Using our unique skills and talents to help others and promote meaningful causes is part of the fabric of our society and a core value at Broadway Stages. Through financial, in-kind and volunteer resources, we strive to make a difference in the communities where we operate. Join us this month as we observe National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize those who volunteer their time and energy to make the world a better place. It is also a time to encourage volunteerism — volunteers are needed across many areas of daily life to help those in our community who are vulnerable or at risk. From being a member of a volunteer fire department or providing food to those in need, tutoring, mentoring, cleaning up a park, helping at an animal shelter, taking someone to the doctor, making calls and scheduling appointments, or advocacy for equality — the list goes on and on. There are countless ways you can help, and it doesn’t have to be part of a broader initiative; simple acts of kindness also count.

During the pandemic Broadway Stages has supported many organizations dedicated to helping others. Most notably has been the focus on food insecurity. We encourage you to take a look at the exemplary efforts of the The Campaign Against Hunger and the North Brooklyn Angels and consider how you can help. Do you have a special talent or skill that may benefit a charity or organization? Let them know that you want to lend a hand. In the meantime, we offer a few ideas on how you can observe National Volunteer Month.

Show your appreciation. Know someone who volunteers? Reach out and thank them for their efforts and let them know they are appreciated.

Volunteer. Already a volunteer? Keep up the great work! Want to start volunteering? Consider getting involved with a local organization. Here is a list of some of the groups that Broadway Stages is proud to support:

• Camp Brooklyn Fund (camp experiences for low-income families)

• Greenbelt Conservancy and Animal Refuge (environmental sustainability)

• Newtown Creek Alliance (environmental sustainability/green roofs)

• North Brooklyn Angels (food insecurity)

• RiseBoro Community Partnership (multiple social services)

• Staten Island Children’s Museum (arts experiences for children)

• The Campaign Against Hunger (food insecurity)

• Ujima Community Working Together, Inc. (youth empowerment)

• Urban Upbound (multiple social services)

We also recommend Points of Light to search for opportunities around the country or visit NYC Service and New York Cares to find opportunities in New York City.

Unable to volunteer? Consider donating to your favorite charity. Now is a great time to show your support to organizations that are being called on more than ever due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on our communities.

Thanks to all across our community for the many ways you give to others, whether with your time or through financial or in-kind contributions. And for all those volunteering in-person, remember to mask up and stay safe! You are appreciated and we thank you for your compassion.