Where to volunteer near BART (SF edition)

Editor's note: This article was published December 2018

Everyone has probably ended or started a year implementing a new exercise routine to shake things up physically. But what about adding a new commitment to volunteering in your schedule in order to shake things up internally?

In hopes of inspiring some giving back, in addition to any usual gift giving and receiving, we’ve compiled the 2018 list of BARTable places where you can devote some time and energy to an important cause in SF. Because there’s perhaps not anything much more healing than feeling helpful in these times.

GLIDE

330 Ellis St., San Francisco, a 6-minute walk from Powell Station

Based in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood and serving the local community for 50 years, GLIDE continues to feed and support marginalized demographics of the city through its Daily Free Meals Program, as well as through various other means. Volunteer to help prep and serve meals on site at the inclusive Glide Memorial United Methodist Church year-round, or look into assisting with other programs that “address poverty, homelessness, drug use disorders and family crisis.” 

The Women’s Building

3543 18th St. #8, San Francisco, an 8-minute walk from 16th St. Mission Station

Located near 16th St/Mission Station, The Women’s Building and its Community Resource Room on the first floor provide workshops, community events, and bilingual support. Offering an overall safe space, this women-owned nonprofit addresses concerns around health and wellness, technology, job search assistance, food justice and so much more. Volunteer in myriad ways, including administrative assistance in the office, donor communications, scheduling and tutoring about technology. 

Harmony Project SF Bay Area

43 Miriam St., Daly City, a 11-minute walk from Daly City Station

Harmony Project SF Bay Area currently teaches out of Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Daly City, 11 minutes from Daly City Station. Help children feel empowered and freely expressive through music: Volunteers aide in the classroom instruction of violin, viola, cello and singing. Even if you’re not musically inclined, there is always help needed with fundraising, outreach and capturing the program on camera. 

Friends of SFACC

1200 15th St., San Francisco, a 9-minute walk from 16th St. Mission Station

The Friends of SF Animal Care & Control shelter can always use a helping human hand to care for the plethora of furry friends it hopes to get adopted. There is ongoing need for assistance with daily upkeep; walk dogs, cuddle cats and smaller friends, organize toys or fold laundry. Allergic to pets? Don’t let that stop you. The nonprofit can also use your aid with administrative work and fundraising event planning.