As we begin a new year, many view it as a blank slate, full of opportunity and hope. Many will write a list of resolutions. Others prefer to write down a list of goals and even break them down further into objectives so they can actually achieve them!
Why not add community involvement to that list? A community is only as strong and cohesive as its members, and if members are highly committed to giving back, then that community will produce better people, better businesses, and better neighborhoods. As with many things, what you sow is what you reap, so why not sow into the lives around you and boost the quality of life for those in your hometown.
Many volunteer opportunities exist right down the road. United Way of Portage County Volunteer Site is a great place to start. They have a number of ways you can volunteer, giving as your schedule permits. Their website states:
“United Way of Portage County works to improve lives by advancing the common good and creating opportunities for a better life for everyone. United Way focuses on education, income and health which are the building blocks for a good life. To achieve this mission United Way strategically engages and builds relationships with diverse community stakeholders, contributors and partners to identify community goals, develop impact strategies and implement those strategies in partnership with others.”
Here are some of the areas where volunteers are needed.
Big Red Bookshelf
The Big Red Bookshelf project places bright red bookshelves stocked with gently-used or new books appropriate for children from birth – 3rd grade in the community where families with young children visit. These books have been donated by community members. Children are invited to take a book home to keep and share!
Reading Role Models
Far too many children in Portage County struggle to read. Reading proficiency by the third grade is an essential step toward increasing the number of children who succeed academically and do well in life and career. United Way is looking for volunteers to be reading role models who can share the love and importance of reading to local kindergarten students. Volunteers will be assigned to a Kindergarten class at West Park School. West Park School is home to all 245 Ravenna kindergarten students.
Mobile Meals
Mobile Meals, Inc. provides healthy meals and nutrition services to enrich lives and foster independence. Even if you can only donate a few hours a month, this program can use your help delivering meals in the county.
Children’s Advocacy Center
The Children’s Advocacy Center specializes in coordinated response to child sexual abuse. Volunteers are needed on an irregular and intermittent basis to help with basic office and administrative functions.
Center of Hope
Center of Hope provides hot and nutritious meals to the needy 5 times per week. Volunteers are needed to help answer phones, prepare meals, serve meals, wash dishes, pack grocery bags and pick-up and deliver food donations.
Knitting for Those in Need
Knitting for Those in Need helps to provide warm heads, warm necks, and warm hearts in the Kent community. A great way to enjoy your craft and serve others at the same time!
Carlin Elementary Winter Clothing Drive
The goal of this program is for the school to have their own supply of new mittens, gloves, hats, scarves and extra socks on hand for students in need. Carlin Elementary is looking for local businesses and groups to host a collection drive for the items listed above.
Food2Share
Food2Share is looking for groups to host year-round food drives for area food pantries.
You can find out more about each of these opportunities by clicking HERE.
Volunteering may or may not change another’s life for the better, but it certainly will change your life!
Where do you volunteer? Please share below in comments.