You love volunteering - but maybe you’re ready for something different. The slower pace of late summer is a great time to explore a new role before the busy fall season begins.
Volunteering in August offers a chance to try something new as routines shift and summer winds down. Many organizations need extra help this time of year, especially for back-to-school drives, community events, and summer programs.
Take advantage of the warm weather by volunteering outdoors. Join a local community or environmental group working to spruce up recreation areas. If you're over 18, consider becoming a Clean Trails Cleanup Ambassador to help keep trails litter-free anywhere in the country. Or explore opportunities with the Student Conservation Association, including Youth Conservation Jobs.
You can also get involved with national organizations like The Nature Conservancy or World Cleanup Day by joining an organized event. Local municipalities often welcome volunteers for cleanups too. These activities are perfect for families with teens earning service hours - or anyone looking for a feel-good reason to be outside.
Food insecurity affects every community - and summer can make it worse, especially for children who rely on school meals. August is a meaningful time to help feed those in need.
If you have a green thumb, volunteer at a community garden or gleaning program to harvest produce for food pantries. Support your local food bank or mobile pantry through Feeding America. For a more social experience, join your area’s Meals on Wheels America program and deliver meals to people who are homebound.
Want something unique? Check out the Create the Good® Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Guide on how to help feed a family in need.
If you’re looking for a “wild” volunteer experience, consider helping protect wildlife and their habitats. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers volunteer opportunities across the country, and The Nature Conservancy provides both in-person and virtual options.
You can also get involved in citizen science by helping track animal and insect populations. Explore opportunities on Zooniverse, the National Wildlife Federation, or the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
August is the perfect time to align your personal interests with volunteering. You might join a one-time event like an animal adoption day, or help out at a back-to-school festival—assisting with check-in, games, or logistics. These one-off events can lead to deeper involvement—or simply a great day of doing good.
You can even make a difference from home. Offer a music hour or art session at a local senior center or assisted living facility. Or sign up to volunteer at a nonprofit arts center or community sports venue.
Are you ready to try something new in your volunteering journey? For more ideas and inspiration, explore the articles and DIY Guides at Create the Good.