Spring into the new season by volunteering

Studies show that devoting time to helping others can reduce stress, combat loneliness and engender a sense of purpose.”

Great places to lend a hand

American Red Cross,

Long Island Chapter

195 Willis Ave. Mineola

(516) 747-3500

RedCross.org/local/new-york

Holocaust Memorial

& Tolerance Center

100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove

(516) 571-8040

hmtcli.org

Island Harvest

126 Spagnoli Road, Melville

(516) 294-8528

(631) 873-4775

IslandHarvest.org

Last Hope Animal Rescue

and Rehabilitation

3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

(631) 425-1884

LastHopeAnimalRescue.org

Long Island Cares

10 Davids Drive, Hauppauge

(631) 582-3663

LiCares.org

United Way of Long Island

819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park

(631) 940-3700

UnitedWayLi.org

As the winter chill fades and the warmth of spring sets in, April presents us with the perfect opportunity to step out of our homes and into our communities. It is National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the vital contributions of volunteers and encourage others to take part in acts of service. With the season’s longer days, there’s no better moment to embrace the spirit of giving, and making a difference.

Volunteering is more than just a noble act — it’s a powerful way to foster change, make personal connections and enhance our well-being. Whether you’re helping clean up a local park, mentoring a young student or lending a hand at a food bank, your contributions have a lasting impact. This month, let’s not only celebrate those who dedicate their time to service, but also join them in strengthening our communities.

National Volunteer Month highlights the invaluable role that volunteers play in shaping society. The best, most selfless volunteering isn’t confined to a single day or week; it’s an ongoing effort that promotes social responsibility, empathy and collective progress.

It also benefits the volunteer. Studies show that devoting time to helping others can reduce stress, combat loneliness and engender a sense of purpose. It helps people acquire new skills and build professional as well as social networks, and often opens doors to new career opportunities.

One of the best aspects of volunteering is its flexibility — there’s something for everyone. Whether you have a few hours to spare each month or can commit to a regular schedule, there are countless ways to contribute. Here are just a few examples:

• Community cleanups: Help beautify your local parks, streets and other community spaces by picking up litter, power-washing sidewalks or planting flowers.
• Animal welfare: Volunteer at an animal shelter or foster a rescue pet. The need for volunteers at these facilities has never been greater.
• Educational support: Tutor a student, chaperone a school field trip or help out in your local library.
• Food assistance: Work at a food pantry or take part in a meal delivery program. Lots of community members lend a hand during the holiday season, but here, too, volunteers can find plenty to do all year round.
• Health care and support services: Visit a nursing home, assist hospital staff, or support a mental health initiative.
• Environmental advocacy: Take part in a tree-planting effort, a recycling program or a sustainability project.
• April is also Global Volunteer Month, celebrating the many ways people and organizations support their neighbors and strengthen their communities around the world. Volunteer Recognition Day, April 20, will kick off National Volunteer Week, April 20-26, a weeklong celebration of the efforts of volunteers.

There are numerous opportunities this month to take part in events, campaigns and initiatives that need and will welcome your help. It’s a time to take action, and inspire others to do the same. And by getting children and young adults involved, we can help instill a lifelong commitment to service and civic responsibility. Whether through school programs or community projects, we can encourage the next generation to embrace the values of kindness, empathy, and community involvement.

If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, let the month that symbolizes renewal and growth be the time you take that first step. Whether you join a one-day event or dedicate a few hours a week, your contribution matters. Step outside, lend a hand and experience the joy of making a difference.