Ways to Volunteer in Seattle

Whether you live in downtown Seattle or in the suburbs, you know that there are a wide number of charitable organizations serving your community. Each of these organizations runs on donations and on the sweat equity contributed by locals. If you're looking for ways to volunteer in Seattle, you're in luck, and there are lots of volunteer opportunities in which the whole family can participate.

Adopt-A-Street

Civic-minded families might want to join the Adopt-A-Street project, whose goal is to maintain the condition of more than 200 miles of Seattle roadways. If you volunteer by adopting a specific street, you'll be responsible for picking up litter and other duties. Several people can choose to adopt a street at the same time, so this is a common choice for families who want to participate together'"even extended families.

There are two Adopt-A-Street plans: Traditional, which requires a commitment of two years with four clean-ups annually; and Special, which is less of a commitment. The Traditional option comes with a street sign designating your stretch of roadway.

Magnuson Park Native Plant Nursery

Seattle families with green thumbs (or the desire to grow them) might want to volunteer at Magnuson Park. Help plant flowers, tend beds, and water greenery on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Volunteers meet regularly, though the times and frequency depend upon seasonal requirements.

This volunteer opportunity is available to Seattle residents of all ages, so make sure to bring the whole family. Kids will get an education in botany, and adults will enjoy learning about native Seattle plants and their uses.

Ballard Food Bank

Ballard Food Bank provides a wide range of services to disabled, elderly, disadvantaged, and homeless Seattle residents. They deliver groceries to those in need, refer victims of disasters to emergency services, and accept mail for the homeless. Your family can volunteer to deliver groceries or to manage the hygiene bar.

Seattle Children's Hospital

The hospital can be a lonely, scary place, especially for kids. If your family is looking for volunteer opportunities in Seattle, consider the children's hospital. Here, volunteers play games with patients, rock infants to sleep, keep frightened parents company, and more.

This is another great volunteer opportunity for adults and teens. It provides life experience as well as a rewarding way to fill some time. The kindness offered to an ill child will be remembered for a lifetime.

Where to find other Seattle volunteer opportunities

The City of Seattle web site offers several volunteer opportunities, from the animal shelter to the parks foundation. Ask your friends and neighbors if they have ever done any volunteer work, and attempt to get referrals that way. A personal referral increases your chances of finding a worthy organization.

Your child's school is also a great way to find volunteer opportunities in Seattle. Bring up the subject with a teacher or at the PTA meeting to see what needs you can fill in the community.