ambassadors help represent Mainspring at community events such as:

  • Neighborhood block parties
  • Movies in the park
  • Street fairs and farmers markets
  • Food, clothing, and gift drives

These roles are perfect for volunteers who are available evenings or weekends. Be the friendly face of Mainspring in the community.

Food Pantry Distribution and Driving

We are in need of dependable drivers with good driving and safety records to:

  • Pick up donated food, clothing, and other items in the mornings
  • Deliver 30-pound food boxes to seniors throughout the month

Drivers must be able to lift and carry 30-pound boxes repeatedly and operate both small and large cargo vans.

  • Shifts: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, Monday through Thursday
  • Backup drivers are also welcome to join our on-call rotation

Food Pantry Helpers are also needed to:

  • Stock shelves and organize donations
  • Prepare overnight food bags for distribution
  • Typical shifts: 9 AM to 1 PM, Monday through Thursday (split shifts available)

Re-Thread Program Specialist

Help provide dignity through clothing. Re-Thread volunteers assist with:

  • Sorting, organizing, and hanging donated clothing
  • Demographic intake and shopper assistance
  • Distributing hygiene items, shoes, towels, and bedding

Re-Thread operates Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 AM to 1 PM, but volunteers may choose flexible hours Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 3 PM.

Our goal: every shopper experiences a welcoming, respectful, and dignified visit.

Program Support Specialist

A flexible administrative role that supports daily operations. Duties may include:

  • Greeting and assisting patrons
  • Distributing food bags and providing program information
  • Light data entry
  • Receiving and logging donations of food, clothing, and hygiene items

Perfect for detail-oriented volunteers who enjoy multitasking and supporting the team behind the scenes.

Housekeeping Support

Keep Mainspring clean, safe, and welcoming for all. Tasks include:

  • Sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing shared areas
  • Light outdoor cleaning around the building
  • Kitchen and restroom upkeep

Flexible weekday hours available.

Administrative and Community Outreach

For volunteers with clerical or communication skills, these roles help Mainspring run smoothly and expand its reach:

  • Data Entry and Filing: Maintain volunteer records, donation logs, and program forms
  • Communications and Social Media: Assist with social posts, newsletters, and event promotion
  • Grant and Donation Support: Help with basic research or tracking of incoming grants and donor acknowledgments
  • Community Outreach Assistant: Support partnerships, represent Mainspring at community tables, and help plan local events
  • Reception and Office Support: Answer phones, greet visitors, and provide general office assistance

These positions are typically available Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 3 PM, and can be tailored to your availability.

Interested in volunteering? Contact us at volunteer@mainspringpdx.org or visit our facility at 3500 NE 82nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97220.

Please join us in lending a helping hand to those who can use it most!

GENERAL INQUIRIES