Homelessness is a huge problem plaguing large numbers of men, women, and children in Houston, Texas. It is estimated that at least 1 in 5 Houston children are at or below poverty level. In a city with the third highest homeless population in the United Sates, there is a large demand for volunteers. This could mean searching the available options or even creating your own organization. Will you volunteer to help Houston’s homeless?
Searching for Volunteer Opportunities
Searching for volunteer opportunities that help the homeless is just a click or a call away. VolunteerMatch.org and VolunteerHouston.org are two services that match people with volunteer opportunities. You can also visit UnitedWayHouston.org or dial 211 within the Houston metro area. If you know about individual programs, try calling the directors to see if they need help. Many times drop-in help is needed also, but not always. If you are uncertain, you can always call ahead of time. Some directors may wish to schedule the volunteering sessions while others will appreciated the extra hand a drop-in visit offers.
Choosing Volunteer Opportunities in Houston
Before choosing a volunteer position, be sure it’s the right one for you. Search local Houston organizations and volunteer match services to find out which line up with your interests. What are your goals as a Houston volunteer? Consider whether you want to help one time or are looking for a more steady commitment. Keep in mind that if you are looking for something more steady, you can still participate in one-time positions until you find your ideal spot. Don’t make commitments to positions you aren’t fully interested in fulfilling. One-time volunteer slots are great by themselves or in addition to long-term commitments. Remember that every little bit helps.
Should I Create my Own Charity?
Creating your own charity may seem like a noble act and it certainly is. However, before doing so, be sure there isn’t already an existing charity for the purpose you had in mind. Your help might be better put to use there. If you have a unique vision that you think will make a difference in someone else’s life, you might wish to go ahead and start your own charity. Click here for advice on that. There may be more to it than you think. Be sure that you have what it takes to commit and you are making the right choice. Since the process is long and people always need help, you should be absolutely certain your expertise would not be better suited to an existing program.
Volunteer Programs that Aid Houston’s Homeless
Star of Hope Mission
6897 Ardmore
Houston, TX 77054
(713)748-0700
Houston Food Bank
3811 Eastex Fwy
Houston, TX 77026
(713)223-3700
Covenant House Texas
1111 Lovett Boulevard
Houston, TX 77006
(713)523-2231, ext. 5628
ArtBridge Houston
3311 Richmond Ave Suite 212
Houston, TX 77098
(713)527-9850
Healthcare for the Homeless – Houston
2505 Fannin St.
Houston, TX 77002
(713)276-3073
Stand Up for Kids
(800)365-4KID
Related Articles from this Author:
Go Barefoot for a Cause Like This Houston Family and Many Others
Over $31K Raised for Homeless Youth; How to Help Homeless Kids in Houston
Volunteer Opportunities in Houston
Source:
http://www.csm.org/houston.php
