Five ways to get involved in the community right now

Looking for something meaningful to do this weekend in between watching sports and doing laundry? The Catalyst is dedicated to helping residents get involved in the community through our Impact Connector. Here are five ideas ways to give back based on your interests:

• For the sports fan: Love the sound of roaring engines? Sign up as a volunteer for next weekend’s Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Volunteers can choose from a variety of roles ranging from crowd control to hospitality. To complete your application, click here.
• For the person cleaning out the garage: Got some spare bikes or bike equipment collecting dust? Get it ready to drop off at the St. Pete Bike Co-op. The Co-op is now open Mondays from 5  to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 6 to 9:30 p.m. While you’re there, you can also pick up spare parts and access any tools you might need to fix your bike. 
•  For those who want to help seniors: Interested in brightening up a lonely day for a homebound senior? Volunteer with Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger as part of its Meals on Wheels program. A variety of shifts are available and can be found by clicking here. 
• For someone who wants to be a mentor: Want to make a difference in the life of a child? Sign up to be a Lunch Pal for students at Pinellas County Schools. Lunch Pals, which pairs up a mentor with a student for a 30 minute lunch, is now virtual, making it easier than ever to get involved. To get started, sign up for a mentoring workshop here.  
• For craft – and craft beer – lovers: Ready to create a pumpkin masterpiece while enjoying a local brew and supporting Reach St. Pete? Check out the Third Annual Pumpkin Painting Fundraiser at 3 Daughters Brewing. While this event won’t be held until Oct. 25, tickets are on sale now and due to Covid precautions, participants must sign up for a time slot in advance. Anyone who wants to participate from afar can also stop by and grab a pumpkin and paint to-go kit, which comes with a drink ticket for a future visit to 3 Daughters. To get your tickets, click here. 

If your organization is looking for volunteers, click here to submit your opportunity. We’ll be sure to share it on our platform.