By Cathi Hahner,
Director of Volunteer Services at the United Way of Wyandotte County
KANSAS CITY, KAN. ----- The 13th annual Wyandotte County Back to School Fair will be held on Saturday August 9, 2014 at two locations: Kansas City Kansas Community College and KCK Boys and Girls Club. The goal of the Fair is to help make every child school ready from day one.
Over 5,000 Wyandotte County students are provided basic school supplies to start the new school year as well as immunizations, sports physicals and an opportunity to learn about community programs and services.
The success of this project relies on contributions from the community. Donations of dollars to purchase items are needed as well as the contribution of your time. Volunteers are needed prior to the event to help sort supplies and to pack the bags for the various grade levels.
On the day of the event your help is needed with set-up, registration, distribution of the bags, library books, food and help keep the site neat and tidy; and then of course help with general clean-up after the event. Over a hundred volunteers are needed on the day of the event.
If you want to volunteer, register on-line at www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on
Back to School Fair.
If you would like to make a financial contribution, go to www.unitedway-wyco-org, click “Give” and check the Back to School Fair box.
Or mail payment to United Way of Wyandotte County, 434 Minnesota, Kansas City, KS 66117; be sure.to note Back to School Fair donation.
You can also contact Cathi at the Volunteer Center of the United Way of Wyandotte County, 913-371-3674 or at Chahner@unitedway-wyco.org
This is a wonderful opportunity for groups looking for a service project.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE and VOLUNTEER please contact Cathi Hahner, Director of Volunteer Services, at 913-371-3674 or at chahner@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Thursday, May 1, 2014
United Way 2014 Volunteers of the Year Honored at 37th Annual Recognition Event
By Catherine Hahner, The United Way of Wyandotte County
KANSAS CITY, KAN. ----- The United Way of Wyandotte County honored eighteen outstanding volunteers for their significant contributions to community service agencies across the county.
The 37th annual dinner and recognition ceremony was held at Reardon Center on April 29th .
These volunteers offer their time and talents to mentor youth, assist with providing healthcare and prescription needs, help feed and clothe those less fortunate, advocate for children and so much more.
2014 United Way Volunteers of the Year are: Candace Dietrich, Associated Youth Services; Rick Minnick, Bethel Neighborhood Center; Jessica Turlin, Big Brothers Big Sisters; Regina Utter, Boy Scouts of America, Heart of America Council; John Sonderegger, Boys & Girls Club; Karen Steffen, Cancer Action; Ballard Yeates, CASA of Johnson & Wyandotte Counties; Michael Whitacre, Catholic Charities Of Northeast Kansas; Marla Porter, Cross-Lines Community Outreach; Sister Peter Parry, Duchesne Clinic; Neila Whitt, The Family Conservancy; Melanie Boykin, KVC Health Systems; Deborah Cott, Mental Health America of the Heartland; Todd Bell, Ozanam; Michael May, Riverview Health Services; Steve McCue, Shepherd’s Center of Kansas City, Kansas; Gina McCord, Sunflower House. Rosemary Podrebarac received the Spirit of Caring Award for her service to the United Way of Wyandotte County.
To learn more how you can Give, Advocate and Volunteer contact Cathi Hahner, Director of Volunteer Services, at 913-371-3674 or chahner@unitedway-wyco.org. You can also find volunteer opportunities at www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
RSVP Volunteers honored for their service to Wyandotte County
By Cathi Hahner, Director of Volunteer Services at the United Way of Wyandotte County
On March 27, the United Way of Wyandotte County honored the more than 180 RSVP volunteers that serve in Wyandotte County.
These volunteers contributed more than 20,000 hours working in non-profit agencies, nursing homes, schools and governmental offices. They help as tutors, work in the office, greet clients, sew comfort items, help stock food pantries or visit with the sick and lonely.
These volunteers range in age from 55 years old to nearly 100 years of age. In fact, 20 volunteers over the age of 90 were given special recognition for their contribution to our community.
They are Helen Ambrose, Marlan Amrein, Ruth Bartkoski, Oleta Bogard, Eileen Dechant, Katherine Gonzalez, Meryle Hotujac, Irene Kyle, Anna Landauer, Christine Magana, Norene Mealman, Johnella Newton, Kathryn Osburn, Lorraine Proctor, LaNelle Radcliffe, Ruth Schultz, Charlotte Stack, Sylvia Tate, Mary Evelyn Taylor and Alice Zimmerman.
These volunteers are proof that those who volunteer live longer as a recent study indicated.
