With the new year underway, everyone has a resolution that they are trying to stick to, or a habit they’re trying to kick. Whether it’s getting in shape, saving money or going on that dream vacation—we all have a goal we are looking to works towards. For some, that means giving back to the community. Atlanta provides countless ways to give back to those in need, ranging from helping the homeless to protecting Atlanta-area forests. By volunteering, you will be gaining insight, making new friends and helping others. Check out some of Atlanta’s most popular organizations below, and get hands-on with making an impact in your community.
Lift Up Atlanta
Focused on assisting the homeless and feeding the hungry, Lift Up Atlanta works with various homeless shelters in the metro Atlanta area. From working with low-income families and serving meals to providing hygiene items and self-empowerment programs, Lift Up Atlanta is committed to improving the lives of those in need. If you’re interested in volunteering, your opportunities may include GED training, computer training classes, life skill classes or your standard (but necessary) food and toy drives. To learn more about what this non-profit has to offer, be sure to check out their website.
Open Hand Atlanta
Open Hands Atlanta helps those coping with illness, disability and/or old-age by providing them with healthy meals and nutritional education. On a daily basis, Open Hand Atlanta prepares, packs and delivers more than 5,000 meals to those in the surrounding Atlanta community. Founded in 1988, Open Hand Atlanta has been working for 30 years with no intentions of slowing down. Over 100 partner organizations work collectively to keep this non-profit in action, but the heart of it all comes down to its volunteers. If interested, Open Hand gives you the chance to help with meal packing, meal delivery, culinary assistance, special events and administrative work. Open Hand is located about a 5-minute drive from our Lindbergh apartments.
Trees Atlanta
If your idea of giving back includes getting outside and enjoying the fresh air, Trees Atlanta is the nonprofit for you. With their mission to “protect Atlanta’s forest through planting, conservation and education,” Trees Atlanta is one of the most widely recognized and supported non-profits in the area. Volunteer opportunities come on either a weekday or weekend basis and include activities such as tree planting, tree care and forest restoration projects. Volunteers of all ages are welcome and encouraged, however, those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Find this opportunity just a 10-minute drive from our Ponce City Market apartments, Intown lofts and Poncey Highlands apartments.
Georgia Aquarium
Ready to dive into a volunteer opportunity assisting the care of over 500 species? With a team of more than 1,500 volunteers, the Georgia Aquarium takes you behind the scenes and offers you the chance to do everything from guest services to diving! In order to volunteer, you must be at least 16 years of age (18 years old if you’re interested in diving), and commit to 100 hours each year. With your time, you will be providing your fellow local citizens an educational aquatic experience they are sure to enjoy. What are you waiting for? The aquarium isn’t far from our apartments near Piedmont Park.
Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta
Known throughout the nation for their dedication and commitment, the Boys and Girls Club is centered around changing the lives of children and teens alike. With more than 3,300 kids part of the Metro Atlanta Club, volunteers work to ensure students graduate on time, as well as encouraging them to lead healthy lifestyles and educating them on possible career endeavors for their future. As a volunteer, you can assist with tutoring and homework help, become a sports coach or assist with college work study. In order to volunteer, you must clear a background check and attend an orientation, and you are good to go!
No matter how you choose to give back to your community, it will be a fulfilling and accomplished feeling knowing you have helped out. You will learn new skills, challenge yourself and gain a greater perspective that will last a lifetime.
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View All Posts by Krystyna Dudka