Volunteer Opportunities Of The Week: Back To School Backpack Drive

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Each week, Patch will be highlighting volunteer opportunities in the Lower Hudson Valley, courtesy of Volunteer New York!. This is a chance to help your community and be an opportunity to give back — perhaps in a way you didn't consider before.

This week, we are putting the spotlight on some opportunities in the Hudson Valley.

Back to School Backpack Drive

Help collect backpacks of all sizes so children and teens in Peekskill and the surrounding area can be prepared for the new school year. Backpacks will be filled will supplies and distributed during The Blue Resource Table's Annual Back to School Supply Giveaway in late summer. This is a great opportunity for individuals, families, companies, and community groups. Volunteers must be 18+ (or 6+ if signing up as part of an adult's team).
Date: Flexible schedule; drop-off or schedule a local pickup by 8/14
Organization: The Blue Resource Table
Location: Peekskill drop-off

Green Squad

Every Saturday from April to November, Lasdon Public Garden's Green Squad helps keep the park looking beautiful by removing invasive species, planting, watering, weeding, maintaining trails, mulching, tidying up trash, and more. No experience is necessary but volunteers should wear weather-appropriate clothes and bring their own snacks and water. Gloves and tools will be provided. This opportunity is perfect for families, teens 15+, and for groups.
Date: 7/4 from 1-3 p.m.; Saturdays
Organization: Friends of Lasdon Public Gardens
Location: Katonah

Female Mentors for Young Women

Her Honor Mentoring is a 9-month experience where professional women provide knowledge and advice to first-generation, lower-income students in their senior year of high school. Mentors meet with their mentees for one hour each week to discuss college and career readiness. Mentees who achieve mentoring milestones are awarded financial grants as part of their participation. Mentors must be 23+.
Date: Weekly from September to May
Organization: Her Honor Mentoring
Location: Throughout Westchester and Rockland/Virtual

Recreation and Activity Volunteers

Join Bethel's recreational programs to engage senior residents with a variety of activities, including music, art, gardening, games, friendly visits, and exercise. Volunteers with various abilities and orientations and those who are passionate about serving others and want to make new friendships are welcome! Volunteers must be 16+.
Date: Flexible schedule
Organization: Bethel Communities
Location: Throughout Westchester

Find a full list of opportunities at https://www.volunteernewyork.org.