All FINS In - March 22nd 2025

Project Description: Broward Animal Care offers a rewarding volunteer opportunity focused on improving the well-being of shelter animals. Volunteers will assist the kennel team with pet enrichment activities, which may include hands-on interactions with animals or crafting engaging toys to provide mental stimulation for dogs and cats. Additionally, participants will support grounds maintenance efforts by clearing overgrown areas to create new sensory trails for dogs and their handlers, enhancing their outdoor experience. Volunteers will also contribute to the shelter’s upkeep by assisting with deep cleaning and organizing designated areas, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for both the animals and staff.

Skills Needed: No specific skills are required for this service project; all volunteers are welcome to participate.

Restrictions: Interaction with the dogs is somewhat limited, as volunteers are required to complete a training process that typically extends beyond a single day. Additionally, we incorporate a considerable amount of peanut butter for enrichment activities.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers will assist with maintaining the natural beauty of the area by cleaning the grounds around the pond and performing general upkeep across 35 acres of land. Tasks will include removing litter, weeding overgrown areas, and clearing debris to create a more welcoming and environmentally friendly space. This project provides an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of the local ecosystem while enhancing the outdoor experience for visitors and wildlife alike.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should be prepared for physical endurance, teamwork, and basic manual labor tasks such as weeding, lifting, and using gardening tools to help maintain the grounds.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers with Broward Parks and Recreation’s Special Populations Program will have the opportunity to support individuals with developmental disabilities in a fun and engaging kickball game. Responsibilities will include coaching, guiding, and encouraging participants as they develop their teamwork, coordination, and confidence through sports. This experience allows volunteers to make a meaningful impact by fostering inclusivity, promoting physical activity, and creating a supportive environment where all participants can enjoy the game and celebrate their achievements.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should be patient, able to communicate effectively, and bring a positive attitude to ensure a fun and engaging experience for all participants.

Location: On-Campus 

Project Description: Volunteers with Brushstrokes for History will contribute to a meaningful community revitalization project by designing and painting murals on plywood boards and decorating Little Free Libraries. These murals will be placed on buildings around Broward County, transforming neglected spaces into vibrant works of art. Through this initiative, volunteers will help beautify the community, promote historical awareness, and inspire hope by bringing color and creativity to areas in need of renewal.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have basic artistic abilities, as they will be involved in designing and painting murals that will be displayed in the community.

Location: On-Campus

Project Description: Volunteers will assist in emptying, cleaning, and organizing a storage closet used by the Merlie’s Giborim United and Arts, Culture & Education departments. This effort will help ensure that these departments have a well-maintained space to store materials and continue offering impactful programs and services. By participating, volunteers will contribute to creating a more efficient and organized environment that supports community engagement and education.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have organizational skills and be comfortable with lifting and bending to help clean and organize the storage closet.

Location: Davie, FL

Project Description: HandsOn South Florida, in partnership with the City of Oakland Park and Farm Share, is addressing food insecurity by delivering meals to homebound individuals and seniors each month. Volunteers will utilize NSU-provided transportation to assist with packing and organizing meals before delivering them directly to families in Oakland Park. Through this initiative, volunteers will play a vital role in ensuring that over 100 homebound individuals receive essential groceries, offering much-needed support to those facing challenges due to rising food costs.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should be comfortable with light lifting as part of their service tasks, which may include moving supplies or setting up project materials.

Location: Oakland Park, FL

Project Description: Volunteers will support one of three key areas: animal care, horticulture, or food service, contributing to the daily operations of the organization. Tasks may include assisting with animal enrichment and habitat maintenance, tending to gardens and green spaces, or helping with food preparation and distribution. Through this project, volunteers will play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of animals, maintaining a thriving environment, and supporting essential food service efforts.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have strong listening skills to follow instructions effectively and the physical ability to move comfortably throughout the work environment.

Restrictions: N/A

Location: Davie, FL

Project Description: Volunteers at Freedom Lab will engage in a hands-on gardening experience that directly benefits the community. Tasks may include pulling weeds, harvesting fresh vegetables, and planting new crops to support sustainable growing efforts. This project provides an opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to local food initiatives, and make a meaningful impact while enjoying the outdoors.

Skills Needed: While prior gardening experience is helpful, it is not required. Volunteers should be comfortable with manual tasks such as weeding, planting, and harvesting, enjoy working in a team environment, and bring a positive attitude to the project.

Restrictions: Volunteers with plant allergies or pollen sensitivities should take necessary precautions, such as bringing antihistamines. Additionally, gardening can involve bending, kneeling, and lifting.

Location: North Miami, FL

Project Description: Volunteers participating in HandsOn Florida’s Reading Literacy Program will engage in a DIY service project aimed at promoting literacy and a love for reading among children in Broward County. This initiative involves assembling Superhero Cape & Book Bundles, which will be distributed during guest reading events at local schools, Super Reader Day!, and afterschool literacy programs at community centers. These bundles will help children build their own home libraries while inspiring their imaginations through creative play. By contributing to this project, volunteers will play a vital role in fostering a lifelong passion for reading and supporting students in improving their literacy skills.

