Impact
Five ways to give back and get involved in your 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.
We Run These Streets 5K Race
The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg is hosting its inaugural We Run These Streets 5K Saturday, Oct. 4 in South St. Petersburg. The race begins at 8 a.m.
The Foundation supports racial and health equity in Pinellas County and inspires and empowers people, ideas, information exchange, organizations and relationships to end differences in health due to institutional racism.
Volunteers are needed. If you’re not interested in running or walking but would still like to be involved, consider joining as a volunteer. You will receive a custom Race Crew T-shirt, snacks, a front row seat to all of the action and a lot of appreciation. Final information and details will be emailed to all volunteers prior to race day.
If you’d like to show your support by running or walking in the race, registration is still open and available to everyone of all ages. Participants will receive a custom-designed run bib with a timing chip, a custom race shirt and a finisher medal after completing the race. All registration proceeds will benefit the Good Sweat Foundation to support their youth running program.
For event details and information about volunteering or registering for the race, click here.
Dinner and Duds for the Homeless Volunteer Meet and Greet
Dinner and Duds for the Homeless provides hot meals, clean clothing and toiletries to those in need in Pinellas County. Every Saturday, beginning at 2 p.m., dinner is served in the picnic area of 100 Mirror Lake Drive and then at Unity Park, 4th Avenue N. and 12th Street.
If you would like to volunteer with or learn more about this organization, they will be hosting a volunteer meet and greet Saturday, Oct. 4 at 2 p.m. at the Mirror Lake location.
Volunteers help serve food and pass out toiletries and clothing. Cash donations, as well as food, clothing, bedding, toiletries and first aid supplies are needed as well.
For more information email dinnerandduds@gmail.com or visit their website.
Gulfport Clam Bayou Nature Preserve Cleanup
Gulfport Grassroots and Keep Pinellas Beautiful are hosting Gulfport’s Clam Bayou Nature Preserve Cleanup, Saturday, Oct. 4 from 9-11 a.m., as part of the 2025 International Coastal Cleanup.
Volunteers will meet at Osgood Point at the south end of Miriam Street by the Gulfport Marina. Pails, pickers (grabbers), bags, gloves and sanitizer will be provided. Boots, long sleeves and pants are advised. Anyone with a kayak or canoe is welcome to assist with water cleanups.
Harvest of Hope Fall Festival Fundraiser
Restoring Hope Ministries is holding a Harvest of Hope Fall Festival fundraiser Sunday, Oct. 5 from 3-6 p.m. at the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, 559 Mirror Lake Drive N.
Restoring Hope is dedicated to “serving others with a helping hand and humble heart.” They conduct missions and outreach throughout the St. Petersburg and Clearwater communities.
The festival will feature children’s arts and crafts, face painting, games, shuffleboard and live music. There will also be raffles, a silent auction and food and refreshments available for purchase.
Admission is $10 plus fees. Get tickets here.
Volunteer with the Pinellas County Auxiliary Communication Service
The Pinellas County Auxiliary Communication Service (PCACS) is an all-volunteer organization that provides amateur radio service to the Pinellas community. This includes broadcasting during officially declared emergencies, community events or during severe weather when they operate a SKYWARN amateur radio net.
Members must be 18 years or older, licensed as either an amateur radio operator or MARS operator (those who are non-licensed are encouraged to join and PCACS will help you obtain your amateur license if so desired) and must complete a Pinellas County volunteer orientation class in person or online and PCACS training.
For more information, click 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.
