7 Places to Volunteer This Holiday Season

It's the season of giving and today we're featuring a few places in Natick where you can give back to the community by volunteering.

1. food pantry is always looking for donated non-perishable foods and toiletries, so if there are cans on your shelf you won't use or there's a sale at the grocery store, consider picking up some things to donate. If you'd like to volunteer at the pantry, call 508-655-8868 to see when they have the most need.

2. Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to drive meals to residents who are stuck at home. Drivers can work any days they choose between Monday and Friday from about 10:15 to noon, delivering 20 meals each day. Call 508-647-6540 if you'd like to participate. More information is available on the town website.

3. The Council on Aging is looking for volunteers to socialize with senior citizens or residents with disabilities that can't get out and about easily. You can visit or call the residents on the phone to help brighten their days. Call 508-647-6540 if you are interested in participating. You can fill out an application Online.

4. The Center for Arts in Natick is searching for people to volunteer—and you don't need to be knowledgeable in arts. To apply to help at TCAN, fill out an Online application.

5. Also through the Council on Aging, the CHORE program is looking for people to help clean and perform chores around the house for Natick's seniors and those with disabilities. Call 508-647-6540 if you're interested.

6. The Massachusetts Audubon Society is looking for volunteers to help clear invasive species from trails at Natick's through April. You should be able to use small tools to cut back brush and plants. If you're interested in volunteering, contact the volunteer coordinator at by email at broadmoor@massaudubon.org.

7. The can always use volunteers to help pickup, distribute and stock food for their food pantry, work in the thrift shop and help out in other ways. The council is also looking for people to help with the holiday gift program in the week before Christmas. If you're interested in volunteering, fill out an Online application and call Patty Shaffer at 508-655-1791, extension 13 to discuss how you can get involved.