Volunteers are the backbone of Mizell Center. Our volunteers are dedicated, compassionate, and very much appreciated. Volunteers provide support throughout Mizell, including at Aunt Betty’s thrift shop, our front desk, special events, and within our weekday lunch service of the Nutrition program.
Our volunteers reflect the diversity of our community, having varied backgrounds, experiences, identities, and skills. As such, our staff work closely with each volunteer to provide an experience that best utilizes their time, skills, and talents.
Give the most valuable gift of all, your time. We look forward to welcoming you.
HOW TO VOLUNTEER
May 2026 Update: Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Mizell Center. We are grateful for the strong community support we receive. Our volunteer team is currently near full capacity, with the exception of roles in online sales (eBay), graphic design, photography, and data entry. We appreciate your willingness to share your time and talents and thank you for your continued interest in supporting Mizell.
Complete a volunteer application by printing and completing the PDF below, and either mailing, emailing, or bringing it in person to Mizell. If you need us to print a copy for you, just let us know. Following receipt of your completed application, we will contact you to set up an interview. If you have questions, please contact Ector Simpson at ectors@mizell.org.
VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH (CLICK TO OPEN)
September Volunteers of the Month
Terry and Claudia: A Partnership Built on Service, Community, and a Smile
When you spend a few minutes with Terry and Claudia, it’s easy to see why they have become such valued members of the Mizell community. Married for 42 years, they’ve built a life centered on helping others, staying involved, and creating meaningful connections wherever they go.
Their story began at a Big Sister event where Claudia was volunteering. A chance meeting grew into more than four decades of marriage, countless adventures, and a shared commitment to serving their community.
Throughout their careers, both dedicated themselves to helping others in different ways. Claudia worked as a Certified Medical Technician for 42 years, while Terry enjoyed a 52-year career in banking. Together, they later owned and operated a tea shop for ten years, creating a welcoming place where customers could relax, connect, and enjoy what they proudly called a “staycation.”
After relocating from Orange County to the Coachella Valley in 2018, Claudia planned to spend six months settling in before volunteering. Instead, she discovered Mizell just two months later and immediately got involved. Terry joined her after retiring in 2020, stepping up during the COVID-19 pandemic to help with Mizell’s drive-through meal program.
Today, Terry and Claudia volunteer side by side in Mizell’s dining room each week, greeting members with the same warmth and hospitality that defined their tea shop. They are also active participants in Mizell programs, enjoying educational lectures, fitness classes, and other opportunities to stay engaged.
For Terry, the best part of volunteering is the sense of community. He encourages prospective volunteers to bring “a smile and a sense of humor,” recognizing that for many members, lunch is as much about friendship and connection as it is about a meal.
In fact, Terry describes Mizell as “the oasis of the desert” where older adults can gather, learn, enjoy good food, and build meaningful relationships. Both Terry and Claudia are especially proud of the recent improvements to the kitchen and dining room and are quick to praise the outstanding meals prepared by Mizell’s culinary team. Through their generosity, kindness, and welcoming spirit, Terry and Claudia make Mizell a better place every week. We are proud to recognize them as our September Volunteers of the Month.
Aunt Betty’s Thrift Shop
Aunt Betty’s is Mizell Center’s in-house thrift store. Aunt Betty’s volunteers greet customers, answer questions about merchandise and serve as cashiers. Volunteer shifts are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Lunch Service @ Mizell
Our lunch program serves a delicious lunch Monday through Friday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. We are seeking volunteers to support the program from 10:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Corporate Volunteers
Mizell Center offers corporations, businesses, and community groups a variety of volunteer team-building experiences, including meal service, community outreach, and special projects.
Front Desk Receptionists
Our front desk “Information & Referral” volunteers answer and direct calls, assist visitors and provide a warm and welcoming experience for everyone at Mizell Center. An ongoing weekly commitment, as well as basic computer knowledge, is required. Volunteer shifts are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., or 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Fluency in Spanish is a plus.