With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, the volunteer opportunities we know have shifted. However, people and organizations need help now more than ever. It’s always good to give back: when you help others, you get your own sense of purpose. Below are a few opportunities where you can volunteer in Boston.
Read to a Child (Virtually)
Launched almost twenty years ago, Read to a Child’s Read Aloud Mentoring Program in Greater Boston serves over 800 at-risk children through nearly 1,100 volunteer reading mentors who participate each week at a local school. The program is offered at 16 public elementary schools in Greater Boston. Given the current pandemic, the program is beginning to start back up again with virtual readings.
One in 8 residents of Eastern Massachusetts is expected to experience food insecurity in 2020 as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. As a volunteer at The Greater Boston Food Bank, you could help play a critical role in helping to end hunger. Volunteer shifts are Tuesday & Wednesdays 9 am-12 pm and 1 pm-4 pm and Thursday 9am – 12pm, 1:30 – 4pm.
Massachusetts Housing & Shelter Alliance
The Massachusetts Housing & Shelter Alliance needs resources to help support as COVID-19 continues. The site has a list of agencies with volunteer (and employment) opportunities, along with specific donation needs.
Families need help now more than ever. You can sign up to help deliver essential items and groceries to Boston Public School families who are enrolled in the Food Distribution Program. The program serves 550 families and delivers hygiene kits, books, clothing, diapers, wipes, and other requested items. Drivers will deliver to 7-10 families (all efforts will be made to keep houses close together!)
Not sure what type of volunteer opportunities are right for you? Boston Cares is the largest volunteer agency in New England and fills more than 25,000 volunteer spots in support of more than 180 Greater Boston schools and non-profit agencies. Boston Cares offers a wide array of programs and opportunities that make it simple for you to volunteer, regardless of your schedule. Think of it as a matchmaker for volunteer programs.
