Looking to make a positive impact in Orange County this summer? Check out these 5 amazing volunteer opportunities supporting local nonprofit organizations! Each offers rewarding opportunities for giving back while making the most of the sunshine and outdoors this season.

1. Care for Animals at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach

If you have a passion for marine life, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center provides an immersive volunteering experience that gives you the chance to engage with marine creatures, learn about conservation efforts, and help protect the ocean and its inhabitants.

As a volunteer, you’ll participate in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured or sick marine mammals. You can sign up to assist in animal care, participate in educational programs, or even help run their gift shop and pop-up kiosks.

2. Build Dreams of Affordable Homeownership with Habitat for Humanity of Orange County in Santa Ana

For those who enjoy working with their hands and making a tangible impact, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County offers volunteer opportunities in construction, home repair, and neighborhood revitalization projects. From swinging hammers to painting walls, your efforts will quite literally and directly help build safe and stable homes for families in need in Orange County.

Rather stay in the air conditioning? Volunteer at their ReStores in Santa Ana and Anaheim. Whether you wish to learn new skills or just help out, your volunteer hours help lower costs, so more money can go directly to Habitat OC’s mission of building affordable homes.

3. Protect Our Waterways with Orange County Coastkeeper in San Clemente or Huntington Beach

For those who love the ocean and are concerned about environmental conservation, Orange County Coastkeeper offers volunteer opportunities to protect and restore the region’s coastlines and waterways.

There are several great ways to get involved, including beach cleanups and restoration projects. As a volunteer, you’ll contribute to creating cleaner and healthier marine ecosystems while enjoying the beautiful coastal views.

4. Help Preserve Parks and History with OC Parks

OC Parks offers a variety of volunteer opportunities across Orange County parks, beaches, and trails (including the OC Zoo!). These opportunities can involve anything from park cleanups and habitat restoration to educational programs and special events.

This is a fantastic way to spend time outdoors while helping to maintain the natural beauty of Orange County. Check out the full list of opportunities.

5. Care for Horses and People with Disabilities at the Therapeutic Riding Center of Huntington Beach

The Therapeutic Riding Center of Huntington Beach (TRCHB) provides equine-assisted therapy to individuals with physical and developmental challenges to help build confidence, strength, and independence. Volunteers support therapeutic riding sessions by either caring for the horses or serving as side-walkers and horse leaders with program participants.

TRCHB requests that volunteers commit to a full 8-week session (at least one day per week) in order to help students excel. They also provide incentives for volunteers who track a certain number of hours, from a t-shirt to your very own riding lesson or trail ride! Learn about volunteering with TRCHB here.