There are many ways to volunteer and show up for your community that are accessible and easy to fit in your schedule! Depending on your interests, you can find something to give back to your community while gaining experience to showcase in your college applications.

Start with a volunteering website

Visit these websites to search and learn about volunteer opportunities in your area: VolunteerMatch, Idealist, and nationalservice.govv. You can filter by location, skills, time commitment and more. There are remote and in-person positions available.

Follow and engage with social media accounts

Follow nonprofits and organizations with missions and values that align with your views. Take the time to like, share, and leave supportive comments to nudge the internet algorithms to display the nonprofit's social media account to the front page. More visibility on social media can lead to more impact and engagement for the organization. If you feel up to it, DM them and ask about volunteer opportunities they may have in-person or remotely.

Host or organize a donation drive

What are things you don't need or use anymore? Are they in good condition? Ask your friends and family for things they don't need or use anymore, too. Then donate these items to a local charity, church, or nonprofit. You can reach out to places like food banks, animal shelters, homeless shelters, and more to ask if there are any specific items in need. Once you do some research, work with some peers to collect donations to help meet the organization's needs.

Help your neighbors

Know a neighbor that might need some help with their yard, cleaning, getting food or other tasks? Reach out to them and ask if you can help. Sometimes giving back can start with those in closest proximity to you.

Become a penpal

The lost art of writing letters is making a huge comeback. The organization Soldiers’ Angels will connect you with a service member overseas. A student focused organization PenPal Schools will help you connect with other students around the world.

Looking for other ways to volunteer or have an idea and need feedback? Text #Hello to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device,click here to have the text message set up for you!