Most nursing students have a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. While attending the Marian University accelerated nursing program in Indianapolis, making a difference doesn't have to end with your work and studies. In fact, it doesn't have to stop at health care. Indianapolis offers many opportunities to volunteer in the community. Here are just a few:
Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc.
Our city is gorgeous and a group of giving volunteers seeks to keep it that way. Founded in 1976, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc. is funded by donations and kept thriving by more than 40,000 hard-working volunteers who work at recycling events, adopt neighborhood blocks, work as ambassadors in the office and warehouse, take photos at events, care for trees around the city and fund raise. Interested in helping them out? Join as an individual or gather a group of your fellow students, and contact the organization.
The Julian Center
Supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crisis situations, The Julian Center has been on a mission to help those suffering build a life free of abuse for 38 years. The organization provides advocacy, education, shelter and more. And they're so good at it that they've been used as a model for communities looking for ways to improve their domestic violence responses across the country! Every year, they help more than 6,500 victims. Their volunteer program includes something for every type of volunteer. You can tutor children, speak to community groups, garden, lead financial classes and more. Find out how.
FACE Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic
If your nurturing nature doesn't stop with wanting to help humans, help animals at FACE Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic. Established in 1999, the organization's goal is to reduce the homeless pet population in the Indianapolis area by providing affordable spay and neuter services to pet owners. You can help by greeting visitors at the clinic or serving on the outreach committee. While FACE isn't an animal shelter, they do take in several cats and dogs from rescue situations. That means they also need volunteers to walk dogs, clean kennels and foster animals in their home. Find out more.
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
Do you have a background in photography? Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS) is a fantastic opportunity to use your talent to make a lasting impact on a family suffering loss. Even if you don't have a professional photography background, you can work with the program as a community volunteer or assistant. The organization seeks to introduce remembrance photography to parents suffering the loss of a baby by providing professional portraits. The hope is that the images volunteers provide help the family start the road to healing. See how you can help.
The Indianapolis Public Library
The branches of the Indianapolis Public Library need volunteer assistance on a regular basis. You can assist by shelving, providing computer support, helping with special projects and events, delivering library materials to home-bound residents and more. The time commitment of a volunteer can be as little as two hours a month, but you'll be needed if you'd like to put in more hours! The library also has an adult literacy program called IndyReads that needs volunteers to work as tutors. If you'd like to be a literacy tutor, you will receive comprehensive training. Check this volunteer opportunity out.
The Salvation Army
The Indiana division of the Salvation Amy is recognized as a leader in serving God through statewide community programs. The organization provides drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation, help for abused women and children, aid to the homeless population and multiple other programs aimed at meeting the humanitarian needs of those who are suffering. Volunteers are needed at events, in the facilities in Indianapolis and more. They provide the training you need to make the most impact and remain safe. Here's more.
The Indianapolis Museum of Art
Do you have a passion for art? Volunteer at the one of the top museums in the Indianapolis area! This opportunity allows you to help the community and spend time in a beautiful environment. You will receive on-site training for the volunteer position you choose from the many opportunities, including working in visitor information and the museum store, helping at special events and maintaining the grounds. The best part is that the IMA offers flexible schedules for its volunteers, so it's a great opportunity for a busy nursing student. Learn about volunteering.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana
Become a "big" in the Indianapolis area. Volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana have the chance to change the life of a child for the better. From playing sports to reading books, you and your little brother or sister will spend time together for at least a few hours each month. The organization tries to reach the children who need a mentor the most, such as those living in single-parent homes or growing up beneath the poverty line. When you sign up to volunteer, the goal is to pair you with a child who you share common interests with so both of you have fun while making a meaningful connection. Get started today.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to volunteering in Indianapolis. Here's a list of even more organizations where you can devote your time. Are you ready to make a difference by becoming a nurse in Indianapolis? Contact us today!