Giving Back While Moving Forward

With the devastating flooding throughout Texas and Oklahoma, many of us are looking for ways to lend a helping hand to those in need. RVing doesn’t have to be a barrier to volunteering, in fact there are many wonderful ways to give back specifically geared to RVers and travelers.

Care-A-Vanners is a program created by Habitat for Humanity giving RVers the opportunity to volunteer building homes for families across the country. The website lists upcoming builds that RVers can apply to participate in two-week long builds. Along with construction work, the Care-A-Vanners program also has administrative volunteer work available, as well as a Disaster Rebuild Team for volunteers who have completed a four-day emergency management training program.

If you’re looking to help out the four-legged community, check out the Walkzee App which connects shelter dogs with volunteer walkers. The app is still in development but should be launched within the year. In the meantime contact a local animal shelter and ask about their volunteer dog walking programs. In my experience, many shelters are low-staffed and any little bit of help is needed. Not only will you get some companionship while out exploring the area, but you’re helping a dog become socialized and leash-trained, important skills they need to be adopted.

The National Parks Department Volunteer Portal provides a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities within the US National Parks. At last check, there were over 500 available volunteer activities specifically for RVers. Some opportunities require a longer, seasonal commitment while others allow for short-term volunteering.  Most, if not all, parks provide a free campsite in exchange for volunteer work.

EscapeesCare of Livingston, Texas provides rehabilitative and end-of-life care to RVers whose travels have been interrupted due to illness. They provide the care of a nursing home while still allowing residents to continue living in their RV. Volunteers at the center are needed to provide maintenance, kitchen duties, running errands and driving residents to appointments.

Know of any other volunteer experience for RVers? Comment on our Facebook page and let us know. Ready to hit the road and discover your own ways to give back? Visit one of our locations and take a look at our new arrivals.