Volunteering from a young age has countless benefits such as learning valuable social skills, getting involved in the community, meeting new people and building character and confidence. There are so many ways here in Stamford to give back to the local community, whether it is through social services by helping children or assisting the elderly, or volunteering at special events and museums.
Boys & Girls Club of Stamford
347 Stillwater Ave, Stamford, 203-324-0594
For those looking for a very hands-on and fulfilling experience, the Boys and Girls Club is an amazing organization that focuses on mentoring children of all ages. Opportunities for teens include mentoring and tutoring younger children as well as volunteering at fundraising events.
Kids in Crisis
1 Salem Street, Cos Cob; 203-622-6556
The mission of Kids in Crisis is to protect all infants, children and teens to suffer abuse and family crisis. Volunteer opportunities for high school students include planning activities for shelter residents and organizing fundraisers, clothing, food and toy drives.
Stamford Museum and Nature Center
39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford, 203-322-1646
For those who love nature and animals, Stamford Museum and Nature Center has a variety of ongoing volunteer opportunities ranging from farm animal care to helping out with special events. There are a number of events coming up this fall such as the Harvest Festival on October 18 and 19, Trick or Treat on the Farm on October 26 and Touch a Truck on November 2.
New Covenant House of Hospitality
90 Fairfield Avenue, Stamford
The New Covenant House serves three hot meals a day to anyone who is hungry. For high school students, there are opportunities to serve dinner from 4:30 – 5:30 PM every Monday-Friday. Another way to help out is by distributing food at the food drives, which are very frequent during the holidays. If interested in volunteering, pick up an application at the Covenant House.
American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life
Relay for Life is such a great way to get involved in the community and raise funds for cancer research, all while having fun with friends and family. As the annual walk takes place in early summer, there is still plenty of time to organize a team. Mark your calendar for the nearest events this year to be held May 16 in Westport and Bedford, May 30 in Port Chester and Wilton and June 12 in Greenwich.
United Way
347 Stillwater Ave, Stamford; 203-324-0594
For those who would like to volunteer, but are not sure where to begin, the United Way focuses on connecting people to volunteer opportunities in the community. New opportunities are posted on the website each week and the extensive database allows users to search by need, organization and event date.