5 Volunteer Opportunities in Your City This Spring

Did you know that engaging in volunteer work can decrease stress and the risk of depression ? It can help you stay physically fit, stay socially connected, and even live a longer life. These all sound like fantastic benefits—benefits we could really use amidst the current Coronavirus quarantine. Worry not: just because you are stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t volunteer! Here are five ways you can volunteer in your city this spring:

1. Donate Extras

There are many needs right now due to the current state of the pandemic and its related economic pressures. If you have extra or unwanted food items, personal hygiene products, diapers, baby wipes, or toilet paper, consider donating them to a food bank. You can find your local food bank through this link .

2. Reach Out to the Lonely

There are plenty of people who are feeling lonely during these stay-at-home orders. Who in your network could use a text, call, or hilarious meme or video clip to bring a smile to their face? Go a step further and contact a local assisted living center to see if they have any senior residents who would like a new penpal. This is a great time to connect with old friends and make new ones (virtually, for now).

3. Sew Face Masks

There is currently a shortage of medical masks in hospitals and other medical care facilities due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. To boost supply, medical facilities are now asking the public to help out by sewing face masks. Here’s a link to the information you’ll need to get started .

4. Donate Food Gift Cards to Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers are risking their lives around the clock to combat the Coronavirus. We can help them keep their strength up by giving them a nutritious meal. Although the dine-in sections of restaurants are closed , many drive-through, takeout, and food truck delivery options are still available. A gift card donation for healthcare workers will double as a way to support your local restaurants as well.

5. Partner with Established Organizations

There are several organizations that provide volunteer opportunities to you through completely virtual means. Just pick a cause that aligns with your values and skillset, and begin! Here is a list of 25 remote volunteering jobs , with links to the related organizations.

Don’t let the quarantine stop you from reaching out to others!  In fact, being stuck at home might provide you with the perfect opportunity to get started on your volunteering journey. Not only will you be helping others, but your own body, mind, and caring heart will benefit as well!