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October
27
27
Ohio Volunteer Opportunities | 22 Incredible Causes in Ohio Worth Supporting
Giving back is an important piece of residing in any community. Not only does it benefit those in need, but it provides an opportunity to meet new people and become part of a cause greater than yourself.
While you can't go wrong donating or volunteering in any capacity, deciding which cause to support and how to take action can be overwhelming. Luckily, our agents and staff are here to help! They've provided recommendations for local, national and international charities — all with noble missions worth supporting. All you have to do is choose a cause that resonates with you, and start giving back!
The Know Theatre
Location: Cincinnati
Recommended by: Joe Mock
The Know Theatre is Cincinnati's self-proclaimed theatrical playground, showcasing creative voices, new works and surprising performances. The company does include a small (and mighty) staff, but relies heavily on volunteers for its success. If you support the arts and the integrity of live theatre, consider getting involved or donating!
The Franklin Park Conservatory
Location: Columbus
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
If you've ever visited the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, you know that it is a rare gem filled to the brim with natural beauty. The Conservatory maintains 88 acres of Franklin Park, much of which is free and open to the public, making volunteer hours and donations an essential part of its operation.
You can help by volunteering, donating, coming to a fundraising event, or joining the women's board.
Turnaround Community Outreach
Location: Canton
Recommended by: Beth Miller
This non-profit organization teaches people to rise above challenging circumstances in life, and supplies hot meals, free groceries, toiletries, clothing and more to families in need!
"If you are looking for a charity in Stark County to support, this is a great one," says Cutler agent Beth Miller. "Donations of money, new or gently used clothing, and diapers are much appreciated. If you would like to drop off donations at the North Canton Cutler Real Estate office, I will be glad to deliver them to TCO!"
Total Living Center
Location: Canton
Recommended by: Linda Sigler
The Total Living Center is a soup kitchen and ministry based in Canton. But as Cutler agent Linda Sigler says, it is so much more than that. "[The Total Living Center] provides hope," she says.
The organization provides meals 365 days a year to anyone in need, and also supplies groceries, clothes, toiletries, furniture and more. There is also an onsite hair salon to help make you look sharp if you are heading to a job interview, and commercial washers and dryers to do your laundry free of charge. The organization is entirely donor funded.
Information on how to get involved here.
Mid-Ohio Foodbank
Location: Grove City
Recommended by: Carolyn Ferguson
The Mid-Ohio Foodbank has a mission to end hunger for those less fortunate one nutritious meal at a time, and also to create a thriving, local community. The organization comes up with innovative ways to serve people, and mobilizes the public in its donation efforts, advocacy and volunteering.
Information on giving funds, food or time here.
One of a Kind Pets
Location: Akron
Recommended by: Melissa Strong
This rescue clinic truly is one of a kind, sheltering dogs, cats and other furry friends in need with donations from the public. The organization is dedicated to saving animal lives, rescuing pets in immediate danger from euthanization, finding them loving homes, and offering low-cost spaying and neutering services.
Make a donation here.
The Saint Baldrick's Foundation
Location: National Organization with a chapter in Columbus
Recommended by: Donna Rovan
The Saint Baldrick's foundation is a volunteer-powered charity that funds more in childhood cancer research grants than any organization aside from the U.S. government. Getting involved means helping to spread hope to infants, children, teens and young adults in the fight for their lives.
Here are some ways to get involved!
Crohn's & Colitis Foundation
Location: National organization with chapters in Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland
Recommended by: Christine Adam
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation is dedicated to finding the cures for Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, and also to improve the quality of life in children and adults affected by these diseases. The foundation hosts several marathons (and other team challenges) throughout the year to raise funds and awareness.
More information on how to get involved here.
United Cerebral Palsy Foundation
Location: National foundation with affiliates in Cincinnati and Cleveland
Recommended by: Amie Delavega
The mission of the United Cerebral Palsy Foundation is to provide life without limits for people with a wide spectrum of disabilities — advocating for support, education and full citizenship for those who need it, and providing physical, occupational, aquatic and art therapies. The foundation has been around since 1949, and has changed millions of lives since its inception.
Explore ways to give here!
