Carli Clesmere 
Bergen County locals have no shortage of ways to give back this winter. From caring for animals at local shelters to supporting nature centers and even the zoo, nonprofit organizations across the county are looking for volunteers to help power their programs and make a real impact. The Bergen Girl has rounded up meaningful opportunities to lend a hand where it’s needed most. Read on for a list of ways to volunteer in Bergen County this winter 2026.
Bergen County Animal Shelter & Adoption Center | 100 United Lane, Teterboro
BCAS provides animal control and care services for 49 towns across Bergen and Hudson Counties. Volunteers spend hands-on time with the animals. This interaction improves the animals’ quality of life at the shelter and helps them develop the skills and behaviors needed to transition into loving new homes. The Volunteer Application can be found on their site.
Bergen County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) | One Bergen County Plaza, Suite 334, Hackensack
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CASA of Bergen County is a nonprofit organization that supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy for children in the foster care system. CASA volunteers serve as consistent advocates for children, helping ensure their voices are heard and their needs are prioritized. Those interested can learn more on their website.
Bergen Volunteers | 50 Eisenhower Drive, Paramus
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Bergen Volunteers’ direct-assistance programs support those in need. The organization also offers civic leadership development training for local teens and professionals. Through a wide range of community programs, Bergen Volunteers engages individuals and businesses in meaningful service, networking, and local volunteer opportunities. With multiple ways to get involved, interested individuals can explore the organization’s website to find the best fit.
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Bikur Cholim of Bergen County | Bikur Cholim Bergen County P.O. Box 3083 Teaneck
Bikur Cholim of Bergen County provides support, facilities, and services that help families during times of illness and hardship. Through meal delivery, transportation, and outreach, Bikur Cholim partners with families to reduce stress and provide comfort during some of life’s most difficult moments. Those interested in volunteering can email [email protected].
Center for Food Action | Multiple Locations
Founded in 1976, the Center for Food Action is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization providing emergency services to northern New Jersey’s vulnerable residents. CFA offers food, housing, utility, and heating assistance, along with counseling and advocacy services for low-income individuals and families. Headquartered in Englewood, CFA also operates sites in Hackensack, Mahwah, Ringwood, and Saddle Brook. Volunteer opportunities vary by location, and interested individuals can begin by completing the volunteer form on the organization’s website to find the best fit based on current needs.
Chaverim of Bergen County | 492C Cedar Lane Suite #416, Teaneck
Chaverim of Bergen County is a non-medical emergency service organization powered by a dedicated team of community-minded volunteers. Dispatchers and service members are available 24 hours a day to assist with a wide range of non-medical emergency needs throughout the community. Volunteer opportunities are available, and those interested are encouraged to apply through the organization’s website.
Friends of the Bergen County Zoo | 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus
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Friends of the Bergen County Zoo is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing financial support to the Bergen County Zoological Park, with a focus on animal welfare, educational programming, and family-friendly facilities. Support from sponsors, donors, members, and zoo visitors helps advance this mission. Volunteer opportunities are available through several programs, including the zoo’s summer camp program. Applications for summer camp volunteers go live in February 2026, with interviews beginning in March 2026.
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County | 121 Carver Avenue, Westwood
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County partners with local families to create lasting, affordable housing solutions throughout Bergen County, New Jersey. Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, groups, students, and retirees, both on-site and behind the scenes. Those interested are encouraged to apply through the organization’s website.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore of Bergen County | 121 Carver Avenue, Westwood
Habitat for Humanity ReStores are nonprofit, thrift-style home improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, and building materials at a fraction of retail prices, with all proceeds supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide affordable housing in local communities. Volunteers at the Habitat Bergen ReStore assist with customer service, stocking and cleaning merchandise, supporting management staff, and helping at the loading dock.
Table to Table | 160 Pehle Avenue, Suite 303, Saddle Brook
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Table to Table is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue organization, working to bridge the gap between surplus food and hunger in northern New Jersey. The organization rescues fresh, nutritious food that would otherwise go to waste and delivers it at no cost to community partners serving neighbors in need. Volunteer opportunities offer flexibility, with food rescues completed on individual schedules and most deliveries taking about one hour. These efforts help feed local communities while also reducing food waste, and more information on how to get involved can be found on the organization’s website.
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Tenafly Nature Center | 313 Hudson Avenue, Tenafly
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Tenafly Nature Center is a nonprofit, independent, member-supported nature preserve in Bergen County, New Jersey. Since 1961, the organization has fostered an appreciation for nature while leading efforts in open-space preservation and environmental education for the broader community. Volunteer opportunities are limited and vary based on season, weather, skill set, and staff availability. Additional information on current volunteer opportunities can be found on the Tenafly Nature Center website.
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