By Erica Hoffman
Ah, April. It’s the month when flowers start to open like the windows in our homes, the nostalgic smell of winter slowly transitions into a bouquet of spring scents, and kindness emerges from the woodwork in Cape May and Atlantic counties.
It’s Volunteer Month when our communities are overwhelmed with the goodness of folks who decide to dedicate their time and energy to help make our communities a tad bit brighter.
You might wonder, “Where can I spread some of my sunshine?” Fear not because our shore towns are brimming with charitable organizations eager to welcome volunteers with open arms and big smiles.
There is something for everyone and always something to do for people who want to participate. All help is wanted and needed. Below, you will find just a handful of places in need around our area:
Branches Outreach: The Branches, founded in 2007, provides meals, clothes, and other support for those experiencing homelessness, financial difficulties, and food insecurity in the Cape May County area. Their mission and services have expanded, and the organization now operates as an official 501(c)3 nonprofit. If you want to volunteer, visit www.thebranchesoutreach.org/donations/ and fill out the volunteer form.
The Nature Conservancy: The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters on which all life depends and for more than 60 years it has been working in New Jersey to do just that. The New Jersey branch is located in Woodbine. To find volunteer information, visit www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/volunteer.
Community FoodBank of New Jersey: The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) is the state’s largest anti-hunger and anti-poverty organization. In 2022, CFBNJ distributed more than 86 million meals from its Egg Harbor Township facility. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, visit www.cfbnj.org/volunteer.
The Friends of Jean Webster: The Friends of Jean Webster is an organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and poverty in Atlantic City by providing food, clothing, and other resources to people in need. This work thrives through the spirit of Jean Webster, whose mission was simply and profoundly to feed the people. To fill out the volunteer form, visit www.friendsofjeanwebster.org/volunteer.
Volunteering isn’t just about giving back, although that is a great reason to get involved. It is also about building connections, making memories, teaching, and learning about selflessness.
It doesn’t need to stop at the end of April. Always remember that volunteering can look different in different situations. For example, just spreading joy or doing a good deed can be a source of volunteering towards humanity.
Small acts like a handwritten note or card expressing appreciation or encouragement can bring joy to someone’s day. From there, you can get creative. Call a school to pay off a child’s lunch balance, or donate clothes and food when possible. Small gestures like holding the door open, tipping a larger amount than normal for exceptional service, or even complimenting a stranger can have a significant impact.
So don’t be shy. Grab your sunscreen, put on appropriate footwear, and get ready to roll up your sleeves and work. No act is too big or too small. Together, we can make this Volunteer Month one for the history books.
Erica Hoffman was born in Atlantic City and is proud to be writing for Shore Local. She lives in South Jersey and enjoys finding and sharing the lighter side of life.