The Ronald McDonald House Charities
Location: National organization with 23 locations across Ohio
Recommended by: Amie Delavega
The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide support and resources that help keep families together in the event of illness or an accident, and help provide easier access to healthcare when children need it most.
Information on how to get involved here!
The National Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk
Location: National event with locations throughout Ohio. Find one near you!
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
The Buddy Walk was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to promote acceptance and inclusion of those with Down syndrome. It has grown from just 17 walks to 250 all over the country, and is consistently ranked among the top fundraising events of the year nationwide.
Find information on ways to give here.
American Red Cross
Location: National organization
Recommended by: Linda Altomare
Every eight minutes, the American Red Cross responds to an emergency. They are the first responders, and dedicate themselves to providing relief after disasters big or small.
The organization is always looking for blood donations, which is an easy way to give back! Find a drive or make an appointment near you today.
JDRF
Location: National Organization with chapters in Southwest Ohio, Central Ohio, and Northeast Ohio
Recommended by: JoAnn Clark
JDRF leads the global effort in Type 1 diabetes research and aims to keep people healthy and safe until a cure is found. JoAnn Clark participates in the annual JDRF walk every year, and encourages friends and family members to do the same. "Every dollar raised during the annual walk helps to create a world without Type 1," she says. "We are getting closer!"
Visit your local chapter page for information on how to help!
Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility
Location: Massillon
Recommended by: Christina Spurr
The Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility serves male youth, providing a variety of services and treatment options for youth — including a fully accredited high school, health care, religious services, recreation, community service opportunities and reentry services. Volunteer inquiries can be directed to Chaplain Keith Neal at 330-837-4211.
Wishes Can Happen, Inc.
Location: North Canton
Recommended by: Suzi Stepanovich
Since 1982, Wishes Can Happen, Inc. has granted more than 1,000 wishes for children with life-threatening diseases. Wishes can be anything — from being a princess for a day or meeting your real-life hero, to embarking on a vacation or exploring Disney World. All wishes are entirely donor funded!
"I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the children and families who have received a wish," says Cutler agent Suzi Stepanovich. "Their tenacity in the face of a life threatening illness inspires me."
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Location: National organization with a location in Cincinnati
Recommended by: Barbara Montague
This healthcare system is made up of 22 facilities dedicated to providing innovative specialty care to burn victims and those needing reconstructive surgery — regardless of the family's ability to pay. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for treatment!
Make a donation (or explore other ways to give) here!
Honor Flight
Location: National organization based in Springfield, Ohio with a chapter in Columbus
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
The Honor Flight network was created to honor veterans, and to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience to thank them for their services and sacrifices. The heroes are transported to Washington D.C. to visit and reflect upon war memorials. Top priority is currently given to World War II survivors and terminally ill veterans.
"My father was a WWII Veteran and we were able to participate in one of the Honor Flights a few years back," says Deb Saczawa. "It was an amazing experience, and I knew then I wanted to always contribute to this cause so other veterans and their families could also share the trip together."
Information on how to donate, apply or nominate a veteran here.
Wounded Warrior Project
Location: National organization
Recommended by: Barbara Montague, Linda Altomare
The Wounded Warrior Project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and mental well-being of wounded veterans, and offers a variety of programs, services and community events for those injured in action. The program now serves tens of thousands of veterans every year.
Donate or join a fundraiser today!