Seven RSVP members were awarded with the RSVP Lifetime Achievement Award which is given to volunteers that have recorded over 7,500 hours of service.
Those honored include: Oleta Bogard, Betty Jean Doughty, Madelyn Fotovich, Brenda C. Jones, Mabel Shutt and Norma Jacob who has recorded over 30,000 volunteer hours.
The Wyandotte County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program promotes volunteerism in those 55 years and older through recruitment, placement and training.
If you are over 55 and like to volunteer, please contact Emily Worm at 913-371-3674 ext. 1321 or at eworm@unitedway-wyco.org.
On March 27, the United Way of Wyandotte County honored the more than 180 RSVP volunteers that serve in Wyandotte County.
These volunteers contributed more than 20,000 hours working in non-profit agencies, nursing homes, schools and governmental offices. They help as tutors, work in the office, greet clients, sew comfort items, help stock food pantries or visit with the sick and lonely.
These volunteers range in age from 55 years old to nearly 100 years of age. In fact, 20 volunteers over the age of 90 were given special recognition for their contribution to our community.
They are Helen Ambrose, Marlan Amrein, Ruth Bartkoski, Oleta Bogard, Eileen Dechant, Katherine Gonzalez, Meryle Hotujac, Irene Kyle, Anna Landauer, Christine Magana, Norene Mealman, Johnella Newton, Kathryn Osburn, Lorraine Proctor, LaNelle Radcliffe, Ruth Schultz, Charlotte Stack, Sylvia Tate, Mary Evelyn Taylor and Alice Zimmerman.
These volunteers are proof that those who volunteer live longer as a recent study indicated.
Seven RSVP members were awarded with the RSVP Lifetime Achievement Award which is given to volunteers that have recorded over 7,500 hours of service.
Those honored include: Oleta Bogard, Betty Jean Doughty, Madelyn Fotovich, Brenda C. Jones, Mabel Shutt and Norma Jacob who has recorded over 30,000 volunteer hours.
The Wyandotte County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program promotes volunteerism in those 55 years and older through recruitment, placement and training.
If you are over 55 and like to volunteer, please contact Emily Worm at 913-371-3674 ext. 1321 or at eworm@unitedway-wyco.org.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Opportunities for individuals or groups to make a difference
By CATHI HAHNER
Director of Volunteer Services, United Way of Wyandotte County
Are you looking for something interesting to do? Do you have a few free hours of time?
Are you ready to make difference in the community? Volunteering might be just the answer.
There are number of agencies and projects eager for enthusiastic volunteers.
Director of Volunteer Services, United Way of Wyandotte County
Are you looking for something interesting to do? Do you have a few free hours of time?
Are you ready to make difference in the community? Volunteering might be just the answer.
There are number of agencies and projects eager for enthusiastic volunteers.
- Communities in Schools is hosting Reality U, a financial literacy and dropout prevention program, at various high schools in Wyandotte County. Volunteers are needed for sessions at Washington High School on March 5th and 6th, Wyandotte High School on April 10th, FL Schlagle High School on May 1st, and JC Harmon High School on May 8th and 9th. Contact Ashley Ferguson at (913-636-1761) or Ashley.ferguson@cismidamerica.org.
- For those who like to get their hands dirty, Cultivate Kansas City hosts “Work on a Farm” on the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of every month. This event is held at the Gibbs Road Farm from 9 a.m. to noon. Individuals and groups of all experience levels are welcome! Come on out and get your hands dirty while you learn the fundamentals of urban farming. Sign-up is easy with Sign Up Genius form. If you have questions, please contact Ami at ami@cultivatekc.org or (913) 944-5639.
- Hillcrest Transitional Housing has a major need for volunteers to help with deep cleaning and painting apartments for new residents. The Hillcrest primary program focus is moving families and youth from homelessness to self-sufficiency within 90 days and provides rent and utility free housing to residents while in the program. Contact Bianca Ward (913) -515-6531 or bwardvista@gmail.com
- Foster Grandparent Office, Catholic Charities of NE Kansas, is looking for volunteers to help several days per month with some administrative type functions including copying and mailing newsletters as well as filing and other duties. Contact Jill Rademacher at (913) 906-8920 or rademacher@catholiccharitiesks.org
- For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER please contact Cathi Hahner, Director of Volunteer Services, at (913) 371-3674 or chahner@unitedway-wyco.org. You may also find a list of opportunities by checking out our website at www.volunteerkc.org.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
GUEST COMMENTARY: Volunteering brings numerous benefits
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center at the United Way of Wyandotte County
KANSAS CITY, KAN. --- There are numerous benefits attached to volunteering. The obvious benefit is that the cause, program or project has the satisfaction of getting the job completed.
