Top 10 Organizations for Volunteering in New York City

New York Cares is one of the city's largest volunteer organizations, linking volunteers with various community needs. Whether you’re interested in education, hunger relief, or environmental projects, there’s a place for you here.

With more than 1,300 projects across all five boroughs, you can choose what resonates most with your passions. They offer flexible scheduling, making it easy to fit volunteering into your busy life.

Plus, New York Cares offers training for volunteers, ensuring everyone feels equipped to make a real impact.

Citymeals on Wheels provides meals to homebound elderly individuals in New York City. Their mission transcends just providing food; it’s about offering companionship and support to those who often feel isolated.

Volunteering with Citymeals allows you to make a direct difference in someone's life through meal delivery and friendly visits. It’s a rewarding way to engage with the community and brighten someone’s day.

With options for both group and individual volunteering, you can easily contribute your time, whether it’s a one-time event or a regular commitment.

The Bowery Mission has been serving the homeless and hungry in New York City for over 140 years. Their comprehensive approach includes providing meals, shelter, and long-term recovery programs.

As a volunteer, you can assist with meal service, participate in community outreach, or help in their thrift store. Every role plays a crucial part in their mission to restore dignity and hope.

By joining The Bowery Mission, you’re not just volunteering; you’re becoming part of a legacy of care and support for those in need.

Habitat for Humanity NYC focuses on affordable housing for low-income families. They believe that everyone deserves a safe and stable home, and volunteers play a key role in making this a reality.

Whether you have construction skills or simply a willingness to learn, there’s a spot for you on the build site. Working alongside future homeowners, you’ll not only build houses but also communities.

Volunteering with Habitat allows you to see the immediate impact of your efforts, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection.

The American Red Cross is synonymous with emergency response and disaster relief. Volunteers are vital to their mission, providing support during crises and helping communities prepare for emergencies.

You can get involved in various ways, from blood donation drives to disaster response training. Each role offers unique experiences and the opportunity to make a significant contribution.

Joining the Red Cross means being part of a larger network dedicated to helping others when they need it most.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC matches adult mentors with children in need of positive role models. This organization emphasizes the power of one-to-one relationships in changing lives.

As a mentor, you’ll provide guidance, support, and friendship, helping to shape a child’s future positively. The commitment is flexible, making it easy to fit mentoring into your schedule.

This rewarding experience not only benefits the youth but also enriches your own life, fostering a connection that can last a lifetime.

NYC Parks offers numerous volunteer opportunities aimed at preserving and enhancing the city's green spaces. From tree planting to park clean-ups, there’s plenty of room for enthusiastic volunteers.

By volunteering with NYC Parks, you contribute to the beauty and health of the environment while also fostering community spirit. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while making a difference.

Every small effort counts, and together, volunteers help maintain the parks that many New Yorkers cherish.

The Food Bank For New York City is at the forefront of the fight against hunger in the city. They provide food and resources to various community partners, ensuring those in need have access to nutritious meals.

Volunteering here involves sorting and packing food, conducting outreach, and even helping with fundraising efforts. Your time and effort can significantly impact families facing food insecurity.

Joining the Food Bank means standing in solidarity with your neighbors and working towards a hunger-free New York City.