As we celebrate all things local in our February issue, we're spotlighting organizations in our area that rely on volunteers to make a meaningful impact. These local nonprofits shared how community members can get involved and what they look for in volunteers. Whether you have a special skill, a little extra time, or simply a desire to support others, each offers accessible, rewarding ways to give back.
Mt. Diablo Village:
Founded in 2025, Mt. Diablo Village (MDV) is dedicated to helping Walnut Creek seniors age in place by staying active, connected, and supported. The organization provides programs to promote physical and mental fitness, social engagement, lifelong learning, and a sense of purpose. MDV also offers volunteer services for seniors who need extra help at home—an essential part of their mission.
To ensure member safety, all MDV volunteers undergo background checks. Opportunities span a wide range of interests and skill sets, including:
- Home Help Services: Drivers, handymen, gardeners, dog walkers, walking buddies, tech helpers, and more.
- Program Planning: Volunteers to organize or lead classes, social groups, walking clubs, field trips, and other community activities.
- Instructors: Individuals who can teach yoga, chair yoga, meditation, tai chi, line dancing, cooking, or other talents they’re passionate about.
- Speakers: Professionals such as doctors, nurses, gerontologists, legal experts, service providers, and civic leaders—anyone with knowledge to share.
For information, visit mtdiablovillage.org or email info@mtdiablovillage.org
Mobility Matters:
Mobility Matters offers another deeply personal way to support local seniors and veterans: volunteer driving. The organization connects those who can no longer drive with caring community members who can safely transport them to essential appointments.
Volunteer drivers must meet some key requirements:
- Be between 25 and 75 years old with a current driver’s license
- Maintain an excellent driving record and a crime-free background
- Have access to a reliable, insured vehicle
- Attend a three-hour training session before providing a first ride
Each ride typically lasts about three hours, and volunteers can commit to as little as one ride a month.
Contact: (925) 284 - 2215
California Symphony Alliance:
Founded in 1991, the California Symphony Alliance raises thousands of dollars each year to support the orchestra and to provide vital volunteer support for its education program, Sound Minds, and numerous community events. Volunteers can help:
- Hand out Symphony swag and flyers at community events.
- Work the instrument petting zoo, where kids can touch, hold, and even play the instruments in the orchestra.
- Assemble paper/practice instruments for students in their Sound Minds education program.
- Helping to coordinate fundraising events.
Contact: (925) 280-2490 or email info@californiasymphony.org
Friends of the Walnut Creek Library:
The Friends of the Walnut Creek Library maintain a bookstore within the Walnut Creek Downtown Library. Volunteers are needed to staff the bookstore once or twice a month for a few hours per shift.
Contact: fwclbookstoreschedule@gmail.com
Whether you’re drawn to lending a hand at home, sharing a skill, leading a group, or offering the simple gift of transportation, these organizations make it easy to make a difference right here in Walnut Creek.
We hope you’ll consider getting involved and supporting our local nonprofits as they continue the important work they do every day.