Fun Ways To Give Locally

As the holidays approach, our thoughts turn to those in need and we seek ways to give back to our communities.

Below are a few notable charities, not far from Public Market Emeryville, that welcome support throughout the year. For a comprehensive guide to holiday volunteering, here’s a handy list from KQED >

ALAMEDA COUNTY FOOD BANK
This local charity provides food to 240 nonprofit agencies throughout Alameda County and distributed 25 million meals in 2014 — with over half of the food consisting of fresh produce.

How You Can Help:

  • Food Sorting — Help out during the week (when they really could use extra hands) or on weekends in their warehouse by registering online.
  • Donate Food – There are food drop-off bins set up throughout Alameda County. Many of these are at schools, churches, and grocery stores; check their interactive map to find locations.
  • Participate in the ACCFB’s Virtual Food Drive where every $1 donated purchases $6 in food.

BOOST! WEST OAKLAND
Boost! was recently named partner of the year by the Oakland Unified School District. Dedicated to empowering K-5 kids, Boost! coordinates volunteer tutors who help students strengthen skills in reading, writing, oral language, math and science.

How You Can Help:
In addition to donating money, supplies, equipment and snacks for students, supporters can volunteer their time.

Apply here to be a Boost! volunteer >

HACK THE HOOD
This Oakland based non-profit introduces low-income youth of color to careers in tech by hiring and training them to build websites for small businesses in their own communities.

How You Can Help:

Donate your time. Volunteers can:

  • Be a trainer at Hack the Hood’s six-week “Boot Camp” (2 hour/week commitment)
  • Participate on a guest panel (one 2 hour panel with Q&As afterwards)
  • Host a trip to your workplace (a 4-6 hour commitment, with planning)

Here’s how to apply >

Enjoy the holiday season!