Volunteering in Columbus

Moving to a new city like Columbus, can be both exciting and challenging. One excellent way to integrate into the community, meet like-minded individuals, and make a positive impact is through volunteering. Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to connect with locals, learn about the city's needs, and contribute to its growth and well-being. Here are some organizations where expats might be interested in volunteering in Columbus.

LifeCare Alliance

LifeCare Alliance provides a comprehensive range of health and nutrition services to seniors and individuals with medical challenges. Volunteers can help with meal delivery, grocery shopping, or companionship. Getting involved typically requires a background check and orientation. Volunteers can commit as little as a few hours a month or more frequently if desired.

Website: lifecarealliance.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours a month

Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS)

CRIS is dedicated to helping refugees and immigrants transition to their new lives in Central Ohio. Volunteers can assist with English language classes, cultural orientation, job training, and more. Volunteering requires attending an orientation session. The time commitment varies but is generally flexible.

Website: crisohio.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, varies based on role

Mid-Ohio Food Collective

The Mid-Ohio Food Collective works to end hunger by providing nutritious food to those in need. Volunteers can help with food sorting, packing, and distribution. Getting involved usually requires attending a brief orientation. Volunteers can commit to shifts that range from a few hours to a full day.

Website: midohiofoodbank.org
Location(s): 3960 Brookham Dr, Grove City, OH
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per shift

Columbus Metropolitan Library

The Columbus Metropolitan Library offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including helping with library programs, shelving books, and assisting with special events. Volunteering requires an application and background check. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours a week to more frequent shifts.

Website: columbuslibrary.org
Location(s): Various library branches throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per week

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offer volunteers the chance to work in beautiful gardens, assist with educational programs, and help with special events. Volunteering requires an application and orientation. The time commitment varies but is generally flexible.

Website: fpconservatory.org
Location(s): 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH
Time Commitment: Flexible, varies based on role

Habitat for Humanity - MidOhio

Habitat for Humanity - MidOhio builds affordable housing for families in need. Volunteers can help with construction, office work, or events. Getting involved requires attending an orientation. The time commitment varies but is generally flexible.

Website: habitatmidohio.org
Location(s): Various construction sites and offices throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per shift

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provides a range of services to those in need, including food assistance, shelter, and youth programs. Volunteers can help with meal preparation, administrative tasks, or special events. Volunteering requires an application and background check. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours a week to more frequent shifts.

Website: salvationarmyusa.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per week

Columbus Humane

Columbus Humane is dedicated to protecting and caring for animals in need. Volunteers can help with animal care, adoption events, or administrative tasks. Getting involved requires attending an orientation and training sessions. The time commitment varies but is generally flexible.

Website: columbushumane.org
Location(s): 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct, Hilliard, OH
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per shift

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio provides a home away from home for families with seriously ill children. Volunteers can help with meal preparation, housekeeping, or family activities. Volunteering requires an application and orientation. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours a week to more frequent shifts.

Website: rmhc-centralohio.org
Location(s): 711 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per week

Besa Community

Besa Community connects volunteers with a variety of nonprofits and community service projects. Volunteers can participate in one-time events or ongoing service projects. Getting involved requires signing up on the Besa website. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours for a one-time event to more frequent shifts for ongoing projects.

Website: givebesa.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Columbus
Time Commitment: Flexible, varies based on project

Nationwide Children's Hospital

Nationwide Children's Hospital offers volunteers the chance to make a difference in the lives of young patients. Volunteers can assist with patient care, administrative tasks, or special events. Volunteering requires an application, background check, and orientation. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours a week to more frequent shifts.

Website: nationwidechildrens.org
Location(s): 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically a few hours per week