So What Else, Inc.

So What Else (SWE) is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that strives to improve the lives of children and families living in underserved communities in Maryland, D.C. & Baltimore by providing free food, home goods, high-quality, after-school time programs, and service opportunities to the children and families we serve. To support this work, we host a number of volunteer opportunities across the region in fields such as food recovery, teaching, event support and more. We strive to make volunteer service accessible & meaningful for people of all backgrounds, experiences, interests, capabilities, and capacities.

Volunteer roles are available in both Food Security and Youth Development programs, where your contribution can make a significant impact.

***If you are interested in Group / Team / Organization volunteering, please get in touch with us at volunteer@sowhatelse.org!***

Volunteers interested in serving in Youth Development programs must pass a background check and commit to a minimum of one semester (after-school programs—minimum of two days a week, typically 3 PM to 6 PM) and/or one camp session (minimum of one week, typically 9 AM to 3 PM Monday through Thursday/Friday).

Volunteers wishing to serve in MoCo / other MD counties or Baltimore should email Nifemi at oolugbemiga@sowhatelse.org with a self-introduction and brief outline of what role in Youth Development - teacher, mentor, classroom aide, instructor (arts, dance, theater, music, sports, language literacy, fiscal literacy, etc. - you are interested in fulfilling. Please allow 10 business days for a reply. Email volunteer@sowhatelse.org if there is no response after this time. 

Volunteers in the Food Security (including Family Support Donation Center) program fill a variety of roles, from packers & driver assistants (load/unload trucks/vans) to food distribution helpers (line server, custodial, stocker and safety roles) to food parcel/boxes assembly, home deliveries of food parcels to sorting, organizing, shelving and racking donated clothing, shoes, books, household items and assisting in the operation of the free thrift store.

Roles are available for everyone (16 or younger may serve with a parent / designated adult guardian).

AGE RESTRICTION: This is a great opportunity for children aged 10 and above to volunteer. A parent or guardian must accompany children aged 10-15, and if they arrive without one, their parent or guardian will be contacted. Volunteers aged 16 and above can participate independently without the presence of a parent or guardian.

Some tasks require a bit of bending and lifting (typically 2 to 5 lbs. occasionally up to 50 lbs) and or being on your feet for extended periods. No one will be asked or expected to lift, carry or move any item that cause injury. Breaks and hydration are strongly encouraged. Smart teamwork and shared effort are paramount. Help from SWE site hosts and fellow volunteers is always available. If you have any special needs or considerations, please email volunteer @ sowhatelse.org explaining your questions, concerns or requirements.