10 Places to Volunteer in Lower Merion and Narberth

Have some extra time this holiday season, or looking to start the new year off right? Here are 10 Lower Merion and Narberth organizations where you can volunteer for one-time events or on an ongoing basis.

This is certainly not an exhaustive list, so feel free to leave your own suggestions in the comments. 

1. Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation: Based in Wynnewood, Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation raises money for childhood cancer research through a number of large- and small-scale fundraising events each year. Volunteers can work special events, serve as Lemonade Day ambassadors, work in the ALSF office, or help with social media networking. Read the volunteer opportunities page on the ALSF websie.

2. Cynwyd Heritage Trail: You can participate during a trail workday, join a committee, or help in another way at the Cynwyd Heritage Trail.

3. Lower Merion Conservancy: Lower Merion Conservancy is a nonprofit group dedicated to open spaces and clear streams. You can volunteer by serving as a stream keeper, birdwatcher, butterfly counter, gardener or more. See volunteer opportunities here. 

4. PALM: The Center for Positive Aging in Lower Merion helps foster community connections for older adults in the Lower Merion community. Volunteers can help in a variety of ways, including fundraising, marketing, trip escort, administrative supports and more. Check out more.

5. ElderNet: Since 1976, ElderNet has helped older and disabled adults, in Lower Merion and Narberth, to remain living independently and safely in their homes by providing free, practical, volunteer, and social work services. Their mission of "neighbors helping neighbors" relies on volunteers and community support.

6. Jewish Relief Agency: Based in Bala Cynwyd, JRAid needs volunteers to help home bound seniors with transportation to medical appointments and the grocery store. They also need help distributing food to over 3,000 low income households in the Philadelphia area. 

7. Main Line Health: Volunteers are needed to support Bryn Mawr Hospital and Paoli Hospital in bringing excellent care to the community. People of all ages, from high school through retirees, are encouraged to share their time and interests. Call 484-337-3058 or email if you would like to become a volunteer.

8. Ardmore Food Pantry: St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Ardmore works year-round to provide food to the needy in the area. Donations are always welcome, and volunteers "are needed to help staff the Food Pantry, collect food items, donate to the Spare Change-Spare Hunger fund, and to organizing events benefitting the Food Pantry." For more information, check out the pantry's website for a list of needed items, or contact Mike Finney at mfinney@stmarysardmore.org.

9. Lower Merion Library System: The Lower Merion Library System relies on volunteers to work at the front circulation desk, help with shelving, assist with data entry and work on other projects, as needed. The library asks for a commitment of three hours every week or every other week. For more information, visit the volunteer page on the LMLS website.

10. Lower Merion Watch: Community members can join Lower Merion Community Watch to meet people and to help make your home and community a safer place. Visit www.lmcommunitywatch.org for more information.

Know another great Lower Merion or Narberth organization where residents can volunteer this season? Tell us in the comments.