VolunteerHoward.org/GuidetoGiving
Guide to Giving 2017-2018 •
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The Annual Guide to Giving offers opportunities for you to make a difference in our community by giving your time and talents or through donations of money, food or gifts during the holiday season and beyond. This list is derived from nonprofit and public agencies that serve Howard County and the region. When you contact the agency, please mention that you found the opportunity through the Volunteer Center Serving Howard County’s Annual Guide to Giving 2017-2018. The agency listing is alphabetical. If you are interested in collecting food to help a family in need enjoy a special meal at holiday time, look for * notations below agency requests indicating that they can identify those families. If you are interested in helping in a soup kitchen on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day, the following agencies may need volunteers. Please keep in mind that these organizations need help every day and that opportunities to volunteer on these specific days fill up quickly. BEANS AND BREAD A soup kitchen in Southpoint Baltimore • 410-732-1892 vincentbaltimore.org/volunteer ELIZABETH HOUSE A food pantry serving Laurel residents • webmaster@fishoflaurel.org fishoflaurel.org FRANCISCAN CENTER A soup kitchen in Baltimore • 410-467-5340 fcbmore.org/get-involved/volunteer MANNA HOUSE A soup kitchen and drop-in center in Baltimore • 410-889-3001 mannahouseinc.org THE SHEPHERD’S TABLE A soup kitchen in Silver Spring • 301-585-6463 shepherdstable.org/volunteer
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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A-OK Mentoring-Tutoring, Inc. Enhances the successful academic and social development of identified Howard County elementary and middle school students through the encouraging, ongoing support of an adult mentor-tutor. Mentoring services are designed to have a positive impact on students in the areas of academic achievement, behavior, social skills and self-image. Volunteer requests: • Mentors and tutors for elementary and middle school age students. They provide one-on-one mentoring/tutoring during the school day, or in small groups in afterschool programs. Volunteers are especially needed through the third quarter of this school year. • Information sessions are held regularly to provide details about the organization, available volunteer opportunities, and the process. Donation requests: • Monetary donations are needed to support volunteer recruitment, screening and training. Contact Susan Burger at 443-895-2457 or susan@AOKMentor.org. Website: AOKMentor.org
The African Art Museum of Maryland Serves the public through an exploration of the art of Africa and is dedicated to the encouragement of broader understanding and awareness of the diverse cultures and artistic expressions of the people of the African continent. Volunteer requests: • Office workers with computer skills, Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-3pm. Donation requests: • Free storage space for art-related items. • Office supplies for computers, including ink cartridges. • Monetary and in-kind donations to advance the mission of the museum. Contact Doris Ligon at 301-490-6070 or AfricanArtMuseumofMd@verizon.net. Website: AfricanArtMuseum.org
The Arc of Howard County Works to achieve full community life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — one person at a time. Volunteer requests: • Committee members for a variety of programs and events to support the mission of The Arc. Donation requests: • Variety of arts and craft supplies such as crayons, markers, scissors, card stock, construction paper, modeling clay, etc. • Household items: vacuum cleaners, new sheet sets (all sizes), portable CD/radio players, laundry soap, and books for children and young adults. • Gift cards to Home Depot, Lowe’s, Target, Walmart and Costco. • Gift cards/tickets to support access to community activities: movies, bowling, restaurants, sporting events, performing arts, community events, etc. • Monetary and in-kind donations accepted. Contact Dee Athey at 443-730-0638 or dathey@ArcHoward.org. Website: ArcHoward.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Athelas Institute, Inc.
