When thinking of ways to spend time with your friends, a night out on the town or a party might come to mind first. While this can be fun, consider using your time to serve your community instead. Volunteering can be an equally great way for students to bond with friends and make memories, while also giving back to those around them in a meaningful way.
The great thing about volunteering is that the possibilities are endless. No matter what your interests are, there are so many ways to use your skills and time to make a tangible difference in your community. Many nonprofit organizations in Austin are constantly welcoming new students and groups to volunteer.
Caritas of Austin, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring individuals and families have access to safe shelter and basic necessities, offers several ways for students to participate. Whether you prefer to help in the kitchen or do administrative tasks, volunteering goes a long way.
“I think the biggest thing is doing your research, seeing what you are passionate about, whether it is helping those experiencing homelessness, working at a food bank or whatever it may be that you are very passionate about,” said Aaron King, director of marketing and communications at Caritas.
Keep Austin Beautiful is another organization that regularly hosts events where volunteers can help clean Lady Bird Lake or pick up litter on Austin’s streets. If you and your friends love nature and protecting Austin’s beauty, this could be a great way to spend a weekend outdoors while still propelling change.
For some students, it may be challenging to find time to volunteer in between classes and other responsibilities, especially with attending off-campus events if you don’t have a car. However, it can be easier to coordinate when you are giving back with the people around you. Students should make volunteering a group activity and sign up with their friends for a cause you are passionate about.
Don’t know where to start? Utilize the Longhorn Volunteer Network to find events and recurring opportunities around you.
“(The Longhorn Volunteer Network) is a website where you can basically find volunteer opportunities for whatever cause you’re passionate about,” said Angelica Perkins, an international relations senior and volunteer service ambassador at UT. “They connect with organizations in Austin, so you’d be connecting with people from different parts of the city.”
Even if you can only give a few hours of your week, your time and effort do not go unnoticed. When you volunteer with those you love, you can also help those in need. The next time you and your friends are out of things to do, think of the difference you can make together, right here in your community.
Sayed is a health and society sophomore from Frisco, Texas.