National Volunteer Week: How To Get Involved Around Austin

AUSTIN, TX — National Volunteer Week is back for its 47th year and, despite the coronavirus shuttering many in-person gatherings, Austinites still have plenty of options when it comes to getting involved.

The week of service, spearheaded by Points of Light, is dedicated to volunteers banding together to "build stronger communities and be a force that transforms the world," according to its website.

Do you know of other volunteer opportunities in and around Austin? Let us know in the comments below.

Here's how to get involved in and around Austin in 2021:

CASA of Travis County

CASA is looking for volunteers to work as court-appointed advocates for children in the child welfare system. Would-be advocates can learn more and submit an application online.

The Heart Gallery Outreach

The Heart Gallery is looking for volunteers to help raise awareness for children awaiting adoption. Volunteers help increase visibility and find adoptive families for children in the community. Volunteers can apply online.

Residents can also sign up to support and mentor children in the care of Child Protective Services.

Blood Drives

The Red Cross is also hosting blood drives during National Volunteer Week:

• Drury Inn & Suites — 6711 N. Interstate Highway 35 North
  • April 21 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Greater St. Johns COGIC — 7210 Providence Ave
  • April 22 — 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Residents can also donate blood by appointment at the following locations:

• 4300 N. Lamar Blvd, Austin
• 512-206-1266
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• 2132 N. Mays, Suite 900, Round Rock
• 512-206-1266
  • Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• 3100 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin
• 512-206-1266
  • Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Central Texas Food Bank

Volunteers can sign up to support the Central Texas Food Bank by helping prepare donations for distribution or distributing food at mobile food pantries. Residents can also sign up to host individual or team "virtual food drive" fundraisers.