07/25/04 — Volunteer Wayne

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Volunteer Wayne

By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on July 25, 2004 2:03 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, extension 336, or at www.volunteersolutions.org/uwwc/volunteer for more information.

O llamar representatives de Latinos por Volunteer Wayne/RSVP: Gaspar Gonzalez, (910) 296-1851, o Willie Cartegena, (919) 735-5010, ext. 116.

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.

SHARE COMPUTER SKILLS -- This community computer lab can use you! Help others build computer skills as they work in Microsoft programs, or learn to safely navigate the Internet. This computer lab is a valuable resource to the community. You can select your hours between Monday and Wednesday from 5-8:30, Tuesday 12-2, and Saturday 10-2.

ENABLE PARENTS TO EARN THEIR GED -- Keep little ones entertained while their parents work toward their high school GED. You will be a key ingredient to their success. Hours available are Monday and Wednesday from 9:30 -12:30.

HELPING HANDS -- This nonprofit organization 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.

ENJOY YARDWORK? -- Enjoy the outdoors while you make a difference in the appearance of this historic village. Maintenance of grounds and other tasks can be accomplished by individuals or groups. Flexible hours.

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 mentoring for Wayne County youth.

CRITICAL NEED FOR BLOOD -- Summer creates some real challenges for 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 26, and 30, Aug. 6,10, 11,16,25-28,30-31. Give the gift of life. You never know when you may need it!

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, journaling, 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.

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.

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. You can select which day, 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.

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.