SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - As the new year begins, many residents are looking for ways to give back to their community. Volunteering offers a simple way to make a difference close to home, with plenty of local opportunities available. 

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches on Jan. 19, community members are invited to take part in the national day of service. Whether it’s helping local rescue animals or assisting at the library, here are some ways Pocket-Greenhaven residents can make a difference.

Assist Seniors at Maple Tree Village

If you have a passion for caring for others, consider volunteering at Maple Tree Village, an ACC Senior Services nonprofit assisted living facility at 18 Kado Court. Volunteers help enrich the lives of seniors by fostering social connection and assisting with group recreation and activities.

Opportunities include helping with special events, such as the annual Crab Feed Fundraiser on March 28, or volunteering at the facility on a regular basis. Volunteers will work with residents in assisted living and memory care under the supervision of Maple Tree Village staff. Activities include engaging with seniors in bingo, board and card games, crafts and cooking classes.

Contact Jasmine Holling at [email protected] or 916-503-5387 for volunteer eligibility. More information is available at accsv.org/volunteer.

Friends of Front Street Animal Shelter

Animal lovers in Pocket-Greenhaven can find volunteer opportunities just a 15-minute drive away at Front Street Animal Shelter, 2127 Front St.

The Friends of Front Street Animal Shelter, a nonprofit that supports the shelter and its operations, helps connect residents with volunteer opportunities that best fit their interests and availability. Volunteers can assist with animal care, walk dogs, support potential adopters and help with day-to-day shelter needs.

Those who prefer to help from home can promote adoptable animals, help plan community events or assist with fundraising efforts. Residents can also become foster providers, offering temporary care to pets who need extra attention before finding a permanent home.

For more information, visit friendsoffrontstreet.org/get-involved.

Volunteer 

at the Library

Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, at 7335 Gloria Drive, offers a range of volunteer opportunities supporting library programs, operations, fundraising events and community engagement. 

Volunteers can lead projects, work alongside library staff and fellow volunteers and gain hands-on experience.

The library hosts activities such as adult space game day, family storytime and adult knitting sessions. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, call 916-429-0926 or visit saclibrary.org/visit-us/robbie-waters-pocket-greenhaven.

Become a Homeless Outreach Volunteer

Volunteers are needed for the 2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a community effort to determine the number of people experiencing homelessness in Sacramento. 

The count helps officials understand why people become homeless, develop better policies and programs, track progress in reducing homelessness, and secure federal funding for local shelters and services.

The PIT Count will be held from 5 to 11 p.m. on Jan. 26 and 27. Registration is required by Jan. 15. No prior experience is necessary. Volunteers will receive training and materials provided ahead of the count.

Volunteers will also conduct brief surveys with willing participants to learn how long they have been homeless and what services could best assist them. While the primary focus will be on individuals living unsheltered outdoors, the overall PIT Count also includes those staying in respite centers and shelters.

To participate, volunteers must be at least 18 years old, be able to travel by foot and car to assigned locations, and bring a personal smartphone and flashlight. Those ready to help address homelessness can register at bit.ly/4qRlRK3 (case sensitive).

Explore further community service options available throughout the Sacramento area at the Regional Center for Volunteerism, HandsOn Sacramento, at handsonsacto.org.