June Volunteering
Soup KitchenJune is just around the corner, and while summer fun, freedom from school and new jobs may all seem as if they reign supreme, it’s as good a time to volunteer as any. Below are some different ways you might want to give some time next month.
Work at a soup kitchen. This might sound weird since it’s not the holidays, but that’s the point. Food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters all have copious volunteer rosters during the holidays, but not so much during the summer. They need you now more than ever.
Volunteer at an animal shelter. A lot of animals reproduce in the spring and summer, making those very busy seasons. You can help care for animals prior to adoption, or even serve as a “foster parent” to a pet until he can get a permanent owner. And if you don’t have a pet yet and want one, consider adopting one.
Spend the day at an emergency room. This might sound weird, but there are a lot of accidents with kids and teens out of school during the summer. Bring a box of books, crayons, stickers and other fun things and help cheer up some scared kids for the day.
Give someone flowers. They’re everywhere, after all; scoop up some for free in your backyard and make a pretty arrangement to give to a nearby nursing home. While you’re there, spend some time with some lonely people. You’d be surprised at the amazing stories you might hear. Yes, the world was interesting before Bluetooth!
Fight cancer. There are cancer walks all over the country, but if you can’t get in on one, why not hold a car wash and donate your proceeds to the American Cancer Society or another organization of your choice? Tip: Advertise as a “free car wash” and then just accept donations. You’ll get more people to stop. You might want to help show kids how to properly use sunscreen to prevent cancer while you’re at it!
Spread your knowledge. If you know a friend or a child in summer school, offer to help tutor him or her.
Clean up some water. June is National Rivers Month, so why not grab some friends and head down to your nearest river and clean it up a bit? Be sure to wear gloves and be safe.
Be a zookeeper. It’s also National Zoo and Aquarium Month, so why not lend a hand to your local animal attraction? Alternatively, if you’re against the zoo, be sure to educate people about it this month.
