Volunteering is more than a requirement; it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re completing TN Promise hours, strengthening your résumé, or meeting scholarship expectations, service helps you gain real-world experience, build valuable skills, and stay connected to your community. Every hour you give supports your success while making a meaningful impact beyond campus.
After completing your volunteer service, it is crucial to track your hours accurately. You can log and manage your service hours through Govs Connect. Please watch the video below for step-by-step instructions on how to submit your hours correctly.
Clarksville is home to numerous nonprofits making a meaningful difference in our community. When volunteering, remember that you are representing Austin Peay State University and are expected to act professionally and respectfully at all times. Please note that most nonprofits require closed-toed shoes for safety.
Provides clothing, hygiene items, school supplies, and outreach support to underserved community members. Volunteers typically sort donations, organize inventory, assist with outreach events, and help clients access the items they need.
A longstanding local soup kitchen and food distribution center that serves hot meals Monday–Saturday to people facing food insecurity and also distributes food to partner agencies. Volunteers can help prepare and serve meals, assist with food distribution, and support behind-the-scenes tasks.
Supports families in need through food distribution, mobile soup kitchen services, and other support programs. Volunteers must sign up in advance, and larger groups are encouraged to coordinate ahead of time. Typical roles include food prep, meal service, and packing food boxes.
Part of Habitat for Humanity’s mission to expand access to affordable housing. Volunteer roles include working at the ReStore, where you will sort donations, price items, and assist customers, or supporting construction projects (must be 18 years or older for build sites). Group volunteer days are also available.
Ajax Turner Senior Center serves adults aged 50 and above by providing recreational, educational, and wellness programs that promote healthy and active aging. This is an excellent option for students interested in working with older adults, community programming, or health and wellness initiatives.
Blue Star Families supports military-connected families through community-building programs, resource sharing, and events that foster a sense of belonging and promote overall well-being. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in military support services, event planning, and community engagement.
A youth mentoring organization focused on one-to-one and group mentoring programs. Volunteers (“Bigs”) dedicate time to regularly meeting with a child (“Little”) either in the community or through school-based programs to provide guidance, encouragement, and support. A background screening and application process is required for mentors.
The Community Action Agency works to reduce poverty and strengthen families through programs focused on housing assistance, education, employment readiness, and emergency services. Volunteer roles often include event support, administrative assistance, community outreach, and helping with seasonal or special initiatives that support residents.
Catholic Charities provides critical support services to individuals and families, including food assistance, housing stability, refugee and immigrant support, and family resources. Opportunities may vary by season and program needs.
Ella’s House provides safe shelter and supportive services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence. The organization focuses on safety, empowerment, and long-term stability for survivors. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, volunteer roles are structured to prioritize privacy, safety, and confidentiality.
ArtLink Clarksville is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting visual arts, supporting local artists, and increasing access to arts and cultural experiences in the community. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in the arts, event coordination, marketing, or creative community engagement.
Friends of Land Between the Lakes supports conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation efforts at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Volunteer opportunities may include trail maintenance, habitat restoration, cleanup projects, event support, and assistance with educational or outdoor programs. This is a great option for students who enjoy hands-on outdoor work and are passionate about environmental stewardship.
For questions related to volunteering opportunities, including planning a group volunteer project, or for information about Alternative Break Trips, please contact Meagan Potts, Community Engagement Coordinator, at pottsm@apsu.edu or (931) 221-6594. Please allow adequate time for a response.
