When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
New York Cares
Why New York Cares is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
New York Cares stands as the largest volunteer organization in New York City, making it an exceptional place for friends to meet up and engage in meaningful community service together. Founded in 1987 by a group of New Yorkers seeking to unify and streamline volunteering efforts, it has grown to mobilize over 30,000 volunteers who contribute millions of hours annually. This nonprofit orchestrates around 1,600 volunteer projects monthly that cover a wide range of community needs, from education and public space revitalization to aiding those affected by hunger and homelessness. Its inclusive approach allows volunteers to choose projects that align with their interests, whether they prefer caring for public parks, supporting health and wellness programs for vulnerable groups, or educating children and adults across the city. Beyond the volunteering aspect, New York Cares fosters a dynamic and positive atmosphere where people can connect, work as a team, and make tangible differences in their neighborhoods. Features like its annual Coat Drive and its response in times of crisis, including after 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy, highlight the organization's deep commitment to the city’s wellbeing, making it a rewarding and socially impactful place for friends to meet and contribute together.
Here's what people think of New York Cares
As of recent, New York Cares holds a 4.6-star rating based on 81 reviews.
Reviews from volunteers and employees highlight New York Cares as a welcoming and well-organized nonprofit with a friendly environment and positive atmosphere. Many reviewers noted the joy they found in working alongside kind and energetic people, emphasizing the strong sense of community and teamwork. Positive feedback often focused on the organization’s flexibility, allowing volunteers to find roles that suit their skills and interests, as well as the rewarding feeling of making a difference in the city. Volunteers appreciated opportunities to engage in varied activities, from moving heavy objects and cleaning facilities to greeting people and tutoring. Some mentioned that while volunteer work can be physically demanding or long, the supportive culture makes the experience enjoyable and fulfilling. On the downside, a few reviews pointed out the fast-paced environment and occasional long days, which can be challenging without asking questions or fully engaging in the tasks. Despite minor critiques, the overall sentiment is highly favorable, portraying New York Cares as a trusted and impactful organization that delivers both meaningful service opportunities and a positive volunteer experience. The consensus reflects an organization that not only strengthens communities but also enriches the lives of those who volunteer, making it an excellent choice for social engagement in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Norma Gelmis
New York Cares is an amazing nonprofit. I couldn't maintain confidence then already value. A person I know had recommended nonprofit & I immediately began shifts. Most of places I went to are far distance BUT isn't a hassle. Projects I did were Serving Meals To Elderly: Assembling bags: Distribution: Packing Boxes & played bingo with elderly. NY Cares has been a positive impact on life
SJ L
I love New York Cares. I have volunteered with them for almost 10 years and have gotten to do so many awesome things around the city helping many different types of people. They are a great organization.
May Jiang
I have team leading on some projects for last 2 years and I had to just cancel my participation with this NY Cares. I missed one time (after a vacation and getting back late and missing sleep) and then the next time I was getting ready and realized I had been replaced the night before. I feel complete ingratitude and thanklessness from SELIS and NYCares and have stopped my association with them. In the 2 years I volunteeered on a regular basis with SELIS I never got any real feeling of being thanked. they were very polite and asking the regular volunteers to come back but I just felt very taken for granted to keep coming back. Not just one or two staff there but the entire staff except for maybe the receptionist who was friendly. I just don't understand and today was really the last straw. I will find a different organization that hopefully values me I mean I had team led back in 2012 and a volunteer project was canceled without lettting me know and volunteers shows up and I had to tell them it was canceled so I left the organization back then. When I went back in 2023 I thought it would be different but I felt very unappreciated esp at SELIS. The coordinator knew I was coming on Thurs and still the replacement without being informed.
Rashida Muhammed
Simply horrible from start to finish. My team leader was a man wearing filthy clothes who was oblivious to what was going on. The companies aren't good because their employees are rude and New York Cares has many people on the spektrum and many many teenagers volunteering... Be forewarned
E F
An excellent concept and experience. If you’re looking to volunteer on either a regular or intermittent basis this is a great option. They provide training and then you can access their portal to sign up for a range of volunteering events based on your own preference. NY Cares team leaders attend every event to get volunteers set up. The organization itself is in the lead and offers briefing and guidance. There is such a diverse range of options and you can explore which type of event suits you best.
