Make A Difference In Milford: Where To Give Back This November

MILFORD, CT — November is a season for giving thanks — and for giving back. Whether that means volunteering a few hours, donating to a local nonprofit or supporting a cause that matters to you, there are plenty of ways to make a difference close to home.

The month also leads up to Giving Tuesday, the global day of generosity held each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, Giving Tuesday falls on Dec. 1, but you don't have to wait until then to get involved. Organizations in and around Milford need support throughout November and all year long.

Patch rounded up some local nonprofits, organizations and opportunities where residents can lend a hand. This isn't a complete list, but it's a great place to start. Be sure to reach out to each organization directly for its current needs, volunteer opportunities and other ways to help.

Here are some ways to give back in and around Milford.

Beth-El Center

For Milford residents looking to help neighbors experiencing homelessness or food insecurity, Beth-El Center offers several ways to get involved. The Milford nonprofit provides shelter, meals and other support to people in crisis.

Volunteers can assist at the front desk or participate in the center's Make a Meal program, where small groups plan, prepare and serve dinner to guests. Financial donations are also accepted to support the organization's work.

Learn more about helping Beth-El Center.

The Storehouse Project

The Storehouse Project, based at 200 Meadow St. in Milford, works to address food insecurity and other basic needs in the community.

Its programs include a food pantry, clothing boutique, community meals and mobile food distributions. Residents can support the organization by volunteering, making a donation or partnering with its programs.

Learn more about The Storehouse Project.

Milford Orange Animal Rescue

Animal lovers can give back through Milford Orange Animal Rescue, a volunteer-run nonprofit that supports animals at the Milford Animal Shelter.

The group welcomes volunteers to help with animal care, fundraising and community events, while donations help provide food, shelter and other necessities for animals awaiting homes. Residents can also support the organization by adopting or helping spread the word about available pets.

Learn more about getting involved with Milford Orange Animal Rescue.

Boys & Girls Club of Milford

The Boys & Girls Club of Milford provides programs designed to give local children and teens a safe place to learn, grow and build skills outside of school.

Volunteer opportunities include mentoring, homework help, recreational activities, arts and crafts and assistance with special events. Residents can also make one-time or recurring donations to support programs for Milford youth.

Learn more about volunteering with the Boys & Girls Club of Milford.

Literacy Volunteers of Southern Connecticut

If sharing a skill sounds more appealing than writing a check, Literacy Volunteers of Southern Connecticut offers another way to make a difference. The Milford-based organization helps adults in the Greater Milford and Stratford area improve their English-language skills.

Volunteer tutors work with adult English language learners, and previous teaching experience or knowledge of another language isn't required. The organization provides training and materials for tutors. Residents can also support its literacy programs through financial contributions or by helping with fundraising events.

Learn more about volunteering with Literacy Volunteers of Southern Connecticut.

Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center At Milford Point

Residents who would rather spend their volunteer time outdoors can look to the Connecticut Audubon Society's Coastal Center at Milford Point, located at 1 Milford Point Road.

Volunteer opportunities can include helping with habitat improvements, removing invasive plants, assisting visitors and supporting the nature sanctuary. Contributions also help support conservation work, environmental education and the protection of birds and coastal habitats.

Learn more about volunteering at the Coastal Center.

Milford Senior Center

The Milford Senior Center provides programs, meals, social activities and other services designed to support older adults in the community.

Volunteers help the center carry out its programs and daily operations, and the center also maintains a wish list of frequently needed items. Prospective volunteers should contact the center about its application and background-check requirements.

Learn more about supporting the Milford Senior Center.

Bridges Healthcare

Milford-based Bridges Healthcare provides mental health, addiction recovery and other support services for adults, children and families throughout the area.

Financial contributions help support the organization's behavioral health and recovery programs, including services aimed at connecting residents with care and ongoing community support.

Learn more about supporting Bridges Healthcare.

Milford United Way

Not sure which local cause to choose? Milford United Way supports organizations and initiatives addressing needs including food insecurity, housing, health, childcare, education and youth services.

The organization accepts financial contributions and also connects volunteers with opportunities ranging from special events and community projects to office assistance. Its network of local partner agencies offers another starting point for residents looking for a cause that matches their interests.

Learn more about volunteering with Milford United Way.

Whether you donate money, give a few hours of your time or contribute needed supplies, there are plenty of ways to support organizations doing work close to home. Contact an organization directly before getting involved to confirm its current needs and volunteer requirements.

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