Rancho Santa Margarita and Orange County are home for us — not just where we work, but where we live. Over the years we’ve found that some of the most meaningful time we spend is alongside the people and organizations quietly making this community stronger. We volunteer with the groups below because we’ve seen their work up close, and we’d love for you to get to know them too. If one of them speaks to you, please consider giving an hour, a donation, or simply passing the word along.
— Michael & Jaime Mattson
RSM Cares | Bell Tower Foundation
Where: Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · Website: rsmcares.org
RSM Cares | Bell Tower Foundation works to enrich the quality of life for Rancho Santa Margarita residents by inspiring local philanthropy, engaging people in community service, and partnering with local nonprofits — a true “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” spirit. Its food pantry runs the first and third Wednesday of each month at Shepherd of the Hills Methodist Church, and the organization reports serving over 500 families at each distribution, no questions asked. It also partners with Age Well to reach homebound seniors. On the first Saturday of every month, volunteers gather for Zero Trash cleanups around town. Non-perishable food can be dropped off at participating local businesses.
Get involved:
- Volunteer: Contact RSM Cares
- Donate: Give online (PayPal) · Food drop-off locations
- Programs & events: Initiatives · Events
Habitat for Humanity of Orange County
Where: Santa Ana, CA, serving Orange County · Website: habitatoc.org
Habitat for Humanity of Orange County “changes lives by bringing people together to create affordable homeownership, community and hope,” working toward a world where everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. Partner homebuyers are selected based on housing need, steady income, and willingness to partner, and they contribute “sweat equity” time toward their homes. Habitat OC also offers home repair help, including programs for veterans, and runs neighborhood revitalization partnerships. Its ReStores in Santa Ana and Anaheim sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials, with proceeds supporting the mission. Michael volunteers here, including in a project management role.
Get involved:
- Volunteer: Individual volunteers · All ways to get involved
- Donate: Support Habitat OC · Donate a vehicle
- Shop or donate goods: ReStore
- Events: Upcoming events
WISEPlace
Where: Santa Ana, CA, serving Orange County · Website: wiseplace.org
Founded in 1929 and based in Santa Ana, WISEPlace describes itself as the only Orange County–based nonprofit leading the effort to end homelessness for unaccompanied individuals, with a long focus on women. It provides safe shelter alongside one-on-one case management, counseling and mental health support, addiction recovery, employment help, and housing search assistance. It also offers financial assistance, such as deposits and temporary rent help, to eligible individuals, and operates WISEPlace on Broadway, a permanent supportive housing community. WISEPlace states that 90¢ of every donated dollar goes directly to its programs. Anyone needing help can call (714) 542-3577.
Get involved:
- Volunteer: Volunteer with WISEPlace
- Donate: Donate now · Ways to give · Wish lists
- Events: Events
We aren’t affiliated with or speaking for these organizations — please visit their websites for the most current programs, schedules, and needs.
