A List of Jacksonville Volunteer Opportunities
In a hurry? Quickly check the list version of upcoming Saturday-only volunteer opportunities by scrolling to the bottom of this page
There are more than 50 volunteer opportunities in Jacksonville listed online at any given time of the year, but there are hundreds more in Northeast Florida. Searching for those opportunities can be daunting and take time — time you’d probably rather spend making a difference.
Orbit Local is cutting out the work for you. As the need grows in our community from the recovery of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for volunteers is more urgent than ever.
Bookmark this article in your browser. You’ll also find a list of reputable websites with volunteer opportunities and community fundraisers, including annual charity events.
Volunteer Opportunities Websites in Jacksonville, FL
Please note that the availability of opportunities may have changed, so it’s a good idea to check these websites directly for the most up-to-date information:
- HandsOn Jacksonville: HandsOn Jacksonville is a local organization that connects volunteers with nonprofit organizations in the Jacksonville area. Their website offers a volunteer opportunity search tool. Website: HandsOn Jacksonville
- United Way of Northeast Florida: United Way often collaborates with local nonprofits and can provide information on volunteer opportunities in the Jacksonville area. Website: United Way of Northeast Florida
- VolunteerMatch: VolunteerMatch is a popular platform that connects volunteers with organizations seeking help. You can search for volunteer opportunities in Jacksonville by entering your location. Website: VolunteerMatch
- Idealist: Idealist is another platform that lists volunteer opportunities, jobs, and internships in various communities, including Jacksonville. Website: Idealist
- Serve.gov: This is the official website of the U.S. government for volunteer opportunities. You can search for opportunities in Jacksonville and the surrounding area.Website: Serve.gov
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: If you are interested in wildlife and conservation, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens often have volunteer opportunities. Website: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens – Volunteer
- Local Nonprofit Websites: Many local nonprofits and charitable organizations have their own websites and may list volunteer opportunities there. Consider checking the websites of organizations that align with your interests. Website: Fostering Connections
- Community Centers: Local community centers, religious organizations, and schools often have information about volunteer opportunities in the area. It’s worth visiting or contacting them directly.
If you’re searching for volunteer opportunities, it’s important to think about your interests, skills, and the causes that ignite passion within you. This will enable you to discover a role that matches your values and enables you to have a purposeful impact on the Jacksonville community. As an example, Kesar Long, one of our co-founders, spends his time volunteering as a basketball coach at the YMCA in Nocatee, FL.
For example, our very own Founder, Kesar Long, volunteers his time as a basketball coach at the YMCA.
Past Volunteer Opportunities
All volunteer opportunities are special, but occasionally an opportunity comes along that is unique, and therefore you may only have a couple of chances to become part of the outreach before the work is finished. This is the section where you find those opportunities.
July 31 – Educate the Public About Wild and Unique Animals
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has a variety of opportunities for individuals who can dedicate at least 8 hours per month for a minimum of 6 months. We welcome anyone over the age of 18 to apply to our Adult Volunteer Program! July 31st is the last day to get your application in! The zoo will begin processing applications in August.
Multiple dates and times – Read to Kids at the YMCA
Giving the time to mentor a child in reading can enormously impact your life. It can boost self-esteem and imagination, increase a child’s ability to succeed in the classroom, and make a big difference in their life. No experience is necessary. Training and ongoing support will be provided for you. Sign-up here.
Recurring Volunteer Opportunities
Help People Experiencing Homelessness
During the last Saturday of every month, Three Grains of Rice Missions, in partnership with Cup of Love Ministries, holds a food and clothing distribution for people experiencing homelessness in downtown Jax. Volunteers are needed to help pass out the provided supplies and assist disabled people through the lines. To participate, message Three Grains of Rice Missions on Facebook. The event starts at 8:30 a.m. outside the City Rescue Mission building at 234 W State St, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
Lend a Helping Hand During Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30)
The Red Cross and many other disaster response organizations need help with volunteers for the 2021 Hurricane Season. Discover the role that’s right for you.
