Summer is almost here and that means it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to spend the next few months. While there’s likely to be plenty of time outdoors and time spent visiting family and friends, the summer also lends itself to many volunteer opportunities in Orange County. It’s a great time of year for people of all ages to give back to the community.
If you’re looking for some summer volunteer opportunities, we have 10 ideas you’ll want to explore.
Summer Volunteer Opportunities in Orange County for Teens and Adults
1. OC Parks
OC Parks has many opportunities for teens and young adults to take advantage of this summer. You can volunteer for a park or trail restoration day or look into work at the zoo. Help is also needed for the Orange County Fire Watch.
2. OC Public Libraries
At public libraries in Orange County, volunteers are needed for a variety of activities. Since many children spend time at libraries over the summer, this is a valuable spot to donate your time.
3. Orangewood Children & Family Center
The Orangewood Children & Family Center also needs volunteers to help with programs over the summer. Volunteers can use their time and talents to help with many different activities for kids.
4. OC Animal Care
If you’re an animal lover and want to volunteer this summer, OC Animal Care is a good place to check out. Besides helping to collect donations, there are other areas where volunteers are needed during the summer and year-round.
5. Second Harvest Food Bank
The Second Harvest Food Bank works to fight hunger in Orange County. Volunteers account for approximately 40% of the workforce by providing help in a variety of areas. From administrative services to nutrition education, many hands are needed to make this program a success.
Children ages 7-13 can also volunteer at Izzy’s Corner within the food distribution center. They can help sort and package food for hungry children living in Orange County. This is a great way to instill the value of volunteering early on.
6. Orange County United Way
The Orange County United Way is always looking for volunteers to help out with its many endeavors for the community. Some opportunities include assembling welcome home baskets to hosting summer interns. Help is also needed in a virtual setting with reading activities.
7. Irvine Meals on Wheels
You may be familiar with meals on wheels programs that deliver food to those who have trouble leaving their homes. The Irvine Meals on Wheels organization looks for volunteers to help with getting these meals to those in need as well as assembling them.
8. San Clemente Military Outreach
If you’re looking to donate your time to help military families stationed at Camp Pendleton, San Clemente Military Outreach can use your help. This group hosts baby showers for expecting moms as well as social teas for military wives among other activities.
9. Bolsa Chica Conservancy
The Bolsa Chica Conservancy offers volunteer opportunities at its events as well as long-term commitments. Volunteers are often needed for wetland and restoration days as well as clean- ups. You can also become a host at the interpretive center. Opportunities for children as young as 6 are available during restoration day activities.
10. OneOC Volunteer Opportunities
If you want to volunteer, but are not sure where to begin looking, OneOC is the hub for volunteer resources. There are dozens of organizations searching for volunteers to help them deliver on their mission. OneOC is here to help connect individuals to the nonprofits and causes they are most passionate about.
If you’re thinking about any of these volunteer opportunities, the main thing to remember is that giving even a little of your time can help. Many organizations are grateful to anyone who wants to share their time over the summer or any time of year. When people put their time and talents together, great things can happen.
