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.
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 https://rmhcsd.org/get-involved.
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.
CECILY'S CLOSET
Cecily's Closet is a nonprofit 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 (grant writing, photography, video editing, sewing), or gently used equipment, please go to www.cecilyscloset.org/volunteer.html..
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.
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.
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.
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 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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MORE LOCAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
City of San Diego volunteer opportunities
Updated: Oct. 2024
