Giving Back in Marin
Where our family volunteers, and how new families can get involved
Last updated September 2026 · By Melissa DiVita, REALTOR®, Compass · DRE #01387955 · Marin native, in real estate since 2003
Four generations of my family have called Marin home, and giving back is part of how we live here. This is where our family puts its time, plus a short guide for families new to Marin who want to do the same.
Where our family gives back
- SF-Marin Food Bank. All three of my kids volunteer at the Food Bank’s Marin warehouse in San Rafael. It’s one of the easiest ways for a family to help. Shifts fill up, so sign up early and check the age rules for each one.
- boys team charity (BTC Marin). My son volunteers with BTC, where teenage boys and their moms do community service together. It’s time with him I really value.
- Reed Schools Foundation. We support the foundation behind the Reed, Bel Aire and Del Mar schools, where all three of my kids have gone.
- Redwood High School Foundation. Now that we’re a Redwood family, we support the Redwood foundation too.
- The Ranch. Tiburon’s recreation nonprofit runs the programs so many peninsula kids grow up with, and events like Run Tiburon benefit it.
If you’re new to Marin and want to get involved
- Start with your school foundation. Almost every Marin school district has one, and volunteering for it is one of the fastest ways to meet other parents.
- Try a parent-child league. boys team charity (for sons) and National Charity League (for daughters) both have Marin chapters, built around moms and teens volunteering together.
- Book a Food Bank shift. It’s hands-on, it’s close by in San Rafael, and it’s a great first family outing.
Community is a big part of why people move here. See my Tiburon and Belvedere guides for the family traditions on the peninsula, and my Marin events calendar for every town’s.
Moving to Marin?
I’m always happy to talk about the community side of a move, not just the house. Send me a note through my contact form.