Doing a World of Good: Best Places to Volunteer
Deciding where to volunteer can be overwhelming with all the options to choose from. You may be wondering where to start or what the benefits of each place may even be. Don’t stress! We’ve broken down some of the best places to volunteer that are right in your backyard… or at least a few blocks away!
Human & Civil Rights Organizations
Organizations that are dedicated to uplifting members of your community who come from historically marginalized and disadvantaged groups are a great choice to start with something you’re passionate about. Some examples of people these organizations focus on would be impoverished individuals, immigrants/refugees, or racial/ethnic minority groups.
Some acts are as simple as helping an individual in these groups get to their appointments or places of employment or gathering donations while raising awareness.
Community Parks & Recreation Department
Whether it’s picking up garbage, planting trees, or hosting events - your local parks and recreation department are sure to need some assistance with the upkeep of your community’s shared parks.
Community events are a fantastic way to meet new people and share your passion for your community’s parks. If you enjoy being outdoors or are passionate about the environment, volunteering at your local parks is a perfect start.
Animal Shelters
Animal shelters and adoption centers may be an obvious choice for those passionate about animals. Keep in mind, volunteering in the shelter can be physically demanding with lifting heavy objects, handling the animals, and cleaning up after them.
There are, of course, less physically demanding ways you can volunteer, such as providing comfort to the animals, photography, and administrative work. It is wise to choose organizations with a good reputation within your community or that are nationally recognized and avoid shelters that may have poor living conditions for the animals under their care.
Retirement Homes
Do you enjoy socializing, connecting with others, and learning from others? A retirement home or senior center may be the right choice for you to volunteer. Many facilities need assistance with companionship, creative activities, exercising, and socialization for their residents.
Facilitate or assist in various social activities like live music performances, painting, or bingo. No matter your skills, it is highly rewarding to make a difference in the well-being of the residents in these facilities.
Arts & Cultural Organizations
If you enjoy museums, art exhibits, or the performing arts, you may want to consider volunteering for your local arts and cultural organizations. These organizations heavily rely on volunteers regardless of how well-funded they are.
Volunteers are needed for ticket sales, tours, answering patrons’ questions, photography, marketing, and much more. There are plenty of opportunities for those skilled and unskilled wishing to volunteer in the arts.
Schools
Many schools are always looking for help from parents, students, and generous members of the community. Volunteers are needed to monitor recess, serve lunches, run the snack bar, and tutor students one-on-one.
Another great way to volunteer is to become a teacher’s aide in the copy room to help with any administrative needs. Volunteering at schools directly impacts the young minds and the future of your community.
Food Banks & Homeless Shelters
Anyone can be affected by hunger or homelessness causing there to be a need for shelters and food banks in many communities throughout the nation. As a volunteer you might package food donations, attend events giving out food, partner with businesses and other organizations wanting to participate, or manage public food shelves.
Many positions at food banks can be physically demanding with lifting boxes, unloading trucks, stocking shelves and refrigerators, and even gardening. So, keep this in mind before deciding on volunteering at your local food bank.
Making backpacks for the homeless.
Giving Everywhere You Can
No matter where you decide to support at, your time will be extremely appreciated. Hopefully, when you make a decision to support your community, you’ll have a much easier time deciding where your efforts are best spent. Finding a way to support that matches up with your passions in life allows you to thrive, and potentially take on a role as a mentor.
We encourage everyone to consider giving back to their community, Juzt Because.