Get Involved

Group of seven people, including children and adults, standing in front of a decorated Christmas tree, wearing holiday-themed pajamas, inside a room with large windows and holiday decorations.

Events

The Urban Mission hosts two main fundraisers throughout the year to supply the agency with general funds for program operations. Our Run for Recovery 5K race is held every September and our Dueling Pianos event is held every spring in May. 


We also host a variety of other events including Cinderella & Prince Charming’s Closet (prom clothing assistance for high schoolers) in March and April, and various seasonal events in our CARE Center.

Check out the event calendar for details.

Monetary Donations

If you are interested in corporate giving, legacy/estate donations, or other types of generosity, please contact Cher VanBrocklin, Executive Director at cvanbrocklin@watertownurbanmission.org

Help the Urban Mission serve our community by donating today! All donations go directly to making a difference for individuals and families in Jefferson County. Since 2020, we have tripled the amount of assistance provided to those needing help with everyday life expenses and issues. We thank you in advance for your donation — either ongoing or one-time.

All gifts made to the Urban Mission are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Claiming a tax deduction requires a gift acknowledgement or receipt. While making your online gift, please complete all required fields, including your current mailing address, to receive a gift acknowledgement letter for tax purposes. 

Item Donations

We accept donations for our Food Pantry and our Critical Needs programs. We appreciate those who collect and donate on our behalf. Below is a list of commonly dispensed items for both programs:

    • Canned meats

    • Cereal (cold and hot)

    • Canned vegetables, beans, and fruit

    • Dried vegetables, beans, and fruit

    • Soups, stews, and chilis (especially those in microwaveable containers)

    • Pasta, rice, and other grains

    • Shelf-stable milk

    • Peanut butter

    • Sauces

    • Granola bars or other portable snacks

    • Cooking oils

    • Formula 

    • Baby foods (canned or pouches)

    • Meats (need to be USDA graded)

    • Dish soap and other cleaners

    • Silverware, dishes, pots, and pans

    • Cooking utensils

  • We are commonly looking for unisex, male, and female hygiene items as these are not included in any benefit programs. Travel-size bottles are best for Code Blue kits.

    • Feminine hygiene products (pads, tampons, pantiliners, disposable and regular underwear)

    • Deodorant

    • Shampoo and conditioner

    • Body wash, body wipes, or bar soap

    • Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and dental floss

    • Shaving cream and razors

    • Laundry soap

    • Tissues or paper towels

    • Hand sanitizer

    • Nail clippers

    • Blankets, sheets, or pillows (new preferred)

Volunteer

We love and appreciate all volunteers. Opportunities exist Monday-Friday to help in the Food Pantry or with other programs and special events.

    • Schools, clubs, and honor societies

    • Sports teams

    • Active and retired military 

    • Community organizations

    • Interest and hobby organizations

    • Religious congregations

For more information about volunteering, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 315-782-8440.