Top 10 Volunteer Opportunities in Cleveland in 2019

Want to volunteer or intern at a great Cleveland 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 Cleveland charities. Every nonprofit on this list has earned an overall score of 4 or greater out of 5 on GreatNonprofits.org. If your favorite Cleveland 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!

Providence House

“I have had the honor and privilege to volunteer at Providence House for many years. During that time, I have seen children thrive and grow under the care of the Providence House staff. Providence House has been consistent and true to their mission to protect children and support families in crisis, and this is most significantly reflected in the commitment of the people who work there. The staff members are caring, selfless, responsible, and focused. Providence House is a community of people who are dedicated to improving the lives of the people they serve.” –MBLP

Drink Local. Drink Tap.

“Granted I am biased because I have volunteered with DLDT since its inception nearly 10 years ago. But the fact that I’ve stayed involved this long speaks volumes. DLDT is genuinely one of the most dedicated, active, results-oriented nonprofits out there. They deliver on the mission of education, awareness, and activism for safe and accessible water. I am beyond proud at how far they have come and how much they have been able to achieve. Encourage all to take a look at the website for more complete updates. And really encourage all to get involved with DLDT because water is life!” –Michelle_Killer

Sanctuary for Senior Dogs

“I started volunteering for the sanctuary when I was about 8 years old. I am now 18 years old and even though 10 years have passed, I still cannot find a better group of people. They truly care about the dogs. They saw a cause that needed fighting for and they stuck to it even when it was hard to do. Even though they are a relatively small organization, I honestly believe they are the best one out there.” –Volunteer

Art Therapy Studio

“I’ve been volunteering with this organization for more than two years and have viewed how much their work helps people. They make contact with a variety of age groups and can accomplish so much through the processes they use. Learning about the methods they use and how people can be affected by the work they do has been an amazing learning experience for me. I love that I can contribute and be a part of the organization.” –Marilea

NewBridge Cleveland Center for Arts and Technology

“NewBridge became a sanctuary to me within weeks of volunteering. Everyone I’ve met at NewBridge has inspired me in tremendous ways while offering much wisdom and support. It is a magical place that fuses social advocacy with the arts while celebrating the unique beauty and potential of each individual. The stories at NewBridge deserve to be heard and celebrated.” –Theo75

 

The Hummingbird Project

“I’m very grateful to the Hummingbird Project and the Cleveland Seed Bank for providing high-quality seeds and education. I’ve used and shared the seeds and seed-saving strategies in my community garden. The gift keeps on giving!” –gardenvine

Heaventrain

“Heaventrain in the Cleveland Central district is an incredible outreach that I’ve had the opportunity to serve. Building community and relationships is the heart of this ministry, which includes connecting with individuals of all ages. All who are involved, ranging from staff to kids, can learn and grow through the Heaventrain experience. It encourages healthy and loving relationships, and also provides an avenue for people of all backgrounds to connect. It is a great joy to be a part of this organization. I plan on serving in this outreach for quite a while. Heaventrain provides a great example of what true community building and outreach looks like in the heart of Cleveland Ohio!” –fink58

For the Love of Pits

“I have been involved in rescue for almost 15 years. I am so fortunate that my path crossed with For the Love of Pits rescue. Being involved in rescue, there are happy times and sad times, but being involved with For the Love of Pits is a huge warm smile in your heart. It is an amazing organization that is doing it right. They are not only involved helping rescue pit bulls in need but they also try to help and keep families and their beloved pets together through educating the public, training of their rescue dogs and training for the public, vaccination clinics to help with the expenses of people experiencing difficult times, and consultations with animal behaviorists. I could go on and on about all the wonderful things this wonderful rescue and its amazing volunteers do on a regular basis.” –Amy_39

Open Doors Academy

“Never have I met a group of individuals who have genuine love in their hearts for the people they serve. ODA staff goes far beyond what is asked of them to ensure the well being of every family in our community. From holiday gift donations and parent workshops to various field trips and regular everyday programming, ODA staff is committed to making sure that families’ needs are met.” –jstone

 

Truth for Life with Alistair Begg 

“TFL is a great ministry! As a person who attends Parkside, it is helpful to see all of the resources available, that I can read for myself, and share with friends who could really use what TFL had to offer. I also really enjoy the fact that I can download TFL’s app and listen to Alistair speak on the go, whether it’s a sermon I’ve missed, or a series he’s working on around the country. Either way, I love this ministry, and am always sharing it with friends and family to try out.” –Courtney V.