Published: Jan. 25, 2019

As different campus groups and nonprofit organizations kick off 2019, they need help to carry out the work they do throughout the year.

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and make a positive difference in your community, with many different levels of commitment to fit your schedule. Here are some tips from the Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) on how you can get involved through volunteering.

Upcoming events with the VRC

Spring Volunteer Fair

Friday, Feb. 1 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom
Connect with various non-profit organizations and learn about their volunteer opportunities.

Alternative Breaks

Application deadline Friday, Feb. 1
Join a movement of college students who are passionate about making a difference and volunteer with 12 other CU students during spring break. Each trip focuses on a different social or environmental justice topic. Scholarships are available!

Better Boulder Day of Service

 Saturday, April 13
This is a one-day service experience is a great way to get involved and learn more about volunteering in the Boulder area.

Determine your time commitment

Whether you have a free hour, afternoon or weekend, there are many different time commitment levels with all volunteer opportunities. The VRC calendar is updated regularly with one-day opportunities and is a great place to find short-term commitments.

Find causes important to you

When it comes to volunteering, there’s something for everyone. From working with animals to politics to the environment, there are plenty of opportunities to match with your passions. The VRC has a database of nonprofit organizations you can browse to find opportunities that resonate with you.

The on-campus Spring Volunteer Fair on Feb. 1 is also a great way to meet with various non-profits and find volunteer opportunities.

Consider what you have to offer

Are you able to do physical labor, such as yardwork? Do you enjoy organizing events? Could you help a nonprofit with their social media presence? Think of how you could volunteer using your unique talents and skills.

Other ways to help

If you find that you don’t have time to commit, there are still ways to make a positive difference in your community. Random acts of kindness can make someone’s day and improve your community just the same as volunteering in the traditional sense. Here are just a few examples:

  • Help your roommate study for a big exam.
  • Shovel your neighbor’s sidewalk after a snowstorm.
  • Donate non perishable food items, warm clothing or toiletries to organizations that serve folks experiencing homelessness.
  • Clean up a local park or open space as you walk through it.

Ready to volunteer? Stop by or contact the Volunteer Resource Center to get started!