Community Service and Volunteering Options in Your Town

Most of us have asked ourselves, at least once, “How could I help my community?” or said, “I don’t have any special skills. Why should I volunteer?” This is a good question. There are actually many things that people of all ages can do to help with in their own communities, and every community needs help. Right now, most communities are suffering from a financial crunch and barely have enough money to hire staff members to take care of basic needs; and, in some cases, not even that. The community must turn to volunteers to keep things running smoothly. But, unfortunately, most communities have a severe shortage of volunteers. 

There is room for people from all walks of life to participate in community service.

Just a few places crying for volunteers are schools who need people willing to spend an hour or so a week listening to children read; various local groups needing help to organize events to raise money for cancer and heart disease research; the meals on wheels program for drivers to deliver meals to elderly shut-ins; youth camps that need counselors to supervise young campers; and neighborhood watch groups formed to keep an eye out for any unusual activity in your very own neighborhood. The list is endless. 

Men and women alike can be involved in activities that benefit their community. Both can coach sports teams for local recreation organizations like Kidsports or the YMCA. These can be fun jobs because you get to work closely with children and get involved with a sport you may have played as a child. Adults can also participate in fund raiser walks, marathons, bakes sales, etc. If you are a good seamstress you can make tote bags or clothing for children in the community. Women and men can cook for elders or at a mission; there are so many things to do.