Lend a Hand – Volunteer Opportunities Around Bradenton and Sarasota

If you’re interested in making a difference in your local area, there’s no better way than volunteering. With numerous organizations in need of helping hands, you can support nearly any cause that’s close to your heart. Consider these volunteer five organizations in the Bradenton and Sarasota area:

1. Manatee County Animal Services
305 25th St W, Palmetto
941.742.5933 / animal.services@mymanatee.org

If you’re an animal lover who wants to share some love with more pets than your apartment can accommodate, you can volunteer with Manatee County Animal Services. There are opportunities for dog walkers, pet photographers, pet groomers, cat cuddlers, and more. A volunteer manual and application are available online.

2. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota
6400 Edgelake Dr, Sarasota
941.921.8600

The HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital offers volunteer opportunities for support group assistants, couriers, physical therapy helpers, and nursing unit helpers. Volunteer shifts are from 8 a.m. to noon, noon to 4 p.m., or 4 to 8 p.m. You must complete a TB test, hospital orientation, and training before you can begin helping out.

3. Cat Depot
2542 17th St, Sarasota
941.366.2404

If you have a passion for feline friends, you can volunteer to help care for the residents at Cat Depot. Volunteers help with all aspects of animal care including cleaning, feeding, transportation, and socialization, and you can assist with fundraising events, handle the reception desk, or educate the public about proper cat care. Just click here to access the online application.

4. Manasota SCORE
2801 Fruitville Rd Suite 280, Sarasota
941.955.1029

Are you a business professional with knowledge you’d like to share with the broader community? You can volunteer as a business mentor to help entrepreneurs in your area get the knowledge and assistance they need to succeed. Volunteer mentors meet with business professionals both online and in person, and can pair with others who need specialized help in your area of expertise. This is a great way to support small businesses and your local economy.

5. Tampa Bay Watch
3000 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde
727.867.8166 ext. 233

If you’re passionate about helping the environment, you can make a real difference working with Tampa Bay Watch. This organization regularly organizes major volunteer projects, including the McKay Bay Oyster Shell Bar Project on December 8 and 9, where volunteers fill mesh bags with fossilized shells and place them along the shoreline to create oyster reefs similar to natural oyster communities found throughout Tampa Bay. Check back often for new chances to help the local environment!

Are you an active volunteer in the Bradenton and Sarasota area? What projects are you most passionate about? Share your favorite volunteer organizations and activities with us in the comments section below!