The holiday season isn’t the only time of the year when you should give back to others. Summertime is the perfect time to get out of the house and do some good. There are plenty of charities and nonprofits in Boston that are always taking volunteers. This guide will show you some of the best Boston charities that fit your hobbies and interests. 

1. Friends of Boston’s Homeless

Since 1987, this charity has created solutions-oriented programs that allow homeless individuals to lead independent lifestyles. They help the homeless transition from the streets and shelters into a dignified housing area. They are always looking for volunteers who can host drives in their local communities. Friends of Boston’s Homeless are also looking for donations, including socks, toiletries, underwear, and winter accessories. 

Evening, group, and weekend opportunities are available. You can serve and sponsor a meal at Woods Mullen Women’s Shelter. You can also host a recreational activity such as Bingo night. This is a great way to bring people together on a cold night in the middle of winter. Other ways you can help include assistance with resume writing, hosting a workshop, tutoring students in the Career Center or leading a group activity focused on a specific topic. 

2. Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program

Since 1985, this charity’s mission has been to provide assistance to homeless families and individuals throughout the greater Boston area. This organization is always on the lookout for interns, volunteers, and BHCHP AmeriCorps members to fulfill many of the roles that take place throughout their programs. They have a wide variety of volunteer opportunities that make a positive impact on the homeless and the community around them.

Individuals can donate their time and talents on a weekly basis. Most of these opportunities take place in multiple areas around Boston. All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older to serve. They should also meet the below requirements before volunteering:

– Fill out an online application
– Attend an in-person orientation
– Complete a CORI check with a valid form of ID
– Submit their immunization records or get the required vaccinations 

3. CrossRoads Family Shelter

CrossRoads Family has become a subsidiary of St. Mary’s Center for Women & Children. This charity strives to help women and children who have been victims of trauma and are living in poverty conditions. Volunteers can help by stocking food and unloading the pantry once a week on Wednesdays. 

CrossRoads is also looking for a Spanish interpreter who can host meetings and workshops on weekday evenings. Other volunteering opportunities include, but aren’t limited to:

– Hosting a local drive for necessary items
– Volunteering in the play space for the Horizons for Homeless Children’s Play Pals program
– Throwing a birthday party for the children in their residential program

Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older or have an adult chaperone or guardian with them. All volunteers are required to undergo a criminal background check and extensive screening procedure. 

4. Animal Rescue League of Boston 

This is the only animal welfare organization in the state that offers emergency rescue services. They’re always on the lookout for volunteers who can assist with domestic and wildlife animals that are in distress. Volunteers may help with regular cleanup, dog walking, and stocking pet food. There may be times when volunteers are needed to comfort the animals in times of need. 

5. Guiding Eyes for the Blind 

If you’re a dog lover, then this charity is for you. You can volunteer by becoming a puppy raiser. Classes are held on the second and fourth Saturday of the month in multiple locations throughout the state. There are also pre-placement classes that introduce you to the world of puppy raising, which is held two or three times a year.

6. Cradles to Crayons 

This charity helps children through the age of 12 that are homeless or in low-income situations. Cradles to Crayons provides them with the clothing and supplies they need to succeed at home, in school, and in their social lives. This charity is looking for volunteers age 5 at up to participate in the Giving Factory, which makes this the perfect charity for the entire family. 

7. Habitat for Humanity 

Want to get your hands dirty? Then Habitat for Humanity is the charity for you. This organization builds low-cost homes for low-income families who are looking for affordable housing. You can volunteer onsite or at ReStore, which sells donated appliances, furniture, and home improvement items at affordable prices. Proceeds help fund the construction projects of Habitat homes. 

8. Back on My Feet Boston 

This non-profit organization helps homeless individuals get back on their feet with the use of local runners. There are several running groups that meet throughout the week at numerous locations around the greater Boston area. All volunteers are required to attend a short orientation before going on a group run. It’s such an active and fun volunteering experience that you’ll forget that you’re doing something good for the community. 

About Joseph Vessecchia

Joseph Vessecchia believes volunteering is essential. He can be seen volunteering at numerous charities throughout the week because Joseph believes it is important to give back. When he’s not volunteering outside of work, he can be seen helping aspiring sales professionals achieve their career goals or watching the New York Yankees.