With the Fourth of the July out of the way this year, we have a clear shot through the rest of the summer until school starts again on Monday, Aug. 23.

In that time there are so many things to do and be involved in. No one should really ever feel “bored.” If there isn’t an event or concert happening somewhere in the North County or county as a whole, there is a place to volunteer.

It’s easier to think about what we can do for us during our free time, but what about doing something for someone else?

El Camino Homeless Shelter, to name only one organization, is always in need of adult volunteers to spend the night or to serve a meal, but those under 18 can prepare a meal or volunteer to do something else while the clients are not there.

What about picking up trash in the parks? You don’t have to ask to do that, just pick up wayward litter wherever you go.

Go help a neighbor that might need an extra hand with housework or yard work.

Go to a senior home and visit with one of the residents.

I know there are so many more opportunities for volunteers.

Go to The Link on the corner of Olmeda Avenue and West Mall has a list of organizations they refer people and could be a starting point for finding a place to volunteer. Other places that may be able to help are the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce and Atascadero Main Street offices and the city of Atascadero.

Every person you ask will give you a different opportunity. There are so many different opportunities depending on your talents and passions.

Besides some manual labor, I often volunteer as a photographer and sending out press releases for organizations because that’s something I excel at.

Everyone has a talent that could be put to use one way or another.