The Best Ways to Volunteer and Give Back in Fall 2020

Thanksgiving might be a couple of months away, but it’s never too early to get in the spirit of the season. Have you wanted to find some ways to be thankful by giving back to those in need? While we are still in the midst of a pandemic, volunteer work and giving back to our communities is still possible right now. Here are a few ways to remotely and safely volunteer and give back this autumn. 

Virtually Volunteer  

Volunteering during COVID-19 has evolved to be safe and precautionary for volunteers. You can volunteer virtually with a variety of non-profit organizations and charities from the comfort and safety of your home.

This organization matches volunteers with virtual opportunities to give-back safely. They have thousands of organizations in their database looking for volunteers every day.

https://www.volunteermatch.org/virtual-volunteering

Are you savvy with crochet or knitting needles? Do you love quilting? Check out this organization that makes and delivers hand-made blankets for children in need. You can help out and volunteer from home by creating your own blanket to donate.

https://binkypatrol.org/section.cfm?id=237

This non-profit allows you to virtually volunteer by mailing hand-made gifts and goodies that will be sent in care packages for first responders and our troops overseas. 

https://www.operationgratitude.com/virtual-volunteerism/  

This organization also has a database with thousands of opportunities to give back both in and outside of your home. 

https://www.pointsoflight.org/volunteer/ 

Give Back To Your Community Through Donations

You can also give back by donating around your community. Consider donating clothing, gently used items, or even non-perishable food items. You can socially distance if you need to drop off a donation in your area.

Have some gently used clothing or items? Don’t want to leave the comfort of home? The Vietnam Veterans of America pick up donation items from your doorstep in dozens of states. Check out their map if you’re interested in having a donation batched picked up for you. 

https://vva.org/pickup-locations/

Consider donating to your local food bank. They’re always looking for non-perishable food items to deliver to families in need. Here’s a database that allows you to search by state and zip code for your nearest local food bank.

https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank 

If you still have some clothing items you’d like to donate, the American Red Cross will also pick up donations from your doorstep. 

https://www.gogreendrop.com/redcross/clothing-donation-pickup

Check Your Community Bulletin 

No matter where you live, there are always those in need just down the road. Check out your local community bulletin to see how you can give back locally. Not sure where to start? See if your neighborhood, county, or town has a social media page or Facebook group where you can seek out volunteer and donation resources. 

The most impactful and meaningful donations or volunteer work often starts right in your community and helps those most in need at the local level. 

Be sure to check out your county’s website, too, to see where your locality could use a helping hand.