In some cases, the volunteer work may be directly related to the agency fulfilling its mission. It could be general building and grounds maintenance that ensures a safe and healthy setting for staff and visitors.
The obvious benefit to the agency is that the work was done without hiring someone to do it. The other benefit to the organization is that they had an opportunity to share their story with a volunteer.
In addition to the benefits to the organization, there are numerous benefits to the volunteer. The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research has found a significant connection between volunteering and good health.
This report shows that volunteers have greater longevity, higher functional ability, lower rates of depression and less incidence of heart disease. Some interesting facts for those 65 and over are that volunteering led to lower rates of depression and a greater personal sense of accomplishment.
Another recent study released in June of this year found that volunteering is associated with and increased likelihood of finding employment for individuals who are currently unemployed. The study found that volunteering is associated with a 27 percent higher odds of employment.
Volunteers who are unemployed can keep their skills sharp, learn new skills, expand their network of contacts, and improve their resume.
Lastly, the clients of the organization benefit from the hard work of volunteers. Young people are tutored and mentored to succeed in school. Clients at assistance centers get basic needs met.
The infirmed are provided comfort and companionship. Those without transportation are given a ride. The benefits are many.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Friday, August 16, 2013
United Way of WyCO Pep Rally set for Sept. 12
KANSAS CITY, KAN. --- The 2013 United Way of Wyandotte County Campaign Pep Rally will be held Thursday, Sept. 12.
Check out the flyer for more information:
Check out the flyer for more information:
Monday, April 8, 2013
GUEST COLUMN: Volunteers have options
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
I will share information today about three interesting and very different kinds of volunteer options available to you.
These projects are all happening on April 27, so you have plenty of time to plan. Hopefully one will be just right for you.
This first activity should appeal to the art lover.
Quixotic, one of Kansas City’s most cutting-edge performing arts groups, is partnering with the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art for an unforgettable public art event the evening of Saturday, April 27.
The performance takes place outdoors on the south facade of the museum and includes video projections on the building, music, dance, light and aerial acrobatics.
Volunteers are needed to serve as greeters and help guests find the appropriate seating area. Two shifts are available.
Volunteers must be at least 21. Volunteers will need to be able to stand for most of their shift.
I will share information today about three interesting and very different kinds of volunteer options available to you.
These projects are all happening on April 27, so you have plenty of time to plan. Hopefully one will be just right for you.
This first activity should appeal to the art lover.
The performance takes place outdoors on the south facade of the museum and includes video projections on the building, music, dance, light and aerial acrobatics.
Volunteers are needed to serve as greeters and help guests find the appropriate seating area. Two shifts are available.
Volunteers must be at least 21. Volunteers will need to be able to stand for most of their shift.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Opportunities for individuals or groups to make a difference
By DIANE HENTGES, United Way of Wyandotte County
Are you looking for something interesting to do? Do you have a few free hours of time? Are you ready to make a difference in the community?
Volunteering might be just the answer. There are number of agencies and projects eager for enthusiastic volunteers.
Be prepared to help your family and your community the next time a disaster strikes the area. CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) classes will start on March 7. The classes are free but are limited to 25 people. For more information on this exciting volunteer opportunity, contact Mike at mbaughman@wycokck.org.
Maybe you like to work with yours hands and you enjoy physical labor? Camp Naish, a facility of the Boys Scouts of America and Heart of America Council, needs to be spruced up before the summer programs starts. Some of the jobs involve general cleaning and grounds work, some jobs require the use of hammers and nails or a paint brush. These are great tasks for willing volunteers. If you or a small group is interested in helping, please contact Richard at 913-422-1035 or at Richard.ledgerwood@scouting.org.
Bethel Neighborhood Center wants to recruit a church, organization, business or individual willing to sponsor an Egg Hunt for 52 children and 25 senior adults. You can be an involved sponsor if you like and volunteer at the actual event. Please contact Rakmi at 913-371-8218 for more sponsorship information.
Associated Youth Services wants to recruit volunteers to be Life Skills Instructors. These volunteers share everyday life (or career) wisdom with youth! As an individual or as part of a corporate team, volunteers teach AYS youth important lessons in money management, job seeking, self-esteem building, time management, goal-setting... the list goes on! Contact Teri at 913-831-2820 or go to www.aysusa.org and apply on-line.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer
Are you looking for something interesting to do? Do you have a few free hours of time? Are you ready to make a difference in the community?
