Our country’s turbulent political climate and ever-deepening tribalism may have you feeling more than a little anxious. Limiting media consumption is one step in a more positive direction. Others are getting plenty of sleep, exercising, and spending time in nature. But likely, the most powerful way to counter feeling overwhelmed is to focus on making a difference where you can. In other words, volunteering. 

With more than 120 nonprofits operating in Park City and greater Summit County, it may be hard to choose just one. The Park City Community Foundation can help budding volunteers zero in on a nonprofit reflecting their values and interests. “We love to get people involved in volunteering with the community by volunteering for our annual day of giving, Live PC, Give PC, which this year is on November 7,” says Christine Coleman, Park City Community Foundation’s vice president of marketing and communications.

For people looking to volunteer with a nonprofit locally, she suggests helping out in the food pantry, donation receiving area, or the boutique at the Christian Center of Park City; providing extra client support and guidance at Peace House; delivering produce to elementary schools for Summit Community Gardens + EATS; becoming a climbing wall belayer or equestrian side walker for the National Ability Center; and working in the food pantry or being a “friendly visitor”—spending time with an aging adult who needs social or practical support—at the Jewish Family Service of Utah.

A few local aid organizations need volunteers with specific training or skills. Volunteers at the People’s Health Clinic include family doctors, medical specialists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical therapists, and mental health counselors. Fluent Spanish speakers and/or those with legal expertise to share can lend a much-needed hand to the Wasatch Immigration Project.

The newly formed Park City Humanitarians meets bimonthly. More than 900 volunteers representing 31 groups showed up for the organization’s first day of service last year, held in conjunction with the National Day of Service and Remembrance. This year’s Park City Humanitarians Day of Service is scheduled for September 13.