How to reach New York Cares
None
Website: None
Why New York Cares may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at New York Cares with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for a meaningful experience is a timeless way to bond, and New York Cares offers exactly that—a place to connect through service and shared purpose. Instead of the usual social meetups, volunteering here transforms your gathering into a powerful collective effort to uplift the New York City community. With a strong mission of improving education, feeding those in need, supporting seniors, and revitalizing public spaces, New York Cares provides an avenue for your group to make a tangible difference. The shared commitment to giving back enhances relationships because everyone contributes actively toward a common goal, creating lasting memories beyond casual entertainment. Plus, New York Cares, with its 4.6-star rating from over 81 reviews, is well-regarded for its well-organized volunteer opportunities that accommodate groups, ensuring your meetup is smooth, purposeful, and rewarding. Rallying here lets you and your friends not only strengthen your bonds but also stand together as changemakers, embodying the spirit of New York City's community resilience and generosity.
What volunteer activities does New York Cares offer for group meetups?
New York Cares organizes a broad spectrum of volunteer projects that welcome groups eager to engage in impactful, hands-on work. Education support projects involve tutoring children, helping with after-school programs, or conducting literacy workshops—ideal for friends passionate about empowering youth. For groups wishing to meet immediate community needs, meal service opportunities and food distribution activities combat hunger and bring relief to homeless populations. Seniors’ wellness programs provide an avenue for volunteers to connect with and assist vulnerable elder populations through social visits and organized activities. Environmental stewardship is another popular category: your group can pitch in on planting trees, cleaning parks, or maintaining community gardens which beautify neighborhoods and foster green urban spaces. New York Cares also hosts seasonal drives, such as their renowned winter coat collection and distribution, which groups can help coordinate and execute together. Each of these activities has been developed to accommodate varying group sizes and interests, ensuring that any gathering at New York Cares becomes a fulfilling team effort.
Why is New York Cares the perfect place for a group meetup?
New York Cares stands out as the perfect venue for group meetups because it offers structure, variety, and a shared sense of purpose rarely found in typical social gatherings. Unlike many volunteer organizations, it manages over 1,600 projects monthly, providing continuous opportunities that can match your group's availability and passion. Their expert coordination means your group receives clear guidance, training, and materials to contribute effectively from day one—eliminating downtime and confusion. The diversity of their programs ensures every group member, regardless of skills or interests, can find a role that feels meaningful and engaging. The collective energy gained from volunteering together not only strengthens friendships but also enriches the participants emotionally and socially. Furthermore, New York Cares’ extensive partnerships across all five boroughs mean you can choose projects close to your neighborhood or explore other communities, broadening your group’s impact. Hosting your meetup here transforms typical social time into gratifying, memorable service that benefits both your circle and the wider city.
How does volunteering at New York Cares enhance group dynamics?
Volunteering together through New York Cares naturally fosters teamwork, communication, and empathy among friends or family members. Shared challenges such as organizing food drives or landscaping a park demand cooperative problem-solving, giving your group the chance to hone collaboration skills outside everyday settings. Working side by side with diverse community members and other volunteers also broadens perspectives and nurtures compassion, strengthening emotional connections inside your group. Many groups find that the mutual accomplishment and direct community impact catalyze conversations and laughter that deepen bonds beyond surface-level interaction. Additionally, the structured nature of each project helps keep all members engaged and involved, making the experience inclusive regardless of individual personalities or fitness levels. These enriched group dynamics often linger long after volunteering ends, influencing future friendships and even encouraging continued involvement in civic service together.
What logistical advantages does New York Cares offer for group meetups?
New York Cares excels in logistical support, making it exceptionally easy for groups to organize their volunteer sessions with minimal hassle. Their website allows group leaders to explore and sign up for hundreds of ongoing opportunities that fit specific dates, times, and interests. Upon registration, detailed instructions, location information, and any needed materials or training guidelines are provided in advance, ensuring your group arrives prepared and confident. New York Cares staff often attend or oversee group volunteer events to assist with coordination, answer questions, and ensure safety standards—helping organizers focus on facilitating an enjoyable experience. Transportation considerations are simplified as many projects occur within accessible public transit routes across NYC’s boroughs. For larger or corporate-style groups, New York Cares offers leadership resources and group management tools, enabling your meetup to scale and meet specific goals. This comprehensive logistical framework allows your friends or family to concentrate on the meaningful work and camaraderie rather than worrying about planning minutiae.
