By Staff
ADULTS
Generosity knows no season, but this is the time of year that we all remember that the best gifts don't come wrapped in ribbons and paper. They are gifts of the heart whose value is priceless to those who receive them.
Your time is a gift. Your energy is a gift. Consider giving that kind of gift this year to your loved ones, your neighbors and your community.
THE CASS COUNTY MEDICAL CARE FACILITY AUXILIARY seeks to provide service to the residents that help improve their health and welfare. Volunteer gift shop attendants are invited to participate in making this happen. If you can help keep the gift shop open from 1-4 p.m. on any day, then residents can depend on the shop to be open regularly. The schedule is flexible, and changes can be arranged as needed. To connect, call the Volunteer Center.
THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT COALITION, a program of Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency, welcomes volunteers who have some accounting or tax preparation experience and an ability to empathize with low-income residents of our area. Bilingual volunteers, especially those fluent in Spanish, are encouraged to apply, as well. If you are available for a few weeks on Saturdays (8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.) or Mondays (3:30 – 7 p.m.) between January and April and are willing to attend a training session, your assistance would be welcome. Volunteer support is also welcomed for reception duties; conducting client registration and surveys; and answering the telephone. To connect, call the Volunteer Center.
THE SOUP KITCHEN in Benton Harbor provides a nutritious meal every day to the hungry in a safe and pleasant environment. Volunteers are invited to help serve lunch one day a week from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you would like to be a part of this service to the community, call the Volunteer Center.
SAFE SHELTER provides safety and empowerment to the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Volunteer Crisis desk workers staff the front desk, answer all incoming calls and make referrals as needed. If you would like to be part of this important work or would like more information, call the Volunteer Center.
THE ST. JOSEPH-LINCOLN SENIOR CENTER invites volunteers to teach computer skills to senior clients in classes held once a week. Classes are held from 12 noon-3 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Center for those needing basic computer skills as well as more advanced classes. To connect, call the Volunteer Center.
ADULTS AND YOUTH
DOWAGIAC LITTLE LEAGUE provides a wonderful service to the youth of the community, but they would welcome volunteers aged 16 or older to help in dismantling windscreens and signage in the fall and putting them up again in the spring. If you have a few hours available and would like to be a part of this effort, call the Volunteer Center.
FAMILIES
Hey, sports fans! “Great Teams, Great Players, Great Coaches” is the theme of the BERRIEN COUNTY HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION'S upcoming exhibit (now through January) at Orchards Mall in Benton Harbor. The exhibit will trace the history of high school basketball in Berrien County, so come and volunteer as a family to host the exhibit, greet visitors and learn some exciting sports information about our area. Shift choices are Monday through Saturday from 12 noon-4 p.m. or 4-8 p.m. Sundays, you could volunteer from noon to 3 or from 3-6 p.m. If you can work one or more of these shifts, please call the Volunteer Center and we will get you started!
YOUTH
‘Tis the season! There is lots going on at many of the local nonprofit organizations at this time of year, and you may be able to help them accomplish their holiday missions! Some are packing holiday baskets for families who need them; others are welcoming volunteers willing to come in and offer musical programs to clients; while still others are hoping that you can provide a gift for a child during this season. There are many opportunities to help during this very special season. Connect by calling or e-mailing the Volunteer Center.
Looking for a hands-on opportunity during your holiday break this year?
CURIOUS KIDS' MUSEUM is planning a robot exhibit for kids of all ages beginning Dec. 26-31 and again from Jan. 2-7 from noon to 4 p.m. If the kid in you is looking for a unique activity, why not have fun setting up the exhibit with staff members, supervising children playing with the exhibits that includes a huge chain reaction controlled by the marble works and dominoes! Join the fun and call the Volunteer Center to get connected.
Call the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan in Niles at (269) 683-5464.