Be happy! Volunteer. After all, the fact is giving back to your community in the form of volunteering is a great dose of medicine. Not only is it rewarding but volunteering also reaps a multitude of both mental and physical health benefits. Volunteering combats depression, relieves stress and anxiety, increases life expectancy, and creates a sense of accomplishment. But, there’s more. Meeting new people, learning a new skill, networking, personal satisfaction, and boosting self-esteem are also additional benefits. Volunteering provides a sense of self-worth. And, it also provides essential life skills.
If you look around your community it’s certain that you’ll find countless organizations, clubs, and causes that could use an additional helping hand. And, the best news is that many organizations are very flexible when it comes to scheduling. Children’s sports teams, hospitals, senior centers, park districts, garden clubs, churches, and local government are just a few. There’s also local museums, art centers, libraries, food pantries, animal shelters, Habitat for Humanity and Special Olympics Texas. We also did some research and found some great places and events in the Austin metro area to volunteer. Check them out below.
Help to preserve history as a Austin Steam Train Association volunteer
Get on board with the Austin Steam Train Association. This nonprofit organization in Cedar Park preserves and restores trains. Educating the public about historic locomotives is also part of their mission. Volunteers serve the organization as car and concession sales attendants in addition to assisting the organization’s office staff. Train crew members such as engineers, conductors and brakemen are also in need to help to restore historic rail cars. Seasonal opportunities such as Day Out with Thomas, the Pumpkin Express, and the North Pole Flyer are three great ways to make a difference. You can also ride the train for free. Fill out an application and start having fun today.
Create a memory as a Bake A Wish volunteer
If you like to create and decorate birthday cakes you can hone your special skills at Bake a Wish. And, make a difference, too. This unique Austin-area organization bakes birthday cakes and goodies for agencies that serve children and the elderly. The premise here is that everyone deserves a special day. And, it’s their blend of creative volunteers that make it happen. As a volunteer baker you’ll need to know how to make a homemade buttercream and ice a smooth cake. And, how to use a pastry bag to pipe a border and write on the cake. Here’s how it works. As a volunteer each month you will be sent a list of requests. You choose the request, make the cake, package and deliver it. Since the organization serves the entire Austin area, there’s sure to be a request close to you.
LISD volunteer opportunities
The Leander Independent School District (LISD) has many opportunities for community members to get involved. And, having a student in the district isn’t a requirement. Booster clubs and fundraisers to Literacy Partners to the Heroes Mentoring Program to the PTA are all ways in which you can help out. Another great way to benefit the district is through the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation. This group of hardworking community members raises funds for scholarships, professional development opportunities, and innovative teaching programs. Individuals are needed to serve as board members, as a LEEF ambassador or as a volunteer for their many programs that help to advance student achievement.
Have a blast and meet people from all over the world as a SXSW volunteer
South by South West, SXSW, or South By as it is more properly known by Austinites is a world-wide annual festival held in March. And, it’s also when thousands of people descend upon the city of Austin for the best in music festivals and interactive media and film conferences. This 10-day creative venue supports industry professionals to promote their businesses, explore new ideas, network, and make connections. In order to pull-off this massive event, the folks at SXSW rely on hundreds of volunteers. As a SXSW volunteer you are eligible to earn a badge to attend the conference. However, it does depend on the number of hours you work. Volunteer registration for 2019 opens on November 7. You’ll have to attend trainings but it is definitely worth it. It’s a great place to people watch, be seen, and meet people from all over the world.
Make a difference in the life of a pet at Texas Humane Heroes
At Texas Humane Heroes in Leander you don’t need a super power to be a hero. If you have passion, love, and the desire to make a difference in the life of a pet you’re in. This life-saving animal rescue facility enhances the lives of pets and people through adoption. They also provide low-cost spay/neuter and vaccination clinics as well as family-friendly community events. Volunteers are always welcome. Whether you can volunteer daily, weekly or monthly, they can use your help. There’s also a Youth Volunteer program for ages 14-17 and a Foster program. Play with animals, meet new people or learn a new skill. Get involved today. Visit their website to learn more.
Family-friendly community opportunities for you at the Y
The YMCA of Greater Williamson County Twin Lakes branch provides services and programs to families, youth, and the elderly. YMCA volunteers are the cornerstone of the organization. The roles and responsibilities of YMCA volunteers are many. From leading fitness classes to helping out with planning special events to camp work days the activities and opportunities are limitless. Or, be a role model and create a positive experience for youth as a volunteer coach. The Y is currently seeking youth coaches for their many sports programs including basketball and soccer. Volunteers also work alongside board members to raise funds for the organization’s annual Giving Campaign. As a YMCA volunteer you can use your special talents, interests and time to help impact the lives of others throughout the community. Fill out an application and get started today.
Can’t find the right opportunity? Volunteer Match-Austin may be your answer. Think of it as a dating service but for volunteers. You fill out a questionnaire of your talents, time requirements, and an application. In turn, they email you matches specific to your skills. This user-friendly site provides hundreds of opportunities in specific categories. Just choose what you are interested in and get started.
Visit Travisso today
Travisso is a place to explore; a place to relax; a place to call home. We offer state-of-the-art floor plans from award-winning premier builders. Homebuyers can choose from one and two-story floor plans ranging in size from 1,900 to over 5,000 square feet with prices starting in the 300s. And, there’s much more including resort style amenities and an outdoor landscape perfect for your active lifestyle. Visit Travisso in Leander today and explore our new model homes and neighborhoods.
