SPUR

About the Member

SPUR

Vibrant abstract burst of colorful paint strokes radiates in unity, encircling “SPUR”—symbolizing Essex community creativity.

SPUR | Volunteer Opportunities | North Shore, MA

About Us

SPUR engages, inspires, and connects individuals of all ages with meaningful volunteer opportunities that meet tangible needs across Beverly, Lynn, Marblehead, Salem, and Swampscott. Founded in 2014 by Jocelyn Cook, SPUR was created so young children, families, and individuals could give back through opportunities that embrace busy schedules, varying experiences, and interest levels. Each volunteer opportunity can be done in two hours or less and is open to volunteers of all ages, regardless of experience or skill set. SPUR embraces the notion that we don’t have to change the world on our own—we simply need to do our little bit of good to make a difference.

Mission & Vision

Mission: SPUR mobilizes volunteers in meaningful service and enrichment opportunities that support the tangible needs of our community.

Vision: Striving to remove barriers to volunteering, SPUR provides a platform to cultivate a community of doers across the North Shore.

Volunteer Programs

Food Rescue Initiative

Saving thousands of pounds of excess prepared food annually from landfills by delivering it to organizations fighting food insecurity. Picking up from Shubie’s and Crosby’s in Marblehead with deliveries six days a week.

Community Roots Gardens

Three gardens grow over 1,000 pounds of fresh, organic produce annually for area food pantries. Locations: St. Andrew’s Church (Marblehead), McKeown School (Beverly), and Shirat Hayam (Swampscott). Daily volunteer opportunities during growing season.

Holiday Cheer Drive

Providing winter essentials and meaningful holiday gifts to over 600 local children and adults experiencing homelessness each season. Wish lists posted online in November for sponsors. Volunteers wrap gifts in handmade pillowcases.

Community Cooking

Cook meals together for local food pantries and shelters. SPUR provides ingredients and recipes at welcoming spaces across the North Shore.

Land and Sea Cleanups

Twice-annual cleanups where hundreds of volunteers pick up trash from more than 25 public spaces. Perfect for scout troops, school groups, and workplace teams.

Student Success Drive

Providing new backpacks and academic essentials to over 600 children who would not otherwise have supplies on the first day of school.

Additional Programs

Halloween Candy Collection, Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Personal Care Kits, Pies for Pi Day, Sew Good Together, SPUR Love (Valentine’s Day), Making and Serving Meals

Who Can Volunteer
  • Individuals & Families – All ages welcome, opportunities in two hours or less
  • Groups – Scout troops, religious groups, youth groups, workplace teams
  • Teens & Tweens – Special weekend and after-school opportunities
  • Corporate Sponsors – Regular volunteer opportunities and curated experiences
Youth Enrichment Programs

K-6 Program: Teaching 12 essential character strengths with hands-on community engagement

Middle/High School Program: Fostering innovation and changemaking through entrepreneurship curriculum following DESE guidelines

Contact

Location 6 Anderson Street, Marblehead, MA 01945

Information

  • Mailing Address: PO Box 1274, Marblehead, MA 01945
  • Phone: (781) 451-7787
  • Email: info@spurnorthshore.org
  • Website: www.spurnorthshore.org
  • Serving Beverly, Lynn, Marblehead, Salem, and Swampscott
  • 501(c)3 charitable organization (Tax ID: 47-2014980)
  • Monthly donor and corporate sponsorship opportunities available

SPUR others on to action. We can make positive change when we all work together to make a difference. Join our community of doers.