Have you ever wanted to give back but weren’t sure where to start? Finding the right way to support your community often begins with discovering the local nonprofit organizations and local charities already making a difference. From food banks and animal rescues to arts programs and family services, there are countless ways to get involved.
This guide highlights inspiring local nonprofits across several cities and showcases the volunteer opportunities that make it easy to step in and help. Whether you’re moving to a new city or looking for opportunities nearby, countless nonprofit volunteer roles are waiting for you. From local causes to national organizations with community chapters, you’ll find plenty of ways to make a difference wherever you are.
Table of Contents
- Why Nonprofits Matter
- The Benefits of Volunteering
- Tips for Volunteering with Nonprofit Organizations
- Volunteer Opportunities in North Carolina
- Volunteer Opportunities in South Carolina
- Volunteer Opportunities in Florida
- Volunteer Opportunities in Iowa
- Volunteer Opportunities in Texas
- Finding More Volunteer Opportunities
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Nonprofits Matter
Nonprofits are at the heart of positive change in every community. Whether it’s providing food, shelter, healthcare, or educational programs, these organizations work tirelessly to meet critical needs and uplift those in their care. Supporting nonprofit organizations ensures that vital services continue to reach people who need them most. Getting involved also offers personal rewards – when you take part in volunteer opportunities, you’re building connections, developing new skills, and helping create stronger, healthier communities. Whether you donate, volunteer, or spread the word, your support of charities and nonprofits makes a lasting difference.
The Benefits of Volunteering
Getting involved with a nonprofit doesn’t just help the cause—it helps you, too. Volunteering can boost your sense of purpose, reduce stress, and even improve mental health by connecting you with meaningful work. It’s also a great way to expand your social circle, meet people who share your passions, and build lasting friendships. For students and professionals, nonprofit volunteer opportunities provide hands-on experience that can strengthen your resume and open doors to new career paths. Most importantly, giving your time shows that positive change is possible when individuals come together to support local nonprofits and charities.
Tips for Volunteering with Nonprofit Organizations
Common roles in local nonprofit organizations include program support, fundraising, communications, and event coordination. But you don’t need a full-time role to make a difference. Even small actions can strengthen nonprofits and expand their reach, and your effort matters more than you might think. Here are some simple ways to get started:
- Reach out directly to a local nonprofit to ask how you can help.
- Volunteer at events, fundraisers, or community programs.
- Share posts on social media or help create flyers to raise awareness.
- Organize a donation drive or fundraiser in your neighborhood.
- Encourage friends, family, or coworkers to get involved in local charities.
- Research nonprofits that accept donations of clothing, food, or supplies in your area.
Volunteer Opportunities in North Carolina
North Carolina nonprofits strengthen communities through education, arts, and social services. From small towns to big cities, there are countless ways to volunteer and give back. Here are some of the best nonprofits in North Carolina:
North Carolina Conservation Network in Raleigh, NC
The North Carolina Conservation Network is a statewide coalition of more than 60 environmental, community, and justice organizations. This Raleigh nonprofit works to protect clean air, safe drinking water, and North Carolina’s natural resources. It also pushes for policies that address climate change and environmental justice, creating healthier, more sustainable communities. Their vision is a state where every resident, especially those impacted by inequities, can thrive.
There are many ways to get involved, whether through advocacy, donations, or raising awareness.
- Contact legislators on key issues
- Donate one-time, monthly, or through workplace giving
- Contribute stock or vehicle donations
- Share resources and raise awareness
Classroom Central in Charlotte, NC
Classroom Central is a Charlotte nonprofit that makes sure every child has the school supplies they need to succeed. The organization supports more than 300 schools across six districts. Through its Free Store, Mobile Free Store, and outreach programs, this local charity helps students overcome barriers to learning. By providing essential supplies, Classroom Central gives teachers and children the tools to thrive in the classroom.
There are many ways to get involved, whether through hands-on support, remote projects, or donations:
- Stock shelves or pack supply kits
- Prepare materials for distribution
- Volunteer individually, as a family, or with a corporate group
- Assemble kits, create bookmarks, or write encouragement notes remotely
- Donate school supplies or make a financial contribution
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NourishNC in Wilmington, NC
NourishNC is a Wilmington nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger and providing nutritious food to children and families in need. Their programs include weekend meal packs, a mobile grocery store, and educational resources to help kids thrive in school and at home. UniMovers proudly supports this local nonprofit and its mission to strengthen the Wilmington community!
You can support NourishNC by giving your time, hosting a group project, or helping pack meals for kids:
- Volunteer for weekday shifts
- Organize group packing sessions
- Assemble Snack Packs at home, school, or work
Volunteer Opportunities in South Carolina
In South Carolina, nonprofits strengthen communities through housing, education, and outreach programs. Whether you’re hands-on or behind the scenes, there are many ways to support local causes.
