San Rafael Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond

Discover meaningful ways to give back — from volunteering and donating to supporting community programs year-round.

Posted Wed, Oct 29, 2025 at 7:58 am PT

Giving Tuesday is all about generosity — and some of the most meaningful giving happens right here at home. Celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from finding deals to doing good. But there’s no reason to wait — or stop once the day has passed.

This year, Patch and T-Mobile are spotlighting organizations in the San Rafael area that are making a difference and helping others in need. These local groups are doing important work, and there are plenty of ways to support them — from donating and volunteering to spreading the word. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a great place to start, so be sure to reach out to each organization directly to learn how you can help.

10,000 Degrees

San Rafael-based 10,000 Degrees opens doors to higher education for students from low-income backgrounds. By combining financial aid, mentoring and career support, they help thousands of young people not just access college, but graduate and succeed beyond it. You can get involved by donating, tutoring a student or volunteering at college-readiness events.
Learn more: 10000degrees.org

Adopt A Family of Marin

Adopt A Family of Marin helps prevent homelessness by providing rent, utility, and emergency financial assistance to low-income families throughout Marin County. Through one-on-one support and community partnerships, the organization works to give parents and children a foundation for long-term stability. Those interested can donate funds or items to the organization, or sponsor a family directly during the holidays or year-round.
Learn more: adoptafamily.org

Canal Alliance

Canal Alliance helps Latino immigrants and their families overcome barriers to success through legal aid, education, career programs and social services. Their team works to ensure that everyone in Marin County, regardless of background, has the opportunity to build a stable and fulfilling life. To get involved, you can make a donation or fill out a volunteer interest form.
Learn more: canalalliance.org

Community Action Marin

Community Action Marin provides the tools and resources families need to achieve stability, from housing and food assistance to early childhood education and mental health programs. Those interested in contributing can make a monetary or vehicle donation, or fill out a volunteer form to stay apprised of opportunities.
Learn more: camarin.org

Marin Humane

Marin Humane transforms the lives of animals and people across Marin County through rescue, adoption, education and community engagement programs. The organization provides shelter, medical care and behavior training to more than 10,000 animals each year, along with youth programs, humane education and animal-assisted therapy. Volunteers can socialize and walk pets, foster or lend a hand at community events; monetary, vehicle and shelter contributions are also appreciated.
Learn more: marinhumane.org

NAMI Marin

NAMI Marin advocates for better mental health support by providing free education, resources and community programs for individuals and families affected by mental illness. As part of the national NAMI network, the Marin chapter works to build understanding, reduce stigma and empower people to seek help and recovery. You can get involved by donating, volunteering at local events or joining the organization as a member.
Learn more: namimarin.org

People with Disabilities Succeeding (PDS)

People with Disabilities Succeeding helps adults with developmental disabilities find meaningful employment and build independent, fulfilling lives in the Marin community. Their programs emphasize inclusion through job coaching, life skills training and social activities that promote connection and confidence. You can volunteer to join clients for local outings, assist with skill-building, host a party at “The Friend Zone” or offer professional talents, or offer a monetary contribution.
Learn more: pdsmarin.org

Postpartum Support Center

The Postpartum Support Center promotes maternal mental health and family well-being through free peer support groups, counseling resources and the Marin Diaper Bank. Their evidence-based programs aim to prevent postpartum depression and connect new parents with a compassionate community of care. In addition to donating, you can also volunteer to host fundraisers and diaper drives, run the Diaper Bank or serve as a Trained Mom/Dad Peer.

Learn more: postpartumsc.org