It’s that time of the year again, when we all come crawling out of our bear caves to brave the great outdoors. The weather is warming up, the sun is out more and the days are getting longer. With summer in the air, we compiled a list of fun volunteer opportunities for you to get involved with this season and make a difference. Enjoy!

Passion #1: ANIMALS

This one is a bit of a no-brainer, but for my fellow animal lovers out there, we have some amazing local organizations who make huge impacts in the KC community. First is Wayside Waifs, who is the largest pet adoption campus in Kansas City and proudly places over 5,400 animals each year in loving forever homes. Learn how you can become a volunteer on their website here.

Second up to bat is KC Pet Project, who works to end the killing of healthy and treatable pets in KCMO through a number of ways. Click here to learn how to become a volunteer with KC Pet Project. Both shelters are proudly a part of the No Kill Community in the Kansas City Metro.

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Passion #2: CHILDREN

Honestly, who doesn’t love playing with kids and making them happy? Get involved with less privileged children, whether that be at a shelter or a hospital. There is no greater feeling than to be a positive role model for a child.

To hang out with kids after school in a positive, structured environment, get in touch with the Sheffield Place. Their kiddos range all ages and attend a school-like environment to help provide structure and consistency.

Another great option to help is HopeKids KC hold events for terminally ill children and their families. Imagine Make A Wish Foundation, but instead of getting a single once-in-a-lifetime experience, they find community and support through regularly scheduled fun activities and get togethers; that is HopeKids. You can contact them about volunteer opportunities here.

Passion #3: CREATIVE

Are you looking for something totally unique? You can try reading for KU’s Audio-Reader Network, which provides reading and information services for blind, visually impaired, and print disabled individuals in Kansas and western Missouri. You can find out more about their volunteer application process here.

If you’re passionate about theater arts, definitely check out the Barn Players out of Johnson County. As a volunteer, you can help with everything from ushering and concessions to building scenery for the shows to planning special events. If you have a skill, they have a place for you. Learn more about volunteering for the Barn Players here.

What are you waiting for? Summer is nearly here…get out there and volunteer!