Discover local volunteer opportunities that make a lasting impact—right here in our Stanwood and Camano community.
Hidden Ways to Give Back Around Stanwood & Camano
As the leaves change and we gather with family to give thanks, it’s also a great time to give back. This could be to neighbors, local animals in need, or the small nonprofits that quietly keep Stanwood and Camano running. Big food drives and national charities get a lot of attention, but there are many local ways to make a real difference right here at home.
Here are some lesser-known but meaningful volunteer opportunities in our community—organized by interest area so you can find one that feels like the right fit for you.
Helping People & Families in Need
Address: 27030 102nd Ave NW, Stanwood
Stanwood Camano Food Bank
The Stanwood Camano Food Bank supports over 500 local households each month, providing nutritious food, hygiene items, and baby essentials. Its popular thrift store helps fund programs while bringing the community together. During the holidays, the Food Bank prepares festive meal kits and gift baskets for families who are struggling. Volunteers from the community are always welcome to sort donations, pack boxes, organize shelves, assist in the thrift store, or deliver items to neighbors who can’t get out. Every contribution of time makes a real difference for families right in the community.
Camano Center
The Camano Center provides a variety of programs for seniors and the wider community, including Meals on Wheels, a community garden, enrichment classes, and large events such as holiday bazaars and fundraisers. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting these programs, whether it’s cooking and delivering meals, helping with yard work, setting up events, or staffing the front desk. There are opportunities for everyone—those who enjoy working behind the scenes as well as those who like connecting directly with people in the community.
Address: 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island
Animal Rescues & Support
Address: 198 Can Ku Road, Camano Island
CASA (Camano Animal Shelter Association)
CASA is a no-kill shelter on Camano Island that cares for cats and dogs until they find their forever homes. The organization also helps reunite lost pets with their families and provides spay/neuter vouchers for residents in need. Volunteers are always welcome to walk dogs, socialize with cats, tidy up, greet visitors, or assist at events and fundraisers. CASA relies entirely on donations and community support, so every contribution of time and energy makes a meaningful difference for pets and neighbors in the area.
NOAH (Northwest Organization for Animal Help)
Located just outside of Stanwood, NOAH is a nationally recognized animal adoption center dedicated to saving homeless pets through partnerships with shelters across the region. The organization also offers veterinary services and low-cost spay/neuter programs. Volunteers support NOAH in many ways, including feeding and cleaning, organizing donations, helping at adoption events, greeting potential adopters, or fostering pets short-term. It’s an inviting place for both first-time and experienced animal lovers to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local pets.
Address: 31300 Brandstrom Road, Stanwood
Education, Arts & Literacy
Address: 848 N Sunrise Blvd #D, Camano Island
Friends of the Camano Island Library
This small but dedicated group supports Camano’s cherished library branch through book sales, fundraising, and special events such as author talks and literacy programs. Volunteers assist by sorting and organizing donated books, running pop-up sales, and helping spread the word about library services. It’s a meaningful way for community members to support lifelong learning and make a lasting impact right at home.
Stanwood Camano Arts Guild
The Arts Guild nurtures local artists and fosters community creativity through gallery shows, youth programs, and public art installations. Volunteers play an important role by setting up exhibits, coordinating events, and assisting with hands-on workshops and community projects. It’s an ideal opportunity for anyone who enjoys creative spaces, working with kids on art projects, or helping behind the scenes to bring events to life.
Address: 8702 271st St NW, Stanwood
Environment & Outdoor Volunteering
Address: PO Box 1385 Stanwood
Friends of Camano Island Parks (FOCIP)
FOCIP is a local stewardship group dedicated to maintaining and preserving Camano’s public parks and trail systems. Volunteers help with trail building, removing invasive species, repairing signage, and supporting educational outreach. It’s a perfect opportunity for families, students earning community service hours, or anyone who enjoys working outdoors. Their monthly “work parties” are social, rewarding, and a fun way to make a tangible impact on the community.
Short on Time? You Can Still Make a Difference!
Even if your schedule is busy, there are plenty of ways to give back this season. A little effort can go a long way in supporting neighbors, seniors, and local animals. Here are some ideas:
- Host a mini drive – Collect food, coats, or toys at your workplace, neighborhood, or place of worship. Even a small collection can brighten someone’s holiday.
- Send holiday cheer – Write and decorate cards for seniors, nursing home residents, or shelter pets. A thoughtful note can bring a smile and show that someone cares.
- Raise awareness online – Share local volunteer opportunities on social media. A simple post can inspire friends, coworkers, and family to get involved too.
- Get the kids involved – Encourage children to participate. It’s a fun, hands-on way to teach empathy, kindness, and the value of giving back.
Even small acts add up. By taking just a little time, you can make a meaningful difference in your community this holiday season.
In the Spirit of Thanksgiving…
The beauty of giving back is that even small actions can make a real difference. Whether it’s delivering meals, walking dogs, organizing books, or simply showing up with a kind smile, every effort helps make the community stronger, more connected, and full of hope.
This season, let’s put our gratitude into action—lending a hand, spreading joy, and supporting the people and causes that make Stanwood and Camano such special places to call home.
While you’re out making a difference, stop by our office in Stanwood or Camano Island for a cup of coffee. We’d love to chat about your volunteer adventures or discuss the latest market conditions if you’re curious about real estate!
Written By Windermere Staff
