In the present economy, our fellow citizens need our help more than ever. In an article for Time Magazine about volunteering, President Obama wrote, “…I hope that you will stand up and do what you can to serve your community…and enrich both your own life and the lives of others across this country.”

So this summer, when you will probably find yourself with more free time and energy, get out there and volunteer. Check out Greenopia’s environmental organization and environmental education sections as starting points for volunteering ideas or take inspiration from the  suggestions below.

San Francisco

The 2009 National Conference on Volunteering and Service is from June 22^nd to the 24^th at the Mascone Center in San Francisco. Connecting philanthropies with volunteers and the community is the goal of this energetic event.

Looking for something more hands-on? I assisted Alemany Farm in Daly City, a plot of farmland that sits across from a freeway and amongst aged buildings. This organic, urban garden encourages local residents to grow their own food and learn about sustainable lifestyle practices. I helped mulch a pathway and learned a great deal about edible plants and natural gardening in the process. Community workdays are the first and third Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.

Los Angeles

If you reside in Southern California, the Volunteer Center of Los Angeles can put you in touch with a variety of philanthropies. VCLA can also connect you, based on your interests and skills, with non-profits that appeal to you.

The beach and Southern California go hand in hand, so if you’re looking to preserve the oceans and beaches of this iconic region, check out the Surfrider Foundation. Beach clean-ups, special events, and educational programs offer a solid variety of volunteer options within the Foundation. And who doesn’t want to do charity work on a beach?

New York City

New York City also has a volunteer hub, New York Cares. This organization connects volunteers with over 900 non-profits, ranging from addiction rehabilitation centers to religious groups to senior facilities, throughout the Big Apple. With so many philanthropies at your fingtertips, New York Cares is a quick and easy way to get involved with your community.

If you’re interested in greening New York, volunteer for The Council on the Environment of New York City.  Educating about recycling and the environment, gardening, and promoting regional agriculture are just a couple of ways you can assist this eco-minded organization.

Volunteering is enriching and rewarding, so get out there and get involved with your community, make new friends, and help those causes for which you have a passion!

 >> Check out "10 Ways to Change the World Through Social Media" for more ways to make an impact!