This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WVU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

This week, I want to highlight something that is so important to our community here in Morgantown and everywhere else. Volunteering strengthens local communities and improves the overall well-being of the volunteers themselves. As a volunteer, you can make an impact on society, give yourself a purpose, network with others and build work experience. I have gathered some places that take volunteers or even clubs that volunteer a lot. Check them out!

WVU Core Arboretum

This is great for whoever wants to be outside. iServe shows that there are recurring days where volunteers help maintain the Core Arboretum and its trails. Next to the coliseum, the Core Arboretum has three miles of walking trails. It is a place where hundreds of native WV trees, shrubs, and plants live. Right now, I see Monday-Wednesday work days.

Pumpkin Patch Volunteer

From September 22-October 30, the Suncrest United Methodist Church pumpkin patch is looking for volunteers. Here, you will focus on helping customers choose, purchase, move, and load pumpkins. All of the proceeds support the child and youth programs.

Ronald McDonald House

If you are interested in directly interacting with families and healthcare, the Ronald McDonald House has opportunities listed on iServe that include helping provide meals for families.

Meals on Wheels

There are ongoing opportunities at Meals on Wheels as well. Here, you will help deliver meals to community members.

Community Kitchen

At Community Kitchen, volunteers here can help with meal preparation, serving and cleanup. This is a local option around Morgantown.

Animal Friends of North Central WV

If you want to work with animals, this option is for you. Here, you will provide animal care, cleaning, events, transportation, and other support to animals

Service Clubs at WVU

WVU has over 450 student organizations. Besides these one-time volunteering positions, there are many service clubs that could be beneficial if you want to get into volunteering more often.

These include:

The Red Cross Service Club organizes service events and blood drives.

Mountaineers for Recovery does service and community-building activities connected with WVU Collegiate Recovery

WVU Paws is an animal-focused service. They fundraise at local animal shelters.

There are many more out there, but these are the few that stood out to me. If you want to contribute to the community around you, please consider these opportunities. Even if you just need service hours for class, iServe is a great resource for that!

GET INTO VOLUNTEERING!