5 Places to Volunteer Now
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, gain new skills, and meet like-minded people. Denton has no shortage of great opportunities. We always have our Volunteer Opportunities Index, but we wanted to do a round-up of 5 organizations that either currently need help, or that are in the process of recruiting volunteers for programs or activities happening soon.
We’ve written about Mentor Denton previously and it’s an organization that is very dear to our hearts. With a goal of matching 10,000 at-risk kids with 10,000 mentors, this initiative is always in need of volunteers. It only takes 1 hour a week to be a mentor and anyone can do it! With opportunities ranging from school-based mentoring to community-based mentoring, there’s something for everyone, regardless of what your schedule is. You can find more information on their website and also be sure to check out Band Together Denton, a house show festival we’re hosting to benefit Mentor Denton.
Habitat for Humanity of Denton County
Habitat for Humanity of Denton County is currently building their 94th home in Denton County and it’s right here in Denton! This build is scheduled to run through the end of November, so there’s plenty of time to get out there and help! The weather is perfect right now and no construction skills or experience is necessary. Check out the website for more information.
United Way of Denton County - Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
United Way’s VITA program uses IRS trained and certified volunteers to prepare income tax returns for low-income individuals and families all across Denton County. In each of the past couple of years, over a million dollars has been refunded back to community members right in our backyard. No knowledge of taxes or accounting is necessary - you’ll be trained! Volunteer shifts start in January and are mostly held in the evenings and Saturdays - sign up now so you have time to get certified. Don’t let the IRS or certification part of this scare you - VITA is one of the most fulfilling volunteer roles out there.
Help-Portrait is a global movement that brings photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, and other volunteers together on the first Saturday of December every year to provide portraits to individuals and families that normally would be unable to afford such a thing. The Denton event is in its 4th year and will happen on December 3rd. Use the form here to sign up for this years event.
Denton Holiday Lighting Festival
The Denton Holiday Lighting Festival happens on December 2nd this year and is a free event that features food, live music, family fun, and much more. It happens every year on the square and volunteers are needed to help out with putting on the event. There’s a form you can fill out on their website to get signed up.
Header image design by Jason Lee