Skills Needed: No specific skills or experience are required for this project as it is beginner-friendly.

Location: On-Campus

Project Description: Volunteers will join the YMCA team in canvassing local communities in groups, distributing flyers with information about free programs and resources available to residents. This outreach effort aims to connect individuals and families with valuable services that support education, wellness, and community engagement. By engaging directly with residents at housing sites, volunteers will help raise awareness of these opportunities and strengthen community connections.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should be comfortable walking through neighborhoods in a group while following a designated guide. This role requires the ability to follow directions, walk for an extended period, and distribute resources efficiently. No direct engagement with community members is required unless volunteers choose to do so.

Restrictions: Volunteers should have the mobility to walk for an extended period as they move through neighborhoods distributing resources.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers will join the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale in a creative service project by painting Little Libraries, which will be donated to the Brushstrokes for History initiative. These small, free-standing libraries will be decorated with unique designs that celebrate art, history, and community engagement. Through this project, volunteers will contribute to expanding access to literature while fostering a love for reading in local neighborhoods.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have an interest in art and painting, as they will be working on creative projects. While no professional experience is needed, attention to cleanliness is important, and precautions like tarps will be provided to maintain a tidy workspace.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers at the NSU Food Pantry will play a crucial role in maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming space for the NSU community. Tasks will include restocking shelves, organizing food donations, and ensuring the pantry remains a safe and accessible resource for students in need. By contributing to this effort, volunteers will help create a supportive environment where all students can access essential food items with dignity and ease.

Learn More About the NSU Shark Food Pantry

Skills needed: Teamwork, organization skills, positive attitude, Ability to lift 15 lbs.

Location: On-Campus

Project Description: This project, originally created by HandsOn South Florida, focuses on addressing period poverty by assembling and delivering Period Positivity Kits to a local nonprofit. Volunteers will help create these essential kits while also engaging in an educational presentation on the impact of period poverty. Through this initiative, participants will promote awareness, provide vital resources, and support individuals in need within the community.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have an interest in women’s health and a commitment to raising awareness about period poverty and its impact on underserved communities.

Restrictions: N/A

Location: On Campus

Project Description: Volunteers at Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital will have the opportunity to contribute to both environmental conservation and community education. They will assist with garden maintenance by weeding and mulching, helping to preserve the center’s natural habitat and create a welcoming space for wildlife and visitors. Additionally, volunteers will support the Art and Its Meaning program, where children use recycled materials to create unique artwork, promoting both creativity and sustainability. This hands-on experience allows volunteers to make a lasting impact on the environment while inspiring young minds through art and conservation.

Skills needed: Volunteers should enjoy working outdoors and be comfortable with hands-on tasks that may involve getting dirty or working in warm conditions.

Location: Coral Springs, FL

Project Description: Volunteers will support Second Chance Society in transforming an outdoor space into a welcoming retreat and social area for the community. Tasks will include painting and constructing a storage unit, contributing to the creation of a functional and inviting backyard space. Additionally, volunteers will assist with various beautification projects, enhancing the overall environment to provide a peaceful and uplifting setting for those served by the organization. This project offers a hands-on opportunity to make a lasting impact by improving a space that fosters community connection and support.

Skills needed: Volunteers should have an interest in DIY projects, as tasks may involve basic construction, painting, lifting materials, and working with tools.

Restrictions: Volunteers should be physically capable of performing labor-intensive tasks, which may include lifting, digging, or building, and should be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers at Secret Woods Nature Center will work alongside park staff to help preserve the natural beauty of the trails by removing litter and invasive exotic plants. This effort is essential in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, allowing native plants and wildlife to thrive. By participating in this project, volunteers will play a direct role in environmental conservation while enhancing the experience for visitors who come to enjoy the park’s scenic trails.

Skills needed: No prior experience or specific skills are needed for this service project.

Location: Dania Beach, FL

Project Description: Volunteers with Showering Love will play a vital role in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness by assisting with outreach and awareness efforts. Participants will help create flyers and promotional materials to spread the organization’s mission, ensuring that more people learn about the services that restore dignity and hope to those in need. Additionally, there may be opportunities to contribute to other projects that support the organization’s efforts in providing essential resources. Through this service, volunteers will help expand Showering Love’s reach and impact within the community.

Skills needed: Volunteers should have creativity and basic design skills to assist in creating promotional materials. Additionally, they should be comfortable using a computer, pay close attention to details, and be able to work independently while managing their time effectively.

Restrictions: Volunteers must have access to a computer to complete tasks. While familiarity with basic design software like Canva or Microsoft Publisher is helpful, it is not required, as templates and branding guidelines will be provided.

Location: On Campus

Project Description: Volunteers at South Florida Wildlife Center will assist with organization, cleaning, and beautification projects to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for rescued wildlife. Tasks may include sorting supplies, deep cleaning animal care areas, and enhancing outdoor spaces to support the center’s mission of wildlife rehabilitation. By contributing to these efforts, volunteers will play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of animals in care while supporting the center’s overall operations.

