Who We Are
Friends In Deed is a nonprofit organization in Washtenaw County dedicated to providing emergency support to those in need.
People & Partners
Meeting urgent
needs. Building
stability. Breaking
the cycle of
poverty.
Our Mission:
Helping people in need and building community to end poverty.
For more than 40 years, Friends In Deed has served Washtenaw County by supporting neighbors through urgent financial assistance and relationship-based programs that build long-term stability. We help people stay housed, keep utilities on, and access essential items like beds and furniture; partnering with individuals and families to strengthen financial resilience and move beyond the “poverty cliff” toward lasting security.
What We Do
At Friends In Deed, emergency support looks like furniture, transportation, utility assistance, and long-term programs that help families build financial stability.
Programs
Who We Serve
Friends In Deed serves low-income individuals and families in Washtenaw County, including those facing homelessness, housing instability, or unmet financial needs.
Get SupportLooking for Support?
At Friends In Deed, we strive to provide clear, accessible, and effective support for our community. By consolidating our programs, we can more effectively address critical needs in housing, transportation, utilities, senior services, and furniture assistance. If you need support, please review the information below to see how we can help.
Looking to Get Involved?
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Donating
Provide urgent financial assistance that helps families avoid eviction, utility shutoffs, and displacement.
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Volunteering
Use your time and skills to support your neighbors, from hands-on service to behind-the-scenes support.
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Tell Your Friends
Spread the word about Friends In Deed and help more neighbors find support when they need it most.
Browse Volunteer Opportunities
Find the role that fits your time, skills, and interests.
Helpline Volunteer
Serve as the first point of contact for neighbors reaching out for urgent financial assistance, listening carefully and connecting them with the right support.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn moreFurniture Client Services Volunteer
Support the administrative side of the Furniture Program and help neighbors select the items they need to make a house a home.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn moreFurniture Warehouse Volunteer
Sort, prepare, and move donated furniture in our warehouse to keep the Furniture Program running from intake to delivery.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn moreChildren’s Program Volunteer
Lead age-appropriate activities and provide mentorship for children during weekly Circles meetings while their parents participate in the program.
Weekly attendance for the full cohort (approximately 18 months)
Learn moreCommunity Team Volunteer (Ally)
Build a genuine, long-term relationship with a Circles Leader to offer consistent encouragement, practical help, and your social network as they work toward economic stability.
18-month cohort commitment; weekly meetings and regular informal contact
Learn moreBig View Team Volunteer
Work alongside Leaders and Allies to identify and address the systemic and policy-level barriers that keep families trapped in poverty.
Weekly attendance for the full cohort (approximately 18 months)
Learn moreOffice Assistant
Manage front desk operations and provide general administrative support that keeps the organization running smoothly day to day.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn moreDonor Appreciation Volunteer
Help recognize and thank the community of donors whose generosity makes every Friends In Deed program possible.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn moreJobs & Education Volunteer
Coach neighbors on career readiness, job applications, and education pathways to build long-term self-sufficiency alongside Friends In Deed programs.
At least 1 shift per week, Mon–Thu 9:30 am–2:30 pm
Learn more