Volunteering
Are you interested in contributing to local organizations? There are many that relate to our lines of research. See below some groups doing wonderful work around the Waltham and greater Boston area!
Our aging research focuses on older adults and memory throughout the aging process. There are several local organizations focused on memory and aging.
- The Jewish Family & Children's Service Memory Cafe is a welcoming gathering for people living with memory changes. There are many opportunities to volunteer to help set up the room and greet and mingle with everyone gathered at the Café, or to encourage participants on Zoom. It's also lots of fun!
- The Walk to End Alzheimers in Boston is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support and research. There is an annual walk in Boston and some Brandeis Psychology labs have participated in the walk. Consider joining! There are also opportunities to volunteer as part of the planning committee.
Some of our cultural research is focused on experiences of immigration and acculturation and much of our cross-cultural samples consist of international students. There are several organizations focused on these groups' interests locally.
- The Waltham Alliance for Teaching Community Organizing and Housing Community Development Corporation (WATCH CDC)
- This community development association promotes affordable housing, provides adult education and leadership development, and empowers underrepresented residents through civic engagement. This includes housing clinics and GED, ESL and citizenship classes often attended by local refugees and immigrants. There are many volunteer opportunities available, including tutoring.
- Brandeis has a club for The Right to Immigration Institute, which helps advocate for legal services for asylum applicants. Over 50 volunteers work with them and it was originally started by a Brandeis professor and Brandeis undergraduates. They can be contacted for more information about volunteer opportunities.
Our cross-cultural research often involves API (Asian/Pacific Islander) participants. There are several API focused groups local to us or with local chapters:
- OCA-APAA-NE, Asian Pacific American Advocates of New England
- This non-profit aims to advance the social, political and economic well-being of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) and empower future leaders. The local chapter has volunteer opportunities mentoring AAPI youth. Donations are accepted.
- Massachusetts Asian Pacific Islanders Civic Action Network (APIs CAN)
- Consider taking part in the current campaigns of APIs CAN, which advance the interests of Massachusetts' Asian and Pacific Islander American communities through year-round civic action
- Boston Foundation Asian Community Fund
- Consider donating to the Asian Community Fund, which advocates for equality and fights against injustice and racism alongside other communities of color.
Have other recommendations for local resources or funds related to aging and culture? Feel free to email us with other organizations worth highlighting here.