While summer is typically associated with relaxation, vacations, and sunny fun, it also offers a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community and make a positive impact. The longer days and more flexible schedules of the season create the ideal setting for engaging in volunteer work. This article explores a variety of creative and enjoyable ways to volunteer during the summer months.
While nonprofits such as food banks and meal programs receive considerable attention during the autumn and winter months, especially around the holidays, hunger is a persistent, year-round issue. Summer poses particular challenges for food-insecure families: children who rely on school meals may go hungry during the break, and the heat can make it difficult for older adults to leave their homes. This period offers a unique opportunity to support your community when others might not be focusing on these needs.
Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks, provides a range of volunteer opportunities, including sorting and packing food, distributing meals, and assisting with fundraising events. Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver nutritious meals and offer companionship to homebound older adults. Additionally, consider reaching out to your local school district, food bank, soup kitchen, or other hunger-relief organizations to discover ways you can make a difference.
Nothing says “summer” like camp—and many nonprofit organizations that run camps could use a helping hand. Summer camps provide children, individuals with special needs, and others with safe, engaging environments to make friends, have fun, and learn. The Boys and Girls Clubs of America offer summer programs nationwide and need volunteers for activities such as organizing sports matches and leading arts and crafts workshops. Many local YMCAs also run summer camps and day programs for children. The Fresh Air Fund, based in New York City, gives urban children life-changing outdoor summer experiences in New York's scenic Hudson Valley region. Additionally, Alex’s Lemonade Stand publishes a nationwide directory of nonprofit camps for children with cancer. Consider finding a camp in your area where you can volunteer.
While most children are off from school during the summer, it remains an essential time for learning. Many are still catching up from the pandemic’s impact, and some need extra support to improve their reading or other skills before the new school year begins. AARP Foundation Experience Corps enables individuals aged 50 and older to leverage their lifetime of skills to help young children learn to read. Reading Partners provides one-on-one literacy tutoring for elementary school students, with volunteers committing to weekly sessions throughout the summer. Alternatively, consider setting up a Little Free Library in your community or using this time to tutor children in various subjects.
Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires, often peak during the summer. Being prepared—and helping others prepare—and volunteering when disaster strikes can be crucial for affected communities. Create the Good® provides disaster planning resources, including a Do-It-Yourself guide to help your family and community be better prepared. The American Red Cross depends on volunteers for disaster preparedness education, emergency response, and recovery efforts (training may be required based on the role). Team Rubicon recruits military veterans for disaster relief, where volunteers assist with debris removal, home repairs, and community rebuilding.
This summer, consider stepping out of your comfort zone and finding a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your passions and skills. By giving back, you’ll enrich your life through meaningful experiences and connections. Find the right fit for you at www.createthegood.org.