Summer 2023 is here and so are the many local Hoboken + Jersey City opportunities to get involved. Whether it’s joining an organization for an event hosted this summer or making a longer term commitment, there is truly a way for everyone to give back to the community in our area — regardless of the type of opportunity you’re looking for. Hudson County offers so many resources for those in need and opportunities to be immersed in the community. Read on to find out how you can be involved — volunteering opportunities in Hoboken + Jersey City are listed chronologically for the summer as well as by category.
Know of an opportunity not listed? Please email hello@hobokengirl.com to request to be included. Must be a 501(c)(3).
Hoboken Housing Authority and Hoboken Public Library Senior Father’s Day BBQ | 221 Jackson Street, Hoboken
Wednesday, June 14th, 2023
Celebrate Dad with books and lunch. Join the Hoboken Public Library for books, crafts, and library card sign-up. Lunch will be provided to attendees by the Hoboken Housing Authority. Volunteers are needed. Learn more here.
Party with Purpose Annual 5K Race + Kids Fun Run | Pier A, Hoboken
Thursday, June 15th, 2023
Party with Purpose is back with one of the biggest races in Hoboken — its annual 5K and kids fun run. Starting a little earlier in the season this year, Party with Purpose will take over Pier A all day for fun with the kids, friendly competition of adults, and an after party all for a good cause. Opportunities to sign up or volunteer are all open now. Learn more here.
Read More: A List of Hoboken + Jersey City Non-Profits to Donate to Year-Round
The Thomas Edison Film Festival: A Celebration of Pride | 1301 Hudson Street, Hoboken
Saturday, June 17th, 2023
Starting at 6:30PM, The Hoboken Historical Museum is happy to present a series of short documentaries in partnership with Remakes, Reboots & Revivals podcast. This event will honor queer creatives and give attendees an opportunity to enjoy the films and conversation. Learn more here.
Whole Spectrum Autism 8th Annual Autism Acceptance Gala | 145 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
Thursday, June 22nd, 2023
Join Whole Spectrum Autism at its 8th Annual Autism Acceptance Gala on June 22nd. The gala will support the mission of Whole Spectrum Autism which is to facilitate community engagement and be a voice to families whose loved ones are on the spectrum. The event will be held at The Ashford in Jersey City and it starts at 6PM. Tickets can be purchased here for $150. To learn more about Whole Spectrum Autism and how to get involved, click here.
Walk/Run for Peace 5K | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
Saturday, June 24th, 2023
Hosted by Children in Conflict, this 5K walk/run in Liberty State Park benefits children living in conflict. After the run entertainment and snacks will be available. Participants of all ages and dogs are welcome to join in on the fun. Learn more here.
Christmas in July to Benefit the Hoboken Shelter Shipyard Park | 1 13th Street, Hoboken
Wednesday, July 19th, 2023
Think holiday market vendor fair, but in July. Join Double Dough Sweets + Treats and other local businesses for a night of fun to benefit the Hoboken Shelter. This inaugural event will collect donations for the Shelter. Those who donate will unlock access to freebies and promotions from participating vendors. Learn more by emailing double.dough29@gmail.com.
Hudson River Cup | Frank Sinatra Drive + Maxwell Place, Hoboken
Saturday, August 5th, 2023
The Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse is a great resource in town providing free kayaking for those interested. The Hudson River Cup is a day for experienced paddlers to compete. Volunteers are needed to make the day a success. Learn more here.
Angela Cares 6th Annual Senior Citizen Health Fair + Celebrating Senior Citizens Day | 140 MLK Drive, Jersey City
Monday, August 21st, 2023
Join Angela Cares for the 6th annual senior citizen health fair for Senior Citizen Day. The event will have health screenings for seniors, health education, and fun for all. The event is free for all and will run from 10AM-2PM. Learn more here.
ZERO Prostate Fun Run/Walk | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
Saturday, September 30th, 2023
A day of fun for everyone. Join in on the 5K run or walk the course. Not into running? There will be activities for the entire family to enjoy all while raising money to end prostate cancer. Food, vendors, prizes, and a superhero dash for kids will all be available. Learn more here.
