Nothing has ever brought me more satisfaction than volunteering and donating to charities. Perhaps you’re interested in volunteering and contributing, but you’re not sure where to dedicate your time. I thought it might be helpful to share a few of my favorite volunteer experiences and nonprofits in case you’d like to participate. Here are my top picks:

Special Olympics
I coach a Special Olympics tennis team every Thursday night. These special needs children and adults inspire me endlessly. Most of them have Down syndrome or Autism. The volunteers are also kind, compassionate, and fun. Click here to volunteer.

Boys and Girls Club
This after-school program provides me the opportunity to mentor at-risk children, introduce them to the benefits of healthy eating and exercise, help them with their homework, teach them games like chess, and so much more. You can find a location near you here.

Homeless Resource Centers
I provide cover letter, resume writing, and job search assistance to low-income and homeless residents at a local facility. You may be interested in finding a location near you. It’s rewarding to help people get back on their feet and they’ll appreciate your help.

Prison Pen Pals
I currently have three pen pals in prison. I listen to their concerns, mentor them, and provide support to help them prepare to successfully re-enter society. If you Google “prison pen pals,” you’ll find several online programs. It’s easy to start and rewarding to lift up people in need.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters
I submitted an application last week to become a Big Brother again. I was a “Big” to two boys many years ago in Miami, and it was among the most rewarding experiences of my life. You can learn more here.

Political Campaigns
I recently signed up to volunteer for three 2020 presidential campaigns. It’s an effective way to advocate for causes that matter to you at the local, state, and federal level.

Farm Animal Advocacy
I’m a huge fan of the heroes that run farm sanctuaries and the impact of their work. You can find a list of my top picks here or find a sanctuary near you. I also encourage you to read this article.

Donations
Peter Singer provides a list of the world’s best charities called The Life You Can Save. His team’s research into their effectiveness makes it easy to donate with confidence. I donate to Against Malaria, the Hellen Keller International Vitamin A Supplementation Program, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, and the Fred Hollows Foundation. You can also find a list of top animal advocacy charities from Animal Charity Evaluators here.

Do you have a favorite volunteer experience or nonprofit you support? Feel free to share it with us. Thank you for helping us to make the world a more humane place.