Volunteering!

I personally love to volunteer with a whole bunch of different communities and organizations when I have the time. I normally do it because I need the hours for a class or such, but in high school, I used to volunteer because it was so much fun! I chose to write this blog to list some important and (lowkey) fun volunteer opportunities in the West Chester, PA area!

• Brandywine SPCA- requires training and an orientation for both dog and cat care

  • When I volunteered here, I worked with the dogs and puppies! I invested in some new boots that I didn't mind getting poop or other types of dirt on. This isn't necessary, but I also invested in a treat and poop bag holder that I could keep around my waist when walking the dogs. They do provide poop bags, treats, and aprons to hold the treats (which are all donations). I just wanted something a little cuter.

Puppy <3

• Natural Lands- a lot more labor-intensive, especially in the summer in the heat

  • There are many preserves that belong to Natural Lands that you can find in your area. I personally volunteered with Bryn Coed Preserve, and I helped treat the tubes around the trees that were growing in their preserve. This was a lot of work for sure, but we helped clear out invasive species that were choking out the trees so they can grow into a large forest.

Working Hard!

• Ronald McDonald House- Making and preparing food for families with seriously ill children

  • I used to volunteer here with my stepdad, mom, and sister when we were younger. I don't remember much about it, but I remember being able to help in the kitchen as much as a little girl could, as well as setting up the meals and making everything look pretty. This is a good family option for volunteering. The people are always nice, and you can bond with your family.

There are so many other options out there, so definitely pick something that's best for you! Doing this makes sure that you enjoy the time you give and show up excited and with a happy energy that can make the people you are helping even more comfortable. Just some quick research could help a lot of people and animals in need!