United Way volunteer opportunities
Published 9:13 am Monday, March 4, 2019
Food pantry workers needed
Salvation Army Niles Corps operate a food pantry which serves southeast Berrien County and all of Cass County every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The times of operations are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. They need workers to sort donations, keep pantry area clean and organized, pack pantry bags based on family size and, as needed, assist guests carry bags to their vehicles.
It is not necessary for a volunteer to be available every day of the week, and shifts may vary. While the pantry is only open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, workers are needed for some hours Monday through Friday. Apply at: uwsm.org/volunteer.
Mobile food pantry
volunteers needed
Mobile Pantries are like farmers’ markets on wheels, delivering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and baked goods to people in need, often on the same day the food is donated, said United Way representatives.
A mobile pantry can feed between 100 and 300 households and make a difference in the lives of individuals and families fighting food insecurity. Volunteers are being sought at the Kinexus sponsored Feeding America mobile food pantry from 2 to 4 p.m. March 14 to help unload, sort and distribute food to community. Volunteers will also help those with disabilities carry their groceries and clean up. Sign up at uwsm.org/volunteer.
Ramp Up builders needed
Disability Network Southwest Michigan provides ramps on the homes of people with mobility disabilities. The Ramp Up program is intended to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities through an increase in independence. Accessibility is often a major barrier to leading a healthy and productive life, therefore, ramps become a lifeline to a person with a disability, said representatives. Without a ramp, many people with disabilities are forced to move into a nursing facility or are trapped in their homes, unable to go to work, school, doctor’s appointments or to socialize or volunteer. Learn more at: uwsm.org/volunteer.
Help vets get to the VA clinic
County Veterans Services is looking for volunteers to drive the Disabled American Veterans van from designated stops in Benton Harbor, Stevensville, Bridgman, Sawyer, New Buffalo, Three oaks, Galien, Buchanan and Niles to the St. Joseph County VA Health Care Center in Mishawaka. Apply at: uwsm.org/volunteer.
JA volunteers sought
Volunteers are being sought to help local students learn the importance of financial literacy, job readiness and entrepreneurship by volunteering for Junior Achievement. Volunteers from the community enter the classrooms one day in May and teach materials that are provided by JA free of charge. All volunteers will be trained by JA. Learn more at: uwsm.org/volunteer.