Sweet J’s Clubhouse in Charleston, SC
Sweet J’s Clubhouse is a Charleston nonprofit that ensures no child has to face grief alone. Meeting every third Saturday at a local high school, the program provides a safe, supportive space where children can share their feelings and begin to heal. Through creative activities like journaling and arts and crafts, kids are encouraged to express themselves in healthy ways. As one of the most impactful local charities in Charleston, Sweet J’s Clubhouse helps young people navigate loss while building community and resilience. UniMovers is proud to partner with Sweet J’s to support their mission!
There are many ways to support this Charleston nonprofit and help children navigate grief while building community connections:
- Donate to Sweet J’s Clubhouse building fund to support a permanent meeting space.
- Shop the online store (mugs, shirts, candles) with proceeds supporting the mission.
- Participate in community events such as fundraisers and college fairs.
- Volunteer at events to help children find support and healing after loss.
Dorchester Habitat for Humanity in Summerville, SC
Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is a Summerville nonprofit that provides affordable housing for families in need. Since 1993, they have completed 77 homes in Dorchester County. Each home requires roughly 2,000 volunteer hours and nearly $250,000 to build. By leveraging volunteer labor and trusted subcontractors, this South Carolina nonprofit keeps costs low while delivering quality homes to hardworking families.
You can help Habitat by building homes, supporting the ReStore, or volunteering with a group:
- Join construction or repair projects
- Volunteer at the ReStore resale shop
- Partner through group or corporate build days
Volunteer Opportunities in Florida
Florida is home to nonprofits that address everything from education and food insecurity to animal welfare and the arts. No matter where you are, you’ll find opportunities to give back and make a difference.
Best Foot Forward in Boca Raton, FL
Best Foot Forward is a Boca Raton nonprofit that supports foster care youth through education and mentorship. Children from kindergarten through college are paired with coaches who provide guidance, tutoring, and academic planning. This local nonprofit helps students build confidence, succeed in school, and plan for their future.
Best Foot Forward offers many ways to give back, from mentoring to donations:
- Tutor or mentor students
- Volunteer at events (setup, baked goods, decorations)
- Donate, sponsor a student, or shop their wishlist
A Gift for Teaching in Orlando, FL
A Gift for Teaching is an Orlando nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting public school teachers and students. Many students in central Florida schools face high poverty rates and lack essential learning materials. This local nonprofit ensures teachers can access the supplies they need through an online platform, where materials are shipped for free. By bridging this gap, A Gift for Teaching helps students succeed academically and supports educators in creating engaging learning environments.
Volunteers are at the heart of A Gift for Teaching, and there are many ways to help:
- Assist in the Free Teacher Supply Store
- Help with curbside orders and the mobile store
- Welcome guests and prepare supplies
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay in Tampa, FL
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is a Tampa nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and caring for animals. They provide shelter, medical care, and adoption services for pets in need, making a tangible impact on the local community. Volunteers play a key role in supporting these efforts, helping animals find loving homes and educating the public about responsible pet care.
From adoptions to events, there are many ways to volunteer at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay:
- Train for adoption, intake, or animal care roles
- Help with humane education programs
- Commit to monthly volunteering (6+ months)
Volunteer Opportunities in Iowa
Iowa nonprofits play a vital role in uplifting communities across the state, focusing on conservation, education, the arts, and social services. From small towns to larger cities, volunteer opportunities are everywhere.
Catherine McAuley Center in Iowa City, IA
The Catherine McAuley Center is a local nonprofit serving women, immigrants, and refugees in the Iowa City area. Since 1989, they have offered education, support, and safe spaces to vulnerable communities. Programs include English as a Second Language classes, tutoring in math and reading, high school equivalency prep, and citizenship exam support. They also provide transitional housing and guidance for women escaping homelessness or trauma. UniMovers is proud to partner with the Catherine McAuley Center to support their mission.
You can get involved by teaching, mentoring, or supporting individuals in transitional housing:
- Tutor in English, math, or reading
- Help prepare for citizenship exams
- Support transitional housing programs
Street Collective in Des Moines, IA
Street Collective is a Des Moines local nonprofit promoting active transit and community engagement through biking. This nonprofit organizes events that encourage cycling, sustainability, and safe transit, helping residents of all ages get involved in healthy, eco-friendly activities.
Support Street Collective by volunteering your skills or time to help others get bikes:
- Volunteer at giveaway events
- Learn and share bike repair skills
- Propose new community bike projects
Cedar Falls Community Theatre Inc. in Cedar Falls, IA
CFCT is a Cedar Falls nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing live theatre to the local community. Since 1978, CFCT has produced plays, musicals, and special events, giving residents a creative space to gather, learn, and experience the arts. This Iowa nonprofit relies on volunteers to keep productions running smoothly, from backstage work to front-of-house operations, helping ensure performances are memorable for every audience member.