How does New York Cares contribute to the wider New York City community?
New York Cares plays a crucial role in strengthening and uniting New York City's neighborhoods through extensive volunteer mobilization and strategic partnerships. With more than 30,000 volunteers contributing over 8 million service hours since its founding, it has become the largest citywide volunteer network focused on creating lasting social impact. Working with about 1,300 nonprofits and schools across all five boroughs, New York Cares tackles issues like educational inequities, food insecurity, homelessness, and urban decay. Its programs have delivered over 70 million meals to those in need, distributed 2.5 million winter coats, and provided countless tutoring and wellness support services annually. This consistent, large-scale engagement not only alleviates immediate hardships but also revitalizes public spaces and community morale. By volunteering with New York Cares, your group becomes part of this positive force—actively shaping NYC’s future through hands-on service and solidarity.
What makes New York Cares a trusted and reputable nonprofit?
New York Cares’ outstanding reputation stems from its decades of reliable, impactful service combined with a culture of professionalism and integrity. Established in 1987 by a group of friends frustrated with fragmented volunteer opportunities, it has grown into a model nonprofit recognized nationally for excellence. It received the New York Times Company Nonprofit Excellence Award and accolades from respected sources like The NonProfit Times and The Wall Street Journal. The organization maintains high standards for volunteer coordination, transparency, and community relationships, consistently earning positive feedback from participants and partner agencies. Their ability to mobilize thousands of volunteers and deliver measurable results reflects a sophisticated approach to nonprofit management not often matched elsewhere. Choosing New York Cares means aligning your group with a trusted leader in civic engagement dedicated to enriching NYC through service.
Can volunteering with New York Cares be a fun and rewarding experience for diverse groups?
Absolutely. New York Cares designs its programs to be accessible, meaningful, and engaging for a wide variety of people, making it an inclusive destination for friends, families, or colleagues. Activities balance hands-on labor with social interaction, creativity, and learning, ensuring volunteer sessions never feel monotonous or overwhelming. Many projects include elements like group discussion, light competition, or celebration moments that add energy and enjoyment. Volunteers also gain the personal satisfaction of witnessing direct positive effects in their neighborhoods and beyond, which significantly boosts morale and motivation. The diversity of opportunities—from environmental projects and food distribution to tutoring and wellness outreach—means groups with different ages, interests, and abilities can find something fulfilling. New York Cares also cultivates community among volunteers by offering ongoing programs, socials, and leadership roles that encourage long-term friendships and development.
How can groups get started with volunteering at New York Cares?
Getting started with a group at New York Cares is straightforward and well-supported. The first step is to visit the New York Cares website where group leaders can browse an extensive calendar of upcoming volunteer projects sorted by interest, location, and date. After selecting a project or multiple options, leaders and members sign up online, often receiving confirmation and additional details immediately. New volunteer orientations and briefings are available both virtually and in person to ensure everyone understands their role and the organization's expectations. For groups interested in recurring involvement or specialized projects, New York Cares provides staff support to customize experiences and coordinate logistics. Volunteer leaders have access to tools that help manage their members, track participation, and communicate easily. This seamless process removes barriers and empowers your group to jump into service quickly and confidently.
Why does volunteering at New York Cares create lasting social impact beyond just one meetup?
Volunteering with New York Cares is not merely a single event; it often sparks long-term engagement and positive change. Many volunteers return regularly, becoming essential contributors to ongoing community projects. The corporation’s wide network strengthens social capital by connecting individuals to causes, neighbors, and each other. Volunteers gain newfound awareness of urban challenges and develop skills—like teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving—that translate into broader life benefits. Moreover, as groups participate repeatedly, they build a culture of service that influences family, friends, and workplaces, amplifying impact. New York Cares also uses volunteer feedback to adapt and maximize its efforts, ensuring continuous improvement and relevance. Thus, rallying your friends at New York Cares plants seeds for sustained community support, personal growth, and collective resilience that far exceed your initial meetup.