Dog walking. Hosting service projects. Handing out food for those in need. These are some, but not all, of the many ways to dedicate time during the last few days of April in honor of National Volunteer Month. Whether seeking to gain volunteer experience for transfer applications, or simply just trying to find ways to give back to the community, this is the perfect month to get involved. This list highlights a variety of nearby opportunities.

Volunteers in Defense of Animals

Located in Rowland Heights, this nonprofit organization rescues cats and dogs, while also helping to search for safe and loving homes for them. They seek volunteers who are eager to help out in a number of ways. These include dog walking and grooming, photographing animals and transporting animals to veterinarian appointments. There are even ways to volunteer remotely, such as creating binders with animal profiles or posting animals on various sites to help promote their adoption. Those interested in volunteering can do so by filling out this volunteer application on the organization’s website. Volunteers must be at least 13 years old. The website expands further on details about the organization’s mission and all of the ways that they serve to protect animals.

Diamond Bar Friends of the Library

This nonprofit community volunteer group serves to support the Diamond Bar Library. They seek to lower the cost of their Summer Reading Programs as well as acquire new books and materials for the library. In addition, they have a nonprofit bookstore that is also located in Diamond Bar, with bookstore earnings supporting the library. Volunteer opportunities include being a bookstore volunteer, becoming a board member and assisting at fundraising events. Bookstore volunteers must be willing to dedicate themselves to a shift of 3 hours once a week or every two weeks. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, fluent in English and be a high school graduate. This contact form can be filled out by those interested in becoming a volunteer.

East San Gabriel Valley Coalition for the Homeless

Located in La Puente, this organization is a nonprofit that aims to secure housing for those in need. They offer several programs including the Emergency Assistance Center which supplies hygiene and clothing necessities to all who seek this support. Their Bridge Housing Program also helps families obtain housing in motels for one to six months as they make the switch back to permanent housing. The organization offers volunteer opportunities that include creating social media content, organizing events and sorting through donations. The Emergency Assistance Center requests volunteers who are interested in helping to serve food and gather materials for clients. Those who wish to volunteer can fill out this form.

Foster Love

This nonprofit organization has a nearby location in Brea and their goal is to offer support to children in the foster care system. This organization offers both educational and recreational programs that support children emotionally and academically. In addition, they host an annual “Birthday Palooza” event to celebrate children whose birthdays are overlooked. They aim to help children create fun memories and contribute positively to their experience within the foster care system. Volunteers can become involved in the organization by planning, fundraising and hosting service projects. This sign up form can be filled out by anyone interested in volunteering for the program.