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Provides opportunities for growth and personal accomplishment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, complemented by quality services and meaningful community engagement. Volunteer requests: • Rake and bag leaves at our residential homes in Howard, Carroll and Baltimore counties. Volunteers needed weekends throughout November. • Decorating help for the holidays in early December. • Facilitate Saturday community dances for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Donation requests: • Two flat screen televisions; four karaoke machines with Partytyme Karaoke CDs; two musical keyboards; four stereo CD/radio players; two DVD players. • New or slightly used exercise bike, a full size air hockey table, pool ball set and pool cues, and board games for therapeutic recreation. • Graco paint sprayer. • Two toaster ovens. • Nonperishable food items for our food pantry, and 18 turkeys for our group homes. Contact Pat Owens at 410-964-1241, ext. 128, or plowens@AthelasInstitute.org. Website: AthelasInstitute.org *Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Be You, Inc. Empowers youth to impact their communities through technology and innovation. Volunteer requests: • Coding instructors. Donation requests: • Laptops and headphones. • Makey Makey and Arduinos development boards/kits. Contact Kathy Barnett at 443-538-3526 or kbarnett@HoCoBeYou.com. Website: HoCoBeYou.com
Big Brothers Big Sisters at the Y Makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in Baltimore city and surrounding counties. Donation requests: • Food donations for Thanksgiving and Christmas. • Gifts for youth during Christmas season. • School supplies (ongoing). Contact Susan Hagis at 410-319-0998 or susanhagis@YMaryland.org. Website: YMaryland.org *Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Bridges to Housing Stability Provides a path to self-sufficiency to prevent and end homelessness through affordable housing solutions and advocacy in Howard County. Volunteer requests: • Assist with delivery of Thanksgiving gift baskets, and holiday gifts and food between mid-November and Dec. 22. Hours and days vary. • Social media: willing to research and post to Bridges to Housing Stability’s social media sites and respond to social media messages and tweets. • Special events: Help organize and run fundraising and advocacy events (ongoing Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday). • Marketing and development: assist Director of Marketing and Development with data entry, appeals and outreach (ongoing Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday). • Turnover/maintenance: help with repairs, rehab, and maintenance on housing units — skilled and unskilled labor welcome (Monday through Saturday, 8am-8pm hours available). Donation requests: • Holiday donations: gifts for children and adults, especially new full-size toiletry items, toys, socks, hats, gloves, and gift cards. • Ongoing donations: gift cards (gas, Target, Walmart and grocery stores); Howard County Regional Transit Authority bus passes; new home welcome basket items (tools, kitchen towels, shower curtains, washcloths, towels, garbage bags, waste baskets and sheets). • School supplies (throughout the year). Contact Jennifer Broderick at 410-0312-5760, ext. 117 or jennifer@Bridges2HS.org. Website: Bridges2HS.org *Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Bright Minds Foundation Supports education, aspirations and the opportunity to succeed for all students within the Howard County Public School System. Volunteer requests: • Gift wrappers for Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9am-3pm at the Barnes & Noble in Long Gate Shopping Center. Volunteers must be 16 or older and be able to work one two-hour shift: 9-11am; 11am-1pm; or 1-3pm. No special skills required. Service hours provided. • Office workers with computer skills, committee members, and special events workers. Must be 21 or older. Donation requests: • Monetary donations for use in current and future programs to support students. Contact Mary Peitz at 410-740-0707 or mary@BrightMindsFoundation.org. Website: BrightMindsFoundation.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Building Families for Children
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Provides professional and volunteer-driven family stability services and builds strong networks that support children’s safety and their physical, mental, social and spiritual growth. Volunteer requests: • Host family to open their home to care for children. • Family friend to support and mentor biological parents. • Family coach to help families make lasting changes • Resource friend to support parents in the Safe Families program. • Ministry lead to develop and facilitate an infrastructure of support within the church. Donation requests: • Adopt a family for Thanksgiving by contributing food or gift cards within the Good Samaritan Network. • Collect gifts for Christmas. If you want to get your church involved, we are happy to provide customized flyers and bulletin inserts. • Monetary donations accepted. Contact Catherine Fields at 410-872-1050 or catherine@BuildingFamiliesForChildren.org. Website: BuildingFamiliesForChildren.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Claudia Mayer/Tina Broccolino Cancer Resource Center Assists individuals and families through counseling, stress and symptom management, care planning, navigation, education, aesthetic services and resources. Connects persons diagnosed with cancer and their families with essential community and state resources. Donation requests: • Gift cards to Giant, Rite Aid, Safeway, Walmart, etc., to purchase prescriptions as well as food. Contact Diane Tollick at 410-740-5858 or dtollic1@jhmi.edu. Website: hcgh.org/crc *Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
codeHER, Inc.
