Top 10 Volunteer Opportunities in Austin in 2019

Want to volunteer or intern at a great Austin nonprofit? Whether you’re new to the city and want to learn about its charities, trying to change up your routine with some local charity work, or just want to volunteer or intern at a neighborhood nonprofit, everyone knows that the best way to find the right place for you is from the people who’ve been there!

Here’s a list of volunteers’ and interns’ favorite Austin charities. Every nonprofit on this list has earned an overall score of 4 or greater out of 5 on GreatNonprofits.org. If your favorite Austin nonprofit or volunteer gig is missing, find it on GreatNonprofits.org, write a positive review, and show your co-volunteers how to start adding reviews and get it on the list!

Miracle Foundation

“The best thing about the volunteer experience with the Miracle Foundation in India is that you are allowed to help in the way that you are most comfortable—they way that you can do the most good. Whether it’s giving needed resources to growing children, teaching them, or sharing new experiences, your actions are going to provide a lasting hand-up and open their world. You can dive in and play and sing with kids all day, or help organize projects, or use your skills in cooking or plumbing or whatever. The core philosophy behind the MF is sustainable growth, and as a volunteer you become part of that process.” –Colby_James

Minis and Friends

“I have been with Minis and Friends for nearly seven years now. I am so proud to be a part of this organization! The minis have such an amazing effect on the people we visit, especially those with Alzheimer’s. I look forward to many more years volunteering with the mini horses!” –Lisa 238

Generation SERVE

“This is an amazing nonprofit that my children and I have had the privilege of volunteering with for many years. The staff are so friendly and great with kids, the organizations that Little Helping Hands work with always have age-appropriate activities, and the benefits are great for both the organizations seeking assistance and the families. My kids have learned a great deal at every job that they have volunteered to do. Some are more fun than others, but as my kids get older I can see that they are beginning to understand the importance of every job. It is wonderful to discuss with them how their work helps others during and after each activity.” –Rmrincom7

OSD

“OSD is such a phenomenal nonprofit to volunteer for. OSD truly cares for the well being of our soldiers and veterans. I enjoy volunteering my time to assist those who fought and are fighting for our freedom.” –Brittany W2

Well Aware

“Well Aware is an outstanding NGO. As a hydrogeologist, I am constantly awed with their work and their goal of bringing clean water to those who need it the most. Most importantly, the work they do is sustainable.” –Michelle P2

Migrant Clinicians Network

“Migrant Clinicians Network is a great resource for individuals seeking a greater understanding of issues related to migrant and occupational health. A small organization such as MCN has accomplished such great things due to the dedication and compassion of those within the network.” –Kabjus

Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation

“When I was first diagnosed with RLS, my doctor simply gave me a prescription and sent me on my way. Fortunately, I found the RLS Foundation and the information that they provided helped to educate me on what I needed to do to better control my condition. I have been a volunteer with the foundation ever since and am in total support of the work that they do in funding research and advocating for this widespread, yet totally unrecognized condition. Without the foundation, I would not be able to live the life in retirement that I always envisioned.” –Rust Smith

Truth Be Told

“Maya Angelou said, ‘There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.’ Truth Be Told relieves incarcerated women of that burden by allowing them to tell their stories safely. It is an honor to witness these women stepping free of their shame through this simple and age-old tradition. I am humbled each time I sit in circle with these women.” –Writer

Rainforest Partnership

“Working at RP is one of the most rewarding things I’ve done this summer. It is pretty awesome to work with other people who care as much about the environment as I do. RP is really committed to protecting rainforests through working with indigenous communities, and I can see that everyone working at RP is devoted to the cause and passionate about rainforest/environmental protection.” –Ycea

Caring for Cambodia

“As Caring for Cambodia’s representative to the United Nations, CFC promotes universal education, gender equity, eradication of poverty, and improving health and life skills, and continues to align with the U.N.’s 17 sustainable development goals. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nongovernmental organization aims to educate the children of Cambodia through building schools, training teachers, and providing basic needs.” –MBShay