Seasonal & Holidays
Giving Tuesday 2023: 5 Ways To Give Back In Oakland
This holiday season, consider donating and volunteering locally to make a positive impact in our community.

Giving Tuesday is a global initiative that brings people together to harness the potential of collective generosity. Fortunately for folks in the Oakland area, there’s no shortage of organizations nearby that could greatly benefit from your support.
Here are five outstanding organizations in the Oakland area. Please consider volunteering or donating to them for Giving Tuesday and beyond.
- Oakland Historical Society — The Oakland Historical Society preserves and promotes the rich history of Oakland. The Society maintains historical archives and host educational events and programs for the public. Its efforts are supported through memberships, which start at $10. Learn more at oaklandhistoricalsociety.org.
- Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge — Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, located right here in Oakland, is committed to protecting and finding homes for unwanted pets in the community. It provides shelter and medical care for animals until they can be matched with loving homes. Learn more at rbari.org.
- The Valley Hospital Foundation — Serving the region including Oakland, this foundation supports The Valley Hospital’s provision of high-quality healthcare. Donations help fund patient care services, community health programs and medical education. Learn more at valleyhospitalfoundation.org.
- Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative (BVMI) — BVMI provides free primary and preventive health care to low-income, working residents of Bergen County, including those in Oakland. It relies on volunteer healthcare professionals to serve those without insurance. Learn more at bvmi.org.
- Center for Food Action — With a site in nearby Mahwah, the Center for Food Action works to prevent hunger and homelessness and improve the lives of individuals and families living in poverty. The organization provides emergency services such as food, housing assistance and utility aid. Learn more at cfanj.org.
Do you know of another volunteer organization in Oakland that should be recognized? Let us know about it in the comments!
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