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Writer's pictureLex Stewart

THIS WEEK & NEXT IN ATX #3 | Nov 13-27

Looking to channel post-election feelings into meaningful action? You're not alone. Between November 13-27, there's a whole spectrum of ways to get involved and make real change – whether you're comfortable joining in-person or prefer to contribute from home.


I've gathered opportunities that let you turn those complex emotions into concrete steps forward. Because while elections can leave us spinning, there's power in coming together and taking action.


Whether you're drawn to local grassroots movements or ready to support global justice efforts, there's meaningful work happening at every level – and passionate people ready to welcome you into the fold. Let's explore where you can plug in and make a difference.


 

online ways to get involved


Join educators and organizers doing powerful work for justice, locally, nationally, and globally–from resisting genocide to fighting for abolitionist futures.

While you're here, check out these Ten Free E-Books for Getting Free from Haymarket


Dive into fresh data that captures young people's real experiences, knowledge, and perspectives on contraception and abortion. This isn't just numbers – it's a window into how the next generation approaches reproductive health decisions.


Perfect for healthcare providers, educators, advocates, or anyone interested in supporting young people's health choices with actual insights rather than assumptions.


11/21 Where Do We Go From Here? A Post-Election Assessment w/ Haymarket Books | 6-7:30PM CST

A conversation with Naomi Klein, Astra Taylor, Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, and Chenjerai Kumanyika. The left in the United States — and internationally — faces multiple challenges. How can we squarely face these and find ways to build effective movements for the world we need?


The Trevor Project


The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. They provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round.


Explore volunteering here. To volunteer at Trevor, you’ll need the right technology. Security, privacy, sound quality and a strong internet connection are all key elements to providing a safe and supportive experience for young people.


Run For Something


Today's school board candidate could be tomorrow's senator, and Run for Something is here to help clear the path. They trust voters to choose their own champions and believe that local races, where issues hit closest to home, are where real change begins.


They're not just looking for the usual suspects or the biggest bank accounts. Instead, they're backing young, diverse progressives who are ready to serve their communities – providing the nuts and bolts of campaign know-how, mentorship, and practical support to make running for office actually doable.


 

While big organizations have their place, the most powerful change often happens right in your own backyard. Whether it's joining your local Buy Nothing group, getting your hands dirty in a community garden, or connecting with mutual aid networks – these direct, person-to-person actions create immediate impact.


Sure, the internet's great for finding resources (hey, you're here reading this!), but magic happens when we step into our communities. It's about showing up, building relationships, and creating the support systems we need together.


Start small. Start local. Start today.


 

Recurring Opportunities


Accessible Housing Austin (AHA): In-office and on-site opportunities. Tasks may include landscaping, replacing doors and adding screen doors, light carpentry, and painting the inside/outside of a home


Seedling Mentorship: Children with incarcerated parents face unique challenges and risks. Seedling mentors provide consistent support, helping these youth build resilience and discover positive interests.


Inside Books Project: Help send books to people in Texas prisons. Volunteer sessions run Thursdays and Sundays, 6-10pm at their Austin location. During sessions, you'll match book requests with available titles and prepare packages for shipping.


Austin Mutual Aid: Shape the future of grassroots community care at Austin Mutual Aid meetings. Mutual aid is neighbors helping neighbors - we share resources, skills, and support directly with our community, no strings attached. It's not charity; it's solidarity in action.


 

A luncheon and tour of SAFE's campus. Discover how SAFE helps survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking find freedom and healing. The SAFE Alliance is a merger of Austin Children’s Shelter and SafePlace, both long-standing and respected human service agencies in Austin serving the survivors of child abuse, sexual assault and exploitation, and domestic violence.


A monthly meeting to discuss criminal justice reform, share resources, and plan community actions. Whether you've experienced incarceration or support someone who has, this is a great way to get involved.


"Where Do We Go From Here?" is a rallying call for those ready to move beyond talk to action. We're gathering to challenge broken systems and build real alternatives. This isn't about comfortable conversations—it's about creating lasting change through collective power and unwavering hope. Join us in crafting a bold new vision for justice and freedom.


If you're looking for more ways to volunteer in Austin, follow @impactpal on Instagram!


Mission Accomplished helps Austin families move toward self-sufficiency through resources and support. This Thanksgiving, they're spreading joy by helping package and deliver food baskets to families in need. They've gathered the supplies - now they need volunteers to help pack and distribute them to our neighbors.


 

Navigating Grief & Future Events


Hospice Austin offers a free virtual grief support group for LGBTQ+ adults, meeting 2nd and 4th Thursdays. For Zoom access and to maintain a safe space, call 512-342-4700.


A 2-hour workshop that explores grief beyond traditional loss. Through storytelling, music, and guided practices, facilitator Matthew Armstead will illustrate how grief connects to life transitions, personal growth, and community building. ASL interpretation provided.

Need a literary lifeline? My friend Emma curated this soul-soothing collection that's perfect for when the world feels like a lot. It's not about escaping reality—it's about finding wisdom and comfort to help you show up sustainably for the long haul. Because sometimes the most radical act is taking care of your heart so you can keep doing the work that matters.


Focus on what you can do today. Then tomorrow. Then the next day. Small, sustainable steps forward are how we make it through.


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