Lend A Hand In Monroe: Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Near You

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 Monroe 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.

Center for Family Justice

The Center for Family Justice supports adults and children affected by domestic and sexual violence across the local region, from Bridgewater to Monroe. Certified volunteers provide direct, face-to-face support such as assisting walk-in crisis clients and offering child care during support groups (note: completion of a 40-hour state certification program is required). Non-certified volunteers help with weekday administrative tasks, fundraising events and community outreach.
Learn more: centerforfamilyjustice.org/about/opportunities

Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS)

DAWS relies on volunteers to help operate its shelter in Bethel, with tasks ranging from exercising and socializing animals to assisting with transport, fundraising and facility support. In addition to shelter operations, DAWS is seeking foster caregivers to temporarily house cats or dogs of all ages, with all veterinary care and supplies provided.
Learn more: daws.org/get-involved

Monroe Food Pantry

The Monroe Food Pantry serves local households facing food insecurity by providing a week’s worth of groceries each month through a client-choice model. Volunteers work with the Pantry Coordinator to sort donations, stock shelves, assist clients as they shop for food and deliver groceries to homebound residents. Those interested in helping can complete the town’s volunteer interest form.
Learn more: monroect.gov/p/food-pantry

Monroe Volunteer EMS

Monroe Volunteer EMS includes EMTs, EMRs and support personnel who donate their skills to serve the community’s emergency medical needs. Certified responders can apply directly for membership, while those without certification may enroll in EMT or EMR courses or assist in nonclinical support roles.
Learn more: monroevems.org/membership

New Haven Museum

The New Haven Museum offers a range of volunteer opportunities for those interested in local history, art and community engagement. Roles span visitor services, program hospitality, library support, collections work, exhibitions assistance and educational programs for youth and adults. Time commitments vary by position; internship and work-study opportunities are also available.
Learn more: newhavenmuseum.org/support/volunteer-at-nhm

New Haven Reads

New Haven Reads welcomes volunteers aged 15 and older to support literacy programs for local youth through nearby tutoring sites. They can tutor students one-on-one, assist in the Book Bank by sorting donations or help lead field trip sessions for Pre-K through 5th-grade classes. Volunteers are asked to make a weekly commitment of 1 to 2 hours, depending on the position.
Learn more: newhavenreads.org/volunteer

Webb Mountain Discovery Zone

Webb Mountain Discovery Zone offers hands-on volunteer opportunities to support educational nature programs, gardens and community events here in Monroe. As a volunteer, you can help maintain the Susan Kimball Butterfly Garden, assist with seasonal park upkeep or pitch in at activities such as the Spring Egg Hunt and outreach events.
Learn more: webbmountaindiscoveryzone.wildapricot.org/page-1805921

Whether you volunteer for an hour or all season long, your time can make a real difference right here in Monroe.

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