
SOUTHERN MARYLAND — There are dozens of ways you can aid your community in times of need, whether by helping to clean up blocked roadways or serving hungry residents at a soup kitchen. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity, as building a stronger community begins with the actions of each individual.
St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League
Numerous animal shelters and welfare organizations can be found throughout Southern Maryland, and the St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League (SMAWL) is one of the most notable spots to volunteer because they have a variety of opportunities. According to the SMAWL website, they need volunteers to help with animal foster care, organization of events and even email support. There’s always a way to help out at SMAWL, so visit the St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League webpage to join their mission today.

Historic St. Mary’s City
If you’d like to educate the next generation about Maryland’s first capital, then Historic St. Mary’s City is the perfect place to volunteer. With a variety of roles to fill, you can help out at the ticket kiosk, in the costume design department or at individual events. Historic St. Mary’s City offers tours to thousands of children every year, so there’s no shortage of exciting volunteer activities, especially during the school year.

Our Place Waldorf
For residents interested in volunteering at a soup kitchen, Our Place Waldorf may be a good fit. With two locations in Charles County, Our Place Waldorf provides a hot dinner four times a week, offering a safe and welcoming space for all. If you want to get directly involved with the Charles County community, then consider volunteering at Our Place Waldorf by serving food or joining the kitchen staff.

Charles County Children’s Aid Society
There are thousands of children across Charles County in need of basic necessities such as food or clothing. The Charles County Children’s Aid Society focuses on providing items that young people need, whether it be supplies for school or a few new shirts. The Children’s Aid Society requires volunteers and donations of select items to provide support to the community, so there are a variety of ways to get involved in Charles County.

Calvert Library
If you’re a big book fan, then Calvert Library may be the perfect place to donate your free time. Volunteers can help during special events or by assisting library visitors in finding the material they seek. Volunteering is often associated with food banks or animal shelters, but libraries need help too, so consider offering a hand to the Calvert Library.

Project ECHO
Project ECHO is a shelter that provides temporary housing for those without a home in Calvert County. With dozens of beds to fill, the Lori’s House shelter requires a dedicated volunteer force to continue fulfilling its mission. Not only does Project ECHO offer housing, but it also assists residents in finding employment or furthering their skills through educational opportunities. You can truly make a difference by volunteering with Project ECHO, as it’s a great place to help out in Calvert County.

Anne Arundel County Food Bank
Volunteers who’d like to help feed the hungry should consider working with the Anne Arundel Food Bank, since it feeds thousands of people every year. People are needed to sort food or host food drives, and this food bank even accepts donations if you’d prefer to help out financially.

SPCA of Prince George’s County
The SPCA is a large animal organization that assists in pet adoption and fostering. Prince George’s County has its own branch of the SPCA, and residents can volunteer to help take care of the animals or assist in the adoption process. There are many ways to get involved with your favorite furry friends, so visit the PGSPCA’s website to get started.

Southern Maryland Food Bank
If you want to help fight hunger in Southern Maryland, then perhaps a food bank or soup kitchen would be an ideal volunteer organization for you. The Southern Maryland Food Bank offers food to pantries in the southern counties of Maryland, as well as organizing services for residents in need. You can volunteer your time or donate to the cause, helping to ensure that all Southern Marylanders have enough food.
Phone: 301-274-0695

Other Volunteer Opportunities in Southern Maryland
Southern Maryland is full of charities and organizations that require volunteers to stay afloat. Here are a few more options for Marylanders looking to make a difference:
- Humane Society of Calvert County
- Humane Society of Charles County
- St. Mary’s County Volunteer Fire Service
- Prince George’s County Food Equity Council
- Annapolis Light House — Homeless Prevention Support Center

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