We did it, y’all. We made it to 2017. Start the year off right by signing up to volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about. We’ve highlighted a few opportunities for you below or you can always check out our volunteer index for more ideas.

Band Together Denton

Band Together Denton is a 2-day house show festival happening all over Denton on January 20 and 21st at 10 different house show venues with 60 different local bands. Volunteers are needed to help out in a variety of roles including running the merch stand, working the door, taking photos or shooting video, etc. Volunteers will receive a weekend pass to the festival. Sign up here.

Annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count

Once a year, every January, homeless advocates across the country conduct what is called a Point-in-Time Count of the nation’s homeless population. This count affects funding for services and helps to determine how those services are provided. On January 26, the Denton County Homeless Coalition will lead this year’s count in Denton. Volunteer roles vary from being a surveyor to helping out with data entry. Check out the event page on Facebook.

Sofar Sounds: DFW

If you haven’t heard of Sofar Sounds, you’re missing out. Sofar puts on shows all over DFW (and the world!) in unique spaces and features bands and artists that perform stripped down sets. While not a nonprofit or charity, shows are largely volunteer-run with available roles including everything from artist liaison or show lead to emcee, photographer, and more. Check out an upcoming show to get a feel for what it’s all about and reach out to tony@sofarsounds.com if you’re interested in helping out.

United Way of Denton County VITA

We’ve talked about this opportunity before but it’s such a good one, it’s worth mentioning again. United Way of Denton County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program trains volunteer to prepare income tax returns for low to moderately low income individuals and families. Speaking from experience, it’s one of the most fulfilling volunteer roles out there. Tax season starts later this month, so get signed up now so you can get trained and certified. More info at www.unitedwaydenton.org/vita

Denton Hunger Coalition

The Denton Hunger Coalition hosts a Mobile Food Pantry every month on the 2nd Saturday. Held at Serve Denton (1980 E. University Dr., Denton, TX. 76209) volunteers can help out from 8 am - 11 with registration, stacking, line flow, or however else is needed. Check out Facebook for more info or sign up for a shift online. The next one is scheduled for January 14th.

Header image design by Brittany Keeton