On-Going Opportunities
SoulPhamm Advisory Board | Virtual Opportunity
SoulPhamm, a new non-profit in the Jersey City area, is looking for a new member to join its inaugural Junior Board. The organization has a mission of making a positive difference in the lives of young people by providing unique artistic and athletic experiences and performances, and to assist them in achieving the highest standards of professionalism through the development of discipline, skill, confidence, cooperation, leadership, responsibility, and character. Meetings are held once a month on a Monday from 6PM-7PM. Learn more about this opportunity here.
Food + Supply Donations
Computers 4 People | 51 Newark Street, Hoboken
As digital products continue to take over, what is known as the “digital divide” gets wider. The ‘digital divide’ is a term used to describe the lack of access to technology such as computers, tablets, smartphones, etc. due to decreased access to resources needed to obtain these products. Computers 4 People, started by teenager Dylan Zajac, is dedicated to collecting and refurbishing technology to distribute to individuals and groups in need. Computers 4 People will accept items such as old desktop computers, laptops, hard drives, tablets, keyboards, monitors, and more. The organization also accepts monetary donations. Additionally, if volunteers have experience in refurbishing computers or can store items, help in those areas is needed. Learn more here.
Dress for Success Hudson County | 591 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
Give confidence: this is the motto Dress for Success lives by. Dress for Success is a non-profit organization providing solutions to break the cycle of poverty for women. One of many ways the organization fulfills its mission is by making new and gently used professional attire available through collecting these items from generous donors. Items needed include professional suits and dresses, blouses, work-appropriate footwear, new/unused undergarments, jewelry, and handbags (briefcases, portfolios, etc.). Please keep in mind that many of the women benefitting from the donations often head straight to a job interview, so clothing must be dry-cleaned and ready to wear immediately. Clothes should not be more than five years old. To learn more about how to make a clothing or monetary donation, click here.
Hoboken Food Pantry | 1301 Washington Street, Hoboken
Nearly 25% of the Hoboken community relies on the help of the Hoboken Food Pantry, which is a part of the Hoboken Community Center. Its pantry is only stocked and distributed through the support of the community. The Food Pantry needs non-perishable food and personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, instant oatmeal, shelf-stable milk, deodorant, shampoo, canned pasta, cereal, and peanut butter, to name a few. To schedule a donation drop-off, bring items to the lobby of 1301 Washington Street. Contactless donations can be made through The Food Pantry’s Amazon Wish List. Items ordered on The Wish List will be sent directly to The Food Pantry. Additionally, The Food Pantry can now host in-person volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help pack, label, and distribute bags of food. Each session can host up to 13 volunteers in order to comply with CDC guidelines, and anyone ages 13 and up can help. Volunteers are asked to sign up before coming here. Learn more here.
Hoboken Shelter | 301 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken
The Hoboken Shelter hosts 50 guests nightly and serves more than 1,000 meals throughout the week. As a full-service community partner, the Hoboken Shelter is a necessary resource within the neighborhood. The Shelter is always in need of donations and support to help keep its doors open and welcoming its guests. To support, take a look at the list of 19 ways to support The Shelter during COVID-19 here. This list is inclusive of tasks like donating some of the most needed items like toiletries, coffee, sugar, milk, hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and paper products. The Shelter does have opportunities to host volunteers in person from 11AM-2PM and 6PM-7PM. Please call before arriving as The Shelter can only host 1-2 in-person volunteers at a time due to social distancing guidelines. Learn more here.
Westside Community Fridge | Delaware Avenue, Jersey City
The Westside Community Fridge in Jersey City provides fresh food to anyone in need 24/7. Volunteers are needed to donate food and monetary resources. Items such as fresh fruit, vegetables, yogurt, milk, non-perishables, and more are needed to support the community. Learn more here.
Recycling + Sustainability
Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse | Uptown Waterfront, Hoboken
The Hoboken Waterfront is home to some of the most breathtaking views of NYC as well as a playground for countless activities. The Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse wants residents to enjoy what the Hudson River has to offer while taking care of the space as well. HCCB encourages residents to pick up trash in the area as they see it, but will also start to host community pick-up times as weather permits. Volunteers are needed to support the clean-up efforts and can be trained to lead volunteer trips. Learn more here.
