When most people think of summer they think of the beach, time off, and having a good time. But instead of thinking of ourselves, what if we thought about others? With all of the extra time on our hands during summer, why not give back? There are several organizations that require volunteers to run and any help you can give will make a big difference.

1. Elderly homes

One of the easiest places to find volunteering opportunities is in a home for the elderly near you. This type of volunteering will not even feel like any work as most of it will consist of talking, taking short walks, or playing board games with seniors. Elderly homes can often be a lonely place and taking even an hour out of your week to volunteer can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

2.Clean up parks

Another great and easy way to make a difference is to clean up a park. Grab a few trash bags, some gloves, and some sunscreen and head out to your local park to pick up paper, cans, etc. This may sound simple, but even a small act like this can make an impact on your life and our environment.

3. Spread the Bread

Located in Wayland, this organization encourages community members to bake a loaf of bread and write a poem, draw a picture, etc. to go along with it. It is then distributed to public schools, veterans, homeless shelters and several other places that are in need of food.

4.Stray Pets in Need

Stray Pets in Need offers a variety of volunteering options for children of different ages. Starting at age 12, kids can help by doing activities such as fundraising, and spreading awareness. Anyone under 18 who is accompanied by an adult can participate in direct care activities such as feeding, bathing or cleaning.

5. Public library

Some libraries may have special volunteer programs set up but if they don’t, it never hurts to ask if you could help out. Some ideas for things you can do are: organize books, read to children at story-time, or help with the upkeep of the library.

6. Cradles to Crayons

There are many children in Massachusetts who are of low-income and cannot be supplied with everyday materials they need to succeed. That’s where Cradles to Crayon steps in. They provide materials such as school supplies, shoes, toys, and clothing to children from low-income families free of charge. Volunteers help by sorting materials and aiding with distribution.

7. Big Brother, Big Sister

This one is for those over the age of 18 but is still worth mentioning as anyone can benefit from volunteering, regardless of age. Big Brothers and Sisters are matched with a “Little,” an “at risk” child so needs a guide. You only meet a few times a month and activities do not have to cost any money.

8. Greater Boston Food Bank

At the GBFB, you can help provide nourishment to hundreds of people in need. Volunteers help out by sorting, inspecting, and packaging food which has been donated.

9. Hospitals

There are several hospitals in the Boston area that are always looking for volunteers. However, volunteering at these usually requires an application and training. However, if this is something you are truly passionate about this is a small price to pay for a big reward.

10. Tutor

There are many kids who need tutoring but whose families cannot afford to pay for one. So offer to tutor younger children in math, writing, a language; whatever your academic strengths are.

11. The Carrol Center for the Blind

Volunteers here are welcome to work directly with students or do administrative work. Volunteers must be 16 years or older and agree to a CORI check.

12. Help anyone who needs it

Whether it's an elderly neighbor who needs help carrying groceries or a lost child, the greatest opportunities for giving back may be the ones you do not go searching for.