Seasonal & Holidays
Lend A Hand In San Rafael: Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Near You
Help make a difference close to home by giving your time and talents to local organizations this holiday season.
The holiday season is about more than lights and celebrations — it’s also a meaningful time to give back and make a difference right here at home. We’ve rounded up a few organizations in and around San Rafael that could use a helping hand this season. This isn’t an all-inclusive list, but a starting point — be sure to contact each group directly to learn about their current needs, requirements and how you can best support their efforts.
10,000 Degrees
San Rafael-based 10,000 Degrees expands college access for students from low-income backgrounds through tutoring, financial aid education and long-term mentoring. As a volunteer, you can support classroom tutoring, help run Money Matters workshops or even serve as career mentors.
Learn more: 10000degrees.org/get-involved/volunteer
Homeward Bound of Marin
Homeward Bound of Marin provides shelter, housing and supportive services that help individuals and families transition out of homelessness. You can get involved by preparing meals, assisting with children’s activities, offering haircuts, joining clean-up teams or lending your skills to produce gardens, food pantries and seasonal events.
Learn more: hbofm.org/ways-to-give/volunteer
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Marin Humane
Marin Humane cares for animals in need across the region through sheltering, adoptions, foster care and community programs. Volunteers might walk dogs, tidy kennels, greet visitors, support animal care teams or foster pets in their homes, with opportunities available at both the Novato and Oakland campuses.
Learn more: marinhumane.org/get-involved/volunteer
People with Disabilities Succeeding
People with Disabilities Succeeding (PDS) in San Rafael supports adults with developmental disabilities as they build independence and participate more fully in community life. Volunteers can assist with outings, technology skills, creative projects, special events or tax preparation, or hang out at The Friend Zone, where clients socialize and practice life skills.
Learn more: pdsmarin.org/volunteer
Find out what's happening in San Rafaelfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Postpartum Support Center
The Postpartum Support Center assists San Rafael-area families navigating perinatal and postpartum challenges through wellness programs, peer support and essential supplies. Those interested in getting involved can volunteer at diaper bank distributions, host drives, sponsor events or become trained peer supporters for moms and dads seeking connection.
Learn more: postpartumsc.org/get-involved
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank provides groceries to households across both counties through pantries, warehouses and home-delivery routes. Volunteers can sort food, staff distribution sites or deliver groceries directly to neighbors who cannot attend a pantry. For a list of urgent volunteer needs, click here.
Learn more: sfmfoodbank.org/volunteer
San Rafael Medical Center
The Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center welcomes volunteers who want to support patients, families and staff in a busy healthcare environment. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one 4-hour shift weekly and may escort patients, offer companionship, restock supplies or assist with guest and office services.
Learn more: kpvolunteer.samaritan.com/custom/511/organization_details/615
Whether you volunteer for an hour or all season long, your time can make a real difference right here in San Rafael.
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