Ways for Veterans to Get Involved in Volunteering

If you’re a veteran and you’re searching for ways to help others, there are a variety of volunteer opportunities right in your own community.

These are fantastic ways to keep busy, to do something for the greater good, and to feel fulfilled and valuable.

Help Animals and the Environment

A great way to start volunteering in your community is by getting involved in animal rescue or environmental conservation and protection with a group like the Dancing Star Foundation. These niches are often overlooked by people who want to volunteer to help fellow humans, so there are loads of opportunities for you to take advantage of. You can, for example, work as a foster for an animal shelter, help out at a national park, help with local environmental cleanups, or even volunteer at animal sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation facilities.

Build Homes for Those in Need

Habitat for Humanity is one example of the great organizations out there that are searching for volunteers who can help build homes for those in need. If you enjoy working with your hands and you want to get in some physical labor to stay fit, this is a great way to help others while helping yourself stay active. Your experience in the military will undoubtedly make you a great leader and team builder, and you may even be able to learn some really valuable skills that you can then apply to your own home’s remodel.

Be Involved in Disaster Relief Efforts

When disasters strike, many people are left in need, but you can volunteer with organizations that provide disaster relief efforts and really put your military experience to use as you lead others and remain calm through the rescue process. Look for opportunities with organizations like the American Red Cross, which actually has over 90,000 disaster relief workers, the vast majority of which are volunteers. You will be able to access the training that you need, and you may even be able to travel to other parts of the country whenever you are needed.

Feed the Homeless

Help feed the poor and homeless by volunteering at a local soup kitchen. This is a great way to donate food and also serve it to those in need while interacting with them and giving them some much-needed company. But in addition to handing out warm meals, you can also spend your time at local soup kitchens and food pantries in an effort to help fellow volunteers set up fundraisers, such as food drives. You can use your skills, whether you enjoy cooking or you are a good writer, to promote the efforts of the organization to the local community.

As you can see, there are a variety of ways that veterans can get involved in their community and beyond by simply volunteering, so find a cause that you are passionate about and head out there to make a difference.

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