Making a Difference: Volunteer Opportunities in Ames, Iowa

April 25, 2024

Ames, Iowa, is not just a place to live; it's a community where residents come together to make a positive impact. If you're looking to give back and get involved, here are some volunteer opportunities in our area that you won't want to miss!

1. Volunteer at Food Banks: Help fight hunger in our community by volunteering at local food banks such as Food at First or the Food Bank of Iowa. Tasks may include sorting and packing food items, assisting with distribution, or helping with outreach programs.

2. Join Environmental Cleanup Efforts: Get hands-on with nature conservation by participating in environmental cleanup events. Organizations like Keep Iowa Beautiful and Story County Conservation host regular cleanups to maintain our parks, trails, and waterways.

3. Support Animal Shelters: If you're an animal lover, consider volunteering at the Ames Animal Shelter or partnering with organizations like the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Help care for animals, assist with adoptions, or contribute to fundraising efforts.

4. Mentor Youth Programs: Make a difference in the lives of young people by volunteering with youth mentorship programs. Organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa and Boys & Girls Clubs of Story County offer opportunities to mentor, tutor, and engage in meaningful activities with local youth.

5. Assist with Community Events: Ames is known for its vibrant community events, and volunteers play a crucial role in making them successful. Whether it's helping with setup, providing logistical support, or assisting attendees, there are many ways to get involved and contribute to the community's spirit.

6. Participate in Habitat for Humanity: Join forces with Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa to build homes for families in need. No construction experience is necessary, as volunteers receive guidance and training while working together to create safe and affordable housing.

7. Volunteer Virtually: If your schedule is busy or you prefer remote opportunities, consider virtual volunteering. Organizations like VolunteerMatch and United Way of Story County offer virtual volunteer options, from online tutoring to digital advocacy campaigns.

By volunteering in Ames, you not only make a difference in the lives of others but also strengthen the bonds of our community. Whether you have a few hours to spare each week or want to commit to a long-term volunteer role, there's a place for you to contribute and create positive change. Together, we can build a brighter future for Ames!

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Your Complete Guide to Living with Pets in an Apartment

October 7, 2025

At Elite Property Management, we know that pets are more than just animals — they’re family! Whether you’re cuddling up with a cat or walking your energetic pup, having a pet brings so much joy to everyday life. Apartment living with pets can take a little extra planning, but with a few helpful habits, you and your furry friend can thrive together. 1. Know and Follow Pet Policies Before bringing a new pet home, take a moment to review your community’s pet policies. These include important details like breed or weight limits, pet fees, and leash rules. If you have questions, our team is always happy to help you understand what’s allowed at your specific property — we want both you and your pet to feel right at home! 2. Choose a Pet That Fits Your Space Some pets naturally adjust better to apartment life than others. Think about your home’s size, noise levels, and schedule when choosing the right companion. Low-energy pets or breeds that don’t need a large yard can often adapt beautifully to apartment living. 3. Create a Pet-Friendly Zone Designate a cozy corner for your pet’s essentials — food and water bowls, a soft bed, and a few toys. Having a dedicated space helps them feel secure and keeps your home organized. It’s also a great way to protect furniture and flooring from wear and tear. 4. Keep a Routine Consistency is key for pets! Try to feed, walk, and play at the same time each day. A reliable routine helps your pet feel more relaxed and can prevent boredom or anxiety-related behaviors. 5. Keep Things Clean A tidy space makes apartment living more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Vacuum regularly to keep shedding under control, wash bedding often, and use pet-safe cleaners for any messes. A lint roller and an odor-neutralizing spray can quickly freshen up your space when guests visit! 6. Be a Good Neighbor We love seeing pets around our communities, and part of being a great neighbor is keeping things courteous. Always clean up after your pet, respect leash requirements, and try to minimize barking or noise when possible. Small acts of consideration go a long way toward keeping our communities friendly for everyone. 7. Get Outside Together Ames is full of pet-friendly places to explore! Whether you’re walking your dog or enjoying a sunny afternoon with your cat on a harness, these local spots are perfect for fresh air and fun: Ames Dog Park – A 10-acre off-leash park with separate areas for large and small dogs. Visit Ames Dog Park Ada Hayden Heritage Park – Beautiful lakeside trails perfect for on-leash walks. Learn more about Ada Hayden Park Discover Ames: Pet-Friendly Guide – Explore even more local pet-friendly businesses and activities. 8. S tay on Top of Pet Health Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and grooming keep your pet happy and healthy. It’s also a good idea to make sure your pet’s ID tag or microchip information is up to date in case they ever wander off. Final Thoughts At Elite Property Management, we’re proud to offer a variety of pet-friendly homes across Ames and surrounding communities. With a little care, consistency, and love, apartment living with pets can be just as comfortable and rewarding as living in a larger home. Looking for your next pet-friendly apartment? 👉 View our available listings here !