Round 2 Resources | Hoboken
Round 2 Resources allows items throughout our community to have a second chance and avoid landfills. The non-profit organization has made a commitment to protect the environment by gathering useful resources throughout the community and re-distributing these items to those who have a need for them. Its mission is not tied to just one cause; as the tagline suggests, “We are not fighting to champion one cause, we are fighting for the world.” To make a donation or volunteer, contact leadership at round2resources@gmail.com.
LGBTQ+ and Family
Hudson Pride Center | 176 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
Hudson Pride Center creates safe spaces to celebrate and enjoy life for members of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. It advocates for the physical, mental, and social well-being of all people. Volunteers are needed to support these efforts alongside full-time staff members. Opportunities include office assistant volunteers, a tutor specialist, a special event support facilities manager, and Pride Festival volunteers. To learn more about Hudson Pride Center and what each volunteer opportunity entails, click here.
Medical Assistance
Community Emergency Response Team | 715 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
Because a disaster can strike at any time, the Community Emergency Response Team in Jersey City wants to be sure that all members of the community are safe and well taken care of. This volunteer-based organization is always in need of support from residents. Volunteers are given hands-on and virtual training on basic first aid, fire extinguishing, rescue techniques, and more before becoming a member of the team. Learn here.
Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps | 707 Clinton Street, Hoboken
Getting to and from a healthcare facility in the event of an emergency is not something people think of until the time comes. Thankfully, one non-profit in Hoboken has this covered, but only with the help of volunteers. The Hoboken Ambulance Corps is a volunteer-based, free resource for the community. To keep the organization running, they need volunteers in many capacities. Learn more here.
Hudson County American Red Cross | 257 Cornelison Avenue, Jersey City
The American Red Cross has been ready to respond in times of disaster for decades, and the COVID-19 crisis is no different. More than ever, the American Red Cross is in need of volunteers to help us all get through this time together. While there are many different opportunities, the opportunity named “most urgent” in the North Jersey area is a Volunteer Driver. Drivers are needed to safely transport lifesaving blood from local blood drives to hospitals. Volunteers are asked to commit to 2-4 shifts per month with each shift being about 4 hours. All volunteers must have a valid driver’s license, at least 3 years of a clean driving record, and should be able to lift at least 45lbs. Learn more here.
Children + Education
Boys + Girls Club of Hudson County | 225 Morris Boulevard, Jersey City
Be a part of more than 100 years of history by volunteering with the Boys + Girls Club of Hudson County. This organization has been a staple in the community for decades thanks to the help of committed volunteers and impacts the lives of more than 1,500 students annually. Throughout the year, there are various opportunities to get involved as a one-time volunteer or to make a commitment to an ongoing effort. Volunteers are needed to support after-school programs, to serve as tutors, mentors, and coaches. Volunteers must fill out an application to be considered. Volunteers should be ready to provide emotional support, counsel, friendship, and positive reinforcement to the students. To learn more about the Boys + Girls Club of Hudson County, click here.
Community Lifestyle | 311 Harrison Street, Hoboken
Community Lifestyle understands the importance of getting children and teens involved in after-school and weekend activities to provide opportunities to socialize, learn, and grow in a positive environment. The organization’s values of stability, empathy, diversity, and connectedness can be seen through the programming provided throughout the year. Currently, the organization has opportunities for volunteers to get involved in numerous capacities. Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis for programs like T.A.L.E which provides teens with an insight into the business world. Learn more here.
Educational Arts Team | 300 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City
Educational Arts Team believes in using the power of art to empower children to see the world in a positive light, improve self-esteem, and promote academic success. Educational Arts Team organizes various events throughout the year to empower local children. Volunteers are needed for various tasks including administrative tasks in the office. To learn more about how to become a volunteer and what’s needed currently, click here.
Hoboken Family Alliance | Hoboken
One of the oldest non-profits in Hoboken, the Hoboken Family Alliance is a resource for children and families in the Mile Square. HFA typically puts on various events and provides opportunities for children to learn and play in a safe environment while providing families with various needs, necessary resources. HFA has several opportunities for volunteering through its committees and sub-committees such as marketing, special needs, fundraising, and more. To find what may be of interest, check out the website and fill out the volunteer form.
