Religious organizations have long spearheaded various community service programs. In fact, community-based religious organizations are a major provider of valuable services for the needy, and have been for centuries. These days, religious services are organized differently than they were centuries ago, but the basic philosophy remains the same. That basic philosophy requires dedicated citizens who are willing to give their time, knowledge and resources to the goal of bettering the community. Some common modern day volunteer supported social services include marriage counseling. The perspective of religiously based counseling tends to bring a very patient and forgiving attitude to resolving marital problems.

Another prevalent religious community service is youth groups. In this age of educational cutbacks, youth groups are on the rise as an alternative form of social and educational support for children who would otherwise fall through the cracks. Many youth groups are formed locally, sometimes as a reaction to cutbacks in after school programs. The programs create a haven for youth to get together for support and fun activities. Volunteers run many of these youth activities. Activities include tutoring, sports, arts, and crafts.

Many of these organizations need volunteer workers. Not everyone has extra time to volunteer, but people still want to help as they are able. Some organizations need assistance to the needy in ways that don’t require volunteer hours per se; for instance donations of food, clothing, guidance, and shelter. Many programs actually rely heavily on donations to provide their services. So, if you find that you do not have the time to give to your local charitable organization, you might just be able to donate cash so that these organizations can provide give critical help to those in need.