Volunteering might be just the answer. There are number of agencies and projects eager for enthusiastic volunteers.
Maybe you like to work with yours hands and you enjoy physical labor? Camp Naish, a facility of the Boys Scouts of America and Heart of America Council, needs to be spruced up before the summer programs starts. Some of the jobs involve general cleaning and grounds work, some jobs require the use of hammers and nails or a paint brush. These are great tasks for willing volunteers. If you or a small group is interested in helping, please contact Richard at 913-422-1035 or at Richard.ledgerwood@scouting.org.
Bethel Neighborhood Center wants to recruit a church, organization, business or individual willing to sponsor an Egg Hunt for 52 children and 25 senior adults. You can be an involved sponsor if you like and volunteer at the actual event. Please contact Rakmi at 913-371-8218 for more sponsorship information.
Associated Youth Services wants to recruit volunteers to be Life Skills Instructors. These volunteers share everyday life (or career) wisdom with youth! As an individual or as part of a corporate team, volunteers teach AYS youth important lessons in money management, job seeking, self-esteem building, time management, goal-setting... the list goes on! Contact Teri at 913-831-2820 or go to www.aysusa.org and apply on-line.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer
Monday, February 11, 2013
COMMENTARY: Make a difference as a LIFE coach
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
Teenagers face a number of challenges that can side track them. Some of the side tracks lead to dropping out of school, making bad choices, testing limits --- some may even result in jail time.
In our country, over one million ninth graders will not graduate with their class. Every day, 7,000 students in the United States drop out of school. These are sobering statistics for a nation that values education.
The reality for a drop-out is bleak. That student can find it harder to find a job and if they do find a job, their earning capacity is diminished. Self-esteem is low and a feeling of hopelessness can prevail.
Mentoring can “make a difference.” Research shows that mentored youth are 52 percent less likely to skip school, 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 37 percent less likely to skip a class, 33 percent less likely to hit someone and 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol.
In addition, research has shown that 84 percent of youth who are mentored have better self-esteem, 62 percent are more aware of educational opportunities and 57 percent have improved family relationships.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City are recruiting adult mentors to serve as a “LIFE Coach” for an area teen. A LIFE Coach mentor needs to be able to commit to meet for one hour twice a month with their mentor. The LIFE Coach will help the student with homework, tutor in needed subjects, help with life skills, explore career options, work on life plan development and discuss what to do after high school.
Those interested in being a LIFE Coach mentor can go to www.helpKCkids.org and apply on line. All applicants are subject to a background check. Boys & Girls Clubs will provide training to mentors.
Make a difference and be a LIFE Coach mentor.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER, please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Teenagers face a number of challenges that can side track them. Some of the side tracks lead to dropping out of school, making bad choices, testing limits --- some may even result in jail time.
In our country, over one million ninth graders will not graduate with their class. Every day, 7,000 students in the United States drop out of school. These are sobering statistics for a nation that values education.
The reality for a drop-out is bleak. That student can find it harder to find a job and if they do find a job, their earning capacity is diminished. Self-esteem is low and a feeling of hopelessness can prevail.
Mentoring can “make a difference.” Research shows that mentored youth are 52 percent less likely to skip school, 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 37 percent less likely to skip a class, 33 percent less likely to hit someone and 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol.
In addition, research has shown that 84 percent of youth who are mentored have better self-esteem, 62 percent are more aware of educational opportunities and 57 percent have improved family relationships.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City are recruiting adult mentors to serve as a “LIFE Coach” for an area teen. A LIFE Coach mentor needs to be able to commit to meet for one hour twice a month with their mentor. The LIFE Coach will help the student with homework, tutor in needed subjects, help with life skills, explore career options, work on life plan development and discuss what to do after high school.
Those interested in being a LIFE Coach mentor can go to www.helpKCkids.org and apply on line. All applicants are subject to a background check. Boys & Girls Clubs will provide training to mentors.
Make a difference and be a LIFE Coach mentor.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER, please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Volunteer with a food pantry
By DIANE HENTGES, United Way of Wyandotte County
The weather is cold. Unemployment is high. Wages are low. Costs keep rising. This is a pretty gloomy situation. It is these conditions that challenge our local food pantries.
These pantries serve those who are affected by these gloomy conditions. These pantries provide groceries to a family so they can eat and pay the rent. The pantries rely heavily on the good will and hard work of volunteers.
