5 Places Where You Can Volunteer in Miami, Florida

5 Places Where You Can Volunteer in Miami, Florida

Traveling with family is always a great opportunity not just to absorb the sights and sounds of the world, but also to try to make the world a better place. Many places in the world are home to both captivating beauty and communities in need of support, prompting a lot of people not only to see and discover, but also to aid and contribute. Miami, a vibrant city rich in culture, is no exception.

Even in The Magic City, people still find themselves in unfavorable circumstances, while animals and the environment also struggle to survive. With this in mind, here are five places where you and your family can volunteer in Miami, Florida.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami

Around three miles east of the Miami International Airport is the headquarters of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami, which offers home ownership opportunities for low-income families in the city. The non-profit ministry, which also serves communities in similar ways across the globe, recruits volunteers to help build the houses. Families with older children aged 16 and up can sign up to construct a house from the ground up, doing everything from the framing and installing windows and doors to painting and landscaping the home. For those looking for less physically exhausting volunteer opportunities, consider signing up for Habitat for Humanity’s fundraising activities or helping out at ReStore, the group’s outlet for donated home goods.

Miami Rescue Mission

The Miami Rescue Mission is one of the oldest and most successful non-profit organizations in the area. Operating since 1922, the group aims to help alleviate homelessness through a variety of activities. These include feeding the hungry, providing shelter, donating clothing and hygiene products, assisting with employment opportunities, and educating both children and adults. Because of the wide variety of outreach activities, volunteers can participate in a variety of programs. Families can sign up to help out with serving meals or assisting at clothing drives, and adults can go a step further and volunteer for helping out in the youth tutoring programs.

Camillus House

Since its founding over 50 years ago as a small overnight shelter for Cuban refugees, the Camillus House in the multi-ethnic working class neighborhood of Allapattah has grown into a large center offering a wide range of services for the poor and homeless. Over here, volunteers 14 years old and above can help prepare and distribute food to those in need. Younger kids can participate in the organization’s new Guardian Angels Program, where they can make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and homemade greeting cards for those seeking shelter at the Camillus House. Overall, volunteering at this organization is a great way for families with kids of all ages to give back to the community during your Miami trip.

Tropical Audobon Society

For families who are passionate about the environment and for those with children that have an interest in science, perhaps volunteering at the Tropical Audobon Society might be the best choice. The organization, headquartered at the historical district of Coral Gables, is committed to environmental conservation through the restoration of the Everglades and protection of Biscayne Bay. Families looking to volunteer with the Tropical Audobon society can look forward to planting native flora, assisting at events, or even helping guide kayak tours.

Paws 4 You

Of course, Miami’s rescued animals need your family’s help as well! Paws 4 You is a non-profit animal rescue organization that aims to save otherwise happy and healthy dogs from euthanasia. The organization nurses sick or injured homeless dogs and cats back to health, and give them a safe environment, medical care, and lots of love at their shelter. Families can volunteer for a variety of activities to help out these furry friends – from transport and fundraising events to simply spending time with dogs to help exercise, train, and socialize them.

So get in touch when you want to make a lasting difference in Miami!