If you are wondering how to help your community, look no further than your phone. Here is a list of credible websites and apps that connect you to volunteer options in central Ohio and around the state.
Volunteer groups
In Franklin County, there are several community groups dedicated to the service of others. These groups use their websites to share their volunteering schedules and find new members.
Columbus Gives Back
Columbus Gives Back is a very active volunteer group that also builds friendly connections. Most of their service projects are group-based and include social time. The group is mainly made up of young professionals. However, anyone is invited to serve. There are usually two or three volunteer events per week. You can sign up to join an event on the website.
Besa
Besa’s mission is to connect more people to community service. The group has planned thousands of projects for 50 local charities. You can donate volunteer hours, in-kind goods or dollars through Besa. They engage individual and group volunteers. Besa manages about 15 to 20 service projects monthly. The schedule and sign-up page are on the website.
Websites and apps
If joining a volunteer group is not your thing, there are several websites and apps that offer individual options for you or your family.
Volunteer Match
Volunteer Match is probably the most well-known of all volunteer search sites. It is a national site with thousands of opportunities searchable by location (including virtual), cause, skills and keywords. If you have a Volunteer Match account, you can sign up for a volunteer opportunity on the site.
Point
Point is an app created in central Ohio by a young woman who saw a need for an Uber-like app for volunteers. The app has now expanded nationally, but many local nonprofits, including Besa, use it for their volunteer scheduling. When you create an account, you can search and sign up for volunteer shifts or make donations to your favorite charities.
United Way of Central Ohio
The United Way’s Volunteer United website features in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities for many member nonprofits. You will need to create an account to sign up to volunteer. The United Way also organizes periodic days of service. Many employee and community groups get involved on those days, but families and individuals are also welcome. Keep an eye on the website for more information.
Serve Ohio
ServeOhio is the Commission on Service and Volunteerism for the state of Ohio. Its mission is to rally local volunteers to build a stronger Ohio. The Get Connected website lists volunteer opportunities all around the state. The site is very similar to the United Way site.
Individual charities
If you have a passion or skill, plenty of nonprofits need your help. Most nonprofits will list their needs on their websites. Just search the topic and the word “volunteer.” If you are worried about finding a legal charity, check out their financial web pages. They are valid if they are registered as a 501c3 with the IRS, have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and are rated by Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau.
In your own backyard
You don’t need a website or app to see how you can serve people in your own backyard. For example, you may have elderly neighbors who would appreciate help with yard work. There might be a young mom down the street who could really use a break from cooking dinner. The local school may need assistance on the PTA. Maybe your church could use help during Sunday services. The local park could use a good clean-up. Giving back can mean doing simple things for someone you know. Everyone needs help now and then.
Albert Einstein once said, “Only a life lived for others is worth living.” Volunteering is an excellent way to help your community and feel the joy of giving back.
For more website and app resources, click over to our What’s ‘Appening blog series.
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