Ways to Volunteer, Donate, and Give Back as a UC Davis Student

Personally as a college student, I know that it can be easy to get caught up in my own world of homework, studying and tasks to do. However, even with a limited schedule and tight college budget there are still many ways that we can help the greater good of the community and the world. Whether you're looking to volunteer your time, donate to meaningful causes, or find ways to give back to the campus or local community, UC Davis offers countless opportunities to get involved. Here are some great ways to contribute and make a difference:

Volunteer and Give Back Through UC Davis Organizations

UC Davis offers various community outreach programs that provide students with opportunities to engage directly with local and global communities. Some popular programs include:

• UC Davis Volunteer Center: The Volunteer Center connects students with local organizations that need support. From food banks to environmental initiatives, there are opportunities for every interest. Visit their website or attend volunteer fairs to find new ways to get involved (https://health.ucdavis.edu/volunteer/).

• Aggie Compass Opportunities:

  • Volunteer with Fruit & Veggie Up!: FVUP! volunteers assist with produce distribution service. You may be called to help with set-up, work the actual distribution, and clean up as well.

  • Volunteer at the ASUCD Pantry! Email thepantry@asucd.ucdavis.edu for more information.

• UC Davis Global Brigades: Global Brigades is a student-led organization focused on providing health care, clean water, and education to communities in need. This organization organizes fundraising efforts and medical missions, providing students with opportunities to give back internationally (https://globalmedicalbrigadesatucd.weebly.com/).

• Engineers Without Borders: For students in engineering, this organization allows you to work on projects that provide sustainable solutions to communities in need. From building water systems to creating renewable energy solutions, this club brings hands-on projects with lasting impact (https://ewbucd.weebly.com/).

   

Support Local Nonprofits and Charities

Davis is home to many local nonprofits and charities that always welcome volunteer help. A few to consider include:

• Davis Community Meals & Housing: This nonprofit provides meals and housing support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Students can volunteer to serve meals, organize fundraising events, or provide other essential services (https://daviscommunitymeals.org/).

• Yolo Food Bank: The Yolo Food Bank serves those in need across the county. Volunteering here can include sorting and packing food for distribution to local residents, or assisting with special community events and outreach efforts (https://yolofoodbank.org/).

• Yolo County SPCA: For animal lovers, the SPCA is always looking for volunteers and donations to help with animal care, adoption events, and community outreach (https://www.yolospca.org/).

   

Donate Goods and Clothing

If you're unable to volunteer your time, donating goods can be a great way to give back to your community. UC Davis has many resources for students to contribute items such as:

• Aggie Reuse Store: This student-run initiative provides free clothing and other essential items to UC Davis students. Donating gently used clothing or personal items helps support students who may be experiencing financial hardship.

• Food Drive Events: Several times a year, UC Davis hosts food drives, where students can donate non-perishable food items to help those in need. The Aggie Food Recovery Network also works to rescue excess food from campus events and redistribute it to local food banks.

• Books for Prisoners: Donating books to organizations like Books to Prisoners can help provide incarcerated individuals with access to educational and recreational materials. UC Davis students often participate in book drives to send books to those in need.
   

Environmental Advocacy and Sustainability

UC Davis has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. If you’re passionate about the planet, here are a few ways you can give back:

• UC Davis Sustainability Office: Volunteer with the campus sustainability office to promote sustainable practices on campus, whether it's through waste reduction efforts, organizing sustainability events, or supporting campus-wide initiatives.

• Campus Garden Projects: UC Davis is home to several gardens, including the Student Farm, that are open to student involvement. Volunteering at these gardens helps promote local, sustainable agriculture while connecting students to hands-on environmental work.
   

Final Thoughts: Giving Back as an Aggie

Whether you're volunteering your time, donating goods, or contributing financially, UC Davis offers countless ways to make a difference in the community and beyond. As an Aggie, you're part of a larger network that values service, kindness, and community involvement. So, take the opportunity to get involved, give back, and help make the world a better place one small action at a time. Which ways of giving back would you like to incorporate into your life?