THINGS YOU CAN DO NOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
VOLUNTEER – There are many agencies and organizations that are looking for volunteers.
If you like the outdoors and/or working with children, there are many opportunities available through Vancouver Parks and Recreation.
There are many opportunities listed on the Volunteer Clark County website or call (360) 735-3683.
Volunteer Chore Services (a program of Catholic Community Services) is designed to help low-income elders and disabled adults stay in their homes for as long as possible: call Carolyn Brown at (360) 213-2403
Everyone has a “gift” (time, tutoring, carpentry, car rides, auto mechanics, computer help, etc.) that they can give and make their neighborhood better – register your “gifts” with Neighbor Linkup.
CITIZEN VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Neighbors on Watch (NOW) – Citizen volunteer programs are an integral part of the community policing efforts of the Vancouver Police Department. An especially important aspect of such efforts is the positive impact individual citizens can have on our community’s crime problems and quality of life issues. To get involved, contact Kelly Cheney at (360) 487-7464.
Fire Corps is designed to build partnership between citizens of Vancouver and their fire department to make a difference in the community. Interested citizens are encouraged to call Alan Fung at 360-487-7219 or e-mail alan.fung@cityofvancouver.us .
Medical Reserve Corps – In a natural disaster, major disease outbreak, act of bioterrorism, or other emergency, Medical Reserve Corps volunteers make a crucial difference in our ability to help people. For more information contact Lianne Martinez at (360) 397-8485 or Lianne.Martinez@clark.wa.gov
Foster parenting changes lives one child at a time. They believe in investing in the future of our children. Please consider making this important investment by calling for more information – 1-888-KIDS-414 (1-888-543-7414).
Growing groceries mentor program promotes the community by helping others grow healthy foods and healthier lifestyles. Register on-line at https://ocrs.wsu.edu/Signup/?eventid=784
MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:
Become a mentor – Children need positive role models in their lives that care. Research shows that mentoring has long lasting benefits to the mentee as well as the mentor.
Lunch Buddy Program, Vancouver Public Schools – Lunch Buddies meet with an elementary school student once a week for lunch. After lunch there is time to play a board game, read or just talk with your buddy. Email: LunchBuddy@vansd.org or Call Barbara Nordstrom at (360) 313-4725.
After school tutoring at King Elementary – Extended day program to help youth improve personally, socially, and academically needs volunteers Monday – Thursday from 3-4:30pm. If interested, contact Ed Esparza at (360) 313-2207 or Ed.Esparza@vansd.org
Vancouver Police Activity League (PALS) – Help build healthy character in youth through activities connecting kids, cops, and community. For more information contact Curtis Kimbrough at (360) 487-7487.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters – Provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better. Volunteer now by calling (360) 636-2765.
Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration (JRA) – Matching young people that are system involved with same gender community volunteers as mentors. Mentors visit mentee at the juvenile facilities at least once a month and make phone calls the rest of the month. For more information contact Major W. Harris at (360) 993-7954 or harrimw@dshs.wa.gov
4 Results at Fir Grove Mentoring Program – Matches adult mentors with youth that attend Fir Grove Children’s Center where they receive their education along with therapeutic support. These youth are identified as having the greatest needs in Southwest Washington. To volunteer, contact Christy Conant at (360) 993-3118 or christyc@crmhs.org
Boys and Girls Club – Do you have creative, interesting ideas? How about enthusiasm for a particular subject or hobby? Do you enjoy interacting with youth? Any of these qualities are a great foundation to start building your volunteer experience at Boys and Girls Club. Contact Julie Pachico at (360) 313-5704 or volunteer.ok@mybgc.org
