You Can Help! Local volunteer opportunities

I met someone this week, who, like so many people in Racine, was looking for a job. He had interesting strategy, though. Along with networking, looking on the Internet and filling out resumes he had three regular volunteering jobs. He figured with free time during the day, and a chance to build skills while helping out local nonprofits, volunteering was not only a helping activity, it was a good career move. It seems to be paying off. He had one interview this week and his eye on 3-4 more jobs that look promising. Part of the success, he said, came from volunteering.

Looking to give your job search a boost? Or a chance to help out in Racine County? Here's this week's Volunteer Opportunities from the Volunteer Center of Racine County:


JOIN THE RED CROSS FIRST AID SERVICE TEAM
The American Red Cross First Aid Service Team (FAST) is a group of volunteers trained in first aid and CPR that provides immediate care for illnesses and injuries at community events. All training is provided free of charge as well as free entrance and parking at events. All you need to do is be available to staff a minimum of 25 hours at events during the season.

SELF CHECKOUT VOLUNTEERS FOR THE RACINE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street, has openings for individuals interested in assisting library patrons with the new self-checkout machine. Volunteers will greet, direct, and help individuals as they learn the new system. The hours are flexible, 2-3 hours per shift. Training and parking reimbursement are offered.

VOLUNTEER GUARDIANS WANTED FOR 
AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE NETWORK
Individuals who are 21 or older are encouraged to volunteer 3-6 hours per month serving in the role of Volunteer Guardian. Guardians are appointed by Probate Court to make sound and dignified decisions for individuals unable to do so for themselves. Clients may include the physically or developmentally disabled or elderly. Applicants will be required to fill out an application and pass a background check.

IN HOME VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE NETWORK
Those 18 and older are invited to become part of the Senior Services Volunteer Companion program through the Aging and Disability Resource Network. Individuals provide a few hours per week relief to in-home care givers. Complete training and support is provided. A little bit of your time and compassion will benefit those who give non-stop care!

INTERGENERATIONAL FAIRS
The Intergenerational Fairs is an ongoing program in cooperation with RSVP. Fair organizers need YOU to help keep this 20 year plus tradition alive. If you are over 55 and you have a hobby you would like to share with elementary aged school children several times per year, please call. In this age of computers and technology, hand crafts and hobbies are a novelty. Share your talents. The kids love it!

GIFT SHOP ASSISTANT
The Racine Zoological Society, 200 Goold Street, is looking for volunteers to assist with stocking and straightening merchandise, cleaning windows, shelves and displays. Must be able to work well with children. Would like to have 2 volunteers May through September starting on weekends. References required.

If you are interested in any of the listed volunteer opportunities or others on file at the Volunteer Center of Racine County, call 262-886-9612 or toll free (Racine County only) at 1-800-201-9490 or email us at volunteer@volunteercenterofracine.org or visit our web site at www.volunteercenterofracine.org. Office hours are weekday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 6216 Washington Avenue, Suite G.