Five ways to give back and make a difference in St. Pete

If you’re searching for a way to give back to your community, 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.

Raise a puppy for Dogs Inc

Every working dog begins as a puppy, and every puppy has the potential to open a world of possibilities for those with vision loss, veterans with disabilities and children who need a best friend. Volunteer puppy raisers open their hearts and homes to puppies, spending three, six or 12 months teaching them house manners, socialization, basic cues and smart decision-making. According to the organization Dogs Inc, volunteers don’t need to have any dog training experience to become a puppy raiser. 

Dogs Inc will support your puppy-raising adventure from start to finish, providing personalized coaching, training videos, monthly preventatives and an easily accessible, comprehensive support system. If you’re ready to embark on this life-changing journey, visit https://dogsinc.org/get-involved/raise-a-puppy/

CASA’s Thrift Boutique is located at 1011 1st Ave North in St. Petersburg. Photo: Ashley Morales.

Volunteer your time at CASA’s thrift shop

Do you like helping people find treasures and enjoy a retail environment? Volunteering at CASA’s thrift shop may be the perfect opportunity for you.

CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse) is the official domestic violence center for Pinellas County and has provided lifesaving services to women, children and men living with domestic violence for over 40 years. CASA has an immediate need for thrift shop assistants to volunteer during daytime weekday and Saturday hours to receive, sort, hang and price donations, as well as assist with customer service. Learn more here.

Volunteer at the Dali Museum

Experience a St. Pete staple in a new way by volunteering your time, talents and knowledge at the Dali Museum. When you volunteer at the museum, your areas of opportunity include guest relations, education, membership, marketing, our garden and more. Training is provided and volunteers receive special benefits for their service. Opportunities for all ages and abilities are available at ​​thedali.org/join/volunteer. 

Hospital helpers needed

Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital is looking for volunteers for a number of roles, including patient experience/guest relations, nursing units, aid and assist, same-day surgery volunteer, non-clinical assistance, greeter, radiology volunteer and data entry assistance.

Learn more about open roles here.
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Reach St. Pete Literacy Program

Reach St. Pete’s Literacy Program is held every Thursday from 6-7 p.m., providing one-on-one literacy tutoring, homework help, snacks and transportation. The program is held indoors. A background check and training is required.

You can either sign up to help tutor the kids or specifically sign up to help with transportation only. Tutoring requires a background check and short training and transportation only requires an MVR check. Learn more and sign up 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.

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