May/June 2025 Community Service Emphasis: Interfaith Community Services
Interfaith Community Services (ICS) in Tucson, Arizona, is a non-profit organization that provides pathways leading people to live more stable and self-sufficient lives. ICS serves older and disabled adults, and individuals facing financial crises. The organization collaborates with over 100 diverse faith communities and relies on a broad network of volunteers. Notably, over 36% of ICS's volunteers come from its member faith organizations. ICS believes that by “working side by side, we can accomplish more than any single organization could do alone. Together, we are a strong resource, helping those in need with Love, Cooperation, and Service.”
Here’s a synopsis of ICS’s key activities and services:
Support for Disabled and Older Adults: ICS offers programs that help older adults and individuals with disabilities maintain their independence at home. Services include transportation to medical appointments and grocery stores, home-delivered meals (Mobile Meals), and ICS Help at Home, which, among other services, provides friendly visits to combat isolation.
Emergency Assistance: ICS offers a safety net for individuals and families facing financial hardship. Services include emergency financial assistance for essential needs like rent and utilities, a food bank that provides nutritious food, and a mobile food bank for those with transportation limitations. Additional support includes help with obtaining IDs and birth certificates, small car repairs, and back-to-work expenses.
Life Advancement Programs: ICS fosters long-term stability through programs focused on employment assistance, financial literacy, and job coaching. Notably, the Single Mom Scholars Program supports single mothers in pursuing higher education.
Volunteer Engagement: Volunteers are central to ICS’s mission, contributing time and talents across various programs. ICS offers a variety of volunteer opportunities and provides training and support to ensure a meaningful experience.
Food Security Initiatives: In addition to its regular food bank, ICS operates a Mobile Food Bank to reach underserved areas and hosts Free Produce Giveaways from May through November to provide access to nutritious food.
Financial Stability Focus: A key goal for ICS is to help individuals and families move beyond immediate crises toward greater self-sufficiency through a range of support services and financial literacy courses.
In the fiscal year 2024, ICS served over 60,000 people in Pima County, showcasing the significant impact of their comprehensive services on the local community. The organization operates efficiently, with a low administrative and fundraising cost, thanks to the dedication of its volunteers.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit ICS Volunteer Page.