The holidays and the start of a new year inspire a desire to give back to the community in some way. Below are some links that offer a wide variety of ideas and opportunities.

www.volunteermatch.org This site offers a long list of diversified opportunities for individuals and groups to help out in the Austin area. Look under the section “Top Metros” on the right side of the home page and click on your city.

The Texas Youth Commission needs assistance supporting troubled youth in Texas in a variety of areas. Go to this link http://www.tyc.state.tx.us/programs/volunteer_opportunities.html for more detail. You also can email Tammy Vega at tammy.vega@tyc.state.tx.us for information.

www.volunteersolutions.orgSponsored by United Way, this site offers a long list of volunteer opportunities organized by region and subject throughout Texas.

On Friday, December 10 and Saturday, December 11, the Austin Young Lawyers Association (AYLA) will need volunteers to help out with their annual Holiday Baskets project. Every year AYLA delivers food and gifts to over 85 families in Austin. AYLA also sponsors a program called “Christmas for Kids” for which they need volunteers. For more information, contact Michelle Cheng at 476-4346 or mcheng@whoalaw.com or go to http://www.ayla.org for more information.