Take Care of Shelter Pets
The ACPS of Jacksonville has an urgent need for volunteers. The number of volunteers with the shelter directly correlates to how many animals the agency can take in. A training orientation and free background check are required by the City of Jacksonville. The orientation is not virtual, and you must be willing to attend in person. To find the next orientation session, email the volunteer services department by emailing Grace at grace@friendsofjaxanimals.com. Apply to be a volunteer using the online application at www.coj.net/volunteer.
Work on a Farm to Help People in Food Deserts Get Access to Produce
Volunteers at White Harvest Farms, an initiative by Clara White Mission, to harvest produce, feed people, heal the land, and empower the Moncrief community. The community near Moncrief is historically underserved and subject to outdated infrastructure and violent crimes. Organizations like Clara White Mission and community members are working to change the narrative and help the residents who seek assistance. Volunteer opportunities are held from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. on weekends and weekdays. Find dates and times on their website (scroll to bottom).
Help Meet the Needs of the Homeless in Jax Beach with Mission House
From Mission House: “Volunteers will prepare and serve lunch for up to 60 homeless adults. We will meet at Mission House from 10 am – 1 pm. During this time, we will meet in the kitchen to prep and cook a hot lunch. At 12 p.m., the dining room opens, and we will serve the folks their meal. This is a monthly service opportunity, and we look forward to seeing you!” Apply here.
Upcoming Charity and Community Events
Supporting a charity event is a great way to raise money for causes you care about. It also allows you to connect to make new friends. Remember there may be registration or other deadlines associated with the events listed below. Don’t wait to learn more. Visit the linked websites to make sure you can participate.
Black Tie Gala to Fight Breast Cancer
Sunday, July 31
From The Edith Marie Foundation:
“On Saturday, July 31, 2021, we are excited to host our 5th Annual Fundraising Gala at the historic Carling Ballroom. This Black Tie event is to raise funds for our Hope Grant
program dedicated to providing financial assistance for basic living expenses to Breast Cancer patients in active treatment.
Prepare to
feast on catered cuisine, including an open bar. While enjoying live entertainment and participating in a live auction boasting a professional auctioneer. Join us for a night of Hope and Love.”
Organizations You Can Donate To
Animal Care and Protective Services of Jacksonville
The Animal Care & Protective Services of Jacksonville shelter dogs love the dog treats brand Puperoni. The agency accepts donations of the doggie snacks year-round. Donations can be dropped off in person at 2020 Forest St., Jacksonville, FL 32204, or mailed to the same address.
Fostering Connections St. Johns
Fostering Connections St. Johns supports children in foster care and foster families in Northeast Florida. The organization maintains a Walmart registry for its current needs. Items here can be as affordable as $5 for deodorant and range up to $200+ for laptops and furniture fixtures.
Feeding Northeast Florida
The nonprofit food bank helps local children and families, seniors, and active and retired military members who struggle to put food on the table.
In-person volunteer opportunities
DATE: June 1 – November 30 TIME: Ongoing
DESCRIPTION: Help the American Red Cross of Northeast Florida
LOCATION: Various; see link in the above section under Recurring Opportunities
DATE: July 3 TIME: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
DESCRIPTION: Serve Food to the Homeless with Mission House
LOCATION: 800 Shetter Ave, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
DATE: July 19 TIME: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
DESCRIPTION: Perform tasks associated with harvesting & growing produce with Clara White Mission
LOCATION: 5232-5298 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
DATE: Multiple TIME: Multiple
DESCRIPTION: Reads to kids at your local YMCA
LOCATION: Multiple
DATE: Multiple TIME: Multiple
DESCRIPTION: Give the gift of music to patients in hospice care
LOCATION: Call the volunteer coordinator: 904-737-2553
DATE: July 31 TIME: 11:59 p.m.
DESCRIPTION: Deadline to submit the application to volunteer with Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
LOCATION: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218
