Where to volunteer across the state, broken down by issue
Volunteering is the best way to show up for your community. With the current climate, every action you can take to help those around you goes far.
When you are excited and ready to volunteer, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your venture. First, it’s important to hone in on the issue you want to help with. Whether it’s providing care for animals or aiding the elderly, there are special organizations you can donate your time to across the state.
Volunteering is one of the most important things I do in my life. It fills me with joy and makes my life feel worthwhile. If this is something you are seeking to do, these are the best places to spend your time across the state of Arizona, broken down by issue.
Those who are facing homelessness
Central Arizona Shelter Services
If you are located in the central part of the state, donating your time to Central Arizona Shelter Services, or CASS, is the perfect way to help those experiencing homelessness. They are the largest shelter operating to provide a safe space for single individuals to stay. CASS offers emergency sheltering and even has lawyers on hand to aid in case management and provide legal advice.
There are many ways you can get involved with CASS. One way is by hosting a drive for clothing and food donations. The other option is serving meals on-site. The shelter offers volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule. Their services are offered in Phoenix, and you can learn about the program here.
Flagstaff Shelter Services
Looking for an opportunity in the north? Look no further than Flagstaff Shelter Services. They are the largest shelter service providing emergency support in Northern Arizona. Their goal? To end homelessness for good. They work to provide their patrons with life-changing opportunities that will get them into permanent housing.
They are always seeking volunteers! In fact, they have a very flexible schedule for those looking to help out. When you apply online, you can specify the days and times you are available, and they will find you opportunities based on your availability. Those looking to make a difference in the lives of their residents are always welcome, and they are excited to have you on board! Look into opportunities here.
Primavera Foundation
The Primavera Foundation, located in Tucson, focuses on making a lasting impact on those facing poverty. They help individuals find housing, land jobs, and provide comprehensive community development. The foundation is seeking volunteers to help work on-site, as well as behind the scenes.
If you are seeking a special volunteer opportunity, apply today to help at the foundation. You can assist participants on-site, aiding staff in data entry and other office tasks, prepare and serve meals at their various shelters, or participate in events like the Homeless Memorial and their fundraisers, like the annual golf tournaments.
Animal shelters
Arizona Humane Society
One of my closest friends adopted her beloved furry best friend from the Arizona Humane Society, and I couldn’t recommend more that you volunteer there if you are in the Phoenix area. Don’t just take it from me, though. They were given the title of the best place to volunteer in the state by Phoenix Magazine. The Humane Society provides a safe space for animals before they are adopted into their forever homes.
They offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities. You can be an on-site shelter volunteer taking care of the animals, cleaning their spaces, and taking dogs for walks. You can help the animals grow closer to humans by socializing and playing with them. Looking for an activity that allows your company to give back to the community? The Humane Society offers group volunteer days. They also have an option to take a dog on a field trip! Ready to join in on the rewarding work? Become a volunteer by registering online.
United Animal Friends
If you’re near Prescott, United Animal Friends is a wonderful rescue group to donate your time to. Unlike a typical shelter, United Animal Friends has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. Focusing both on rescuing pets and preventing overpopulation with spay and neuter programs, this is a group you will feel good serving.
They offer dog walking, cat caretaking, a food pantry, adoption events, and transportation opportunities. If you have a background in fundraising or events, you can help their team expand its efforts. They are also seeking grant writers and phone line operators. Any way that you can give back, they are happy to take it into account. To join the fun, register online here.
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona makes it clear that volunteering is life-saving work. According to their website, their volunteers donate over 100,000 hours of their time at the shelter each year. They provide the necessary support that helps shelter workers make a bigger impact in the lives of the animals under their care. They require a commitment of six months to volunteering, with two shifts per month. If you are 15 years old or above, you can join their volunteer team!
From fostering animals to dog walking and food distribution, there are options for whatever you can give. This shelter offers a customer-service oriented atmosphere, which is perfect for those who have experience in the field. They hope to combine your strengths with the tasks they need assistance with to make the biggest impact for the animals. Learn how to get involved here.
Environmental support
Your local Parks and Recreation Department
Cities across the state have amazing Parks and Recreation departments that are constantly seeking volunteers. If you feel called to keep your city clean and help build community, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Across the state, these groups are looking for all kinds of help. They want to use your talents—whatever you can offer them, they will gladly accept!
Are you ready to live your own “Parks and Recreation” moments? Check out the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association for volunteer opportunities in your area.
The elderly and children
Duet: Partners in Health and Aging
Elderly people need assistance across the state. Whether you want to spend time at a retirement home or volunteer to help out individuals, there are options across the state. One of the most meaningful opportunities is for people in the Valley. Providing unique care to elderly members of the community, Duet is seeking helpers to create a safe and meaningful connection with the people they aid.
Volunteer roles with Duet include helping “neighbors” with tasks like grocery shopping and becoming a facilitator of hope, which takes special training throughout the year. You can also assist on-site and help with answering phones and providing peer support to residents. This is an especially meaningful opportunity. To learn more, please see the volunteer section of their website here.
Arizona Department of Child Safety
No matter where you are in the state, the Arizona Department of Child Safety is seeking volunteers. They are a government-run child welfare department that places children in foster homes and advocates for them in both legislation and daily life. They are always seeking foster parents, but if you can’t commit to that, no worries. They offer plenty of other opportunities.
As the holidays approach, the department is seeking assistance for food and present drives for local foster youth. You can also assist the children in need by becoming a mentor or tutor. Find out how you can get involved here.
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