An estimated 25,000 hot meals were given to starving children. Over 20,000 pounds of supplies were delivered to Middle-eastern refugees who fled the terror of ISIS. 12 volunteers handed out water to thirsty runners at a marathon.
Though they differ greatly in scope, difficulty, and prominence, all these service projects have one thing in common: the LDS Church-sponsored website JustServe.org, which provides people of all faiths with information about service projects in their area.
According to the site, “JustServe matches faith, nonprofit, community and governmental organizations that need volunteers with volunteers willing to help. JustServe.org links you to service opportunities in your community so you can make a difference wherever you are and however you want to serve.”
The website, which was launched in 2014, has been gradually rolled out through the country. ABC7 in Amarillo, Texas recently reported on the project opportunities advertised by JustServe.
JustServe provides these general guidelines for service efforts:
1. The best service opportunities are collaborative—working side-by-side with others in the community. 2. Humanitarian service opportunities should assist the poor and those in need of a helping hand. 3. Community service opportunities should enhance the quality of life in the community. 4. JustServe projects should not directly involve volunteers in fundraising, have a political focus, or be for-profit oriented.
JustServe is provided as a free service by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The website reads, “Following the biblical admonition to ‘love thy neighbor as thyself,’ JustServe provides opportunities to relieve suffering, care for the poor and needy, and enhance the quality of life in the community. JustServe is not proselytizing or publicity—simply a service to help link community volunteer needs with volunteers.”