Spring into some volunteer opportunities this break

Spring into some volunteer opportunities this break

Georgia Gay, staff writer

For those of you looking for something to do over spring break, look no further. There are opportunities just around the corner.

Volunteering is a great way to help out the community and get to know people.

NGU freshman Kenna Bishop said, “I think volunteering is a really rewarding experience. Usually you meet some of the most genuine and hilarious people while doing things for the community you don’t usually do.”

Below are some organizations that could use your help and are great ways to grow closer to your community.  

1. Hit up a local food kitchen

As the seasons begin to change, more and more people are seeking places to find their next meal.  Several places offer volunteer hours for those who want to reach out to the community and make a difference. Greer Soup Kitchen, Project Hope in Greenville and Harvest Hope Food Bank in Columbia are but a few places that always need a helping hand.

2. Animal Shelters

If you find yourself with some spare time, there are plenty of animal shelters that could use some assistance. The Greenville Humane Society is a great organization that provides opportunities for both young and adult volunteers. Registration is required and being able to handle animals well is usually helpful. Other places to consider would be Spartanburg Humane Society and Greenville County Animal Care.

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“Volunteering blesses both people and animals. It is a perfect display of the kindness of a person’s heart.”

3. Habitat for Humanity

This organization’s main goal is to help build stronger communities, but they need all the hands they can get. Habitat for Humanity’s mission, according to its official website, is “seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.” A strong Christian-driven organization is always looking for volunteers and can be found in Greenville, Taylors, Simpsonville and other locations.

4. Libraries

Strangely enough, libraries are not booked with enough volunteers. Just finding a local library in your town is a great way to collect a few hours of volunteering. Libraries typically look for someone who can stack and organize shelves, but may offer additional opportunities.

5. Museums

South Carolina has many museums that offer volunteer options. People are always needed to provide support, but working within a museum helps open up different possibilities. One can work their way up into leading tour groups and along the way you get to learn a thing or two about history, art and much more. Places to consider would be the Greenville County Museum of Art or Lexington County Museum. Also, searching for local museums will bring up opportunities.

6. YMCA

It’s fun to volunteer at the YMCA. The YMCA has 10,000 locations in different neighborhoods across the nation that could use volunteers. If you are someone looking to help a neighbor, the Y is the place for you. They need leaders, coaches and supporters to those in the community.

7. The Salvation Army

With over 3.3 million volunteers, a local Salvation Army could always use your help. They need people who want to give back and can provide the time and effort for a great cause. The Salvation Army wants to fulfill their promise to America of “doing the most good.”

8. Meals on Wheels

Help the 2 million that are already involved in distributing meals to those who no longer can provide meals for themselves. They need people who can either prepare, deliver, serve and more. Meals on Wheels is a great way to see the community and the people within it change for the better.