Volunteers can help local pantries in a number of ways. They can help in the office to take care of the phone, do paperwork, or help in the actual pantry.
They can sort donated food items and keep the shelves stocked. A volunteer might help a client through the maze of shelves to make the right selections for their family size.
Another way volunteers can help is to organize a food drive or collect personal care items for a pantry. Remember to keep food donations simple and include easy-to-prepare items.
The weather is cold. Unemployment is high. Wages are low. Costs keep rising. This is a pretty gloomy situation. It is these conditions that challenge our local food pantries.
These pantries serve those who are affected by these gloomy conditions. These pantries provide groceries to a family so they can eat and pay the rent. The pantries rely heavily on the good will and hard work of volunteers.
Volunteers can help local pantries in a number of ways. They can help in the office to take care of the phone, do paperwork, or help in the actual pantry.
They can sort donated food items and keep the shelves stocked. A volunteer might help a client through the maze of shelves to make the right selections for their family size.
Another way volunteers can help is to organize a food drive or collect personal care items for a pantry. Remember to keep food donations simple and include easy-to-prepare items.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
COLUMN: Start the New Year by volunteering
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center /RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
The gifts have been opened.
We have made our post-Christmas trip to the mall to exchange that sweater and shop the sales for those great bargains. Some might be enjoying a few extra days off from work or school. All of us are looking to begin a new year.
As we plan for the New Year, let’s not forget our New Years resolutions.
This year’s list of resolutions should not be long and definitely not impossible to keep. Let’s give this year’s resolutions some real thought.
My suggestion is that each of us includes volunteering high on that list of resolutions. Trust me - it will be an easy one to keep throughout the year.
The gifts have been opened.
We have made our post-Christmas trip to the mall to exchange that sweater and shop the sales for those great bargains. Some might be enjoying a few extra days off from work or school. All of us are looking to begin a new year.
As we plan for the New Year, let’s not forget our New Years resolutions.
This year’s list of resolutions should not be long and definitely not impossible to keep. Let’s give this year’s resolutions some real thought.
My suggestion is that each of us includes volunteering high on that list of resolutions. Trust me - it will be an easy one to keep throughout the year.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
There's still time to volunteer for the holidays
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
There are still agencies needing help for the holidays.
For a complete list of needs that cover both volunteer times, family adoptions and donations, go to our web site at www.unitedway-wyco.org.
Both Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army Harbor Lights need help with their Christmas distributions.
Catholic Charities will host a Christmas store for registered clients. Volunteers are needed Dec. 19, 20, and 21 to help in the morning (9 a.m.-noon) or the afternoons (1-4 p.m.).
If you are interested in helping, please contact Mary Kay at (913) 433-2080 or at mdrees@catholiccharitiesks.org. Salvation Army Harbor Lights will need volunteers on Dec. 18, 19, and 20 to help registered families collect their gifts.
There are still agencies needing help for the holidays.
For a complete list of needs that cover both volunteer times, family adoptions and donations, go to our web site at www.unitedway-wyco.org.
Both Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army Harbor Lights need help with their Christmas distributions.
Catholic Charities will host a Christmas store for registered clients. Volunteers are needed Dec. 19, 20, and 21 to help in the morning (9 a.m.-noon) or the afternoons (1-4 p.m.).
If you are interested in helping, please contact Mary Kay at (913) 433-2080 or at mdrees@catholiccharitiesks.org. Salvation Army Harbor Lights will need volunteers on Dec. 18, 19, and 20 to help registered families collect their gifts.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
United Way's annual meeting set for Friday
The United Way of Wyandotte County Annual Meeting will be on Nov. 30 at 11 a.m. at the Reardon Convention Center. There is no cost to attend the annual meeting.
Following the annual meeting, United Way will host its annual Fall Campaign Celebration Luncheon at 11:30 am at the same location.
The cost for the luncheon is $30 per person or $250 for a table of 10. To RSVP, please call (913) 371-3674 or visit www.unitedway-wyco.org.
Following the annual meeting, United Way will host its annual Fall Campaign Celebration Luncheon at 11:30 am at the same location.
The cost for the luncheon is $30 per person or $250 for a table of 10. To RSVP, please call (913) 371-3674 or visit www.unitedway-wyco.org.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Downtown Holiday Lighting Festival seeking volunteers
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County.
A great opportunity awaits those who can’t wait for the holiday season.
On Friday Nov. 30, at City Hall Plaza, the Downtown Holiday Lighting Festival will take place. This is a great event that brings the community together.
