When you are filling out your college application, one of the best ways to attract admissions is through volunteer work. This is a way to let potential schools know you are willing to go above and beyond while also giving back to your community. In the process, you are going to gain professional skills and lifelong friendships! The first step is to find a spot where you step into every shift feeling excited. As a Harrisonburg senior photographer, I have gotten to chat with tons of seniors who have found volunteer positions they have loved. Here are some of their favorite volunteer opportunities in Harrisonburg, VA.
Boost Your College Applications With These Fantastic And Rewarding Volunteer Opportunities In Harrisonburg, VA
Explore More Discovery Museum
150 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801
Explore More Discovery Museum is a kids’ center that taps into visitors’ natural sense of curiosity through engaging exhibits. The museum relies on volunteers to keep their operations running smoothly. While most of the volunteer work is interacting with the visitors, there are tons of opportunities for those who might feel overwhelmed by tons of tiny guests. You can do work assembling packets, decorating for birthday parties, or getting supplies for different exhibits. Those who do enjoy working with kids will work with them to show them how to safely handle the exhibits. You will supervise the different activities and make sure each visitor can make the most of their time here. For this center, you must be at least 13 to volunteer. The shifts are available on weekends, in summer, and during school holidays.
The RHSPCA
2170 Old Furnace Road, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802
If you are passionate about animals, the RHSPCA might just be the spot for you. The Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA has been around since 1973, helping pets get matched with their ideal home environment. When you volunteer here, you are going to get the chance to take care of and play with the animals. You can walk the dogs, socialize with the cats, and do the morning cleanings and feedings. This center also hosts tons of events where you can assist them so they can run smoothly. You can man the tables and help lead adoptions. They also need volunteers who can handle administrative tasks, do dishes, and keep the laundry nice and fresh. While you must be 18 to volunteer on your own, they let teens ages 12-18 volunteer if they are joined by a parent or guardian.
VMRC
1501 Virginia Avenue, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802
VMRC is a retirement home that has been a staple in the community for over 70 years. The center works to craft meaningful experiences that let you connect with people across generations. Their work is possible thanks to over 300 volunteers who keep everything running smoothly. Their volunteering managers know how to match each person with the opportunity where they can thrive. While they do offer some administrative tasks, much of your work will be spent with the residents. You will get to bond with different people from various backgrounds. VMRC tends to be a favorite spot for both high school and college students. They also offer corporate volunteer opportunities for the local Harrisonburg businesses.
Massanutten Regional Library
174 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801
Bookworms, this one’s for you! Massanutten Regional Library has seven branches and serves over 160,000 residents. The library offers volunteer opportunities for teens ages 14 and up. When you work here, you will have a variety of tasks to do so you can keep the library moving efficiently. If you are the type of person who loves organization, you can come in and make sure each returned book finds its spot on the shelf. You will also handle materials so they are ready for the next patron. The library offers community activities such as storytimes and crafts, and you will have the chance to help these run seamlessly. Additionally, they have jobs that include light housekeeping and administration. With your help, the library can continue to be a free space that supplies the community with the resources they need.
Sunnyside Communities
3935 Sunnyside Drive, Suite A, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801
Sunnyside Communities is a faith-based organization that has spent the past century doing some serious good within the community. This group focuses on holistic wellness for seniors all across Harrisonburg. This retirement home aims to give people a vibrant, thriving space where they can live and have the care they need. For their student volunteer opportunities, they offer a junior program for students ages 13-17. This is available each summer from June through August, and you will be able to choose shifts that last for 3 or 6 hours. Throughout the year, they offer resident volunteer programs for people of all ages. You will have over 75 jobs to choose from and can choose 1 hour a day or 1 hour a month. Volunteer opportunities include working as a feeding aide, assisting in the chapel, working in the beauty shop, playing music, and more.
Blue Ridge Area Food Bank
96 Laurel Hill Road, Verona, Virginia 24482
Blue Ridge Area Food Bank works across 8 cities to make sure each person has the food they need. While they are headquartered in Verona, they offer volunteering opportunities around the community, including in Harrisonburg. They set up in spots like apartment complexes, elementary schools, and parks. While much of their work is hands-on within the community, they also focus a lot on advocacy. They are passionate about doing what it takes so that every person has the food they need. Whether they are fundraising or passing legislation, they are constantly keeping people from hunger. The center does not offer volunteer opportunities for legal infractions, but they are more than happy to welcome students. You will be able to get active in the community and help those in need, all while boosting your college application.
I Hope You Found The Right Volunteer Opportunities In Harrisonburg, VA, That Call To You
The right volunteer opportunities in Harrisonburg, VA, can make all the difference when it comes to landing your dream school. Check these ones out so you can decide which one is right for you!
Are you looking for more ways to make the most of your senior year? Then, I would love to connect! I am a Harrisonburg photographer, and I adore working with students so they can be ready for graduation. If you have been looking for the right person for your photo session, let’s have a conversation so you can decide if I am the one for you. Send me a message today to find out more!
