Looking for ways to give back in your city this month? Several local organizations are in need of a helping hand.
Volunteer opportunities over the next few weeks include training and transporting shelter pets, teaching people young and old how to read, and leading fun activities at after-school events around the city.
Find details on all that and more in our list of ways to volunteer in Philadelphia this month below.
How to volunteer in Philly this month
1. Nurture kids' love of reading
Philly Reading Coaches provides early reading support, access to books and a great volunteer community to help boost the reading skills of Philly’s kids. Volunteers can choose from 20 different sites around the city, and no prior experience is needed. To get started, email [email protected] or call 215-686-0317.
2. Fly pets to safety
Pilots to the Rescue flies shelter dogs at risk of euthanasia to new forever homes. They are looking for pilots, transport coordinators, handlers, ground personnel, veterinarians, and more. Pick your own hours. Sign up here.
3. Get clothing to those in need
Our Closet distributes free clothing through pop-up shops and by giving out clothing packages to Philadelphians in emergency situations. They’re in need of volunteers for the pop-ups, which happen at different times throughout this month: February 19, from 8:30am to noon, at Episcopal Cathedral (23 S. 38 Street), and February 26, from 9am to 1pm, at Church of the Advocate (1801 Diamond Street). Sign up here.
4. Tackle adult illiteracy in Philly
Hope Partnership for Education has been helping adults learn to read, do math and pass the GRE for years. They need volunteers with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in education, and classroom experience. Volunteers commit to one or three days a week from 10am to 2:30pm. Email [email protected] for more info.
5. Entertain kids out of school
ASAP offers fun programming, like Scrabble, drama, debate and chess, for Philly kids after school in libraries, nonprofits and community centers. They help volunteers get their required background checks, supplies and training. The next orientation is February 6, from 4pm to 5pm at 1520 Locust Street. Get started by filling out the form here.
6. Connect innovators
Venture Cafe hosts a free Thursday gathering every week from 3pm to 8pm at their gorgeous headquarters at the Science Center to educate, connect and empower innovators of all backgrounds. This month there are discussions about the intersection of design and science, how to overcome alternative facts and more. They’re always looking for volunteer greeters, bartenders, photographers, presenters or conversation facilitators. Email to mentor here. Sign up to be an ambassador here. Sign up to lead a session here.
7. Feed Philadelphians
Jewish Relief Agency relieves hunger for over 6,000 diverse, low-income Philadelphians every year. Help them February 16 with any of several programs: Pack produce from 8:30 to 9:30am, pack boxes from 10 to 11:30am, or help with pick-up from 8:30am to 11:30pm, and delivery from 10am to 3pm. Register here.
8. Nourish those who are ill
MANNA caters to Philadelphians with serious illnesses and nutritional challenges by preparing, packaging and delivering meals. Come chop veggies, cook, bake, package, deliver meals, or support events, community outreach and general office work. Start by heading to an orientation on February 10 at noon, or February 24 at 5:30pm at The Steven Korman Nutrition Center (420 N. 20th Street). Sign up for an orientation here.
9. Support incarcerated folks—and dogs
New Leash on Life saves shelter dogs that are at risk of euthanasia by giving them to inmates who, in turn, help train and socialize them. The benefit is two-fold: Dogs, who stay by their new temporary owners’ side 24-7, become social enough to ultimately be adopted, and the inmates get an employment opportunity that will help them when they are released. New Leash on Life is looking for dog trainers, vet techs, photographers and people willing to help with transit, dog selection and administrative work. Sign up here.