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The Upside of being Outside through Volunteering

Posted at 7:44 AM, Nov 01, 2019
and last updated 2019-11-21 14:35:16-05

Giving your time is the most generous gift that anyone can give. But where do you begin to find the right opportunity for you?

Why not get a little exercise while you’re at it.

Volunteer opportunities are available at County of San Diego Parks and Recreation all year round. Not sure how to get started?
This year turn “Black Friday” into “Green Friday” by volunteering! Don’t want to join the crowds? Swap your shopping and spend the day outside with family-friendly activities in parks and preserves across San Diego County.

One such event is a ranger-led Volunteer Tree Planting activity that is taking place at Felicita County Park in Escondido, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. You can plant native trees and shrubs throughout the park.

There’s no need to RSVP, though you can on their Facebook event; look up at “County of San Diego Parks and Recreation.”

Green Friday events are open to park-goers of all ages, and there is no cost to attend; in fact, day-use fees will be waived at all County-managed parks, wherever they are collected. Learn more at sdparks.org/GreenFriday.

Are you into animals?

The work San Diego Humane Society accomplishes would not be possible without the dedication of volunteers. You can lend a hand with the Companion Animal team where you learn the foundation of animal sheltering and feeding, cleaning and assisting guests.

We are facing a major election in 2020 so consider helping the Registrar of Voters. Over 6,000 volunteers are needed to help facilitate, set up polling places and help their fellow citizens exercise their voting rights at one of roughly 1,500 poll sites all across the County.

The County’s Aging and Independence Services recently started a program called Senior Volunteers in Action (SVA) and they are actively recruiting volunteers aged 50+. They have a pressing need for volunteers at Ronald McDonald House, Resounding Joy, San Diego Canyonlands and Chula Vista Garden Club.

Last year over 5,000 people volunteered at one of 30 Library branches throughout the County. There are a range of opportunities available through the libraries such as: Tutoring adult literacy learners, reading to children, helping students with homework, leading book discussion groups, leading exercise classes or craft programs, and serving as Internet docents.

No matter how you volunteer your help is greatly appreciated.