Blog contributions by Jordan Gutierrez-Ramirez, United Way for Greater Austin, Corporate Volunteer Manager
In our world, a lot has changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic….but some things will always be the same: like our commitment to help Austinintes connect with their community through volunteerism. Volunteering may look different now, but we’re still finding ways to engage. Despite the pandemic, United Way ATX continues to host volunteer opportunities in our community that bring us all together whether that means masking up, social distancing or logging in virtually. It’s a new look, but it’s the same good that you’re used to doing!
We’ve reimagined volunteering, and that means we’ve taken most of our opportunities virtual. Our team has been hard at work crafting unique online events to build community connections, support our neighbors, and still do good. Over the past few months we’ve hosted successful virtual events focused on education, advocacy, and gratitude. Together with our volunteers and donors, we continue to help make a tangible difference that positively impacts our community!
While virtual volunteerism is our “new normal” we are still thrilled to find safe ways for folks to volunteer in person when possible. Longtime corporate partner JE Dunn Construction went above and beyond this summer for one of their company-wide volunteer days. They deployed their skilled volunteers to one of our Pre-K Partnership centers for an impressive two-day infrastructure project. With JE Dunn’s expertise, we were able to execute a safe, in-person event at Sweet Briar Child Development Center tackling critical projects that improved accessibility for families, and created safer play areas for children.
2020 has made the inequities in our community even more apparent, and now more than ever we need to spread some good. That’s why our annual Fall Day of Caring event will be taking on a new look this year too. We’re extending our “care” to a whole season! Fall Season of Caring lets you decide when to volunteer and how you want to give back and spread your collective good. Here are some volunteer opportunities available:
- Thank a teacher
- Read aloud to Pre-K students
- Be a pen pal with a senior citizen
Excited to participate in one of our Fall Season of Caring activities? Amazing! We’re offering a variety of fun, easy ways to get involved and have an impact over the next month. There are many different ways to connect, expand your thinking, and make a difference! Sign up for a volunteer opportunity that piques your interest today!
Thank you to our sponsors for Fall Season of Caring 2020, NXP, Superior Healthplan, and Velocity Credit Union.
Have questions about volunteering or want to create a custom project for your company? You can reach Jordan Gutierrez-Ramirez at volunteer@uwatx.org.