Opportunities From: 5Cities Homeless Coalition

Looking for a meaningful way for your group to give back? A Custom Group Service Project lets your team support 5Cities Homeless Coalition in a way that fits your interests, skills, and availability.

Projects can vary based on current needs and may include donation sorting, kit assembly, event preparation, organization projects, or other hands-on support that benefits our programs and shelters.

If your group is interested, please reach out to discuss your ideas and availability. We’re happy to chat and design a service project that is impactful for the community and a good fit for your team.

This option works well for groups who want a more personalized or one-time volunteer experience.

Next step: Contact Alistair to start the conversation and plan your project together.

Serve alongside your team in a hands-on way by participating in a Group Kitchen Day at the Oceano Community Center with 5Cities Homeless Coalition. This opportunity allows groups to prepare nutritious, balanced meals that support individuals and families working toward stable housing.

Group Kitchen Days are typically scheduled on weekends, making them accessible for teams and organizations that are not available during weekday kitchen hours.

Volunteer groups work together in our kitchen to help with tasks such as food prep, cooking, portioning, and packaging meals for shelter residents. No professional cooking experience is needed. Staff provide guidance and food safety direction throughout the shift.

This is a great way to build teamwork while giving back to the community. Shifts are scheduled in advance based on kitchen availability and group size. Advance notice is required so we can plan ingredients and meal quantities.

Ideal for: corporate teams, clubs, faith groups, student organizations, and community groups seeking a structured, hands-on volunteer experience with a direct local impact.

Bring your community together for a creative and meaningful cause by hosting a bowl painting party in support of 5Cities Homeless Coalition’s Empty Bowls fundraiser. Paint parties help create the handcrafted bowls that guests receive at the event, making them a special and personal part of this community tradition.

As a host, you simply gather people who want to paint bowls in a relaxed, social setting. Your main contribution is bringing together participants to paint. 5Cities Homeless Coalition provides the bowls, paint, basic guidance, and handles the firing process. Once completed, the bowls are professionally fired and displayed at Empty Bowls for guests to select at the event.

Paint parties can be small or large and are a great fit for clubs, workplaces, faith groups, schools, or community organizations. No artistic experience is needed. The goal is participation, creativity, and community spirit.

Every bowl painted helps support fundraising efforts that benefit individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Ideal for: community groups, businesses, schools, clubs, faith-based groups, families, or anyone who enjoys creative activities and wants to make a meaningful local impact.