SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — United Way of Southwest Michigan has a variety of local volunteer opportunities open. For those interested in giving back to their community, here is a list of volunteer openings.

Change a child’s life with CASA

A Court Appointed Special Advocate Volunteer advocates in the community and courtroom for the best interests of foster children in Berrien County. CASA seek dynamic, energetic volunteers with a passion for children to join. Volunteers must be over 21, have reliable transportation, and pass a criminal/CPS background check. CASA will host an evening training class in late February. For more information, visit volunteer.uwsm.org

Bicycle Lovers Needed —

Cycle-Re -Cylcle

Volunteers are needed to rebuild and repair bicycles, wait on customers, work in bicycle programs with children, teach classes to adults, staff the office, do fund raising and publicity, etc. For more details, check volunteer.uwsm.org.

Medical

Transcriptionist Needed

Caring Circle is seeking a detail-oriented volunteer who can attend Inter-Disciplinary Team Meetings with Hospice staff and type real-time notes on the group’s discussions directly into Electronic Medical Record software. This opportunity would be great for a student interested in gaining experience in the medical office field, or for someone retired from a similar field. Transcription is needed in St Joseph, Hanson Hospice Center, Buchanan, and South Haven Caring Circle offices. Visit, volunteer.uwsm.org.

Bringing Peace

to the World, One

Mediation at a Time

Citizens mediation service is looking for volunteers. Mediators help clients find their own unique options and solutions that both sides can agree to. The majority of defendants we see cannot afford an attorney. By providing this neutral space, clients learn to mitigate emotions, communicate rationally, and repair relationships. CMS mediates family cases, school issues, landlord/tenant problems, and civil issues. Officials said it is an opportunity to “make a real difference in a chaotic world.” More information is available at volunteer.uwsm.org

Gift Shop Clerk

at Lakeland Health

Always wanted to work in a gift shop? Enjoy a retail environment? Lakeland Health is looking for volunteers who will provide customer service by assisting customers with purchases. Ideal candidates enjoy people and are able to stand and walk for three to four hours. Varied shifts. For more information, check volunteer.uwsm.org.