By Staff
Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings. -John F. Kennedy
Spotlight of the week:
We all ask the question "What can I do to make a difference?" When you, your co-workers, or your neighbors volunteer you become part of the solution; you become the answer. Please join the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan in recognizing volunteers during National Volunteer Week April 27 to May 3. Take the time to recognize volunteers who are already answering the call and encourage others to ask the question: "How can I get involved?" Visit the Volunteer Center online at www.volunteerswmi.org or call 683-5464 to join other southwest Michigan volunteers working to build a strong, caring community.
ADULTS
If you love parades and enjoy making people smile then this volunteer opportunity is for you. The 102-year-old Blossomtime Festival has two parades where you can wear costumes and practice your best wave. The Youth Parade is Thursday May 1 at St. Joseph High School. On Saturday, May 3 is the big Blossomtime Parade attended by thousands. Eight volunteers should call now to get first choice of costumes. Volunteers will need to arrive at the Benton Harbor Salvation Army by 9 a.m. to get into costume, including makeup. Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with children and at least 15 years old.
Do you love to learn and then share information with others? Safe Shelter will send you to trainings on domestic abuse and sexual assault so you can train Safe Shelter staff and volunteers. All costs will be assumed by the Safe Shelter. You should have excellent listening and public speaking skills to become a training assistant. You will need to use your own vehicle to attend trainings. You should also have the ability to give and receive effective feedback.
Donate life saving blood today!
MICHIGAN COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER blood drives:
Sunday, May 4 – Apple Valley, 9067 US Business 31, Berrien Springs: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
For a complete listing visit www.miblood.org
ADULTS AND YOUTH
Lots of good activity happening at the Bridgman Chamber of Commerce and you can be a part of it as their office assistant. Answer phones and direct callers to the agency or department that can assist in answering their questions. Inform callers and visitors about community events. You can volunteer anytime Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Your local American Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Every month they have blood drives and as one of their volunteers you can help make calls to donors, work at the registration tables or serve refreshments. It is also spring time at the Berrien County, Benton Harbor office where you can wash windows to let the sunshine in or spruce up their flower beds.
FAMILIES
Does your family love animals? Horses, dogs, cats and people too? Search our new web site and find opportunities for your family to make a difference while spending quality time together. One opportunity is at Shily's Promise Youth Ranch Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers will be clearing brush and making paths in the woods as well as preparing the horse coral for spring programs. If you are not available that day come another day of your choosing. Shily's Promise Youth Ranch is a place of refuge where youth are empowered to overcome social and emotional challenges through guided interaction with rescued horses.