Whether it’s a desire to give back, to feel more connected to your community or just to get out of the house, volunteering can do a world of good.
Opportunities for 50 and older range from one-time gigs to consistent shifts throughout the year. Look no further than these Atlanta-area nonprofits that are eager to put volunteers to work.
Mental Health Helpline volunteer, NAMI Georgia
In addition to dozens of other opportunities, the Georgia chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill operates a helpline and resource referral as the first line of response for those who need help due to the effects of a mental health condition.
People reach out by phone, chat and email, and helpline specialists provide a listening ear, next steps and information about potential services.
NAMI Georgia particularly seeks people who have an interest in mental health advocacy and are living with related conditions or providing care and support to affected loved ones.
The positions are remote with the nonprofit’s cloud-based communication platform. Applicants must have access to a computer and high-speed internet and complete a rigorous three-week onboarding.
Access the NAMI Georgia volunteer application at namiga.org/get-involved/volunteer.
Booth Western Art Museum
This Cartersville Smithsonian Institute-affiliated museum is touted as the largest permanent exhibition space of Western art in the world. Volunteers usually work two- or three-hour shifts. Duties can involve greeting guests, aiding with research library projects and assisting with museum events such as the annual West Fest.
Volunteers are selected on criteria including a commitment to working an average of four hours monthly and must pass a background check. Apply at volgistics.com/appform/1195973284.
Wild Nest Bird Rehab
This rescue serves metro Atlanta and rehabilitates sick and injured songbirds. It needs volunteers for public awareness, data entry, fundraising and bird care.
Those interested in directly working with rehabilitating songbirds must attend several training sessions and commit to regular shifts for at least six months.
Find a volunteer application at wildnestbirdrehab.org/volunteer.
Fulton County library volunteer
While the spots fill up quickly, new projects are always on the horizon for volunteers to help with shelving, clerical tasks or lending subject-matter expertise for a program.
Learn more about opportunities and start an application for the waiting list at fulcolibrary.org/volunteer-at-fulcolibrary.
North Georgia Knitting Guild
The North Georgia Knitting Guild links volunteers to many local charitable knitting projects. They include making hats for patients on chemotherapy treatment, blankets needed for animal rescues, and purple hats delivered to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
The guild makes project kits available at their monthly meetings and also provides a pattern list and other instructions for knitters who prefer to work independently and give their creations to the guild for distribution.
Get more information about community knitting projects, guild meetings and apply for membership at northgeorgiaknittingguild.com/charity.
Meals On Wheels Atlanta delivery
The local Meals On Wheels delivers meals and pantry supplies to vulnerable, underserved older adult residents in Fulton County. Background checks are required for volunteers.
Apply by creating a VolunteerHub account at mowatl.org/volunteer.
Feet of Clay
This nonprofit supports survivors of domestic violence. Duties can include organizing donated items and coaching women to network.
Learn how to volunteer at feetofclayatl.org/get-involved.
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