On April 22nd, Earth Day was celebrated worldwide to build awareness for environmental conservation and provide volunteering opportunities like tree planting or litter clean-up. Even though the observance has passed, there are still numerous contributions one can participate in throughout New York City and pave the way for a better tomorrow.
- Joyce Kilmer Park is teaming up with the Bronx is Blooming Organization led by Administer Anne Sullivan. Attendees will be able to plant native species and clean decaying sections within the park. This event is scheduled for this Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM, with three spots currently available.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI000008EjdRYAS
- The NYC H2O organization is partnering with the Arthur Kill Road and Veterans Road in Staten Island to restore the shore road. Participants will have the opportunity to revitalize the once vibrant road under Administer Patricia Abitabile from 10 AM to noon this Sunday.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI000009wYybYAE
- On Governors Island, New York City’s only Lavender Field needs help maintaining its prestigious area. Volunteers will engage in weeding, harvesting, pruning, mulching, painting, and planting to preserve the meadow’s nourishment. This event is affiliated with Earth Matter NY under team leader Caroline Bastian. It is running until the end of May.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI000009IcJQYA0
- Sandra Wei is hosting a senior meal delivery event in association with Encore Community Services. This organization provides seniors with different incentives housing, care, and social interaction. Throughout this multi-session project, contributors can walk around Midtown and on the Upper West Side distributing food to elders who cannot independently attain it.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI000007HTjAYAW
- Throughout the month of May, PS 75 Emily Dickinson neighborhood school is partnering with team leader Rasheeda Grant. Participants will get the chance to work alongside 1st through 3rd graders, enriching their social skills and interactions. Although Spanish speakers are preferred for this event, it is not required.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701Do00000099vJIAQ
- Pelham Bay Park, the largest public park in New York City, is holding a park cleanup with Administer Sofija Radakovic. Members will be able to preserve nature trails, plant trees, and remove invasive species of plants. This event will take place on May 4th and 18th.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI0000098xXKYAY
- The West Side Campaign Against Hunger is hosting an event in Washington Heights now through the middle of May. Contributors will have the chance to assemble and pack food boxes to fight back against world hunger. Please be advised that volunteers must be able to perform manual labor and lift up to fifteen pounds to carry food boxes.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI000008XclMYAS
- On Tuesday, May 7th, the Cobble Hill Nursing Home is allowing their residents to enjoy the fresh air with volunteers, who will help them move in their wheelchairs and take them to Brooklyn Bridge Park. This event will be held regularly and last around three hours.
https://www.newyorkcares.org/project/701PI00000AoeHWYAZ
While there are countless more opportunities to volunteer around the city, the ones I’ve gathered may particularly appeal to younger audiences. Please visit the New York Cares website, which expands on these events and allows individuals to sign up and reserve a spot. A link to their home page will be provided at the bottom of this article. If time allows, I strongly encourage anyone reading this to get involved in service opportunities within their community or city.
People grow from learning new work methods and acquiring a range of skills in volunteering. People receiving your help benefit from things like food boxes or just a friend to talk to when things get lonely. The organizations that host these events benefit since they gain recognition and get more people interested in these topics. It’s a triple-win situation!
https://www.newyorkcares.org/volunteers
