April is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and honor the contributions of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills and resources to making a positive impact in their communities.
Whether it is helping a neighbor, supporting a local charity or contributing to a local beach cleanup, volunteers play a vital role in building stronger, more compassionate communities.
Volunteering is not just about offering time; it is about making a difference. Choosing to help at a local food bank, tutoring children or caring for animals at the local shelter – every small act of kindness adds up to create significant change. There are many reasons volunteering is important, especially in a small community like the Florida Keys.
Volunteers help to fill gaps in local services, allowing nonprofits to expand their reach. Volunteers foster a sense of belonging and connection, bringing individuals together from diverse backgrounds to work toward common goals. Volunteering is also an excellent way to develop new skills, expand knowledge, and even boost a resume. Many volunteers gain leadership, teamwork or event-planning skills that can help them personally and professionally. Research has shown that volunteering can reduce stress, improve mood and even lead to a longer life.
National Volunteer Month is the perfect time to explore new ways to give back to your community. Whether you are a seasoned volunteer or looking to try something new, here are just a few local volunteer opportunities you can try out:
Local cleanup organizations
- Conch Republic Marine Army: conchrepublicmarinearmy.org/volunteer
- Keep Key West Beautiful (Plogging in the Keys): 305-809-3868
- Ocean Blue Project-Key Largo: 541-286-7015
Wildlife and animal shelters
- Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: keepthemflying.org/volunteer
- Florida Keys SPCA: fkspca.org
- Critter Litters Inc.: critterlittersbpk@gmail.com
- Upper Keys Humane Society: ukhsociety.org
Food pantries
- S.O.S Foundation- Stock Island & Key Largo: sosfoundation.org/food-pantries
- St. Peter’s Catholic Church-Big Pine Key: 305-872-2537
- Burton Memorial Methodist Church-Tavernier: 305-852-2581
Volunteering with people
- Florida Keys Outreach Coalition: 305-293-4370
- Monroe County Education Foundation: 305-293-1546
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Keys: bgckeywest.org/contact-us
Environment
- Plant a Million Corals Foundation-Summerland Key: plantamillioncorals.org
- Coral Restoration Foundation-throughout the Keys: coralrestoration.org
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary-throughout the Keys: floridakeys.noaa.gov/volunteer_opportunities/
- Horseshoe Crab Watch (Monroe County Extension): 305-393-4063
- Monroe County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program: 305-292-4502
- Mote Marine Laboratory throughout the Keys: mote.org/support/volunteer/
Volunteer Search Network
- The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys: keys.voly.org
If you are considering volunteering, find a cause that speaks to your heart; the opportunities are endless.
