Volunteering is something I’m deeply passionate about. As a mother of young children and a resident of St. Tammany Parish, I’ve seen how even small acts of kindness can create a positive impact on our community. Whether it’s watching my kids learn the joy of helping others or experiencing the fulfillment that comes from giving back, I know that volunteering is about more than just donating time—it’s about building connections and strengthening the place we all call home.

I know we provide grocery delivery service and you’re probably saying, “Stay in your lane Friendly Groceries.” I’m always thinking of ways to leave the world a better place for our children and volunteering is one way we can do that.

St. Tammany Parish offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, perfect for everyone—whether you’re a senior looking to share your wisdom, a busy family wanting to volunteer together, or a professional hoping to contribute your skills to a cause that matters. And getting started is easier than you might think.

In this guide, I’ll introduce you to some of the best ways to get involved locally, showing you how your efforts, big or small, can make a meaningful difference in our community. Whether you’re new to volunteering or ready to dive deeper, there’s something here for everyone.

Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors in St. Tammany Parish

As we get older, many of us find more time to focus on the things that truly matter. For seniors in St. Tammany Parish, volunteering is a fantastic way to stay engaged, share your wealth of experience, and continue making a positive impact on the community. Not only does it keep you active and socially connected, but it also brings immense satisfaction knowing you’re making a difference in the lives of others.

Here are some great opportunities tailored to the strengths and interests of seniors:

Local Food Banks and Pantries: One of the most impactful ways seniors can volunteer is by helping at local food banks like the Northshore Food Bank. With so many families facing food insecurity, your time spent sorting and distributing food can make a real difference. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to meet new people and stay active. You can learn more or get involved by visiting their website: Northshore Food Bank or by calling them at (985) 893-3003.

Hospice and Hospital Volunteering: If you have a caring nature and a bit of extra time, volunteering at a hospice or hospital can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s providing companionship to patients, assisting with administrative tasks, or supporting hospital staff, your efforts can bring comfort to those going through difficult times. For example, you can volunteer with St. Tammany Health System by reaching out to their volunteer services at (985) 898-4008.

Mentorship Programs: With years of wisdom and experience, seniors are in a unique position to mentor the younger generation. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Louisiana offer opportunities to share your life experiences with youth who could greatly benefit from your guidance and support. It’s a beautiful way to leave a lasting legacy. Get involved by visiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Louisiana or calling (504) 309-7304.

Volunteering in these areas not only enriches the lives of those you help but also offers a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Many seniors find that volunteering provides a renewed sense of community, making it easier to stay connected and engaged as you continue to contribute in meaningful ways.

Family-Friendly Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering as a family is a wonderful way to teach children the value of giving back while spending quality time together. In St. Tammany Parish, there are plenty of opportunities where families can work side by side to make a difference in their community.

Environmental Clean-Ups: Getting outdoors and participating in community clean-up events is a fantastic way for families to contribute to the environment. Events like the annual Bayou Cleanup Day are perfect for teaching kids about the importance of environmental stewardship while enjoying the beauty of our local parks and waterways. You can find information on upcoming clean-ups through organizations like Keep Louisiana Beautiful or by contacting the local parish office.

Animal Shelters: For families who love animals, volunteering at local shelters like the St. Tammany Humane Society is a fulfilling way to help. Families can spend time caring for animals, cleaning facilities, or even fostering pets until they find their forever homes. This experience not only helps the animals but also teaches children about responsibility and compassion. Contact the Humane Society at (985) 892-7387 for more information on how to get involved.

Community Gardens: Participating in a community garden is a hands-on way to teach kids about gardening, sustainability, and healthy eating. The Covington Community Garden, for example, often welcomes families to help plant, tend, and harvest crops that are donated to local food pantries. It’s a rewarding experience that connects families with nature and their community. Reach out to the Covington Garden Association at (985) 892-1873 to learn more.

Professional Volunteer Opportunities

Professionals in St. Tammany Parish have unique skills and talents that can greatly benefit local organizations and initiatives. Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s also an opportunity to network, develop new skills, and make meaningful contributions using your professional expertise.

Pro Bono Work: If you’re a lawyer, accountant, or professional with specialized skills, consider offering your services pro bono to local nonprofits. Organizations like Southeast Louisiana Legal Services always need help from professionals willing to donate their time to assist low-income residents with legal matters. Volunteering your expertise not only helps those in need but also enhances your professional experience.

Board Memberships: Joining the board of a local charity, such as the St. Tammany Hospital Foundation, allows professionals to lend their leadership and strategic thinking to a good cause. Serving on a board is an excellent way to get involved at a higher level, influencing the direction of the organization and ensuring its success. You can contact the foundation directly at (985) 898-4141 to explore opportunities.

Skill-Based Volunteering: Whether you’re skilled in marketing, IT, event planning, or another area, your talents are valuable to local nonprofits. For example, Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West often needs volunteers with specific skills to support their mission of building homes for families in need. Offering your expertise can make a significant impact and help these organizations achieve their goals more effectively. Reach out to Habitat at (985) 893-3172 to discuss how you can contribute.

How to Get Started

Finding the right volunteer opportunity in St. Tammany Parish is easier than you might think. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

• Research Local Organizations: Use online resources like VolunteerMatch or visit local community boards to find volunteer opportunities that match your interests and skills.
• Attend Volunteer Fairs: Many local events, such as the Explore Northshore Expo, feature nonprofits looking for volunteers. These events are a great way to meet organizations face-to-face and learn more about how you can get involved.
• Start Small: If you’re new to volunteering, consider starting with short-term commitments. This allows you to explore different opportunities and find the right fit before committing to something longer-term.

You can also check out the St. Tammany Parish Government website for additional resources and information on local volunteer opportunities.

The Impact of Volunteering in St. Tammany Parish

Volunteering doesn’t just benefit those who receive help—it strengthens the entire community. By giving your time and skills, you help improve local services, build stronger social bonds, and contribute to a more connected and supportive environment.

Strengthened Social Bonds: Volunteering fosters relationships and builds a sense of community. Whether it’s through a shared project or regular volunteer work, these connections can lead to lifelong friendships and a deeper connection to the place we call home.

Enhanced Services: Volunteers are often the backbone of local services like food banks, shelters, and educational programs. Your contributions help these organizations expand their reach and effectiveness, ensuring that more people in need receive the support they require.

Personal Growth: Many volunteers report increased happiness, a sense of purpose, and improved mental health. By volunteering, you not only make a difference in your community but also enrich your own life.

Volunteering in St. Tammany Parish offers something for everyone—seniors, families, and professionals alike. Whether you’re sharing your wisdom, teaching your children the value of giving back, or applying your professional skills to a worthy cause, your efforts make a meaningful difference.

So why not take the first step today? Explore the opportunities available, get involved, and experience the incredible rewards that come from helping others. Your community—and your heart—will be all the better for it. As Zig Ziglar always said, “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”