As the holidays come to a close and the end of the year approaches, consider spending some of your time volunteering with some community-suggested programs.
There are many opportunities that can be accessed using public transit, from Facing Homelessness (office near the 1 Line's University of Washington Station) and Northwest Harvest's SODO Community Market (served by the 1 Line's SODO Station and King County Metro routes 131 and 132).
Northwest Harvest is a food justice organization in Washington state. The organization provides an average of two million meals each month through our statewide network of over 400 food banks, meal programs, schools, and community-based organizations. Part of a justice-centered movement, Northwest Harvest advocates to change inequitable policies, practices, and institutions that perpetuate hunger and poverty. Support Northwest Harvest and volunteer with a food bank or hunger relief organization near you.
Facing Homelessness’ purpose is to increase the connection, sense of belonging and stability of those living unhoused as a pathway to ending homelessness. The core of the organization is ‘Just Say Hello’ in an effort to make room for meaningful relationships; to begin. Visit the volunteer hub for open opportunities.
Here are some more organizations:
Washington Trails Association mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward and champion trails and public lands. Register for a WTA work party – whether you’ve had years of experience, or you are brand new to tools, WTA has volunteer opportunities for everyone.
Weld Seattle is a program for the previously incarcerated. The program’s mission is to equip system-impacted individuals with housing, employment, and resources conducive to recovery and successful reintegration back into society. They have a variety of volunteer opportunities from light cleaning to bookkeeping. Sign up for more information.
Treehouse began in 1988 when a group of social workers started raising funds through book sales to purchase everyday needs to help children in foster care feel loved and capable. Treehouse turns 35 this year and volunteers are a critical part of providing support to youth in foster care. Volunteer opportunities include one-time/short term and ongoing shifts. Take a look on the Treehouse website and apply for an opportunity near you.
For our friends in Pierce and Snohomish counties, please see volunteer opportunities on the Pierce County Human Services and the City of Snohomish clubs and organizations websites.
Other community-suggested programs:
Organization for Prostitution Survivors
Washington Alaskan Malamute Adoption League
What programs are you hoping to volunteer with this season? Tag us @SoundTransit and share some of your favorite local organizations to support.