Volunteer Opportunities in San Diego and Ways to Help Others

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Looking for ways to volunteer and help others in San Diego? Here are several ways to give back and support the local community.

GENTLY HUGGED
Don’t know what to do with clothes that your baby has outgrown? Donate them to this local nonprofit that collects gently used or new infant clothing (sizes preemie to 12 mos.) and blankets to distribute to needy families in the county. For suggested donation items and donation bin locations, visit www.gentlyhugged.org.

GIRLS RISING
Join the Girls Rising mentorship program and make a difference in the lives of girls ages 8–17 by being a positive role model and offering guidance during outings and events. Get details at www.girlsrisingsd.org/mentorship-program.

THE VINTAGE FIT
The Vintage Fit is a nonprofit resale shop at Mershops North County Mall in Escondido that provides volunteer and job training opportunities for individuals with disabilities while offering the community a sustainable shopping experience (clothing and essentials). They’re looking for volunteers to help organize donations, create displays and welcome customers. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more.

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCE FOUNDATION OF SAN DIEGO and SAN DIEGO FAMILY MAGAZINE
Support local families by volunteering at fun, educational events such as Family Fun Fest, All-Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair and Starry Night Cinema. For more information about volunteering email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Be part of this organization that has provided one-on-one mentoring for kids facing adversity in the county. Since boys comprise more than 80 percent of the waiting list, men are especially encouraged to volunteer to become a Big Brother to a child or teen and help make a difference in their lives. To learn more, visit www.sdbigs.org/volunteer.

ORGANIZE A DONATION DRIVE FOR CASA DE AMPARO

Casa de Amparo's mission is to treat and prevent child abuse and neglect through a range of programs and services that promote healthy relationships. Families can help support their mission (and their residents) by organizing a supply drive for life necessities and/or special requests from the youth. Learn more about Casa de Amparo at www.casadeamparo.org.

SUPPORT THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
After spending the day with their sick child at the hospital, meals at the Ronald McDonald House are a time for family members to nourish their bodies, unwind and regroup. It takes the efforts of many volunteers and food donors to make mealtime special for these families, and help is needed year-round. Learn more about volunteering, serving meals, helping with wish lists, group opportunities and more at www.rmhcsd.org/get-involved.

VOLUNTEER AT FATHER JOE'S VILLAGES

This local rehabilitation program provides a wide range of services to assist the homeless and neighbors in need. Volunteers must be ages 10 & up. Learn how you can help by visiting www.my.neighbor.org/volunteer, emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 619-645-6412.

HELP with "NIGHT TO SHINE" PROM FOR YOUTH WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Night to Shine is an annual prom event for teens and young adults with disabilities and unique needs (ages 14 & up). Be part of the next event by joining a volunteer team. Learn more at www.ncc-nighttoshine.com.

LEND A HELPING HAND AT COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER
This nonprofit provides social services and domestic violence programs in Encinitas. Volunteer opportunities include organizing an activity at the Therapeutic Children’s Center, sorting and shelving food at Client Center, teaching a life skills class and more. Many opportunities are currently on hold, but resale store volunteers are still needed. For more information, visit www.crcncc.org/volunteer.

THE ARC OF SAN DIEGO
Extend a helping hand to kids and adults with disabilities and their families. Volunteer opportunities include classroom assistants, marketing internships, administration, hands-on projects and events. Learn more at www.arc-sd.com/volunteer.

CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS
Put your old phones to good use by donating them to this recycling program that helps our troops stay in touch with their loved ones back home. Before donating your phone, make sure to remove personal information from your cell phone. For a drop-off location near you, visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com.

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