If your New Year’s resolution is to make a positive impact, consider volunteering to brighten up the lives of those close to home. Whether you’re interested in harvesting plants to combat food insecurity or sorting clothes to assist in donation efforts, here are volunteer opportunities throughout Northern Virginia.
ACTS
For a multifaceted volunteer experience, serve with ACTS (Action in Community Through Service). This organization averages 150 volunteers each month to assist Prince William County through a food pantry, domestic violence services, sexual assault support services, homeless relief efforts, and a 24-hour hotline. All volunteers must complete and submit the online volunteer application prior to volunteering. Those wishing to volunteer in the crisis programs must submit a background check and sign an agreement of confidentiality. 3900 ACTS Ln., Dumfries
Fauquier FISH
With a mission to support the 6.5 percent of Fauquier County’s population that experiences poverty, FISH (Feed. Inspire. Support. Health.) offers multiple services to combat hunger. Those programs include food pantry distribution, Senior Meals, and a farmers market program. Volunteers help sort and stock shelves and dinner kit assembly, shop for items, and clip coupons. 680A Industrial Rd., Warrenton
Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank
Uniting the Central Rappahannock Region, the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank works to fight hunger through daily events and monthly food distributions. Walk-up and mobile pantry, food sorting, and shopping floor attendant opportunities are available on the volunteer calendar. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old, and certain events require a volunteer orientation. 3631 Lee Hill Dr., Fredericksburg
Humane Society of Fairfax County
Since 1965, the Humane Society of Fairfax County has rescued, protected, and fostered animals through education, adoptions, and community support. You can walk dogs, play with cats, bond with new rescues, sort through donations to the Ani-Meals Pet Pantry, and more. To get started, submit the online volunteer application and complete the new volunteer orientation. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. 4057 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax
The JK Community Farm
Join the JK Community Farm to help combat food insecurity throughout the region. Participate in planting, harvesting, weeding, and composting while learning about healthy food systems. This nonprofit offers both group and individual volunteer opportunities, as well as internships. Interested volunteers should fill out a group volunteer interest form or sign up for individual volunteering online (watch out for opportunities to open up in spring.) All ages are welcome. 35516 Paxon Rd., Purcellville
SERVE Campus
As Northern Virginia’s largest family homeless shelter, SERVE Campus provides immediate neighborhood assistance ranging from food and shelter to health access and services for children. Individual, family, and group volunteer opportunities include food assistance, shelter kitchen assistance, shelter support services, and classroom volunteers. 10056 Dean Dr., Manassas
Women Giving Back
Across the DMV area, Women Giving Back helps women and children rebuild their lives after leaving a crisis. The organization’s boutique-store is filled with donated clothes, shoes, accessories, and other basic necessities. From restocking the boutique and sorting donations in the warehouse to kids’ snack-pack assembly, there are several ways to volunteer at this caring and committed community. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. 20 Export Dr., Sterling
Feature image courtesy JK Community Farm
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