Impact
Five ways to give back and get involved in your community
Channel your energy into giving back to the community.
If you’re searching for ways to give back, the Catalyst’s Impact Connector is here to help. Each week, we feature five organizations in the Tampa Bay area that need your input, whether that’s time, talent, items, funding or simply awareness. We’re certain you’ll find something here that matches your interests and will positively impact the community.
Soothe Our Souls Annual Dinner & Auction
Soothe Our Souls (SOS), a nonprofit organization that provides complimentary sailing for seriously health-challenged people and their support groups, is hosting its annual dinner and auction, Thursday, Nov. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Treasure Island Waterfront Event Venue.
SOS offers guests serene settings that promote well-being and synergy with others who are experiencing similar challenges. The program brings health professionals, including nutritionists, yoga and meditation instructors, on board the boats to provide knowledge and healing tools that participants can use at home.
Tickets include dinner, an in-person silent auction and raffles. Beer and wine are available for a donation.
For those who want to support SOS but cannot attend the event, an online auction featuring gift packages and fun experiences will be live from Oct. 29 through Nov. 3.
The Treasure Island Waterfront Event Venue is located at 130 126th Street E. Tickets can be purchased here.
MAR Halloween tree planting
MAR (Mindful Action for Regeneration) is seeking volunteers for “Trick or Tree,” a Halloween tree planting event on the Pinellas Trail, Saturday, Oct. 31 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
The day will be spent planting new trees along the trail at 43rd Street S. in St. Petersburg. Participants can help for an hour or stay for the entire event.
Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, refillable water bottle and work gloves, if available. Gloves and planting supplies will be provided.
No experience is necessary, and costumes are encouraged. Anyone 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Click here for more information.
Habitat for Humanity Nuts & Bolts Orientation
Join Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside Thursday, Nov. 5 from noon until 1 p.m. for a one-hour session to learn about volunteering and the Habitat homeownership program.
Attendees will receive information about each of Habitat’s pillars – Apply, Donate, Volunteer and Advocate – and the various opportunities in each area.
The orientation is held at the Habitat’s Education Center at 13355 49th Street N., Suite B in Clearwater.
To register, click here.
Volunteer for St. Pete Reads! Lit Fest
The Cultured Books Literacy Foundation presents year-round literary arts programs for children, youth and families.
On Saturday, Nov. 7 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., the organization is hosting its annual St. Pete Reads! Lit Fest at the Woodson African American Museum of Florida. The festival brings youth and families together for a day of books, culture and community.
Volunteers are needed to help set-up, greet and guide families, assist authors and artists, support program sign-ups and activities, and help break down at the conclusion of the event. Shifts are 8:30 a.m. until noon, 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. and 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
All volunteers must be 14 and older and will receive a free festival T-shirt.
The museum is located at 2240 9th Avenue S., St. Petersburg.
To learn more and to sign up, click here.
Suncoast Jazz Festival needs volunteers
The 36th Annual Suncoast Jazz Festival is being held Nov. 22-26 at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort on Clearwater Beach. The festival, which offers a variety of jazz, dancing and sip and mingle experiences, is in need of volunteers to help make it a success.
Opportunities include loading and unloading equipment and other supplies before and after the festival, checking in attendees and providing event information, working with the hospitality team to replenish food and beverages, assisting with signage and parking, and other various tasks.
Volunteer perks include a three-day general admission pass to the festival, discounted parking at the hotel and 50% off festival coupons for those volunteering for the first time.
The Sheraton Sand Key Resort is located at 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater.
More information about volunteering with the Festival can be found here.
By engaging in these five impactful ways to give back, we can empower our communities and contribute to a more compassionate society. If your organization is seeking volunteers, donations or awareness, click here to submit your opportunity. We’ll get the word out to our readers.
