Destin-Nation USA: Voluntouring America

Washington is a city in constant transition, with people flying into and out of town on the drifting winds of the government. But, outside of the Georgetown scene and the suburbs, more than 17.6% of the 600,000 people who call the District home live below the poverty line. (That’s compared to 14.3% nationally in 2009.)

After taking in the monuments and museums (most of which are free), check out some ways to give back to the people of our capital.

Miriam’s Kitchen was founded in 1983, and named for the biblical figure – Moses’ sister, who was forced to live as an outsider because of a sin she committed. The charity, which reaches out to the District’s impoverished through programs like meal service, art classes, and a working café, aims to integrate those who are isolated like Miriam. There are many ways to volunteer, but the easiest for travelers will be to pull a shift serving or prepping meals.

So Others Might Eat (SOME) is another homeless outreach in D.C., founded in 1970 by an interfaith group of priests, ministers and lay people. Its programs include meal service, substance abuse programs, homebound elderly outreach, a medical clinic plus affordable housing and job training programs. Check out opportunities specifically geared for kids.

For a more comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities, visit One Brick. The D.C. branch of this national service organization is a hub for a broad spectrum of one-day projects.