Visit the Elderly
Find a retirement community in your local phone book and give them a call. Ask to speak to the events coordinator (or to someone responsible for organising social activities). This person should be able to identify a resident who would most appreciate a visit. You may meet the senior in his room, or perhaps in a dining area or lobby. Extend your hand, introduce yourself and then — follow your intuition. You may not get a word in edgewise, as your new friend might talk about anything from Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak in 1941 to the last episode of "Touched by an Angel." Or maybe you will do most of the talking. The important thing is to feel comfortable and make a connection.
Read a Book to the Blind
Are you looking forward to reading the new Harry Potter book? Or maybe you can't wait for the next Danielle Steel. Whatever your literary tastes, you can share the pleasure of a good story by volunteering to record an audio book for the blind. Many associations for the blind offer audio books to their patients, clients or members. If you like to read, and you can find an association that needs this kind of help, it may just be a match made in heaven.
Teach
All of us have talents and interests, and there is perhaps no better way to give of ourselves than to share what matters most to us with others. Perhaps yours is an artistic talent, such as painting, knitting or playing a musical instrument. Or maybe your hobby is more practical; you may, for example, know a thing or two about fixing a car. Whatever your interest, there is most likely someone close by — in your neighbourhood, at a nearby elementary school or junior high school, in a nursing home or at a homeless shelter (the list goes on and on) — who would appreciate your tutelage.
Organize a Pet Wash for Charity
We've all heard of a car wash for charity, but why not host a pet wash? Not only will you be able to make a lot of new friends — Chihuahuas, Jack Russell terriers, pugs and more — but you'll be raising money for the charity of your choice.
Stage a Sandwich-Making Marathon to Help Feed the Hungry
Gather a group of friends to volunteer at a homeless shelter that provides free meals to the needy. Fortunately, you don't have to be a gourmet chef to slap together ham and cheese sandwiches. Agree to volunteer for, say, one hour. Then, on your mark, get set and — go! Whoever makes the most sandwiches wins.
Lead a Scavenger Hunt to Raise Money for a Good Cause
This idea requires two teams of devoted scavengers. Teams could be as small as two and as large as ... well, you name it! Each team will pick a neighbourhood to scavenge. Teams will go door-to-door asking for donations for a particular charity. You might ask for canned goods, gently worn clothes or toys. Meet up afterward to see who collected the most!
