Top 10 Volunteer Opportunities in San Francisco in 2019

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

Endangered Species International

“I support ESI’s comprehensive approach to all things environmental. No critter or living thing is too small, no corporation is too big, and no politician is too powerful for the ESI. ESI projects are really amazing. :)” –July

Universal Giving

“UniversalGiving is unique in the way that 100 percent of the donations goes straight to the cause. The variety of the causes is really amazing and you can always find a project that you are passionate about.

The reason why I chose UniversalGiving was because they live up to the highest standards and ethics, and by volunteering with UniversalGiving, you are having a positive impact on the world and getting a satisfaction that is worth more than just writing a check. The UG team is really passionate and will put in the extra work needed for you to get the satisfaction of helping the world become a better place.” –SwedeinSF

Palomacy Pigeon & Dove Adoptions

“Palomacy has a community of incredibly kind-hearted and generous individuals who want nothing but the best for these rescued birds. I began fostering birds with them recently, and I could not have asked for more helpful or kind volunteers.

They truly care so greatly about rescuing pigeons and doves in need and have put immense amounts of time, money, and love into everything they do. They give advice and help to anyone around the world who wants to contribute. They have made pigeon lovers out of people of all ages! I cannot recommend them enough :)” –Wendy C2

Aim High

“This organization has it all—it brings joy and a love of learning to the students it serves, provides an engaging, supportive, and creative environment for teachers and volunteers, proven data-driven results, and thoughtful and smart leadership. And most of all, it has so much heart. This is an organization to support, admire, and love.” –Shannon87

W.O.M.A.N

“Becoming a volunteer at W.O.M.A.N. Inc. has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The 40-hour volunteer training was eye-opening and empowering.

This organization has widened my social lens and empowered me to support not only survivors of domestic violence, but all marginalized groups who suffer from the systematic oppressions that plague our country. I’m proud to be part of an organization that addresses domestic violence and ALL its intersections.” –Lmccaffrey

Foundation for Students Rising Above

“Students Rising Above (SRA) is a life-changing organization. They focus on helping first-generation college students break the cycle of poverty within a household and also provide the students with a new outlook on life.

SRA provides every kid with a mentor for just some fun times, an academic coach to help them through the college process, and a team encouraging the students. Some of the kids who go through the program have difficult stories but SRA is right there to help, guide, support, and nurture them through everything! This is a great organization!” –Kirkland

La Casa De Las Madres

“La Casa does an amazing job teaching the community and changing public perceptions about domestic violence. I have learned so much about the pervasive and prevalent notions that continue to perpetuate violence in our society, how it is interwoven in so many aspects of daily life.

La Casa taught me about restorative justice, how to talk to survivors, and what to do even within my family and community to address these difficult topics and challenge the conversation so people may be more aware of how to discuss and handle the deep issues within the microcosm of their family, friends, and community unit.” –Halley Q.

Pachamama Alliance

“They have created a true partnership with the indigenous people with learning and know-how being shared in both directions. The impeccable integrity of the leadership attracts responsible volunteers who teach and learn in deeply mutual exchanges for the benefit of our planet.” –J Godinez

One Warm Coat

“The one warm coat organization is easy to work with, prompt, and professional. They make helping others fun and gathering coats to spread warmth easy to do.

They provided a way to teach my son about the importance of giving back and helping other kids in need—he was proud to donate his coat and even asked his friends at school to do the same. I was overjoyed to receive the certificate of appreciation that was presented to my group for its participation and look forward to working with them again.” –Angie 85

Project Night Night

“Over the past several years I have both donated to and volunteered for Project Night Night because I absolutely love this organization’s mission—to provide comfort to displaced children. Having children of my own, I realize that there is nothing that soothes a child more at bedtime than to have a special blanket and/or stuffed animal with them.

Project Night Night provides children in need with both of these items, as well as with a book. Having delivered Night Night packages to a shelter myself, I have seen firsthand how excited the children are to receive their new books, stuffed animals, and blankets. Project Night Night is a wonderful charity and is really making a difference in the lives of kids in need.” –Kiwi 17