Did you know that April is National Volunteer Month? With so many volunteer options available in Boston, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out what you can do to get involved in your community. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.
Children & Education
Cradles To Crayons
Help improve the lives of local children living in homeless or low income situations by providing them with essential clothing and school supplies. You can donate kids and baby clothing, school supplies, or money — or even make a trip to the Giving Factory to help sort and pack up donations! [155 N Beacon St., Brighton | cradlestocrayons.org]
Boys & Girls Clubs
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston are always looking for volunteers to lend their time and talent to help the next generation of Boston youths! There are plenty of options for volunteering, so you’re sure to find something that fits your interest and schedule. [200 High Street, Boston | bgcb.org]
Food
Greater Boston Food Bank
Help end hunger in New England by volunteering with the Greater Boston Food Bank. Volunteer as an individual or in a group and work to inspect, sort, and pack up grocery donations. [70 South Bay Avenue, Boston | gbfb.org]
Community Servings
Community Servings makes 2,200 fresh meals a day — all with the help of volunteers. Give your time to either help prep and package meals or to help deliver them to individuals and families living with critical or chronic illnesses. [18 Marbury Terrace, Jamaica Plain | servings.org]
Shelters
Rosie’s Place
Originally run entirely by volunteers, Rosie’s Place is a local women’s shelter that works to provide a safe and nurturing environment for low income and homeless women in Boston. You can get involved by helping in their dining room or food pantry or by simply connecting with the women in the shelter. [889 Harrison Ave, Boston | rosiesplace.org]
Pine Street Inn
Pine Street Inn works with the homeless population in Boston to help them find more permanent housing. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities available — you can prepare and serve a meal, greet people at one of their clinics, or organize a donation drive. [444 Harrison Avenue, Boston | pinestreetinn.org]
Health care
Vinfen
Servicing the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities or psychiatric conditions, Vinfen is committed to transforming lives. There are so many ways to get involved, including volunteering at special events, becoming a buddy, or sharing your special skills with the individuals they serve. [950 Cambridge Street, Cambridge | vinfen.org]
Mass General
While volunteering in a hospital may involve more requirements, there’s always a need for help. Mass General is only one of many hospitals in the Boston area, so do your research and find one that fits your interests and passion! [55 Fruit Street, Boston | massgeneral.org]
Animals
MSPCA
Love animals? Then volunteering at the MSPCA could be a perfect fit for you! There are tons of opportunities to get involved and to help enrich the life of an animal waiting for adoption! [350 South Huntington Avenue, Boston | mspca.org]
Animal Rescue League of Boston
The Animal Rescue League of Boston is another great option for animal lovers. Volunteer opportunities are updated monthly, so make sure to check back to see how you can help. [10 Chandler Street, Boston | arlboston.org]
While this guide is a good starting point, remember there are so many opportunities to get involved here in Boston. A good tip is to start local, find an organization that shares your values in your own community and get involved today!