Community & Housing | Arts & Culture | Food & Shelter | Animals | Health | Youth | Veterans
COMMUNITY & HOUSING
Photo courtesy of Give Back Cincinnati
Rotary Location: North Canton Recommended by: Emily Levitt-Iero and Denise Evans The Rotary Club Central was established in the community in 2012, and offers clubs and districts a quantifiable way to measure local and global impact — specifically membership initiatives, service activities and giving. Through the foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting education and growing local economies. Find information on how to get involved here. Give Back Cincinnati Location: Cincinnati Recommended by: Rob Porter Give Back Cincinnati is a local organization dedicated to bolstering today's communities and developing tomorrow's leaders. They call it community service with a social twist, meaning that members and volunteers can participate in as many or as few opportunities as they'd like, and build relationships while they're at it. Cutler agent Rob Porter actually helped to found the organization 16 years ago, and still enjoys volunteering whenever he can! Information on how to start giving back here. Habitat for Humanity Location: International organization with locations throughout Ohio. Recommended by: Jamie Bowman This international organization helps to provide homes and build communities for those in need. Homes are built entirely with donations and volunteer labor, and Habitat makes no profit from the sales. Since its inception in 1976, Habitat has helped more than four million people construct, rehabilitate and preserve homes. Find your local Habitat here and start making a difference.ARTS & CULTURE
The Know Theatre
Location: Cincinnati
Recommended by: Joe Mock
The Know Theatre is Cincinnati's self-proclaimed theatrical playground, showcasing creative voices, new works and surprising performances. The company does include a small (and mighty) staff, but relies heavily on volunteers for its success. If you support the arts and the integrity of live theatre, consider getting involved or donating!
The Franklin Park Conservatory
Location: Columbus
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
If you've ever visited the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, you know that it is a rare gem filled to the brim with natural beauty. The Conservatory maintains 88 acres of Franklin Park, much of which is free and open to the public, making volunteer hours and donations an essential part of its operation.
You can help by volunteering, donating, coming to a fundraising event, or joining the women's board.
FOOD & SHELTER
Turnaround Community Outreach
Location: Canton
Recommended by: Beth Miller
This non-profit organization teaches people to rise above challenging circumstances in life, and supplies hot meals, free groceries, toiletries, clothing and more to families in need!
"If you are looking for a charity in Stark County to support, this is a great one," says Cutler agent Beth Miller. "Donations of money, new or gently used clothing, and diapers are much appreciated. If you would like to drop off donations at the North Canton Cutler Real Estate office, I will be glad to deliver them to TCO!"
Total Living Center
Location: Canton
Recommended by: Linda Sigler
The Total Living Center is a soup kitchen and ministry based in Canton. But as Cutler agent Linda Sigler says, it is so much more than that. "[The Total Living Center] provides hope," she says.
The organization provides meals 365 days a year to anyone in need, and also supplies groceries, clothes, toiletries, furniture and more. There is also an onsite hair salon to help make you look sharp if you are heading to a job interview, and commercial washers and dryers to do your laundry free of charge. The organization is entirely donor funded.
Information on how to get involved here.
Mid-Ohio Foodbank
Location: Grove City
Recommended by: Carolyn Ferguson
The Mid-Ohio Foodbank has a mission to end hunger for those less fortunate one nutritious meal at a time, and also to create a thriving, local community. The organization comes up with innovative ways to serve people, and mobilizes the public in its donation efforts, advocacy and volunteering.
Information on giving funds, food or time here.
ANIMALS
One of a Kind Pets
Location: Akron
Recommended by: Melissa Strong
This rescue clinic truly is one of a kind, sheltering dogs, cats and other furry friends in need with donations from the public. The organization is dedicated to saving animal lives, rescuing pets in immediate danger from euthanization, finding them loving homes, and offering low-cost spaying and neutering services.
Make a donation here.
Columbus Humane
Location: Hilliard Recommended by: Katherine White Columbus Humane has dedicated itself to providing advanced animal welfare since 1883. Its top-notch services have put the organization on the map nationally. The work covers adoptions of course, but also cruelty investigations, low-cost spaying and neutering services, microchipping and more. The organization helps humans as well, supporting victims of domestic violence who are trying to leave a dangerous situation by providing temporary housing for their companion animals while they find a new arrangement. The society will provide care for all furry friends — big and small, and relies largely on donations and volunteer contributions. There are so many ways to get involved with Columbus humane, either by donating, fostering a pet, or sharing your time to take care of the animals! More information on that here.HEALTH
The Saint Baldrick's Foundation
Location: National Organization with a chapter in Columbus
Recommended by: Donna Rovan
The Saint Baldrick's foundation is a volunteer-powered charity that funds more in childhood cancer research grants than any organization aside from the U.S. government. Getting involved means helping to spread hope to infants, children, teens and young adults in the fight for their lives.
Here are some ways to get involved!
