By Staff
SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK
Do you enjoy parties? The Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan is having its second annual roast on July 25. Coach Uzelac of St. Joseph High School will be roasted and toasted for being an example of the power of mentoring. Volunteer now to help distribute posters and run errands. Come the day of the event to help with set up, greet attendees, or hand out information about the importance of volunteerism.
ADULTS
Reading the newspapers about the flooding along the Mississippi reminds us that one thing is certain, disaster will strike and compassionate people will be needed to provide humanitarian relief. Did you know that over 2000 Red Cross volunteers responded to over 30 large scale disasters this past spring? The Red Cross is a powerful national resource whose strength comes from volunteers. Volunteers train at their local chapter to assist with disaster relief anywhere it may occur whether in Michigan or along the Mississippi. Being prepared and trained takes time. The Berrien County Chapter of the American Red Cross has a full schedule of basic courses for disaster volunteers. Other counties offer these courses as well.
Volunteers can make the most of every moment in the children's corner at the Hartford office of the Van Buren Department of Human Services by playing games and doing crafts with children while their parents are meeting with the staff.
MI Works! is not only the place to go to find a job, it is now the place to volunteer. Gain valuable work experience as you greet and assist job seekers. Choose the hours that will be best for you for a minimum of 20 hours a week.
Do you love discovering unique items at Goodwill? Be the first to see the items as a volunteer sorter. Choose the day and time that will be best for your schedule.
Who taught you how to put a worm on a hook so you could fish? Who showed you how to use the mixer and bake cookies? There are children hoping an adult will step up and show them how.
What is more patriotic than donating life saving blood? Show your true colors and donate today!
ADULTS AND YOUTH
Many summer camps are still looking for volunteers. You can help with arts and crafts, nature education, horseback riding, athletic events, office work, and much more! Day camps and overnight camps everywhere give you the opportunity to volunteer with youth with disabilities, inner city youth, and children of all ages.
Big Brothers Big Sisters, a Community of Caring has a special event planned for Van Buren County. As a Bowl for Kids' Sake committee member you will attend monthly meetings, assist in event planning, and seek the involvement of other community members. Help raise awareness of the importance of mentoring while you help raise funds. You will need to attend a training/orientation and should be at least 15 years old.
YOUTH
You can still become a part of Summer Youth Serve! Volunteer 40 hours between now and mid August and receive a t-shirt and be invited to a special party. Best way to beat the summer time blues is to get out there and see the world right in your own backyard!
Harbor Habitat for Humanity builds houses and can help you build your resume and skills. They have created a special administrative assistant position for a high school junior or senior to learn and serve in all aspects of Habitat's Benton Harbor Office. Duties will include, but are not limited to: some data entry, phone work, computer skills and filing.
FAMILIES
Are you worried about your kids losing their writing skills over the summer? Why not have them write letters to soldiers serving overseas? They can also write notes, make cards or create small art for homebound seniors receiving meals on wheels.