Animals
Happy Hooves Healing Hearts Rescue and Animal Sanctuary
Happy Hooves Healing Hearts Rescue and Animal Sanctuary is located in Hudson Bend. The 501(c)(3) works with local school groups and organizations for educational purposes and programs that support children with autism, PTSD and disabilities. Its mission is to spread goodwill by incorporating animal therapy with children and supporting kids and animals locally and globally.
Volunteer requirements: signing a volunteer form and waiver; the organization will be looking for volunteers to come out and help after the holidays
15603 Checotah Drive, Austin
512-814-0193
www.happyhooveshealinghearts.org
Hill Country Conservancy
Hill Country Conservancy is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving natural areas such as rivers and scenic vistas as well as working farms and ranches in the Texas Hill Country. Volunteer opportunities are available at various events throughout the year.
Volunteer requirements: none
5524 Bee Caves Road, Ste. G4, West Lake Hills
512-328-2481
www.hillcountryconservancy.org
Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions
Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions is a no-kill, privately run shelter located in Lago Vista. Dogs and cats looking for forever homes are housed at the shelter. Volunteers are needed to assist with dog and cat caretaking, fundraising, adoption counseling and off-site events.
Volunteer requirements: age 18 and over; passion for animals
20803 FM 1431, Lago Vista
512-267-6876
www.lifelongfriends.org
RED Arena
RED Arena is a 501(c)(3) with a mission of empowerment through horses. RED Arena serves children and adults with disabilities through physical, occupational or speech therapy sessions while on horseback, therapeutic riding lessons, job training programs, mental health services and a free ‘RED-Y to Read’ program.
Volunteer requirements: volunteer opportunities are available for anyone who is interested; no previous experience with horses or disabilities is necessary; must be at least 14 years old (volunteers age 14 and younger must volunteer with a parent or guardian)
1601 Bell Springs Road, Dripping Springs
512-807-6505
www.redarena.org
Education
Eanes Education Foundation
Eanes Education Foundation’s mission is to seek financial support for Eanes ISD within the community to sustain districtwide programs and help fund teacher and staff positions. Donations and volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year.
Volunteer requirements: none
601 Camp Craft Road, Austin
512-732-9065
www.eaneseducationfoundation.org
Lake Travis Education Foundation
Lake Travis Education Foundation volunteers and donors provide financial resources to support Lake Travis ISD programs and initiatives.
Volunteer requirements: none
3322 S. RM 620, Austin
512-533-5968
www.ltedfund.org
Lake Travis Youth Association
Lake Travis Youth Association, an all-volunteer organization, provides athletic programs to children in Bee Cave, Lakeway, Spicewood and surrounding areas. The program offers children grades K-6 the opportunity to participate in sports regardless of ability, disability, skill level or financial need. Volunteer opportunities include coaching, serving as a referee or an umpire for organized games, and administrative roles.
Volunteer requirements: background check; obtaining a Positive Coaching Alliance certification through an online program; completing a concussion training course; reading and signing the organization’s abuse policy
2101 Lakeway Blvd., Ste. 115, Lakeway
512-261-1900
www.ltya.org
Leander Education Excellence Foundation
Leander Education Excellence Foundation funds innovative teaching projects and professional development opportunities. LEEF needs dedicated individuals interested in serving the community as board members or volunteers in any of the program initiative areas.
Volunteer requirements: none, though on-campus volunteers need to register as LISD volunteers
Physical: 204 W. South St., Leander
Mailing: P.O. Box 218, Leander
512-570-0027. www.leeftx.org
Neighbors in need
Ladies of Charity Lake Travis Thrift Shop
Ladies of Charity Lake Travis Thrift Shop, part of the Saint Vincent de Paul charities, sells donated clothing, housewares, linens, toys, jewelry, furniture, antiques and one-of-a-kind finds. Volunteers are needed to work in the store, where profits support charities in the Lake Travis area.
Volunteer requirements: 18 and up unless accompanied by an adult
1508 S. RM 620, Ste. 105, Lakeway
512-263-0314
www.laketravisthrift.com
Lake Travis Crisis Ministries
Lake Travis Crisis Ministries is an ecumenical organization aimed at helping individuals in need by providing food, financial aid and other forms of support. The volunteer organization services those within the boundaries of Lake Travis ISD. The ministry meets Wednesdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-noon. Nonperishable food donations are also accepted.
Volunteer requirements: none; regulars, drop-ins and students looking to obtain service hours are welcome
107 S. RM 620, Ste. 114, Lakeway
512-266-9810
www.ltcrisisministries.org
Mobile Loaves & Fishes
Mobile Loaves & Fishes is a social outreach ministry for the homeless and indigent working poor. Its mission is to provide food, clothing and dignity to those in need and accomplishes this mission by delivering food each night of the week. Volunteers at the St. John Neumann Commissary can help organize, prepare and deliver meals. Opportunities at the Community First Village may include gardening, prepping micro homes, working in the Art House and more.
Volunteer requirements: vary depending on role
9301 Hog Eye Road, Austin
512-328-7299
www.mlf.org/volunteer
Partners in Hope
Partners in Hope is a Lake Travis ministry that connects people who desire physical, emotional and spiritual assistance with people who can help. Unlike ministries that organize a crisis response to a housing emergency, Partners in Hope helps families by working to improve living conditions, walking through a season of life, and empowering them to transform over time.
Volunteer requirements: all volunteers watch a training video series; sign a release and waiver
15104 N. Flamingo Drive, Austin
512-751-5877
www.partnersinhopelaketravis.org
Public safety
Colin’s Hope
Colin’s Hope raises water safety awareness to reduce drowning deaths through educational outreach. The nonprofit organization was formed in 2008 after 4-year-old Colin Holst drowned in a public pool. Year-round volunteer opportunities at fundraisers and events are available.
Volunteer requirements: none; organization works with families, young people, schools and universities and anyone who wants to donate time and talent
3267 Bee Caves Road, Austin
512-222-7591
www.colinshope.org
Upcoming events
Eanes Education
Foundation annual gala
Feb. 23
JW Marriott Austin
Contact the foundation for volunteer opportunities
Lake Travis Education
Foundation 2019 Black & Red Ball
March 2
JW Marriott, Austin
Leander Educational Excellence Foundation annual gala
Jan. 26
Hilton Austin
Committee members and day-of assistance needed
RED Arena Round-Up—annual childrens’ horse show and fundraiser
May 3, 4
Dripping Springs Ranch Park
Volunteers are needed to help with setup, day-of activities and clean-up