There will be entertainment, food, decorated trees from the neighborhood associations, a visit with Santa, goodie-bags for the first 1000 children, free movies, popcorn, cotton candy and crafts for the children.
Activities will also take place at City Hall Plaza.
The event is planned to start at 4 p.m. and end at 7 p.m. with the lighting of the mayor’s tree.
In order for this event to be successful we need volunteers. The first need for volunteers is on Thursday afternoon, Nov. 29 at 1 p.m. We need help to bag popcorn for the movie goers. On Friday, volunteers act as greeters and direct visitors to various activities.
Other volunteers will see that those guest watching movies have popcorn. Still, others will help give cotton candy to the children. Some volunteers will help guide the line of children and families waiting to see Mr. and Mrs. Clause.
For those volunteers who like to ham-it-up, there are opportunities for you to dress in costume and visit with the guests. There is also a need for volunteers to help guide the various costumed characters and entertainers. These are just a few of the many volunteer opportunities available.
To volunteer or to find out more information please contact Diane at 913-371-3674 or a dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
A great opportunity awaits those who can’t wait for the holiday season.
On Friday Nov. 30, at City Hall Plaza, the Downtown Holiday Lighting Festival will take place. This is a great event that brings the community together.
There will be entertainment, food, decorated trees from the neighborhood associations, a visit with Santa, goodie-bags for the first 1000 children, free movies, popcorn, cotton candy and crafts for the children.
Activities will also take place at City Hall Plaza.
The event is planned to start at 4 p.m. and end at 7 p.m. with the lighting of the mayor’s tree.
In order for this event to be successful we need volunteers. The first need for volunteers is on Thursday afternoon, Nov. 29 at 1 p.m. We need help to bag popcorn for the movie goers. On Friday, volunteers act as greeters and direct visitors to various activities.
Other volunteers will see that those guest watching movies have popcorn. Still, others will help give cotton candy to the children. Some volunteers will help guide the line of children and families waiting to see Mr. and Mrs. Clause.
For those volunteers who like to ham-it-up, there are opportunities for you to dress in costume and visit with the guests. There is also a need for volunteers to help guide the various costumed characters and entertainers. These are just a few of the many volunteer opportunities available.
To volunteer or to find out more information please contact Diane at 913-371-3674 or a dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Help non-profits prepare for the holidays
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
Now that Halloween has come and gone, activities are being focused for Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you would like to help with holiday activities, I can share a few with you.
Cross-Lines Community Outreach is looking to recruit volunteers with muscle to help move boxes and totes full of clothes from storage to a truck and then to the Christmas Store. It is time to get ready for the holidays.
The date volunteers are needed is Monday, Nov. 12. The moving will start at 1 p.m. If interested, please contact Amber at (913) 281-3388 or amber@cross-lines.org.
Center for Hope plans to prepare and serve Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day. They need volunteers to help with this process. The hours are 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. If you would like to help, please contact Marsha at (913) 233-2511.
Pleasant Green Baptist Church is recruiting volunteers to help prepare Thanksgiving meals on Nov. 19, 20, and 21st from 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the church. Volunteers are also needed to help on Thanksgiving Day with last minute preparations, serving, and clean-up. Volunteer drivers are needed to help deliver the meals.
Please contact Bernice at (913) 371-0231 if you would like to volunteer.
In the coming weeks, I will share more holiday related volunteer opportunities. You can also check out our Web site at www.unitedway-wyco.org for ways you can GIVE, ADVOCATE & VOLUNTEER.
Now that Halloween has come and gone, activities are being focused for Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you would like to help with holiday activities, I can share a few with you.
Cross-Lines Community Outreach is looking to recruit volunteers with muscle to help move boxes and totes full of clothes from storage to a truck and then to the Christmas Store. It is time to get ready for the holidays.
The date volunteers are needed is Monday, Nov. 12. The moving will start at 1 p.m. If interested, please contact Amber at (913) 281-3388 or amber@cross-lines.org.
Center for Hope plans to prepare and serve Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day. They need volunteers to help with this process. The hours are 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. If you would like to help, please contact Marsha at (913) 233-2511.
Pleasant Green Baptist Church is recruiting volunteers to help prepare Thanksgiving meals on Nov. 19, 20, and 21st from 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the church. Volunteers are also needed to help on Thanksgiving Day with last minute preparations, serving, and clean-up. Volunteer drivers are needed to help deliver the meals.
Please contact Bernice at (913) 371-0231 if you would like to volunteer.
