April is National Volunteer Month — a time to recognize and celebrate the power of people helping others. Across the country, individuals step up to serve their communities in all kinds of ways. In fact, according to a report by AmeriCorps, nearly one in three Arizonans volunteered between September 2022 and September 2023 — higher than the national average. That is something to be proud of.
In our busy lives, it can be easy to forget how much helping others matters. But when you take time to volunteer in your community, you are making a substantial difference — not just for others, but for yourself, too.
No matter where you live or what your schedule looks like, there are always meaningful ways to get involved.
Here are just a few ways you can serve your community this month and beyond:
Many local shelters and food programs depend on volunteers to prepare and serve meals to people experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. You do not need special training — just a caring heart and the willingness to lend a hand. Whether you cook at home or bring takeout, offering a meal can make someone’s day and give them hope.
At Tempe Community Action Agency, volunteers bring and serve dinner to our 40 I-HELP shelter guests. This is often the best, and often only, meal they have all day.
Food pantries are a lifeline for thousands of families and the numbers are climbing. Valley pantries need volunteers to sort donations, pack food boxes and assist visitors. A few hours of your time can help feed many. Most pantries offer flexible schedules, making it easy to fit volunteering into your routine.
TCAA’s food pantry serves over 30,000 individuals every year and we are only one of many in need of volunteers to meet the demands of the community.
Many older adults want to stay in their homes as they age, but they often need extra help to do so. Volunteers can make friendly calls, run errands, help with light chores or offer rides to appointments.
Even a small act, like delivering a hot meal or teaching someone how to use a smartphone, can make a significant difference in someone’s life. At TCAA, volunteers with Meals on Wheels, our Senior Center Lunch Program and Neighbors Helping Neighbors work together to ensure each and every senior has what they need to thrive as they age.
No matter your age, background or skill level, there is a place for you in the world of volunteering. Whether you can help once a month or once a week, your time matters. During National Volunteer Month I urge everyone to take a moment to look around your community and ask: Where can I help?
Not sure how to get started? Reach out to local nonprofits, shelters, schools or senior centers to find the opportunities near you. Even better, invite your family or friends to volunteer with you.
If you’re not able to volunteer in person, there are other meaningful ways to give back. Consider hosting a food or water drive, or making a donation to your favorite nonprofit. Together, we can build stronger, kinder communities — one act of service at a time.
Editor’s note: Carrie Aranda is director of mission advancement at Tempe Community Action Agency, a nonprofit serving economically vulnerable households in the East Valley since 1966. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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