The holiday season in Tallahassee is a wonderful time to spread joy and make a difference in the lives of others! Learn about Volunteer Opportunities in Tallahassee!
Many local organizations rely on volunteers to help deliver meals, organize events, and support families in need.
Here’s a guide to volunteer opportunities available during Christmas, complete with information on what they offer, age requirements, and links for more details.
1. Christmas Connection
- Location: Governor’s Square – Former Macy’s Store, 1500 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301
- Age Requirements: Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; children under 12 are not permitted.
- Special Considerations: Volunteers must sign a Release of Liability and Media Release form.
What They Offer: For over 45 years, Christmas Connection has provided holiday gifts and essential items to over 500 families in need throughout the Big Bend area. Volunteers can help sort, shop, and pack gifts for delivery, ensuring every family has a memorable holiday season. They also welcome groups or individuals who wish to organize collection drives or adopt a family.
Learn More: Visit the Christmas Connection Website
2. Operation Christmas Child – Samaritan’s Purse
- Location: Nearest processing center is in Atlanta, GA, but Tallahassee offers local drop-off locations.
- Age Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 13 years old; one chaperone is required for every four youth aged 13-17.
What They Offer: Operation Christmas Child delivers gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need worldwide. Volunteers at processing centers inspect and prepare shoeboxes for shipment, organize items, and work with filler materials. Even if you can’t travel to a processing center, local drop-off sites in Tallahassee collect shoeboxes that you can pack and donate.
Learn More: Operation Christmas Child Volunteer Information
3. Feeding America
- Location: Various food banks and pantries in Tallahassee.
- Age Requirements: Varies by location; contact local facilities for details.
What They Offer: Feeding America is a nationwide network of food banks fighting hunger. During the holidays, volunteers can help prepare and deliver holiday meal boxes, serve at soup kitchens, or assist with food distributions. In Tallahassee, local food banks welcome extra help during the busy holiday season to ensure no family goes hungry.
Learn More: Find Volunteer Opportunities with Feeding America
4. VolunteerMatch
- Location: Various locations in Tallahassee.
- Age Requirements: Varies by opportunity.
What They Offer: VolunteerMatch connects volunteers with causes they’re passionate about. From assisting at shelters to participating in holiday events, you can use the platform to find opportunities tailored to your skills and availability. It’s an excellent way to explore diverse options for giving back in the Tallahassee community.
Learn More: Search VolunteerMatch Opportunities in Tallahassee
5. Salvation Army of Tallahassee
- Location: 2410 Allen Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312
- Age Requirements: Volunteers under 18 may need parental consent; contact for specifics.
What They Offer: The Salvation Army provides essential services during the holiday season, including meal programs, toy drives, and the iconic Red Kettle Campaign. Volunteers can ring bells at kettle locations, serve meals, or assist with toy organization and distribution for families in need.
Learn More: Visit the Salvation Army Website
6. Big Bend Homeless Coalition
- Location: 325 John Knox Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303
- Age Requirements: Volunteers under 18 may need parental consent.
What They Offer: Dedicated to ending homelessness, the Big Bend Homeless Coalition offers opportunities to help with holiday meals, donation drives, and outreach events. Volunteers can assist in preparing and serving meals, collecting essential winter items, or supporting administrative tasks.
Learn More: Big Bend Homeless Coalition Volunteer Information
7. Elder Care Services
- Location: 2518 W Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304
- Age Requirements: Volunteers under 18 may need parental consent.
What They Offer: Elder Care Services focuses on enhancing the quality of life for seniors. Volunteers can deliver meals through the Meals on Wheels program, visit seniors for companionship, or assist with holiday events like decorating or gift deliveries. These efforts ensure seniors feel valued and connected during the holidays.
Learn More: Visit Elder Care Services
8. America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend
- Location: 4446 Entrepot Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32310
- Age Requirements: Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What They Offer: America’s Second Harvest serves families in need by distributing food across the region. Volunteers can help sort and pack donations, organize special holiday food drives, and assist in delivering holiday meal kits. This hands-on opportunity directly impacts local families during the holiday season.
Learn More: Volunteer with Second Harvest
How to Prepare for Volunteering This Holiday Season
- Plan Ahead: Many organizations have limited spots for holiday volunteers, so sign up early.
- Follow Guidelines: Pay attention to age requirements and any necessary paperwork, such as liability waivers.
- Consider Group Volunteering: Many places welcome families or groups, making it a great bonding experience.
- Ask About Donations: Even if you can’t volunteer in person, donating items like food, toys, or winter clothing can make a big impact.
Volunteering during the holidays is a meaningful way to spread joy and support those in need. These organizations in Tallahassee provide ample opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to give back to the community and create lasting holiday memories.
