Wanted: Youth Volunteers

Whether for National Honors Society, Student Council, scholarship applications, college resumes or simply their own philanthropic natures, local teenagers are constantly searching for organizations who could benefit from young adult volunteers. The businesses below have specifically requested youth assistance, but an extended, all-inclusive list can be found at Volunteers R Us.

Fall Festival Weekend, October 29-30

Volunteers ages 16 and older are needed to assist with Ouabache State Park's fall festival weekend.  The festival is an opportunity for families to enjoy the fall weather and participate in a variety of events in a safe environment.  Individuals are needed to assist with making the pot luck soup, decorating Campview Shelter and playing games during the Fall Festival Fair.  Other volunteer opportunities also exist.

Volunteerss will receive a free evening meal along with being presented with a certificate of thanks.  Letters documenting volunteer time will also be provided for individuals requesting one.

Bluffton Animal Shelter
Play with kittens & puppies~~~~Give treats ~ Walk a dog~ LOTS of petting & brushing.
Hours: Wednesday 1p-4p or special arrangements can be made.

If under 18, need parent’s permission Contact: Bluffton/Wells County Animal Shelter

1613 W. Cherry Street 824-6063

Bluffton Parks and Recreation Department
Contact: Pam Vanderkolk or Brandy Fiechter at 260-824-6069
www.ci.bluffton.in.us/parksrec.htm
Volunteers are needed for Bingo, painting, park clean-up, assistance with programs, designing props and office help. No special training needed.

Family Centered Services
Contact: Marcia Cline at 260-824-8574 or 1-800-824-6111
www.familycenteredservices.org/safeplace.htm
Family Centered Services offers parenting, mentoring and youth programs for newborn to older adults. Teen volunteers are needed for Teen Court and Youth as Resources members.

Safe Place/Host Homes
Contact: Abbey Schoeff at 260-824-8574
Host homes are safe, nurturing, temporary alternatives to institutions or foster homes. Youth volunteers are needed and can be trained. Also, donations are accepted for clothing and personal hygiene items.

River Terrace Estates
Contact: JoAnn Claghorn at 260-824-8940 ext. 122
No special training is needed. Volunteers can play games, sing along, reminisce, talk one on one, visit in rooms, deliver mail and newspaper, read to residents, play in the bell choir, cook, create crafts, work in the store and take residents for a walk.