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 https://www.casadeamparo.org.
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 http://sdbigs.org/volunteer.
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 more help is needed year round as more and more families take advantage of meals at the House. Want to help with family meals or assist in other activities? Visit https://rmhcsd.org/get-involved.
Cecily's Closet is a non-profit organization that provides room makeovers (and other items) for children with special needs with the help of local businesses, designers, friends and the community. They provide this service at no cost to the recipients. If you'd like to donate your time, talent or gently used equipment, please go to http://www.cecilyscloset.org/volunteer.html.
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 https://crcncc.org/volunteer.
THE ARC OF SAN DIEGO
Extend a helping hand to kids and adults with disabilities and their families. Volunteer with this organization or participate in their Every ONE Counts membership campaign. 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.
VISIT THESE WEBSITES FOR MORE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
www.sandiego.gov/volunteer-program
Updated: November 2020
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