While the effects of Hurricane Sandy may no longer be front-page news, the damage and devastation out there is still staggering. I’ve got some resources of organizations that are mobilizing hands-on volunteers to help clean up in those areas still in need.
A group called Lava Girls Surf is coordinating a Hurricane Sandy relief center at the Rockaway Beach Surf Club, where they’re asking volunteers to help clean up debris and pack and sort donation items. Every day, these guys out a call for volunteer help and donations on their Facebook page.
All Hands International is asking local volunteers to sign up to help on Staten Island and in the Rockaways.
Interoccupy has several community centers around the New York areas where they assign volunteers to deliver supplies to homebound families, prepare meals and help with continued clean-up efforts.
Keep in mind, these are all ultra-grassroots efforts; it’s not a volunteer vacation where they take care of accommodations and meals for you. This is the time to roll up your sleeves and really dedicate time and effort to help make a difference.
If you can’t get out there, these organizations are all in need of donations. Contact them directly to find out their specific needs—most places no longer need clothing, but they do need cleaning supplies, batteries and flashlights, baby items, and canned goods.
Check out our Voluntourism archive for other ways to give back.
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