In the coming weeks, I will share more holiday related volunteer opportunities. You can also check out our Web site at www.unitedway-wyco.org for ways you can GIVE, ADVOCATE & VOLUNTEER.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Volunteering can be fun and hard work
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
Volunteer opportunities are never ending.
Just when I think I have all the opportunities posted and neatly categorized, more arrive on my desk.
It is because of wonderful readers like you who become hard working volunteers that the agencies are able to say “Mission Accomplished”!
Today I am listing a few more for you to review.
If you want to get in to the spirit of Halloween, volunteer at the National Agricultural Hall of Fame on Oct. 27. They are hosting Trick or Treat and BooOOOoo Barn. Volunteers are needed for a variety of jobs that day. This is a great opportunity for adults or teens who need some service hours.
Volunteers will give out candy in the Trick or Treat area, help with the crown flow at the BooOOOoo Barn, assist with art and crafts, help with milking demonstrations and help with the hayride.
They do need a tractor driver for the hayride. The time for the event is 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. Costumes are encouraged but not required. For more information contact Cathi at (913) 721-1075 or at chahner@afhalloffame.com.
I know we have not even celebrated Halloween, but there are people that are planning for tax season. During tax season, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites are set up throughout the metro area. These sites need volunteers. The VITA locations allow low income individuals and families to file their taxes for free.
Volunteers serve as tax preparers, greeters and receptionists. You do not need and tax experiences. However, you should be comfortable using a computer. Training will be provided; multiple opportunities will be available beginning in December.
Flexible day, evening and weekend hours are available. You can sign-up on line at www.kccash.org. At the site, click on "Volunteer."
Volunteer opportunities are never ending.
Just when I think I have all the opportunities posted and neatly categorized, more arrive on my desk.
It is because of wonderful readers like you who become hard working volunteers that the agencies are able to say “Mission Accomplished”!
Today I am listing a few more for you to review.
If you want to get in to the spirit of Halloween, volunteer at the National Agricultural Hall of Fame on Oct. 27. They are hosting Trick or Treat and BooOOOoo Barn. Volunteers are needed for a variety of jobs that day. This is a great opportunity for adults or teens who need some service hours.
Volunteers will give out candy in the Trick or Treat area, help with the crown flow at the BooOOOoo Barn, assist with art and crafts, help with milking demonstrations and help with the hayride.
They do need a tractor driver for the hayride. The time for the event is 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. Costumes are encouraged but not required. For more information contact Cathi at (913) 721-1075 or at chahner@afhalloffame.com.
I know we have not even celebrated Halloween, but there are people that are planning for tax season. During tax season, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites are set up throughout the metro area. These sites need volunteers. The VITA locations allow low income individuals and families to file their taxes for free.
Volunteers serve as tax preparers, greeters and receptionists. You do not need and tax experiences. However, you should be comfortable using a computer. Training will be provided; multiple opportunities will be available beginning in December.
Flexible day, evening and weekend hours are available. You can sign-up on line at www.kccash.org. At the site, click on "Volunteer."
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Young people need caring volunteers
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
We know that our youth are the future.
It is so important that they have good strong role models. You can help to be that strong and caring role model. There are multiple opportunities with great programs within our community.
Here are some opportunities to help our local youth.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER, please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
We know that our youth are the future.
It is so important that they have good strong role models. You can help to be that strong and caring role model. There are multiple opportunities with great programs within our community.
Here are some opportunities to help our local youth.
- Associated Youth Services is a community based program that helps at risk youth. They recruit caring and interested adults who are willing to help tutor young men in various school subjects. Math always seems to need just a little extra work. If you are interested in helping to tutor a young man with his homework, contact Teri at 913-831-2820 or at tkriege@aysusa.org.
- The 4-H, a program of the Wyandotte County Extension Office, relies heavily on caring and committed adult volunteers. Do you have craft or skill you would like to pass on to eager learner? Can you sew, make a birdhouse, paint a picture or can take a photograph? These are skills that a young person is waiting to learn. If you would like more information on how you can volunteer, contact Peggy at 913-299-9300 or at pboyd@ksu.edu.
- Young Women on the Move offers teen girls at Argentine, Central and Rosedale Middle Schools and J.C. Harmon, Wyandotte and F.L. Schlagle High Schools programs to help them grow and mature into responsible empowered young women. Mentors are being recruited to work one-on-one or on-line with teens. If you have the time and want to help empower a teen, please contact Wendy at 816-729-6122 or at Wendy hawkins68@gmail.com.
