Volunteer Wayne
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on July 18, 2004 2:15 AM
Volunteer Wayne offers opportunities to serve Wayne County for all ages. This service is provided by Volunteer Wayne and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at Wayne Community College. Contact Joy Pearce at 735-5151 ext. 336 or at www.volunteersolutions.org/uwwc/volunteer for more information.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL AGES
*TRIATHALON HELPERS -- Timekeepers, concession workers and other volunteers are needed on Saturday, Aug. 7, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. This is a fun activity that gets started early, so you will still have time for other activities. This event will benefit mentoring program for youth.
*ENJOY YARD WORK? -- Nonprofit organization can use your assistance with maintenance of their grounds. Enjoy the outdoors while you make a difference in the appearance of this historic village. Individuals or groups are welcome. Flexible hours.
*CRITICAL NEED FOR BLOOD -- Summer creates some real challenges to the Red Cross in maintaining an adequate blood supply for Wayne County. More travel increases the number of accidents, creating more of a need. Busy summer schedules decrease the number of donors. You can help by becoming a donor on the following dates: July 22, 26 and 30. You never know when you may need it!
*SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES -- Give your middle school or high school student something worthwhile to remember about the summer of 2004. Call now to explore a variety of opportunities to serve in one of Wayne County's 63 community agencies. Students can bring a smile to the face of an elderly person by playing bingo or read to them at an assisted living facility. They can change a life by teaching a geriatric patient to read. Youth can get "hands on" experience in the legal system by participating in a "trial" for first time youth offenders as a member of a jury of their peers. Or read to well children waiting for checkups at the doctor's office. Clerical positions, delivering meals to the homebound, fundraising to provide affordable pet neutering, these are just some of the opportunities that will expand the life of a teenager, while helping community agencies.
Every other Thursday throughout the summer, volunteers over 21 years of age can help sell concessions at Center Street Jam, for this non-profit organization. Enjoy live music, food, and have fun at this outdoor party in downtown Goldsboro while raising funds that provide mentors for Wayne County youth.
*HELPING HANDS -- Nonprofit needs your help preparing promotional materials. Assemble brochures for marketing campaign as girls return to school. Help girls learn about this organization that prepares them to realize their full potential. Flexible hours for individuals or groups.
*HELP CHILDREN COPE WITH GRIEF -- Many special volunteers are needed to create a nurturing, safe camp environment for children learning to cope with grief. You can assist with one-to-one counseling or be a Big Buddy, or you can lead activities such as arts and crafts, singing, journal writing, swimming, or discussion groups. Even before this special camp can happen, volunteers can help raise funds, plan agenda, identify professionals, find camper referrals, or create media interest. Volunteers can fill the following professional positions as well: a physician, nurses, social workers, therapists, and bereavement counselors. Camp will be held August 20-22, 2004.
*SPRING CLEANING? DONATE UNUSED TOOLS -- Community garden restoration project can use your unused tools. Gather shovels, weedeaters, chainsaws, hoes, and other implements. They will be used to restore garden to its former state for all the community to enjoy.
ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES
*MAN THE STORE -- Thrift store can use your help sorting and pricing merchandise and assisting customers with their selections. Hours of store operation are Monday through Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-1. Store benefits home construction program. This would be a good opportunity for a church group or several individuals.
*PROVIDE HOSPITALITY -- Leisure center can use your talents to ensure their patrons enjoy their visit. Tasks include making games and cards available to senior citizens, signing in visitors, restocking supplies, and replenishing beverages. Share a smile and just a little of your time with senior citizens. They will be so appreciative! Various times are available during Monday through Friday with some evenings.
*HELP GIRLS REALIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL -- Adult volunteers can select from a wide variety of volunteer opportunities around their individual schedules. Take time to help the girls in your community. Serve as a member of the Board of Directors, troop committee member or special events coordinator. Program includes a myriad of enriching experiences, including field trips, sports skill-building clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardships. Find out how you can help shape the future of Wayne County.
*BRING MUSIC TO THEIR EARS -- Can you play the piano? A congregate meal site for senior citizens can use your talent! This program allows the elderly to come together 5 days a week for a hot nutritious meal, fellowship, recreation, and education. It also reduces boredom, isolation and depression for the individuals that participate. You can select which one or more day per week or month, according to your schedule, during lunchtime, Monday through Friday.
*HOME CONSTRUCTION FOR LOW INCOME FAMILIES -- Skills of all levels are needed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can work alongside a family while they earn "sweat equity" to achieve home ownership. Will train.
*TRANSPORT DISABLED VETERANS -- Drivers will receive a free physical and training before transporting disabled veterans to and from hospital appointments in Greenville, Durham, and Fayetteville. Even one day or more per month would help. You can return the favor to veterans for their service to our nation.
Visit Volunteer Wayne on line! You can now find your volunteer niche on line at www.volunteersolutions.org/uwwc/volunteer or www.unitedwaywaynecountync.org. United Way has generously provided this service to encourage more people to become involved in our community.
Seniors can also see us at www.joinseniorservice.org provided by the Corporation for National Service. Volunteer Wayne is funded by United Way of Wayne County. RSVP is primarily funded by the Corporation for National Service through Senior Corps.