From inspiring community projects and local fundraising efforts to charities, volunteers and neighbours making a real difference, we’re shining a spotlight on the good causes that need your support. Discover what’s happening across York and find out how you can get involved, lend a hand or help spread the word…
OLDER CITIZENS ADVOCACY YORK (OCAY)
First founded in 2001, OCAY is a financially sustainable charity that provides free, confidential advocacy and practical support to local people aged 50+. If you’d like to support the development of this small but impactful community organisation, why not apply to be a voluntary board trustee? The charity is particularly interested in applicants with experience in communications, local fundraising, digital engagement, or in the legal field, although all are welcome to apply! Visit oldercitizensadvocacyyork.org.uk to find out more. Call 01904 676 200 or email info@ocay.org.uk to get in touch.
THE FRIENDS OF ROWNTREE PARK
The Friends of Rowntree Park is a registered charity and voluntary organisation committed to maintaining and improving Rowntree Park, a much-loved green space in Clementhorpe and one of five parks in York to have won the coveted Green Flag Award. If you’re keen to do your bit for the community, why not sign up as a member? Doing so takes two minutes and costs just £10 per year – once signed up, you’ll receive benefits including discounted entry to events, a monthly members’ newsletter, and a 10% discount in the park’s York Explore cafe. Visit www.rowntreepark.org.uk/membership to find out more or sign up.
YORK & SCARBOROUGH HOSPITALS CHARITY
Would you like to make a tangible, positive difference to the hospitals in our region, and be in with a chance of winning a weekly prize draw in the process? For just £5 per month, you can enter the York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity Lottery, and be entered into a weekly draw for a whopping £25,000! Your support will go a long way in improving the hospital experience for visitors, patients, and staff. Could you be the next big winner? Visit www.yshospitalscharity.org/support-us/charity-lottery to sign up or find out more.
REFUGEE ACTION YORK (RAY)
RAY is a local organisation that’s dedicated to supporting families seeking asylum in the UK. According to Home Office statistics, there were 366 people on asylum support in York as of June 2026, 2% of whom receive subsistence only (a cash payment with no accommodation). RAY is currently raising funds to provide essentials including socks and underwear – can you donate to help people in need access basic necessities? All donations are welcome, no matter how small. Visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/rayessentials to donate.
FOR THE LOVE OF OUR FRENCHIES (FLOOF)
FLOOF is currently on the lookout for new adoption homes, in which health-checked Frenchies can feel safe and potentially find their perfect family match. If you offer your home for adoption, you’ll receive a 2-week adoption trial, and the cost of neutering and medical attention will be covered by the FLOOF team. Could you provide a loving home for local dogs in need? Visit www.fortheloveofourfrenchies.net/application-to-adopt to apply.
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