Volunteering and getting out in nature both have a variety of health benefits, so why not combine the two for the sake of the community?
In a study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies, people who volunteered in the past year were more satisfied with their lives and had better overall health. Additionally, researchers found that those who volunteered frequently (at least once a month) reported better mental health than participants who volunteered infrequently or not at all. Another study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that getting out in nature can actually reduce stress and perk up a tired brain.
Whether you’re a student on the hunt for volunteer hours, a retiree looking to give back to your community, or just have an itch to get outside and do good, there are plenty of ways to get outside and volunteer in the towns of Cary, Apex, and Morrisville!
Town of Cary
Head to Good Hope Farm for one of their monthly work days on the third Saturday of each month. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old, and volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Register here!
If you want to help in the areas of waste reduction, beautification, and environmental service, check out The Spruce Program! Community members can request supplies for a litter cleanup, gardening events, or invasive plant removal workday for yourself or a group. Spruce Badges can be requested by interested volunteers alongside litter cleanup supplies in recognition of their efforts. Learn more and register.
If you have a green thumb, why not help grow the garden at the Compost Education Center? Attend a Family Garden Day to lend a helping hand and learn more about gardening and backyard composting. Carpenter Park Community Garden also hosts open houses throughout the summer, with opportunities to work in the garden and enjoy kid-friendly activities. All ages are welcome! Learn more and register online!
Town of Apex
Check out the Town of Apex’s Adopt A Park/Trail (APAT) Program, the perfect opportunity to work hands-on and help keep Apex’s parks and trails clean. Citizens or groups who adopt a trail or park must agree to improve it through litter pickup, maintaining flower beds, painting, spreading mulch, and other tasks. Learn more here.
The Apex Farmer’s Market is always in need of on-site volunteers! Fill out their volunteer application form today!
The Town of Apex’s special events (PeakFest, Olde Fashioned 4th of July, etc.) would NOT be possible without a steady stream of volunteers! Fill out the online form on the town’s website to help out this spring/summer.
Town of Morrisville
The Morrisville Stewardship Program is the perfect way for citizens, companies, or groups to support local parks, greenways, or water resources! This can include litter pickup, planting trees and flowers, and other activities. Stewards will be recognized for their efforts via highlights on the Town of Morrisville website and social media, a certificate of appreciation, and other recognition activities. Learn more.
The Western Wake Farmers Market needs volunteers to work at the market on Saturdays! As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, many volunteers can deduct their mileage associated with their service, and some can even have their gift of time matched with cash by their employers (please consult your company’s policies to see if yours qualifies)! Sign up to volunteer today!