Skills needed: Volunteers should be detail-oriented, able to follow instructions carefully, and maintain an organized approach to tasks.

Restrictions: Volunteers must be at least 16 years old to participate in this opportunity.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers with Special Olympics Florida – Broward County will have the opportunity to support athletes with intellectual disabilities during a basketball practice session. Volunteers will engage in scrimmages, assist teams with drills, and provide guidance to athletes working on individual skill development. This experience allows volunteers to foster a positive and inclusive environment, helping athletes build confidence, improve their abilities, and enjoy the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Skills needed: Volunteers should be compassionate and enthusiastic about supporting Special Olympic Athletes. While basketball experience is not necessary, they should be willing to encourage and assist athletes in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Location: On-Campus

Project Description: Volunteers at the Urban Farming Institute will support various beautification projects aimed at enhancing the community’s green spaces. Tasks will include rebuilding the Kids’ Discovery Garden, weeding and maintaining regular garden areas, revitalizing the apiary, and assembling donated picnic bench kits to create a welcoming outdoor space. In addition to hands-on work, participants will take part in an educational session on urban farming and environmental stewardship, learning how sustainable gardening practices help preserve ecosystems and repair habitats. This experience provides a unique opportunity to contribute to urban agriculture while gaining valuable knowledge about sustainability and food systems.

Skills needed: Volunteers should have a passion for working with their hands, whether through gardening, constructing, or maintaining outdoor spaces.

Location: Oakland Park, FL

Project Description: Through collaborative drives we unite for a meaningful day of work. Bringing together 100's of items for donation-together we sort and organize the items to go to local organizations in need. From gently used clothing, hygiene items to books and prizes for star students we help fill the gaps for the most vulnerable populations in Broward. Sorted items will go directly into the hands of men, women and children in need in Broward County through our collection, sorting and delivery work to HANDY, FLITE Center, Voices for Children, Hope South Florida, Ruth Ministries and LifeNet4Families.

Skills Needed:  All are welcome! Anyone that likes a hands on experience of sorting, organizing and if there is time we can also do some deliveries. Drive items can always be used as well so hosting a drive leading up to the sorting day is welcome!

Restrictions:   N/A

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Join Youth Environmental Alliance in restoring and protecting our coastal environments through hands-on conservation efforts. Volunteers will help remove invasive plant species that threaten local ecosystems and replace them with native plants to support biodiversity. By participating, volunteers will contribute to the health and stability of our dune systems, ensuring a more resilient habitat for wildlife and future generations.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should be comfortable using tools such as shovels and loppers to assist with planting and the removal of invasive plant species.

Location: Davie, FL

Registration Opens on February 17th 2025. 

Project Description: Broward Animal Care offers a rewarding volunteer opportunity focused on improving the well-being of shelter animals. Volunteers will assist the kennel team with pet enrichment activities, which may include hands-on interactions with animals or crafting engaging toys to provide mental stimulation for dogs and cats. Additionally, participants will support grounds maintenance efforts by clearing overgrown areas to create new sensory trails for dogs and their handlers, enhancing their outdoor experience. Volunteers will also contribute to the shelter’s upkeep by assisting with deep cleaning and organizing designated areas, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for both the animals and staff.

Skills Needed: No specific skills are required for this service project; all volunteers are welcome to participate.

Restrictions: Interaction with the dogs is somewhat limited, as volunteers are required to complete a training process that typically extends beyond a single day. Additionally, we incorporate a considerable amount of peanut butter for enrichment activities.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Project Description: Volunteers at Secret Woods Nature Center will work alongside park staff to help preserve the natural beauty of the trails by removing litter and invasive exotic plants. This effort is essential in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, allowing native plants and wildlife to thrive. By participating in this project, volunteers will play a direct role in environmental conservation while enhancing the experience for visitors who come to enjoy the park’s scenic trails.

Skills needed: No prior experience or specific skills are needed for this service project.

Location: Dania Beach, FL

Project Description: Volunteers participating in HandsOn Florida’s Reading Literacy Program will engage in a DIY service project aimed at promoting literacy and a love for reading among children in Broward County. This initiative involves assembling Superhero Cape & Book Bundles, which will be distributed during guest reading events at local schools, Super Reader Day!, and afterschool literacy programs at community centers. These bundles will help children build their own home libraries while inspiring their imaginations through creative play. By contributing to this project, volunteers will play a vital role in fostering a lifelong passion for reading and supporting students in improving their literacy skills.

Skills Needed: No specific skills or experience are required for this project as it is beginner-friendly.

Location: On-Campus

Project Description: Volunteers with Brushstrokes for History will contribute to a meaningful community revitalization project by designing and painting murals on plywood boards and decorating Little Free Libraries. These murals will be placed on buildings around Broward County, transforming neglected spaces into vibrant works of art. Through this initiative, volunteers will help beautify the community, promote historical awareness, and inspire hope by bringing color and creativity to areas in need of renewal.

Skills Needed: Volunteers should have basic artistic abilities, as they will be involved in designing and painting murals that will be displayed in the community.

Location: On-Campus