Planting a sapling

Photo Credit: TreeNewal

Are you looking for a meaningful way to engage with your community this summer? Do you want to serve the environment, connect with others, and make a tangible impact? Then consider volunteering! 

There are countless opportunities across the state, and the country, where you can dedicate your time and energy to causes that matter. 

It’s easy to think of volunteering as something that requires free time or offers little personal benefit. But in truth, the work is the reward. Volunteering allows you to make a visible difference in your community. In a world full of uncertainty, it can be a powerful way to find purpose and hope. Especially in these times of political division and global instability, volunteering can offer us a bit of solace—reminding us that even small actions can add up to meaningful change. 

And while you’re helping others, volunteering can also positively impact you. It’s a great way to build new skills, grow your professional network, explore your interests, and strengthen your resume. Many volunteers form lasting relationships with the people and organizations they serve. Whether you’re exploring career paths or just want to stay connected, volunteering opens doors to personal growth and community involvement. 

If you’re wondering how to get started, there are a few great online platforms that make finding the right opportunity simple. VolunteerMatch.org is a platform that connects volunteers with a wide range of nonprofit organizations. You can filter opportunities by cause, location, and skill set. By creating an account, you’ll receive personalized recommendations and be able to track your applications. This is a great resource to discover local organizations and get involved in your community. 

Another excellent resource is volunteer.gov, which offers opportunities managed by federal agencies like the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. These opportunities range from one-day events to long-term positions and can include everything from virtual volunteering to hands-on conservation work. You can filter by location, duration, and area of interest. Creating a profile allows you to save listings and apply easily. 

If you’re specifically interested in environmental work in the Bay Area, the San Francisco State University School of the Environment has compiled a helpful Bay Area Environmental Volunteer Opportunities page. It features a variety of local organizations and includes information about each group’s mission and volunteer needs. It’s a great place to start if you want to get involved in sustainability efforts close to home. 

Volunteering isn’t one-size-fits-all. Think about your interests, your skills, and what you hope to gain from the experience. With just a little research, you can find a role that feels like the right fit. For example, as a politics major, I’m volunteering with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby this summer to gain experience in climate policy work here in San Francisco. I’m excited to learn more and contribute to an issue I care deeply about. 

There are so many ways to contribute, and there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re planting trees, educating others, cleaning up coastlines, or advocating for change, your time and effort can spark real impact. 

So this summer, get out there. Volunteer. Be part of something bigger than yourself.