Community Growth: Non-Profit Organizations in Tampa Bay

As a teenager and an active member of our local 4-H community, I had many opportunities to get involved in various community projects, including leadership conferences and wonderful programs like Horseback Riding for the Handicapped. As my own children grew old enough, my daughter decided to try doing some volunteer work at the local SPCA. She found it to be a rewarding and fun experience that she really enjoyed, much as I had, back in the day. Whether you're looking for a great cause to devote your time to or would like to donate some money to help some great people accomplish great things, there are many wonderful non-profit organizations in the Tampa Bay area that can use a helping hand.

Ways You Can Help

Volunteering - Perhaps the best way that anyone can assist a non-profit organization is to volunteer to help. Most organizations are desperate for people that have the time and ability to donate a couple of hours, per week, to helping with their various causes. From walking dogs to answering phones or filing paperwork, volunteering is a great way to help out and a wonderful way to feel great about yourself at the end of the day!

Financial Assistance - Non-profit organizations survive on the kindness of others. Next time you stroll through the bird sanctuary or visit a shelter, be sure to keep this in mind and leave them a donation, however small. Even if you can't afford it right now, try and keep them in mind during holidays or if you hear about fundraisers or special events that call for extra funds.

Donations - Many non-profit organizations will do things like bake sales, car washes, garage sales or other money-raising events. Donations are usually welcome, depending on the various events they have planned. Additionally, most also welcome donations such as office supplies, pet supplies, gift cards, etc. Be forewarned, however - not all animal shelters welcome random donations of pet food. If you want to donate food to your local shelter - call first and make sure it's the kind of food they normally feed to their animals, or if they would prefer a gift card from a food supply store, or the gifting of something like pet toys instead (many animals in shelters are fed one kind of food that is supplied to the shelter, since switching them between different foods is very hard on their digestive systems).

Some Great Non-Profit Organizations in the Tampa Bay Area

Eckerd Youth Alternatives - 100 Starcrest Dr., Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 461-2990

Named 2010 Nonprofit Organization of the Year, Eckerd Youth Alternatives has been helping to change the lives of children since 1968. In 1982, they were asked to operate the first private juvenile justice program in the history of the state of Florida. Today, they remain a leading provider of Day Treatment and Residential Therapeutic Programs for troubled youth.

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary - 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 33785
(727) 391-6211 or (727) 391-2473

Founded in 1971 by zoologist, Ralph T. Heath, the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is the largest wild bird hospital and sanctuary in the United States. Admitting more than 8,000 birds a year, they are dedicated to the rescue, repair and rehabilitation of injured birds, preparing them for release back into the wild. Depending solely on the financial support of caring individuals, the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is open 365 days a year, from 9:00 am until sunset. Admission is always free and donations are always welcome.

Leadership Pinellas - PO Box 5986, Clearwater, FL 33758-5986
(727) 585-8889

Part of a National Program, The Community Leadership Association, Leadership Pinellas selects between 35-38 men and women who work and/or live in Pinellas County, inviting them to a variety of different programs and trips to help improve and build upon our community. By strengthening the leadership qualities within the community, this non-profit organization strengthens our communities and creates a better place for all of us to live.

Tampa Bay Deaf and Hearing Connection - 7821 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772
(727) 399-9983

The Tampa Bay Deaf and Hearing Connection has been helping to empower people who are affected by hearing loss for more than 20 years. Providing cost-effected services to more than 6,500 people each year, this non-profit organization helps those who are affected by hearing loss, assisting them to be productive and independent citizens. Additionally, the DHC also educates and trains the general public to improve communications with those who have suffered hearing loss.

Florida Veterans Assistance Association - 11100 66th St., Ste 18b, Largo, FL 33773
(727) 545-2832

Established in 1996 in Tampa, FL, the Florida Veterans Assistance Association has been offering veterans a wide variety of services such as a toll-free number where they can call in for free information about Healthcare, Hospitals, Eligibility, Business and Home Loans, and much more. They also assist veterans during times of need, with things like holiday food baskets and food certificates to various grocery stores, auto repair and giveaway programs, traveler's aid to stranded veterans, and assisting with school supplies, clothing and other needs for qualifying children of veterans.

Friends of Strays - 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33714
(727) 522-6566

Founded in 1978, Friends of Strays is a wonderful non-profit organization that provides sterilization, as well as the temporary care and shelter of stray pets. Committed to educating the public on the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need to spay/neuter pets, this is a wonderful no-kill shelter that is always sure to put the animals first.