Looking to volunteer in Charlotte, North Carolina? Here are some opportunities to help you navigate your search, please note this is subjective and by no means a comprehensive list. All the organizations mentioned have volunteering information on their websites with online applications.
Urban Ministry Center is a fantastic organization with a delightful and engaging website. Last year they served more than 106,000 meals, provided 16,000 nights lodging and moved 12 families into their own apartments. Armies of volunteers are needed (10,000 last year!) to help with jobs including administration, yoga instruction, computing, gardening, housekeeping, addiction counseling, and driving – to name just a few. If you want to be a part of a dynamic, rewarding organization – contact UMC.
Charlotte ReStore – Habitat for Humanity has a litany of volunteer opportunities at its two locations. Its goal is to build as many Habitat Homes in Charlotte as possible. ReStore sells reclaimed furniture, fixtures, tiles, lighting – building materials that would become landfill if it wasn’t for the dedicated volunteers that help salvage reusable materials. This organization exists solely on its retail customers, volunteers and donations of re-sellable cabinetry, appliances, metal recycling, books and more. A coffee and bookshop are adjacent and in need of volunteers as well. Please stop by and see how you can help.
YMCA of Greater Charlotte emphasizes the fun in fundraising at its locations throughout Charlotte with volunteering opportunities for mentors and much more. The YMCA is a wonderful organization for families and people of all faiths and provides a great opportunity to work actively alongside positive people.
Hands On Charlotte is a corporate-sponsored volunteer service network. Their mission is wide-ranging serving everything from homeless families to at-risk youths to environmental issues – essentially wherever there is need. Their online schedule offers three-hour volunteer supported events to get you started.
Theatre Charlotte’s website reminds us, “No job is too difficult; with a little training, anyone can do anything.” Their volunteer positions include working in costuming, concessions, ushering and more. So it sounds like volunteers will be working the shows! Free theater anyone?
To find the right volunteering opportunity for you consider these recommendations but also do some of the leg work yourself – ask neighbors and associates to see what their favorite volunteering gig is. You might have to volunteer at a few different places before you find the right opportunity for yourself. Enjoy the journey.