Do good: Volunteers needed this fall

You can make a difference this fall and learn about sustainable initiatives in the community. Volunteers are needed to help recycle, plant trees, and cleanup neighborhoods.

Volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference, and can boost your mental health.

Here are five volunteer opportunities to consider this fall:

1.Overland Park Recycling Extravaganza | October 14

The City of Overland Park needs volunteers to help out at one of the biggest recycling events of the year, the Recycling Extravaganza. Whether you’re seeking service hours for your scout troop, church group, school club, or simply passionate about sustainability, help is very much needed.

To sign up, learn more here.

2.Bridging the Gap | All Month Long

Fall is a busy time for Bridging the Gap, which means there are many opportunities to volunteer and get outside.

• The Kansas City Wildlands program needs volunteers on October 7 and 21
• The Heartland Tree Alliance Program needs volunteers to help plant trees on October 11, 14, and 18
• Litter cleanups will be held all month long including October 7, 13, 20, and 27
• Recycling centers have rolling opportunities at all three Kansas City, MO locations

To sign up, learn more here.

3.Deep Roots Work and Learn Gardening Day | October 11

At Garden Workday sessions, you’ll learn about seasonal plants of interest and different techniques to maintain them at the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Not only will you take pride in creating beautiful public spaces, but you’ll be empowered to use these skills in your landscape.

To sign up, learn more here.

4.Westport Commons Farm | October 21

Cultivate KC and farmers Paul and Emily need your help at Westport Commons Farm. Come help for a few hours- get your shoes muddy and your hands dirty while learning what Cultivate KC is all about. You’ll be helping grow food in the heart of our city!

To sign up, learn more here.

5.Kanbe’s Market Produce Sorting | On-Going

With our goal to redirect 550,000 lbs in 2023, Kanbe’s Markets is so grateful to our community volunteers for providing extra sets of (helping) hands! No two days are the same at Kanbe’s, so volunteer tasks will vary: from sorting large pallets of produce into one of our four redirection routes, to helping with various organizational/cleaning tasks, or assisting with data entry to track our efforts in providing affordable, fresh produce to everyone in Kansas City. No task is too small when it comes to fighting food insecurity.

To sign up, learn more here.

Where are you volunteering this fall? Share your experiences in the comments.