Crohn's & Colitis Foundation
Location: National organization with chapters in Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland
Recommended by: Christine Adam
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation is dedicated to finding the cures for Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, and also to improve the quality of life in children and adults affected by these diseases. The foundation hosts several marathons (and other team challenges) throughout the year to raise funds and awareness.
More information on how to get involved here.
United Cerebral Palsy Foundation
Location: National foundation with affiliates in Cincinnati and Cleveland
Recommended by: Amie Delavega
The mission of the United Cerebral Palsy Foundation is to provide life without limits for people with a wide spectrum of disabilities — advocating for support, education and full citizenship for those who need it, and providing physical, occupational, aquatic and art therapies. The foundation has been around since 1949, and has changed millions of lives since its inception.
Explore ways to give here!
The Ronald McDonald House Charities
Location: National organization with 23 locations across Ohio
Recommended by: Amie Delavega
The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide support and resources that help keep families together in the event of illness or an accident, and help provide easier access to healthcare when children need it most.
Information on how to get involved here!
The National Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk
Location: National event with locations throughout Ohio. Find one near you!
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
The Buddy Walk was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to promote acceptance and inclusion of those with Down syndrome. It has grown from just 17 walks to 250 all over the country, and is consistently ranked among the top fundraising events of the year nationwide.
Find information on ways to give here.
American Red Cross
Location: National organization
Recommended by: Linda Altomare
Every eight minutes, the American Red Cross responds to an emergency. They are the first responders, and dedicate themselves to providing relief after disasters big or small.
The organization is always looking for blood donations, which is an easy way to give back! Find a drive or make an appointment near you today.
JDRF
Location: National Organization with chapters in Southwest Ohio, Central Ohio, and Northeast Ohio
Recommended by: JoAnn Clark
JDRF leads the global effort in Type 1 diabetes research and aims to keep people healthy and safe until a cure is found. JoAnn Clark participates in the annual JDRF walk every year, and encourages friends and family members to do the same. "Every dollar raised during the annual walk helps to create a world without Type 1," she says. "We are getting closer!"
Visit your local chapter page for information on how to help!
YOUTH
Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility
Location: Massillon
Recommended by: Christina Spurr
The Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility serves male youth, providing a variety of services and treatment options for youth — including a fully accredited high school, health care, religious services, recreation, community service opportunities and reentry services. Volunteer inquiries can be directed to Chaplain Keith Neal at 330-837-4211.
Wishes Can Happen, Inc.
Location: North Canton
Recommended by: Suzi Stepanovich
Since 1982, Wishes Can Happen, Inc. has granted more than 1,000 wishes for children with life-threatening diseases. Wishes can be anything — from being a princess for a day or meeting your real-life hero, to embarking on a vacation or exploring Disney World. All wishes are entirely donor funded!
"I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the children and families who have received a wish," says Cutler agent Suzi Stepanovich. "Their tenacity in the face of a life threatening illness inspires me."
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Location: National organization with a location in Cincinnati
Recommended by: Barbara Montague
This healthcare system is made up of 22 facilities dedicated to providing innovative specialty care to burn victims and those needing reconstructive surgery — regardless of the family's ability to pay. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for treatment!
Make a donation (or explore other ways to give) here!
VETERANS
Honor Flight
Location: National organization based in Springfield, Ohio with a chapter in Columbus
Recommended by: Deb Saczawa
The Honor Flight network was created to honor veterans, and to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience to thank them for their services and sacrifices. The heroes are transported to Washington D.C. to visit and reflect upon war memorials. Top priority is currently given to World War II survivors and terminally ill veterans.
"My father was a WWII Veteran and we were able to participate in one of the Honor Flights a few years back," says Deb Saczawa. "It was an amazing experience, and I knew then I wanted to always contribute to this cause so other veterans and their families could also share the trip together."
Information on how to donate, apply or nominate a veteran here.
Wounded Warrior Project
Location: National organization
Recommended by: Barbara Montague, Linda Altomare
The Wounded Warrior Project is dedicated to the rehabilitation and mental well-being of wounded veterans, and offers a variety of programs, services and community events for those injured in action. The program now serves tens of thousands of veterans every year.
Donate or join a fundraiser today! 
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