While making contributions to national or international charities is an excellent way to help others, there are opportunities in nearly every local community to assist those in need. Based on your skill set and availability, the following organizations in your town may need assistance.

Animal Shelters

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 7.6 million animals enter the country’s 13,600 shelters each year. Shelters often depend on volunteers to handle housekeeping, organizing, speaking to potential adopters and walking the dogs. Some shelters also need volunteers to socialize the animals so they will be comfortable around humans. If you love animals, your local shelter will likely be happy to have your help.

Food Banks and Public Pantries

Nearly every community has low-income families that may struggle to have adequate nutrition. Not only do food banks and pantries rely on donations to provide for those in need, they also use volunteers to repackage and distribute the food. If you’d like to offer goods or time, call and inquire about specific needs. Some distribution centers also help with items such as baby formula, diapers and feminine hygiene, so their needs may surprise you.

Homes for the Aged

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities often need volunteers to organize activities for seniors, read to them, help them organize their memoirs or assist with continued-learning programs. If you’re talented at playing a musical instrument, like to make new friends or would love to talk about your career field, offer to share it with those at your local home for the aged. The companionship and mental stimulation are invaluable to seniors and can be very rewarding for you.

Education Facilities

Organizations that teach trade skills almost always need donations. For example, if you have an older vehicle you’d like to get rid of, consider donating it to a facility such as the Newgate School. Students are taught repair, detailing and maintenance on these donated vehicles. Depending on your area, you may also be able to donate anything from crafting supplies to old books. Find what is needed by checking your local newspaper or online bulletin board.

 

Volunteering and donating can make a real difference. There is a wide variety of organizations that do wonderful work for all sorts of causes and need donations of both goods and time. Find your niche in the volunteer community. Not only will you be helping your community, you’ll have the opportunity to make an impact on an individual level.