Looking for a Way to Get Involved? Volunteer.

As school-year routines settle in and calendars begin filling up again, September can be a great time to look for new ways to connect with the community around us. And one of the best ways to do that is surprisingly simple: volunteer. You don't need to make a huge commitment. An occasional morning, a few hours each month or even a single day of service can make a difference. Along the way, volunteering gives us a chance to meet neighbors we might not otherwise know, learn more about our community and help make Glendora a little stronger. Here are a few places to start.

Help Neighbors Through Shepherd's Pantry

For those who want to make an immediate, hands-on difference, Shepherd's Pantry offers a variety of opportunities at its Glendora location. Individuals and groups can volunteer, and opportunities are available for people completing community-service hours as well. Current options include morning, afternoon and all-day crews.

Spend Some Time With Glendora's Seniors

The La Fetra Center relies on volunteers to help with reception, nutrition programs, clerical work, special events and more. It can be an especially rewarding choice for anyone who enjoys spending time with people and wants to help older adults stay connected and engaged in our community.

Love Books? Support the Library

The Glendora Public Library Friends Foundation has opportunities for volunteers to sort donated books, prepare books and other items for sale, staff the Book Loft, provide office support and assist with fundraising events. Money raised by the Foundation helps support Library programs and services for the community.

There are many ways to lend a hand close to home.

Get Outside and Give Back

Prefer fresh air? The Glendora Trails Council welcomes people interested in helping care for Glendora's trails and wilderness areas. The City's Adopt-a-Park program is another option for individuals and community groups interested in helping clean up and beautify local parks and facilities.

Help Preserve Glendora's History

The Glendora Historical Society has volunteer opportunities at the Glendora Museum and Rubel Castle, ranging from one-time projects to ongoing positions. Current needs include helping with castle tours, the gift shop, preservation and maintenance projects, and other roles. They also encourage people with special skills or interests to reach out — there may be a way to put those talents to use.

Help Glendora's Schools

You don't have to be the parent of a current student to volunteer with Glendora Unified School District. Community members 18 and older can volunteer, although everyone must apply and receive approval each school year before beginning service. Requirements vary depending on the type of volunteer activity and level of interaction with students.

Volunteering does more than accomplish a task. It creates connections.

It introduces us to people outside our usual circles. It helps us understand the needs, talents and experiences of our neighbors. And it reminds us that a strong community isn’t something someone else creates for us. It’s something we build together. You don’t need special expertise or unlimited free time to be part of it. Sometimes it starts with one simple question: Where can I help?

Find Your Fit

Want to help people directly? Shepherd’s Pantry or La Fetra Center

Love books? GPL Friends Foundation

Prefer being outdoors? Glendora Trails Council or Adopt-a-Park

Love local history? Glendora Historical Society and Rubel Castle

Want to help students? Glendora Unified School District

Have a teen looking to get involved? Glendora Public Library Youth Advisory Board

Volunteers are needed right now by the various local political campaigns

This November, Glendora voters will elect City Council representatives in Districts 1 and 4. Voters in Glendora Unified School District Trustee Area 2 will also choose their representatives on the Board of Education. Because these are district-based elections, not every race will appear on every Glendora ballot but most candidates would accept volunteer help. Campaigns often need help with writing postcards, door knocking, and making calls.