The COVID-19 pandemic really took its toll on people around the country over the last several years, and many are responding by renewing a commitment to or newly committing to volunteering in their small communities. This winter might be a perfect time for you to take your time, talent, and energy and direct it towards volunteering in Bandon for one or more of the many worthy causes.

The ways your volunteered time benefit others are many and varied, but did you know that it can benefit volunteers of all ages just as much? Volunteering helps tie people to the community and widen their support systems; develop social, employment, and general life skills; maintain mental and physical health; and live a longer and happier life. For more on the benefits of volunteering, click here.

There are many different opportunities for volunteering in Bandon and the surrounding area. Whether you are interested in working with children, the sick and elderly, animals, hungry families or books, everyone is sure to find something to fit their needs and interests.

BRAVO: Bandon Readers and Volunteers Organization Volunteering in Bandon ‘s schools is very rewarding for those interested in working with kids. Volunteers with the BRAVO program at Ocean Crest Elementary helps 1st and 2nd grade students on Tuesday afternoons develop their reading skills by reading with them. Contact the Ocean Crest at 541-347-9282 for more information.

Bandon Community Youth Center (BCYC) The BCYC is a place for students to go after school for homework help and fun and educational activities and workshops. There’s always something exciting going on from knitting to gardening to moviemaking! The BCYC depends on volunteers to make their workshops, camps, and after school activities happen. To keep their costs low and direct all of its funds to kids’ programs, they can always use help. Call (541) 347-8336 for more information.

CHH Hospice Coastal Home Health and Hospice is looking for compassionate volunteers to help support patients and their families in the home and in indirect care with administrative-office support. Volunteers help families and the CHH Hospice staff throughout Coos and Curry Counties. For more information, call the Volunteer Coordinator at 541-512-5040 or email at volunteer@coastalhhh.org.

CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates If you are interested in helping children who have been abused or neglected, consider becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate. CASA volunteers work with the court system and Oregon Department of Human Services to ensure that all necessary information is given to the court so judges can make the best decisions for children. If you are interested, attend an informational meeting on January 28 from 2-4 p.m. at The Grounds coffee shop inside Books by the Bay at 1875 Sherman in North Bend. Volunteers will receive 30 hours of free training in March and April. If you are interested, contact Felicia Garland at (541) 435-7080 ext. 321, or email her at fgarland@orcca.us.

Bandon Public Library For those looking for flexibility and a bookish environment, consider spending some time volunteering in Bandon ‘s Public Library. Helpers are always needed to check in and shelve books. Stop in at the library at 1204 11^th St. SW or call 541-347-3221 if you are interested.

Bandon Library Friends and Foundation (BLFF) The BLFFs mission is to furnish and continue to improve the Bandon Library with a view towards the inevitable growth and needs of the community. They sponsor activities to advance literature and learning as well as special programs that enrich the lives of Bandons children, families, seniors, and new readers of all ages. Volunteers are needed to help coordinate, prepare for and run their quality events. Email the BLFF at BLFF@bandonlff.org if you are interested.

Coos County Animal Shelter Many people find themselves drawn to helping the non-human animals in our community. To volunteer with the Coos County Animal Shelter, pick up an application at the shelter or use their website to download an application. To volunteer, you must be 18 years old and pass a simple background check, then you’ll be on your way to many of the positions available. For more information, contact 541-297-5115/

Bandon Feeds the Hungry Bandon Feeds the Hungry is an umbrella organization incorporating Everyone At Table (E.A.T.), Good Neighbors Food Bank, and Senior Nutrition (Meals on Wheels). Bandon Senior Nutrition/Meals on Wheels Contact Bandon Senior Nutrition to find out how to volunteer. 1100 West 11TH 541-347-3181 E.A.T. Everyone At Table E.A.T., Inc., run entirely by volunteers, has been dedicated to serving nutritious meals to community members on a limited income since 2004. They are often looking for volunteers to sweep and mop, make salads, serve salads, and wash dishes. Call Allison Hundley, 541-404-2268, for more information. Good Neighbors Community Food Bank Volunteer-run Good Neighbors needs volunteers to assist them in acquiring and distributing food to needy individuals and families in the geographic area of Bandon, Oregon. They serve approximately 165 Bandon families a month. For information, contact Keith Young at 541-347-3268.

Bandon Chamber of Commerce Helping visitors and tourists might be right up your volunteer alley. The Bandon Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers who love Bandon and enjoy meeting new people to help with the only regional visitor information center staffed by volunteers year-round. Volunteers are needed four hours a week for meeting visitors and locals and answering questions about area businesses, activities and events. Training is provided. Call 541-347-9616 for more information.

Volunteering in Bandon and beyond does not have to be confined to organizations with websites and email addresses. Look around you and pay attention to the needs in the community. Perhaps you would enjoy working in your child’s classroom. Or you see that your elderly neighbors grass needs cutting. You might notice that the single mom across the street doesn’t have time to walk her dog. Whatever you choose to do, a little time and energy on your part can go a long way in your community!