Volunteer Opportunities

Vista Library

Volunteers perform a variety of duties, including, but not limited to: presenting and assisting with branch events, tutoring adult literacy learners, reading to children, helping students with homework, leading book discussion groups, and serving as Internet docents. Call 760-643-5120 or visit Vista Library webpage.

Helen Woodward Animal Center

Volunteers should be able to demonstrate a respect for animals and serve as a positive role model

Ongoing volunteer opportunities are available at Helen Woodward Animal Center on a space available basis.

Discovery Center

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is looking for volunteers at the "Discovery Center" at 1580 Cannon Road in Carlsbad. Gain experience working with children and animals while promoting a safe environment. Their hours of operation are Mon.-Sat.from 9 am - 4 pm and Sun. from Noon - 4pm. If interested, please go to their website above or call the Discovery Center at (760) 804-1969.

Friends of the Oceanside Public Library

There are volunteer opportunities at all Oceanside Library locations. Contact Volunteer Coordinator Cheri Noel at (760) 435-5564. Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older and training will be provided. To view some of what volunteers can accomplish at the library, go to the Oceanside Public Library Volunteer Page.

City of Vista Volunteer Opportunities

The City of Vista is always looking for young people interested in learning what it takes to work with children. Volunteer applicants must be either attending school (high school or above) or working towards a certification in Early Childhood Education. Volunteers assist the teacher with daily activities such as arts & crafts, snack preparation, assist with set-up/break down of equipment & supplies, or helping children complete tasks. For more information, contact Margaret Wozniak at (760) 643-5272 or mwozniak@cityofvista.com.

North Coastal Prevention Youth Coalition

The goal of NCPYC is to reduce youth access to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs through environmental prevention in the cities of Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Vista. NCPYC provides a great opportunity for teens to become involved in their communities and helps teens develop leadership skills as well as to build their resumes for jobs and college applications. NCPYC will be involved in activities such as community outreach, youth purchase surveys, merchant education, city council meetings, producing media materials, working with law enforcement, and much more! North Coastal Prevention Youth Coalition Volunteer Information

Tri-City Medical Center Junior Volunteer Program

Junior volunteers get to explore healthcare careers and help patients at the same time. It's a great experience! Call the Tri-City Auxiliary at 760-940-3125 or go to their site, Tri-City Medical Center

Boys & Girls Club of Vista

Volunteers play a vital role at the Boys & Girls Club of Vista, and the Club is looking for volunteers who enjoy working with or for children. Opportunities are available to read with the children, as one-on-one mentors, helping to facilitate a self-monitored reading program in the computer lab, or teaching art, dance, theatre, fitness, STEM, or other special class. Other volunteer opportunities include administration, assisting with special events, photography, and grant writing.

Volunteer opportunities are available year-round and most volunteers working with the children commit to once per week for 1 ½ or more hours. More info at: www.bgcvista.org

San Diego Humane Society North County

Working with animals on a limited basis for specific tasks and projects is available for youth volunteers ages 14-18. Oceanside is the North County location and the office can be reached at 760-757-4357 x2323. More information about San Deigo Humane Society North County.

North County Courthouse

The business offices at the courthouse need volunteers for filing, court runs and other tasks as assigned by the business office staff. The process begins by going to the court's website at www.sdcourt.ca.gov and following the links for volunteer opportunities until you reach the interest form. For more information, contact Annette Wine at 760-201-8669.

Ivey Ranch Park

At the Ivey Ranch Park in Oceanside, you have two opportunities to volunteer. The Childcare Program works with children with special needs and able-bodied. The equestrian volunteers assist with the Therapeutic Riding Program as well as the care, grooming and exercise of the horses. No horse experience is necessary. 

Go to Ivey Ranch Park Volunteer Portal.