If you’re passionate about helping children and are looking for ways to get involved, these organizations provide easy ways to change the lives of kids right here in Tampa Bay. There are opportunities for all types and personalities.
Metropolitan Ministries (Tampa Bay Area)
Metropolitan Ministries provides aid for the homeless and poverty-stricken families of Tampa Bay. Not only does this organization provide solutions for short-term needs (food, clothing, temporary shelter); Metropolitan Ministries also provides valuable services to help Tampa’s families get back on their feet (adult education/GED programs, financial planning, after-school help for children, youth activities). Through the detailed volunteer calendar on their website, you can sign up to help with large events or small projects. Visit the volunteer page for more information at http://www.metromin.org/page.aspx?pid=302.
A Kid’s Place (Brandon, Florida)
A Kid’s Place is a group home for young children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect and placed in the foster care system. The children who live at A Kid’s Place in Brandon are provided with basic necessities, but they are also provided with the love and nurturing that they desperately need to succeed. If you have time to volunteer, A Kid’s Place offers specific volunteer opportunities on-site. You can also provide much-needed supplies just by picking up a few extra items during your weekly trip to the supermarket. Because of the large number of children who reside in the home, A Kid’s Place is always in need of basic supplies such as diapers, personal hygiene items (like toothpaste, shampoo, and soap), cleaning supplies, bottles, and paper products. Visit http://www.akidsplacetb.org/volunteer.aspx for more information.
Guardian Ad Litem Program (Tampa Bay Area)
Florida’s Guardian Ad Litem program enables you to be a voice for children in Tampa Bay who have been victims of abuse, abandonment, or neglect. When a child’s family is being investigated in the dependency system by the Department of Children and Families, a judge will assign a Guardian for the child to ensure that the interests of the child are considered and advocated for. The Guardian visits the child regularly and gives his or her opinion on what actions are in the best interest of the child. If you’re interested in becoming a Guardian, visit http://www.guardianadlitem.org/ for information on program requirements and local contact information.