Given the current state of events, your world and your community may feel divided. But public service may offer you a powerful way to reconnect with others and with your purpose. Whether it’s mentoring a student, serving meals at a shelter, or leading a neighborhood park cleanup, volunteerism is more than just giving your time, it's about creating lasting, positive change.

Getting started is easier than you think. Here are a few ways to engage with the community through various volunteering opportunities:

•  Volunteer your skills - from tutoring to data entry, event planning, or social media management - to local non-profits that are in need of general support. Bilingual volunteers are especially needed to help organizations outreach in diverse communities.
• Use volunteer platforms like VolunteerMatch, Idealist, Catchafire or Points of Light Engage to find opportunities near you or even remote ways that you can donate your time.
• Get your hands dirty at one of the many community gardens (LA Garden Council) or urban farming projects (like GrowGood, LA Green Grounds, LA Compost or Cottonwood Urban Farm) located all over Los Angeles County.
• Learn something new while you volunteer by becoming a docent or tour guide at a museum or cultural center. You can also serve as event support for an upcoming performance or program that interests you.
• Walk dogs, socialize cats, foster pets or help at an adoption event by checking out local animal organizations. LA Animal Services, Best Friends Animal Society, Wags & Walks or Bunny World Foundation are just a few of the many animal welfare organizations in and around the LA area.

Aside from doing good for others, volunteering empowers us to improve our current situation and brings us closer to people from all walks of life. So why wait? Find a cause that interests you, and start building a more compassionate, resilient and hopeful community today.