Volunteer Opportunities in Utah and COVID-19

For more than a year, COVID-19 has caused worldwide devastation and heartache. Thousands in the U.S. alone have lost loved ones. Others who survived are dealing with troubling medical issues. There have been dark times in every community. This has also had an impact on volunteer opportunities in Utah. 

But there is hope.

How has COVID-19 affected volunteer opportunities in Utah?

Despite the relentlessness of COVID-19, organizations have ramped up volunteer efforts where necessary, becoming more flexible and creative. The National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine states, “The coronavirus pandemic…has changed the way volunteers are engaged and supported and the roles they can perform.”

Community partners like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah remain resilient and adaptable. BBBSU has shifted its platform for how it carries out volunteer opportunities in Utah. Continuing to connect adult mentors with children and teens is more important than ever. Viral outbreaks in schools keep kids away from their friends and classmates. Intermountain Healthcare says, “School is an important part of your child’s learning and development…kids also learn valuable social and emotional skills.”

Volunteering in Utah

COVID-19 has brought necessary, life-saving changes. State mask mandates, social distancing, washing hands regularly, and using hand sanitizer are routine.

Understanding the importance of these protocols, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah includes them in its services. Its on-site volunteer opportunities are now virtual. Fun events are enjoyed from the safety of Bigs’ and Littles’ homes. Clothing donations are accepted with limited schedules for curbside and drop-off locations.

These are some effects of COVID-19 on Utah’, but organizations that help communities stay the course. They are still tirelessly serving, making adjustments, and switching to online connections, despite this pandemic’s challenges.

For more information about volunteer opportunities in Utah, visit the BBBSU website today!