You can bring theatre to life by helping on stage, backstage, or front of house:
- Assist with props, costumes, or set painting
- Support lighting, sound, or stagehand duties
- Volunteer in the box office, concessions, or ushering
Matthew 25 in Cedar Rapids, IA
Matthew 25 is a Cedar Rapids nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods through food, housing, education, and community programs. Since 2006, this Iowa nonprofit has invested over $10 million in local neighborhoods. They have also logged more than 200,000 volunteer hours. Their mission focuses on closing disparities in life expectancy and household income by empowering residents to thrive in safe, vibrant communities.
Volunteers with Matthew 25 can support strong neighborhoods through food, housing, and education:
- Join home repair and construction projects
- Volunteer at Groundswell Café or Urban Farm
- Help with the Tool Library or clerical tasks
Dubuque County Conservation Society in Dubuque, IA
The Dubuque County Conservation Society (DCCS) is a Dubuque nonprofit focused on protecting wildlife, habitats, and natural resources. They manage McLaughlin and Hafeman wildlife areas while supporting other 501(c)(3) nonprofits involved in conservation. This Iowa nonprofit plays a vital role in preserving local ecosystems and maintaining scenic areas for the community.
Support conservation by volunteering outdoors, writing, or helping with education efforts:
- Plant trees and clean up habitats
- Build or maintain birdhouses
- Write grants or newsletter articles
Volunteer Opportunities in Texas
Texas nonprofits tackle hunger, provide community resources, and support health and education programs. With so many ways to get involved, there’s a volunteer role for every interest and schedule.
The Orangutan Project in Austin, TX
The Orangutan Project is an Austin nonprofit dedicated to protecting orangutans and their natural habitats. This local nonprofit safeguards rainforests from destruction and helps ensure the survival of these critically endangered animals. Through education and conservation programs, the organization raises awareness about wildlife preservation and the threats orangutans face from poaching and habitat loss.
You can make a global impact from Austin by supporting The Orangutan Project:
- Adopt an orangutan ($12/month)
- Sponsor acres of rainforest
- Support local Wildlife Units protecting habitats
Lubbock Dream Center in Lubbock, TX
What began as a simple mobile food pantry has grown into the Lubbock Dream Center, a hub of hope and support. Since 2010, this Texas nonprofit has served thousands of local residents. The center now provides food, clothing, and programs that promote health, education, and personal growth. One standout initiative is the Action Family Program, which encourages healthy lifestyle choices through engaging classes and activities.
Volunteers make the Dream Center possible by helping distribute food, clothing, and hope:
- Sack groceries or organize donations
- Welcome guests with coffee and conversation
- Support clothing distribution or programs
San Antonio Food Bank in San Antonio, TX
The San Antonio Food Bank has been a lifeline for thousands of families since 1980. As one of the largest food banks in the nation, this nonprofit fights hunger while creating pathways to long-term food security. Their programs go beyond emergency food relief, offering nutrition education, workforce training, and assistance with government programs like SNAP. Each week, the Food Bank serves over 58,000 individuals, distributing millions of pounds of food across Southwest Texas.
There are many ways to serve with the San Antonio Food Bank, from food distribution to farming:
- Sort and pack food donations
- Prepare meals in the kitchen or Haven for Hope
- Help with food distribution or curbside pickup
- Volunteer at farm and garden sites
- Support Hunters for the Hungry
Finding More Volunteer Opportunities
There are countless local nonprofit organizations across the country making a real difference and welcoming volunteers. Websites like Idealist and Catchafire make it easy to find flexible, accessible nonprofit volunteer opportunities. You’ll find everything from hands-on roles like tutoring, packing supplies, or mentoring, to remote tasks like social media support and event planning. Whether you want to get directly involved or contribute virtually, these platforms connect you with local charities and nonprofits that align with your skills and schedule.
Conclusion
Volunteering with nonprofit organizations is a meaningful way to give back, build skills, and connect with your community. From supporting education and the arts to protecting the environment and assisting vulnerable populations, local nonprofits and charities across the country rely on the dedication and energy of volunteers to fulfill their missions.
Whether you choose to volunteer in person or remotely, your time and effort can make a real difference. To explore more opportunities, websites like VolunteerMatch and Catchafire provide easy access to flexible roles that match your skills, interests, and schedule. Every action – big or small – helps strengthen communities and supports the vital work of nonprofits nationwide.
FAQs
Volunteer roles vary widely and can include hands-on work, such as tutoring, food distribution, or environmental cleanup, as well as virtual support, like social media management, fundraising, or administrative tasks.
Websites like Idealist, Catchafire, and local nonprofit directories allow you to search by cause, location, and type of volunteer work to find opportunities that match your passions.
Most nonprofits welcome volunteers of all experience levels. Some specialized roles may require skills or training, but many organizations provide guidance and orientation for new volunteers.
Yes! Many nonprofits offer virtual or remote volunteer opportunities, including tutoring, mentorship, administrative tasks, or online fundraising support.
Absolutely. Financial contributions help nonprofits sustain programs, purchase supplies, and expand services. Volunteering and donations together amplify your impact in the community.
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.
