Here are some ideas and resources that may help you become a local environmental volunteer.
First, think about what you want to do. It’s your volunteer time – spend it in a way that fulfills you. One option is to adapt something you’re good at to a worthwhile cause. A second choice is to identify something you’d like to get good at, or have always wanted to do. Third, factor in the distance you can travel and the time you can devote. Once you’ve narrowed your scope, widen your search. Network with friends and colleagues, use search engines and phone books, reach out to organizations you respect or believe could be a good fit. Many national entities such as The Nature Conservancy and Sierra Club have online links to their local branches. VolunteerMatch has a zip code search so you can prospect close to home. Most important – take the first step. Even if it doesn’t lead to a long-term relationship, it’ll benefit a good cause and get you closer to your ideal opportunity.