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30+ volunteer opportunities in San Jose

The list of volunteer opportunities in San Jose includes everything from renovating homes to caring for furry friends.

Several volunteers pose for a picture in front of a house.

Collaborate with other community members for a good cause.

Photo via Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley

Table of Contents

Maybe you have some extra time on your hands, or maybe you’re just in the giving spirit. All we know is there are more than enough great causes in San Jose to give your time to. Whether you’re an animal lover, an artsy type, a natural mentor, or a healthcare enthusiast — there’s a nearby volunteer opportunity for you. Here are 32 ways to get involved in San Jose.

For the handy individuals

If you’re a mental health advocate

Two women pose next to donation boxes.

Even a simple donation goes a long way.

If you want to be there for abuse victims

If you’re interested in healthcare

Natural-born teachers + mentors

A woman posing with a bulldog.

Connect foster parents to their future furry friends.

Photo via @svpetproject

If you want to stay in your home

  • Silicon Valley Pet Project | Become a foster parent coordinator or recruiter, and meet + greet with potential adopters.
  • San Jose Public Library | Connect with local nonprofits for SJ Engage, create booklists for the Teen Book Committee, or write short stories for SJPL’s online Biblioboard.
  • SJSU Alumni | Virtually network with current students, review resumes + offer feedback, and share job and internship openings.

The artsy types

  • San Jose Museum of Art | Guide visitors through galleries or volunteer in the Museum store.
  • MACLA | Support upcoming events by setting up galleries, or assisting stage hands for productions.
  • SJ Quilt Museum | Support the Artist in Residence, community events, and exhibition installation + tear down.
  • Works San José | Supervise the gallery, or assist with receptions.

If you’re an animal lover

A group of volunteers standing next to planter boxes.

Volunteering with a group can be a fun bonding activity.

For the outdoorsy types

  • Guadalupe River Park Conservancy | Be a part of the Tag Team to preserve public art, support the front desk at the visitors center, or spend time doing trail cleanups.
  • California Native Garden Foundation | Help with weeding, seeding, and planting at gardens, or support produce stands at local farmers markets.
  • Trash Punx | Clean up trash around local parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.
  • Veggielution | Lend a hand with farm boxing, gardening at the SoFA Pocket Park, and community-led cooking classes.

If you have a passion for community members in need

  • Health Trust | Pack, drive, and deliver for Meals on Wheels, or assist with its HIV/AIDS services.
  • City Team | Help with community outreach, homelessness resources, and housing programs.
  • Front Door Communities | Pack meals for the Lunch Bag program, tidy up the Oh-La-La Boutique, or prepare hot lunches.
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