How to Engage Locally in Spokane: Real Ways to Make a Difference in Your Community

Written By Empower Spokane

Spokane is more than just a city—it’s a community rich with passion, resilience, and opportunity for meaningful change. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a local impact—especially in times of social and political uncertainty—there are countless ways to plug in and take action right here at home.

Here’s a guide to engaging locally in Spokane through activism, volunteering, and community-building.

1. Support Grassroots Movements and Advocacy Groups

Activism begins at the ground level. Spokane is home to numerous advocacy organizations working on issues like housing justice, racial equity, reproductive rights, and more.

Local Organizations to Explore:

  • Peace & Justice Action League of Spokane (PJALS) – Hosts workshops, rallies, and trainings on nonviolent activism and social justice.

  • RAIZ of Planned Parenthood – Works on reproductive freedom and access to healthcare.

  • The Lands Council – Focused on environmental justice and sustainability in Eastern Washington.

  • ACLU of Washington – Spokane Chapter – Advocates for civil liberties and rights in our local community.

✅ How to Get Involved:

  • Attend local rallies, town halls, and issue-based forums.

  • Join their newsletters or volunteer committees.

  • Amplify their messages on social media or by word of mouth.

2. Volunteer Where It Matters Most

There’s no shortage of local organizations that need extra hands. Whether you’re looking for a one-time opportunity or ongoing involvement, Spokane has nonprofits in nearly every sector.

Opportunities to Consider:

  • 2nd Harvest – Help with food distribution and fighting hunger in the Inland Northwest.

  • Spokane Valley Partners – Offers volunteer roles in their food bank, clothing bank, and mobile markets.

  • YWCA Spokane – Volunteer in domestic violence services, youth programs, or event support.

  • Communities in Schools Spokane County – Support K–12 students with mentorship and basic needs.

📝 Pro Tip: Use VolunteerSpokane.org to browse by category, location, or time commitment.

3. Get Involved in Civic Life

One of the most direct ways to create change is to participate in Spokane’s local government. Don’t underestimate the impact of school board meetings, city council sessions, and public forums.

Ways to Engage:

  • Attend Spokane City Council meetings (in person or online). Public comment is welcome!

  • Apply for one of the City’s Boards and Commissions—there are open seats for community members.

  • Follow Spokane Public Schools board meetings to stay informed on education policy.

📅 Meeting calendars and agendas are posted at my.spokanecity.org.

4. Join a Local Group That Reflects Your Values

Joining a group with shared interests creates consistency, accountability, and belonging.

Groups to Check Out:

  • Empower Spokane – Connect with business-minded women and allies for networking, mentorship, and community-building.

  • The Woman’s Club of Spokane – A historic organization focused on volunteerism and civic engagement.

  • League of Women Voters Spokane Area – Nonpartisan group educating and empowering voters.

  • Spokane NAACP – Offers educational programming, community forums, and advocacy.

5. Use Your Talents Creatively

Think beyond traditional activism. Your unique skills—graphic design, writing, event planning, web development, or just being a good listener—can be transformative.

💡 Ideas:

  • Design flyers or social graphics for local orgs.

  • Help a nonprofit build a better website.

  • Offer to host a community roundtable in your home or business.

  • Write op-eds or blog posts about local issues.

6. Commit to Consistent Action (Not Perfection)

Activism and engagement don’t have to be big, loud, or constant. Even small, consistent acts—attending one meeting a month, donating time quarterly, mentoring one student—can ripple out and create meaningful change.

Final Thoughts: Spokane Needs You

Spokane thrives when its residents show up—not just in times of crisis, but every day, in small, steady ways. Whether you’re rallying for change, helping your neighbors, or just showing up and listening—you are part of the movement.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to get involved, this is it.

Let’s build something better—right here, right now.

Empower Spokane
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Showing Up: How to Get Involved in Your Local Community—Especially Now