Hoboken Historical Museum | 1301 Hudson Street, Hoboken
The Hoboken Historical Museum was able to open during phase two of the COVID-19 Reopening Plan. With the ability to accept a limited number of guests and to participate safely in city-wide events, the Hoboken Historical Museum is periodically in need of volunteers. To check if a need comes up and slots are available, check the sign-up form here. Volunteers are usually needed to set up information pamphlets, welcome registered guests, organize literature, etc. Learn more here.
Hoboken Public Library Foundation | Hoboken
The Hoboken Public Library provides necessary, educational resources to the community and allows for access to these resources. Many elements of the library rely on the support of community members. The Library is currently accepting donations through both the Friends Organization and Foundation. Learn more here.
Hudson County Court Appointed Special Advocates | 442 Hoboken Avenue, Jersey City
Hudson County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is consistently in need of volunteers. Once involved, CASA volunteers help to advocate for children in the foster care system by communicating to a judge on behalf of the child’s best interest after evaluating the child’s living environment. To become a volunteer, you must fill out a Volunteer Inquiry Form here. Once that’s completed, you will receive instructions on how to complete a 30-hour mandatory training course. Please keep in mind that this commitment must be upheld for a minimum of one year. Hudson County CASA is run by the donations of generous supporters. Learn more here.
HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc. | 301 Garden Street, Hoboken
Established in 1964, HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc. is a non-profit agency responding to the various needs of all people throughout the community. HOPES provides numerous opportunities for children, adults, and seniors to ensure success and overcome barriers that may cause poverty. Volunteers are needed in all capacities for all age groups and opportunities to support varies according to the current need. To learn more about the organization and how to get involved, click here.
Symposia Bookstore | 510 Washington Street, Hoboken
Symposia Bookstore is the only non-profit store dealing with used books in Hoboken. The store has been in existence since 2001 and is run by the husband and wife team, Carmen and Corneliu Rusu. Symposia is run on donations from the community. Local residents are encouraged to donate used books to Symposia, donate monetarily, and volunteer in person. Learn more here.
TRUE Mentors | Hoboken + Virtual
TRUE Mentors is Hoboken’s only one-to-one mentor program. The program matches children ages 7-17 with trained mentors. Volunteers are needed to serve as mentors and can sign up to be trained. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and must make at least a 1-year commitment to their mentee for a minimum of 8 hours per month. Learn more here.
Write on Sports | Jersey City
Started in 2005 by a former sportswriter, Write on Sports is a non-profit organization whose mission is to fill in writing curriculum gaps by giving students the opportunity to learn through sports. Thousands of children each year fall behind in writing skills due to a lack of understanding, lack of resources, or simply a lack of interest in the writing topics in a traditional curriculum. Write on Sports allows students to improve literacy skills through a topic that interests many middle schoolers: sports. The organization has expanded over the past 16 years and now has a chapter in Jersey City. The Jersey City Chapter needs a Volunteer Assistant, Partnership Coordinator, and Social Media Intern. Learn more here.
Animals
Wise Animal Rescue
Wise Animal Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of all dog breeds. The rescue facility works with veterinary services to rescue and provide services/resources to dogs of all ages and breeds who have previously been in unsafe environments. Volunteer opportunities are available with Wise Animal Rescue in various capacities. Individuals are needed to help with adoption events, administrative tasks, fundraising, social media, fostering animals, and transportation. To submit a volunteer application, click here. Learn more here.
See More: Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities in Essex County
Liberty Humane Society | 235 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City
Liberty Humane Society is a homeless animal shelter servicing Hoboken, Jersey City, and Bayonne. The mission is to foster a community of compassion and respect and provide animals in need with a chance at a lifelong, loving home. Currently, in-person volunteer opportunities at the shelter are suspended, but check out the shelter’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates. Foster opportunities, however, are available. Fosters are most often needed for large dogs and cats. To apply to become a foster, click here.
See Spot Rescued | Jersey City
See Spot Rescued is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dog rescue based in Jersey City, NJ, and Austin, TX, whose mission is to provide loving forever homes to dogs everywhere. The organization is 100% volunteer-run and is always looking for more people to join the team. Volunteers are needed to transport dogs throughout the tri-state area, support rescue events, organize fundraising efforts, make calls, and foster. No time commitment is too large or too small. To learn more about See Spot Rescued and to consider becoming a foster, click here.
