Let’s face it: Millions will be sharing gifts and cookies with family and friends at holiday parties all season long. But millions will also be without a festive meal, presents under the tree and spiked eggnog.
If you’re looking to spread some extra special holiday cheer and want to step back from the glitz and glam, we've got some community volunteering options for you. After all, there is a lot of work to be done across the tri-state. Here are a few great places to get started, remote opportunities included.
New Jersey
Color A Smile | Morristown, NJ
Let the elderly, our troops overseas and all those in need of a smile know you're thinking about them by drawing and sending your masterpiece via Color A Smile. This is ideal for those who want to volunteer but are short on time or can't get out of the house. Color A Smile sends thousands of drawings out to those in need every month, simply print or create your own illustration and mail to the disclosed address. Find out more here.
New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes | Paramus, Menlo Park, Vineland
Volunteers can visit any of the three locations to cheer up NJ's vets with companionship, treats and joy. Each facility has its own volunteer coordinator. To volunteer in Paramus call (201) 634-8504. To volunteer in Menlo Park call (732) 452-4133. To volunteer in Vineland call (856) 405-4213. Remember, laughter goes a long way. More info here.
Jersey Cares | Statewide
A superb organization for those living in any NJ county. Their volunteer calendar is packed with mentoring opportunities for children and teens, tutoring programs, marketplaces and food pantries. Mobile Meals is also in effect throughout NJ, so keep an eye for one near you. Jersey Cares is always updating their calendar with new events too. Find out about being a Winter Shelter Helper and more here.
New York
Barc Shelter | Brooklyn, NY
Dog lovers unite! Volunteers can swing by Barc Shelter in Brooklyn Monday-Saturday to walk the many pups in need of a home. Morning dog walking hours are Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m. to noon. Evening dog walking hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Because of the many people who volunteer at Barc Shelter, dog walking is on a first come, first serve basis. Groups can also contact the shelter to get involved. More info here.
Local
Volunteer New York | Westchester, Rockland, Putnam
A particularly exciting opportunity at Volunteer New York is the Stuff A Stocking event, happening now through Dec. 16. On Mondays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., volunteers can swing by their Tarrytown location to stuff a stocking for a child or adult living in poverty this holiday season. Talk about giving the gift of love and joy. For more opportunities, click here.
New York Cares | Statewide
Search your location, your availability and the issues you care most about to find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you. Everything from career mentoring to coat drives, food pantries and senior care is available. Take your pick to get started right away. Details here.
NYC Service | New York City
With winter weather on its way, many New Yorkers are going to be in need of assistance removing snow and shoveling. Volunteer to shovel snow for the elderly or disabled this winter by answering a few quick questions. The city will contact you once you're approved and an opportunity to help comes up. Find out more about snow shoveling and other NYC volunteer opportunities here.
Connecticut
Volunteer Connecticut | Statewide
CT could not have made volunteering any easier. Simply click here to view a list of towns in the state. Once you select a location, you'll be directed to an epic selection of volunteer opportunities in that area. Help Hampton Stuff the Sleigh, assist at holiday food banks in New Haven, or volunteer at Danbury Hospital. The options are endless.
Hands On Hartford | Hartford, CT
A great way to join Hands On Hartford in their effort to serve the needy is by checking out their Items of the Month, where they list products you can fund or drop off. To make it even easier, they've created a wish list on Amazon, where volunteers can purchase items to be sent directly to the organization. A list of other volunteer opportunities in Hartford is available here.
Connecticut Humane Society | Newington, CT
Thinking about giving a furry friend to a loved one this holiday season? Why not hang out with some animals in need at the Connecticut Humane Society. Opportunities range from fostering pets in your home to volunteering at the shelter and caring for the adorable pets. Find out more here.
To volunteer elsewhere across the country, visit Feeding America to connect with a food bank near you.
