In Vancouver, Washington, a vibrant network of organizations is dedicated to strengthening our community through volunteerism and mutual aid. These groups provide essential services and create opportunities for residents to connect and contribute.
Assistance League Southwest Washington
The Assistance League Southwest Washington is an all-volunteer nonprofit committed to transforming lives and strengthening our community. Their programs support local children by supplying shoes, clothing, and literacy materials to 26 schools with high poverty levels. They also provide new clothing to youth in foster care and offer sponsorships for pediatric therapy. Additionally, they equip local hospital emergency rooms with Assault Survivor Kits®, ensuring that survivors have new clothing to make a fresh start. Their efforts extend to maintaining a playground garden where preschoolers can learn about planting and harvesting vegetables. Learn more about their initiatives.
Fort Vancouver Lions Club
Established in 1955, the Fort Vancouver Lions Club has a long history of serving the sight and hearing impaired, the disadvantaged, homeless, and at-risk students and families in Vancouver and Clark County. They collaborate with local organizations to extend their services regionally and globally. The club meets every Friday at noon at the Golden Corral on NE Fourth Plain Blvd. Those interested in attending a meeting can contact them via email. Discover more about their mission and activities.
Synergy Society SW Washington
Synergy Society SW Washington is a grassroots hub that fosters mutual aid and people-powered initiatives in the Vancouver area. They host monthly fairs and gatherings in collaboration with community-led mutual aid groups, sharing food, supplies, and resources. Their approach is rooted in solidarity, emphasizing that everyone gives and everyone gains. They also highlight and support local mutual aid groups such as The Vancouver Mutual Aid, Vancouver Free Fridge, Free Hot Soup Vancouver, Kindred Vancouver, and Our Third Space. Explore their community-driven efforts.
Unitarian Universalist Church of Vancouver
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Vancouver partners with local organizations to support unhoused individuals in the community. They provide meals, supplies, and volunteer shifts, and spend quality time with families in partner programs. They support the Winter Hospitality Program, an interfaith and community-supported overflow shelter offering temporary winter shelter to unhoused individuals. The program operates from November 1 to March 31 each year at St. Andrew Lutheran Church. Find out how you can get involved.
Engaging with these organizations not only enriches the lives of those they serve but also strengthens the fabric of our community. Whether through volunteering, donating, or participating in events, there are numerous ways to contribute to Vancouver’s collective well-being.