by Lana Stockton

Created on: June 11, 2009   Last Updated: June 30, 2010

With a heart is as big as Texas, there are people that need you. Volunteers are in great demand all over the city.

Austin Animal Center is always looking for volunteers who love animals. The shelter's open-intake policy means that no animal is turned away. And that means a lot of caring work involved. Strays and unwanted pets (yes, sadly that does happen) are always welcome. Even during off hours there is a pet drop off where animals can be placed in clean cage indoors. Volunteers are needed to feed and care for the new arrivals.

Several large dog runs are set up for quality time between prospective owners and their new pets. Volunteers are needed to walk the dogs or spend quality time with them as they play in one of the fenced in areas.  You can find out more at their website.

Any Baby Can is an organization that strives to ensure that all children reach their full potential. Children who are seriously ill or those who have suffered abuse are all waiting for a better life. Volunteers are a step toward showing them a better life through friendship, understanding and encouragement. If making a difference in a child's life fills a need in your own life, Any Baby Can is a great way to share your time and compassion.

Austin Children's Shelter is an emergency shelter for young ones who have been neglected, abused or abandoned. Imagine the difference you can make in the life of one more child. What a loving opportunity this is, to bring joy and stability into a child's life.

Now here's a fun one! The Austin State Supported Living Center is looking for volunteers to assist mentally retarded citizens in the fun areas of life. Volunteers are paired up with residents for one-on-one gardening, swimming, crafts, artwork, baking and a variety of hands-on projects.

Work outdoors for the good of nature with the Bull Creek Foundation. As part of the ongoing "Keep Austin Beautiful" campaign, volunteers are needed in the off-leash area for trash and puppy poop pick up. Not a fancy job by any means, but you will be a part of keeping Austin clean and beautiful.

And who isn't familiar with Habitat for Humanity? Help build a home for someone in need. Or assist in the Restore, which sells donated new and recycled construction materials.

Volunteering in the community will make a big difference in your own life and someone else's.

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