For more information on how you can GIVE, ADVOCATE, and VOLUNTEER, please contact me at 913-371-3674 or at dhentges@unitedway-wyco.org.
You can find volunteer opportunities by checking out our website, www.unitedway-wyco.org and click on Volunteer.
Monday, October 1, 2012
If you have a needle, you can volunteer
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
Some of us have a special talent or skill that we can share as a volunteer.
Sewing, knitting and crocheting are skills that volunteers can share. There are a number of interesting opportunities where you might use your talents.
Cross-Lines Community Outreach is recruiting individuals who sew to help make sleeping bags for the homeless. Maybe you would like to knit or crochet caps and scarfs for their Christmas store. Contact Amber at 913-281-3388 or at amber@cross-lines.org.
Maybe your sewing group could make comfort items for Cancer Action patients - items like bed pads, afghans, gowns, booties, turbans, totes, mastectomy kits, pillows and hospital bed sheets. Cancer Action can train groups on any of these projects. Contact Leslie at 913-642-8885 or at leslieb@canceractionkc.org.
Shepherd’s Center of Kansas City, Kan., has a Prayer Shawl Ministry that gives warm and embracing shawls to hospitals and nursing homes so patients and families experience the love and prayers of those who made the shawls.
Some of us have a special talent or skill that we can share as a volunteer.
Sewing, knitting and crocheting are skills that volunteers can share. There are a number of interesting opportunities where you might use your talents.
Cross-Lines Community Outreach is recruiting individuals who sew to help make sleeping bags for the homeless. Maybe you would like to knit or crochet caps and scarfs for their Christmas store. Contact Amber at 913-281-3388 or at amber@cross-lines.org.
Maybe your sewing group could make comfort items for Cancer Action patients - items like bed pads, afghans, gowns, booties, turbans, totes, mastectomy kits, pillows and hospital bed sheets. Cancer Action can train groups on any of these projects. Contact Leslie at 913-642-8885 or at leslieb@canceractionkc.org.
Shepherd’s Center of Kansas City, Kan., has a Prayer Shawl Ministry that gives warm and embracing shawls to hospitals and nursing homes so patients and families experience the love and prayers of those who made the shawls.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Bored? Consider volunteering in Wyandotte County
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center/RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
Are you bored?
Do you feel isolated? Are you tired of doing the same old same old? Sounds like you need a change. You need the opportunity to get out and do something different.
Think about volunteering.
It gets you out of your rut, introduces you to new people and allows you make a difference in your community.
There are wonderful experiences just waiting for you. Read on and learn about just a few of the many volunteer opportunities available in our area.
Are you bored?
Think about volunteering.
It gets you out of your rut, introduces you to new people and allows you make a difference in your community.
There are wonderful experiences just waiting for you. Read on and learn about just a few of the many volunteer opportunities available in our area.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Teach, knit, prepare....volunteer
By DIANE HENTGES, Director of the Volunteer Center and RSVP at the United Way of Wyandotte County
I am constantly amazed at the unique and interesting volunteer opportunities that are available to those willing to give of themselves.
Let me share a few really unusual opportunities with you. I bet there is one that will grab your interest.
Rosedale Congregational Church not only cares for the spiritual well-being of members, but hosts a program that focus on the well-being of the body.
The Rosedale Healthy Kids Initiative (HKI) is a community effort to reduce childhood obesity in the Rosedale neighborhood of Kansas City by promoting healthy, active lifestyles for all residents.
The program is offered on Wednesday afternoons from 3-4 p.m. Volunteers are key to the success of this program.
Volunteers will serve as cooking teachers, exercise teachers, craft teachers, small group leaders and snack chef. Someone is also needed to make sure all participants sign-in and are picked-up by the appropriate caregiver.
I am constantly amazed at the unique and interesting volunteer opportunities that are available to those willing to give of themselves.
Let me share a few really unusual opportunities with you. I bet there is one that will grab your interest.
Rosedale Congregational Church not only cares for the spiritual well-being of members, but hosts a program that focus on the well-being of the body.
The Rosedale Healthy Kids Initiative (HKI) is a community effort to reduce childhood obesity in the Rosedale neighborhood of Kansas City by promoting healthy, active lifestyles for all residents.
The program is offered on Wednesday afternoons from 3-4 p.m. Volunteers are key to the success of this program.
Volunteers will serve as cooking teachers, exercise teachers, craft teachers, small group leaders and snack chef. Someone is also needed to make sure all participants sign-in and are picked-up by the appropriate caregiver.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
