El Monte, California, is a welcoming city in the southern part of the state. This suburban town has a large population and a lot of enjoyable restaurants, coffee shops, and local parks. However, there are many organizations in the area that need volunteers in order to run their programs which can help the city thrive. If you’re interested in volunteering in El Monte, California, consider some of these options.
Sisters of Watts
Image via Unsplash by Joel Muniz
The mission of Sisters of Watts is to unite the neighborhood by promoting community and strengthening families. This organization serves underprivileged and underserved communities in the area. They run a variety of programs, such as mentorship and after-school activities. You can volunteer by signing up on their website. Other ways to participate include donating to the organization or participating in one of the Sisters of Watts’ events.
Hillsides
Hillsides is an organization located in Pasadena, California, just a few miles from El Monte. This organization provides services to children and young adults dealing with trauma. Hillsides offers five main programs, and the organization has designed each of its programs to best serve the participants by providing the care and support they need. If you want to volunteer, you can provide care in group homes, schools, or family resource centers. In order to volunteer, it’s necessary to participate in background checks, orientation, and training as a result of the sensitive nature of the work.
San Gabriel Valley Humane Society
The San Gabriel Valley Humane Society is another place that needs volunteers. The organization is committed to finding homes for all the animals within its care while providing support before animals find a home. There are a few different ways volunteers can help at the San Gabriel Valley Humane Society. If you want to spend time with the animals, you can contribute to animal care and socialization. If you’d prefer to help in other ways, you can volunteer to help with outreach, social media, or fundraising.
Union Station Homeless Services
Union Station Homeless Services is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that strives to help individuals experiencing homelessness. The organization provides a variety of services to the city’s homeless population to offer support and aid in the San Gabriel Valley. They need volunteers for meal preparation, provide art or tutoring workshops, and assist with administrative projects. If any of these interest you, sign up on the Union Station Homeless Services website for volunteer orientation so you can begin participating.
Foothill Unity Center, Inc.
The Foothill Unity Center is a multi-service agency that provides support and services for families and individuals living in poverty. One of the center’s goals is to remove barriers for low-income and working-class communities to create more opportunities for people to thrive. You can become a volunteer in the warehouse, providing food services, or participate in the ongoing distribution of goods and services. You can sign up to volunteer through the organization’s website.
St. Baldrick’s Foundation
St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a cancer research society focused on childhood cancer. They work closely with pediatric oncologists to find fundable research projects and to help affected children. There are a few different ways you can participate in the mission of St. Baldrick’s. One of the most popular ways is through a head-shaving event. Since children often lose their hair during cancer treatment, volunteers shave their own heads to support these children, raise money, and inspire others to do the same. You can explore the options on the St. Baldrick’s website.
Friends of Project 10
Project 10 is an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in the California education system. The organization needs volunteers to contribute to its outreach efforts. Project 10 works on history projects, organizes LGBTQ+ welcoming events and provides history-based tours. They need people with a variety of professional backgrounds to participate. You can check out their website to see what specific kinds of volunteers they’re looking for at the moment.
Elizabeth House
Elizabeth House is an organization providing shelter and services for pregnant women and mothers experiencing homelessness. The goal of Elizabeth House is to contribute to the rehabilitation of women and children to empower them to reclaim their lives. Volunteers at Elizabeth House help make the mission possible. It’s necessary for volunteers to participate in comprehensive training before they begin, and you can apply to be a volunteer on the website. Once you do, Elizabeth House connects you with a coordinator to find the right fit for you.
CHOICESS
CHOICESS is a nonprofit agency that seeks to empower people with developmental disabilities. The agency strives to equip individuals to live independently, work a job, and develop meaningful relationships with those around them. They reach these goals by providing supported living services, community integration training, and individual mentoring and assistance. If you want to participate in this organization, contact CHOICESS and let them know.
Southern California Blood Bank
The Southern California Blood Bank is a nonprofit that serves hospitals across Southern California. These blood banks provide reliable and safe blood to patients in need, helping to save lives. There are a few different locations in Southern California for you to choose from. You can get involved by donating blood or helping run a blood drive in your community.
Garvey Avenue Community Center
The Garvey Avenue Community Center is a government organization that provides childcare and recreational programs. The center offers recreation programs, pet clinics, and community events. Volunteering here is a great opportunity to get connected to your neighbors. Get connected through the LA County website.
If you want to spend some time giving back to your community, there are several organizations where you can volunteer. It’s important to consider the causes that speak to you the most and find an organization that helps with that specific cause. Volunteering is a great way to participate in something positive while learning more about the needs within your own community. Did we leave out an awesome organization that needs volunteers? Contact us at Longo Lexus so we can add it to our list.
Connect with us
