Volunteer programs

Hong Kong’s frontline organisations serve as a lifeline for under-resourced communities.
HandsOn works behind the scenes to consult, coordinate, and mobilise volunteers to support a
wide range of essential programs—from care and respite activities to neighbourhood doorstep
deliveries.

Bread runs and food rescue

“Bread runs” address hunger and reduce food waste by rescuing surplus food and distributing it to vulnerable communities. Typically, these programs take place in the evening, allowing volunteers to join after work – solo or with a friend. Volunteers collect unsold products from local bakeries before bringing it to a food distribution warehouse. Our partners then ensure it goes to frontline organisations where it will have the greatest impact, such as senior support services or crisis shelters.

Food packing and distribution

Addressing a critical need in the city, these community-driven programs leverage volunteer efforts to combat both hunger and food waste. Volunteers play an important role by helping to sort and pack essentials that go on to serve low-income households. You could be sorting through donations at a food warehouse or assembling meal kits at a local elderly centre. These efforts ensure that perfectly edible food does not end up in landfills, but instead feeds families in need.

Homework clubs and tutoring

These programs focus on helping children with their studies, improving language skills, and fostering overall development. Under the guidance of an experienced leader, volunteers typically provide one-on-one or small group support. You could be assisting with homework, subject-specific tutoring, or engaging in reading and storytelling to boost literacy and language confidence. Arts, crafts, and play is often used making it an engaging and fun experience for all involved.

Recycling and rehoming

Our popular recycling initiatives go beyond just collecting and processing materials. Volunteers can get hands-on to repurpose unused soap, or sort and process plastics at a local recycling facility. These activities not only breathe new life into otherwise wasted materials, but also give volunteers a chance to learn more about broader environmental issues and adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
Explore other opportunities

Teens and students

For teenagers who want to get involved in their communities, there are all kinds of rewarding opportunities to choose from. These programs are designed to be both impactful and engaging, with the close guidance of our experienced NGO partners. Volunteers can make a difference by joining beach clean-ups, spreading kindness on the streets, tutoring younger students after school, and more.

Families and kids

There are some wonderful volunteer activities that are perfectly suited for parents and children to participate in side-by-side. Families can choose to recycle soap, organise a food drive in their local community, sort and process recyclable plastics, and more. These experiences not only teach children the value of positive impact, but also provide quality bonding time. Due to the support required, these programs tend to be more limited in availability compared to regular volunteer programs.

Groups

When it comes to volunteering, there’s power in numbers. Gather your friends, team mates, or community group and take on projects that are well-suited for collaborative efforts. Many of our programs accommodate small groups who want to lend a hand – from beach clean ups, recycling programs, to food packing and more. All we ask is that every volunteer signs up on our calendar individually. For bespoke programs and company enquiries, reach out to us to discuss more.