Living • Things to Do • We Are Downtown

5 Ways to Volunteer This Season

‘Tis the season for giving! This is a perfect time to step out in your community and give back to those in need. And guess what?! Downtown Houston is a PERFECT place to do just that. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite places to give back within our neighborhood. Now, grab your crew and spread the holiday cheer volunteering with these organizations who help those in our own backyard.

1.  The Beacon | 📍 1212 Prairie St

The Beacon serves the homeless population tirelessly throughout the year. Driven by the  efforts and help of volunteers, being able to provide programs to the community could not be done without the support of those who volunteer their time and services.  With the self-scheduling system, it’s easy to help with duties like meal prep and service, laundry, client greeting and intake and end-of-day cleaning. Their only requirement...come with a smile and willingness to help those who need assistance. 

2.  Buffalo Bayou Partnership | 📍 1019 Commerce

Carve out some time during the week and head to the Bayou (Buffalo Bayou, that is).  Help keep the 160-acre park looking beautiful by strapping on some tennis shoes and hitting the trails to help with light tasks throughout the park. Signup anytime Wednesdays to Fridays (8am-12pm) to help weed and spread mulch for as little as two hours. As you help, take pride in knowing that you are doing your part to provide a healthier environment for everyone to enjoy all year long!

3. Houston Children’s Charity | 📍 1001 Avenida De Las Americas

Join HCC, the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots program and Houston First as they help distribute toys at the Annual Toy Distribution at GRB. The 2020 distribution helped over 12,000 children in need, and you can be part of spreading the Christmas cheer in 2022! Volunteer here.

4. Houston Public Library | 📍 550 McKinney  

Help support an organization that serves the city through an array of free educational programing, while spreading the love of reading to all. The Houston Public Library welcomes volunteers aged 13 and up to assist at the Book Warehouse to help process books that the community enjoys throughout the year. This is a great place to volunteer as a group, and they also have information on organizing an end-of-year book drive at your organization!

5. Star of Hope | 📍 1811 Ruiz

Star of Hope offers light to families experiencing homelessness through programs like temporary housing, workforce development and providing a variety of resources. Join their efforts and be a light to those in need. As you’re shopping, add a few items from their Amazon Wish List that will be sent directly to the warehouse to be distributed. For something a little more personal, there’s still time to be apart of the Glad Tidings Adopt-a-Family program. Sponsor a family in need and donate gifts for the children and a grocery gift card for the Christmas season.

---

Mentioned in this Post