Lend A Hand In Charlestown: 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 Charlestown 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.

Animal Rescue Rhode Island

Animal Rescue Rhode Island, located nearby in Peace Dale, is dedicated to rescuing and caring for homeless companion animals. Volunteers can help on-site with roles like dog walking (ages 16+), cat and small-animal care (14+) and event support, or get involved as a foster or event ambassador; youth ages 12–17 may participate with a parent or guardian.
Learn more: animalrescueri.org/volunteer

Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center

Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center in Charlestown relies on community volunteers to keep its astronomy, nature and science programs thriving. Whether you’re handy with tools, skilled in design or simply love sharing the night sky with others, there are countless ways to support their educational mission. Those interested in joining the team can reach out directly to learn how to help.
Learn more: frostydrew.org/get_involved.php

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Rhode Island

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Rhode Island helps low-income homeowners in South County stay safely in their homes by coordinating essential, no-cost repairs. Volunteers can assist with site surveys, project management, grant writing, community outreach, administrative leadership and more—no construction skills required, just a willingness to help.
Learn more: neighborshelpingneighborsri.org/volunteers-needed.html

Rhode Island Center Assisting Those In Need (RICAN)

RICAN works to end food insecurity and support families in crisis through its supermarket-style pantry, thrift shop and community programs. As a volunteer, you may help unload trucks, sort and stock food, organize the thrift shop, assist guests or support annual fundraising events like the Polar Plunge or Holiday Toy Drive.
Learn more: rhodeislandcan.org/volunteer

Rhode Island Wild Plant Society

The Rhode Island Wild Plant Society, based in North Kingstown, protects native plants and their habitats through education, conservation projects and community engagement. Volunteers can contribute by helping plan walks and workshops, supporting native plant sales, creating communications content or joining hands-on initiatives like seed collection, garden maintenance or restoration projects across the state.
Learn more: riwps.org/get-involved/volunteer

Southern Rhode Island Volunteers

Southern Rhode Island Volunteers helps older adults age safely at home by connecting them with reliable, caring support. The organization offers a range of volunteer opportunities, including but not limited to providing transportation to medical appointments, delivering groceries and Meals on Wheels, assisting at local thrift shops or even walking a senior’s dog.
Learn more: southernrivol.org

WARM Center

The WARM Center provides shelter, meals and wraparound support to neighbors experiencing homelessness or hardship across Westerly and the surrounding area. Serving over 100 people each day, volunteers play a key role in serving daily meals at Anita’s Kitchen, along with supporting seasonal programs and helping maintain a welcoming environment for guests.
Learn more: warmcenter.org/volunteer-opportunities

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

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