Spotlight

Every year in April, we take time all across the country to thank the thousands of volunteers who are working to build a strong, caring community. These individuals may volunteer a little or a lot, what matters is they are engaged in their communities and understand how much we rely upon each other.  So volunteer to thank someone you know for volunteering.  Encourage others who have not volunteered by letting them know there are opportunities that fit their talents, their schedule and their interests.

Adults

• Attend a volunteer orientation and chapter tour at 5 p.m. Monday. This is a chance to learn about the local impact, the organization’s history and volunteer opportunities at the Berrien and Van Buren county chapters. Anyone is welcome to attend, even if those just curious about the Red Cross. No commitment is necessary. RSVP to get more details.

• Calling all Colors of Southwest Michigan provides an opportunity for children and youth from diverse ethnic, geographic and economic backgrounds to interact and creates a safe environment for the celebration of diversity.  Teachers’ assistants are needed to facilitate small group activities with grade school students from 9 to 11 a.m. on days scheduled well in advance. Volunteers must have patience, enthusiasm and experience working with children.

• Michigan Blood is looking for volunteers in every county and every community.  Volunteers  will be trained in the post-donation station and are responsible for socializing with donors, observing donors for reactions and offering fluids and refreshments.

In cooperation with the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan, we are pleased to publish opportunities for volunteers each week. To find out about these or other volunteer opportunities, please call 983-0912 in the St. Joseph-Benton Harbor area, 683-5464 in the Niles area; visit www.volunteerswmi.org; or send email to volunteer@volunteerswmi.org for further information.  To arrange an appointment, please call ahead. Appointments do not constitute an obligation to accept a volunteer opportunity.  The center is a United Way agency affiliated with the HandsOn Network.