The UCPath Center staff values giving back to the local community and connecting staff with philanthropic opportunities. Led by the UCPath Center Staff Connection Committee, the goal is to find causes that are near and dear to the 270+ staff members working at the University of California’s shared services center.
UCPath Center Workforce Administration Assistant, Cierra Covarrubias, said she enjoys the sense of fulfillment and community that comes with participating in workplace philanthropic activities. “Helping other people feels good knowing that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life is enriching.”
Volunteering can provide people with an engaging way to participate in great causes with their coworkers, friends, and family, while also offering many benefits — both personally and professionally.
Volunteering is known to help boost confidence, gain valuable skills and build networking opportunities. This is a great opportunity to jump into if you are considering relocating for a new job.
“Plus,” continued Covarrubias, “working for an organization that promotes these activities [like the UCPath Center] makes you feel like you are a part of something bigger.”
The Inland Empire has a range of volunteer opportunities that suit different ages, skill sets and interests. Here are a few of the many volunteer opportunities employees enjoy in and around Riverside County:
Animal Shelters
Perfect for animal lovers, the Riverside Department of Animal Services has animal shelters that are taking applications for new volunteers. After an orientation and special training, you can help improve the lives of shelter animals by taking them on a walk, getting involved in pet grooming, and keeping the animals company (such as reading to them).
The Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center, formerly the Riverside Humane Society, also has volunteer opportunities to help enrich the lives of their shelter animals, as well as provide administrative support to the center. If you’re looking to donate more than just a few hours of your time, become a foster parent to newborn puppies and kittens.
Mentorship Programs
As a “Big,” you are given the opportunity to mentor a child and help them realize their full potential. This volunteer position typically requires a few hours a month where you’ll work directly with your “Little.” The goal of the program is to help the children being mentored to gain confidence, perform better at school and build stronger relationships in their personal lives.
Riverside also has many after-school programs seeking volunteers to help tutor children. If there’s a subject you’re passionate about, take an hour out of your afternoon once a week to improve a student’s education. You might even learn something new yourself!
Food Banks
Food banks are a way to give back if you’re limited on time and not sure that you’re ready to invest in a long-term or recurring volunteer position.
Many are in need of help any day of the week and have flexible hours. Extensive training is not always required.
Want to do something with your entire family? Feeding America of the Inland Empire has family volunteer days if you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend time with your loved ones and/or teach your children to embrace selflessness.
Are you a self-motivated individual? Consider hosting your own food drive. Food banks will let you know the exact types of items in need. You can put a call-to-action event together for your coworkers, friends and family and help collect donations.
If you have a specific cause that you’re interested in or impacted by, think about donating your time to a non-profit that matches your passions. Use volunteermatch.com to look up different non-profits in Riverside County. Opportunities might range from office administrative help to onsite event support. You’ll make great connections in your community, add skills to your resume and support a cause close to your heart.
If you would like to be a part of an organization that promotes philanthropy and community, view our 
at the UCPath Center.
