Volunteering in Washington DC

Volunteering is an excellent way for expats in Washington DC to integrate into the local community, meet new people, and make a positive impact. It offers a unique opportunity to understand the city's culture, build a social network, and enhance your skills. Washington DC, with its diverse range of nonprofits and community organizations, presents numerous volunteering options to suit various interests and schedules.

DC Central Kitchen

DC Central Kitchen combats hunger and poverty through job training, meal distribution, and local farm partnerships. Volunteers can assist with meal preparation, distribution, orsupport the organization's social enterprises. Shifts are typically 2-3 hours long, with both morning and afternoon options available throughout the week.

Website: dccentralkitchen.org
Location(s): 425 2nd Street NW, Washington, DC
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per shift

Literacy Lab

The Literacy Lab focuses on improving literacy rates among low-income children through various programs. Volunteers can serve as reading partners or tutors, working directly with students. The time commitment is typically 1-2 hours per week during the school year.

Website: theliteracylab.org
Location(s): Various schools and community centers in DC
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours per week

Casey Trees

Casey Trees aims to restore and protect the tree canopy of Washington DC. Volunteers can participate in tree planting, maintenance, and advocacy events. Most events are held on weekends and last 2-3 hours.

Website: caseytrees.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout DC
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per event

DC Greens

DC Greens works to advance food justice and health equity in the District. Volunteers can assist with community gardening, farmers' markets, or educational programs. The time commitment varies, with opportunities available on weekdays and weekends.

Website: dcgreens.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout DC
Time Commitment: Varies by program

Martha's Table

Martha's Table supports strong children, strong families, and strong communities by increasing access to education, food, and opportunity. Volunteers can help with food distribution, tutoring, or other programs. Shifts are typically 2-3 hours long, with options available throughout the week.

Website: marthastable.org
Location(s): 2375 Elvans Road SE, Washington, DC
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per shift

Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities across its museums and research centers. Volunteers can assist with events, education programs, or behind-the-scenes projects. The time commitment varies depending on the specific role and location.

Website: si.edu/volunteer
Location(s): Various Smithsonian museums and research centers
Time Commitment: Varies by role and location

Washington Animal Rescue League

The Washington Animal Rescue League provides care and protection for homeless animals in the District. Volunteers can assist with animal care, adoptions, or outreach events. The time commitment varies, with opportunities available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends.

Website: warldc.org
Location(s): 71 Oglethorpe Street NW, Washington, DC
Time Commitment: Varies by program

Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C.

Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C. builds affordable housing for low-income families. Volunteers can participate in construction projects, work in the ReStore, or assist with events. Most volunteer shifts are full-day commitments on weekdays or Saturdays.

Website: dchabitat.org
Location(s): Various construction sites and ReStore locations
Time Commitment: Full-day shifts

DC Public Library

The DC Public Library offers various volunteering opportunities to support library services and programs. Volunteers can assist with events, tutoring, or administrative tasks. The time commitment varies depending on the specific role and library branch.

Website: dclibrary.org/volunteer
Location(s): Various library branches throughout DC
Time Commitment: Varies by role and location

Bread for the City

Bread for the City provides comprehensive services to low-income DC residents, including food, clothing, medical care, and legal services. Volunteers can assist with various programs and services. Shifts are typically 2-3 hours long, with options available throughout the week.

Website: breadforthecity.org
Location(s): 1525 7th Street NW, Washington, DC
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per shift