Check Out These 3 Awesome Charities in Dubuque, Iowa 

Three people volunteering at a nonprofit in Dubuque, IA

Dubuque, Iowa is a community shaped by service and local pride. Across the region, there are many ways to get involved. Whether you’re exploring Dubuque volunteer opportunities or looking to volunteer in Iowa, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find impactful charities and dedicated nonprofit organizations in Iowa working to strengthen Dubuque neighborhoods and support families. This guide highlights three standout Dubuque charities and other Iowa nonprofits, helping you discover meaningful ways to make a difference in Dubuque and beyond.

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Dubuque, Iowa Nonprofits and Charities

Dubuque, Iowa is home to over 800 organizations that support local families and strengthen the community. Many nonprofit organizations in Iowa include religious groups and educational programs. Other Dubuque charities focus on housing, food access, conservation, and community support. By exploring Dubuque volunteer opportunities, you can volunteer in Iowa, build new skills, and make a meaningful impact in your community.

Tips on Volunteering for Dubuque Nonprofits

Nonprofits play an essential role in Dubuque, Iowa and support people across the region. If you want to volunteer in Iowa or explore new ways to give back, there are many simple ways to get started. Whether you want to help out at Dubuque charities occasionally or get more involved, your time makes a real impact.

If you’re not looking for full-time nonprofit work, here are easy ways to help:

  • Call a local nonprofit and ask what they need most.
  • Volunteer at events, drives, or community programs.
  • Share their updates online to raise awareness.
  • Organize a small fundraiser or donation drive.
  • Invite friends or family to volunteer with you.
  • Look for Iowa charities that accept donation pickups.

These simple actions make it easy to support Dubuque charities and explore volunteer opportunities in Iowa in meaningful ways.

1. Catholic Charities – Dubuque, Iowa

A volunteer wearing a face mask and carrying a box

Catholic Charities in Dubuque, Iowa is part of a national network of Catholic Charities organizations serving communities across the U.S. The Dubuque branch has been active since 1931, originally supporting children during the Great Depression. Over the decades, it expanded to refugee resettlement, mental health services, counseling, and affordable housing. Today, this Dubuque charity focuses on immigrant support, school-based counseling, and prison outreach, helping anyone in need regardless of religion or background.

As part of one of the largest networks of nonprofit organizations in Iowa, Catholic Charities consistently ranks highly among national Iowa charities. Supporting Catholic charities in Dubuque, Iowa is a meaningful way to give back and make a positive impact in the Dubuque, Iowa community.

How To Help

There are many ways to support Catholic Charities in Dubuque, Iowa. You can mail a check or donate stocks, bonds, or mutual funds through the Catholic Charities Foundation. Corporate matching programs can help your gift go further. You can also donate a vehicle, and volunteers are always needed.

Mentors provide one-on-one guidance to clients on employment, housing, and community resources. Support group volunteers help clients share challenges and celebrate successes in a safe space. Every donation and hour of Dubuque volunteer opportunities makes a real difference in the Dubuque, Iowa community.

2. The Avery Foundation

Volunteer pushing a man in a wheelchair

The Avery Foundation is a Dubuque, Iowa nonprofit devoted to helping cancer patients and their families. Founded in 2017 in memory of siblings Jim and Julie Avery, the organization understands the stress a cancer diagnosis brings. The foundation provides financial relief for travel, meals, and lodging for patients seeking treatment, including trips to places like the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. Last year alone, the Avery Foundation granted support to 250 families, easing the burden so patients can focus on their care.

How To Help

The main way to support the Avery Foundation is through financial contributions, which go directly to assisting patients with expenses associated with treatment. The organization also hosts community events, like fundraiser nights, where supporters can connect and give back while enjoying a meaningful experience. Participating in these events or making a donation helps this Dubuque charity continue easing the stress for families facing cancer.

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3. Operation Empower

A person handing over a box with food

Operation Empower is a Dubuque, Iowa nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing and recovery support services. This nonprofit helps men and women in recovery build stable lives through programs in employment assistance, life skills, education, and peer mentorship. Residents benefit from a supportive community, group therapy, and social events, giving them the tools to heal, grow, and give back.

How To Help

You can volunteer in Iowa with Operation Empower by serving as a mentor, sponsor, or group facilitator for residents in recovery. Other Dubuque volunteer opportunities include assisting with event planning, hospitality, transportation, gardening, and yard work. You can also support this Dubuque charity with donations of household items, small appliances, or cash. Every hour of volunteer work or contribution helps this Iowa nonprofit organization provide essential services to people rebuilding their lives.

How to Find Other Dubuque Nonprofits

There are many other Dubuque charities doing important work that welcome volunteers both in person and remotely. If you’re interested in nonprofit organizations in Iowa, there are also opportunities to find paid roles or internships.

Websites like Catchafire, VolunteerMatch, and nonprofit directories make it easy to discover flexible Dubuque volunteer opportunities. These can include virtual mentoring, social media support, event help, and more. Whether you prefer hands-on work or remote projects, these platforms connect you with causes that match your skills and schedule.

Conclusion

Getting involved with Dubuque, Iowa nonprofits is a meaningful way to give back and support your community. From providing housing and recovery services to education, arts, and social programs, nonprofit organizations in Iowa offer a wide variety of ways to contribute. Whether you volunteer in Iowa, attend events, or donate to Dubuque charities, your time and resources make a real difference. For more opportunities, websites like VolunteerMatch and local nonprofit directories can connect you with causes that fit your skills and schedule.

FAQs

How can I volunteer in Dubuque, IA?

You can find Dubuque, IA volunteer opportunities through local nonprofits, or use platforms like VolunteerMatch and Catchafire for flexible roles, both in-person and virtual.

What types of nonprofits exist in Dubuque, IA?

Nonprofit organizations in Iowa include charities focused on education, housing, healthcare, social services, the arts, and religious organizations.

How do I donate to Dubuque, IA nonprofits?

Donations can include money, supplies, or services. Some Dubuque charities also accept gifts like vehicles, stocks, or matching corporate contributions.

Are there opportunities for youth to volunteer in Dubuque, IA?

Many Dubuque volunteer opportunities welcome teens with parental consent. Roles vary by organization, from event help to tutoring or community outreach.

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Grace currently lives in Nashville, TN. She grew up in the Southeastern United States and graduated from College of Charleston, in Charleston, South Carolina. Her degree is in Political Science with a focus in International Relations, but she has a passion for all things communication and writing.

Content Editor/Guest Blogger at UniMovers |  + posts

Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.