Volunteer needed to help promote Bridgman Chamber

Published 6:32 am Tuesday, June 30, 2009

By Staff
SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK
Be the go to person in the Bridgman area when you volunteer at the Bridgman Chamber of Commerce as their office assistant. You will answer the phone and direct callers to the appropriate agency or department. You will also answer questions about exciting community events and direct callers about possible business options. Office is open Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. so pick the time that fits your schedule.
ADULTS
Supervise children in the Children's Corner at the Van Buren Department of Human Services in Hartford while parents are meeting with workers. This includes engaging children in simple games, crafts, storytelling, watching videos and other similar activities. Volunteer shifts are available either mornings 8 a.m. to noon or afternoons 1 to 5 p.m. Times are flexible and can be adjusted to meet your availability. Volunteers should be at least 18 years old. Speaking Spanish is a plus but not required.
Do you have experience in Excel spreadsheets, good typing skills and some previous experience working in an office setting? Berrien County Trial Court – Family Division is seeking an office assistant to help with various duties including data entry and filing paperwork. The Courthouse is open Monday to Friday 8:30 to 5 p.m. Volunteer hours are flexible. This would be a great volunteer opportunity to have on your resume if you are unemployed.
Bridges to Digital Excellence puts computers into the homes of Southwest Michigan families with school aged children. You can help make sure that happens by volunteering as their marketing/advertising guru. Get the word out about what they have to offer so they can make sure that every child has a computer in the home. Work with schools, libraries, radio stations and others to promote the project.
Help put money back in the pockets of low income workers. The Earned Income Tax Coalition (EITC) is looking for a champion for the program in Berrien County. You would work with Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency on all aspects of the program for the 2010 tax seasons. Experience with taxes and event planning helpful but not required. Consider sharing the work by heading this up with a co-chair. At least four hours a week required.
Boys and Girls Club in Benton Harbor has their summer program up and running with 150 young people there every day! Bring your special talents or just help out as needed. Training and background check required.
Are you considering being a mentor? Would you like the chance to learn more about how you can be the caring adult that helps a child be successful in school, in relationships and in life? The Mentoring Collaborative and the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan are pleased to offer current and potential mentors a chance to come together and share their experiences. Taking the Mystery Out of Mentoring on Wednesday, July 15 noon – 1:30 p.m. at Lake Michigan College in South Haven.
Are you red, white and blue? Donate over the 4th of July and show your true colors!
For a complete listing visit www.berrienredcross.org.
MICHIGAN COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER
For a complete listing visit www.miblood.org.
ADULTS &YOUTH
Gateway improves the life and level of independence of individuals with disabilities. Their softball fundraiser is a lot of fun and you can be part of it. You can help with kids' activities, parking control, or serve snowcones. The event is Friday, July 24 from 1 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, July 25 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Come for a few hours or come all day.
Hospice at Home volunteers can assist those caring for their loved ones at home by providing caregiver support. Visit with a patient at their home while their caregiver runs errands, enjoys time on their own, or just takes a much needed nap. Training is provided and opportunities are available in Buchanan/Niles, St. Joseph and South Haven.
Are you interested in the criminal justice system? You can serve on a Community Restorative Board in your neighborhood. Sponsored by local court systems, first time youth offenders are given the chance to take responsibility for their actions, right the wrongs they have committed and not have a court record. You should be a good listener, compassionate and a strong role model. Training is required.
FAMILIES
Berrien County Youth Fair builds the character of the community by developing the character of our youth. Your family can play an important role in making the magic happen by doing some very utilitarian work when you mow the grass and pull the weeds.