The holidays bring an extra focus to the needs of non-profits and now is a great time to get your family involved in volunteer efforts. However, Oklahoma City’s charities need help year-round. Make a commitment this Thanksgiving to take on a volunteer responsibility even after the holiday season is over at any of these incredible charities.
556-5082
Why We Love It: Positive Tomorrows is a school for children facing the challenges of homelessness. The school works to meet the unique needs of their students and remove barriers both academically and socially. Volunteers can help with afterschool activities, lunch, classroom reading times and more. Families can help by hosting a donation drive for much-needed items including classroom snacks, food for the school lunch program, personal care items, clothing and school supplies. You can even shop from teachers’ wish lists on Amazon. Or, your family could cook up a meal for the monthly parent support group or craft some themed snacks for Family Movie Fridays. On-site volunteers must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by an adult (exceptions are made for high school seniors).
4224 N. Lincoln Blvd.
528-3663
Why We Love It: This non-profit makes sure thousands of babies and toddlers in the Oklahoma City area get desperately-needed items each year, like diapers, clothes and even formula. Opportunities are available for kids as young as 10 to help stock and assemble these items. Young volunteers should be accompanied by an adult.
1251 N. Broadway, Edmond
348-1340
Why We Love It: Edmond’s Hope Center was developed by a coalition of churches that got together to meet basic needs of needy Edmond residents. Last year, their volunteers helped provide food to more than 3,000 families, household goods and baby items to more than 4,000 people and rent and utility assistance to more than 1,400 families. Volunteer opportunities are available for kids as young as 10. All children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
3355 S. Purdue
600-3161
Why We Love It: The Regional Food Bank works tirelessly to serve those in our community without food security. Volunteers with the organization have the unique opportunities to sort donated items, pack bags for seniors and children and even work in the greenhouse or garden. Volunteers as young as 8 years old can find a way to help at the Regional Food Bank.
7127 N County Line Road, N.E., Piedmont
302-5123
Why We Love It: White Fields is a non-profit that cares for abused and neglected boys in the custody of the state of Oklahoma. While mentoring and tutoring volunteer opportunities are reserved for adults, there are plenty of ways to get your kids involved in giving back to this worthy cause, including hosting donation drives and putting together welcome baskets for boys to receive when they arrive at White Fields.
Looking for more ways to give back? Check out our comprehensive guide to volunteer opportunities for families in the OKC metro.