(aka Girls Breaking Barriers) Empowers girls, especially those in underprivileged communities, through computer science education. Volunteer requests: • Female high school and college students to volunteer as coding instructors, teaching assistants, and committee members in marketing, finance, curriculum development, and visionary and expansion. No experience required. Donation requests: • Monetary donations to provide laptops to underprivileged girls in inner-city Baltimore. • Used or new laptops and computers, or any other piece of technology. • Monetary donations to buy hotspots for low-income neighborhoods. Contact Saniya Vashist at 410-370-7178 or saniya.vashist@CodeHerGirls.org. Website: CodeHerGirls.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Community Action Council of Howard County Provides programs and services to eligible low-income residents of Howard County to alleviate the effects of poverty by enabling self-sufficiency and advocacy. Volunteer requests: General volunteer information • Must be 16 years or older to volunteer without a parent or guardian. • Opportunities are available Monday-Friday, 8:30am through 3-4pm. • Find available opportunities at volunteerhoward.org. • Required online application: cachc.formstack.com/forms/volunteer. Community Action Council Main Office – • Engage in a variety of events throughout the year to raise awareness and responsiveness to the needs of low-income families in our community. • Administrative, clerical and support staff, with duties such as filing, completing computer data entry and assisting with large mailings. • Grant researcher • Most projects require you to be 18 years or older. Community Garden: Provides in-season fresh fruits and vegetables for food bank families. Seasonal opportunities include: • Hands-on gardeners to build beds, plant, weed, water, and overall garden maintenance. Tools and garden equipment provided; bring your own gardening gloves. • Limited Saturday opportunities may be available and must be arranged with the volunteer coordinator. Garden is available from April through mid-November. Food Bank: A community resource where individuals and families with proper documentation certifying their eligibility shop for needed food and other personal items. • Sorters, organizers and stockers with the ability to lift 25 pounds. • Shopping assistance and distributors. Head Start Program: Provides pre-school experiences and family support services for children ages 3-5. • Assist teachers with activities such as art projects, music, exercise and story time. • Encourage children to learn and explore through play. • Must be at least 18 years old to volunteer. Donation requests: Community Garden needs: Seeds (produce), hand tools, wheelbarrow. Food Bank needs: Holiday: Turkeys can be donated to the Howard County Food bank to give to those families in need. Ongoing: • Box cutters • Eggs • Clear package tape • Cheese • Sharpies • Rice • Clipboards • Soup • Pens (blue/black) • Diapers (all sizes) • Canned food (all kinds) • Cereal • Fresh or frozen vegetables/fruit • Feminine hygiene products • Milk • Toiletries
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Head Start donation needs: Holiday: Individuals or groups can adopt a family or center from one of our four Head Start centers and provide them with boots, toys, clothes, etc for the holidays. Ongoing: Gift cards Movement/exercise/play • Payless Shoe Store for shoes and boots • Balls (all sizes) • Jump ropes for children • Grocery stores • Tricycles (five per center) • Amazon Art supplies • Yarn and felt squares Clothing • Clothing for 3-5 year old children. • Large buttons and beads • Entire change of clothing sizes 3-5 [4T-6T], • Crayons • Washable markers including socks, underwear, shirts, pants • Coats • Water colors • Caps and mittens • Colored pencils • Colored markers Musical • Musical instruments (adult-sized and • Construction paper • Play-Doh (new) and Play-Doh cutters gently-used): guitar, electric keyboard, • Bean bags recorders, flutes, cymbals, and tambourines, etc. • Children’s CDs • Bristle blocks • Movement/exercise CDs • Lego bricks • Quiet time CDs. • Puzzles • Hand puppets Educational • Educational/art items for the children • Paint smocks • Backpacks Miscellaneous • Marble composition books • Hand sanitizer • New children’s books (especially picture books • Boxes of tissues and multicultural books) Contact Sarah Schindehette at 410-313-0703 or sschindehette@cac-hc.org. Website: cac-hc.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
The Community Ecology Institute Enhances community health and well-being by fostering diverse connections between all people and the natural world. Volunteer requests: • Interns with experience related to nonprofit development, grant writing and social media campaigns with a genuine enthusiasm for helping people connect with the natural environment as a way to create healthier communities. • Event support for our flagship program, Columbia Families in Nature. Individuals should have comfort working with fairly large groups of families, and some knowledge about and/or enthusiasm for the natural environment. Events are held on Sunday afternoons or Wednesday mornings. Donation requests: • Monetary donations to hire staff. Contact Chiara D’Amore at 410-730-0394 or CDamore@CommunityEcologyInstitute.org. Website: CommunityEcologyInstitute.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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FIRN, Inc. Empowers foreign-born individuals by providing programs and direct services that help them access community resources and opportunities. Donation requests: • Adopt a family: The volunteer decides whether they want to adopt the family for Thanksgiving, the holidays or both. FIRN will send the volunteer the information on the family (names, ages, and genders of the children). • If adopting for Thanksgiving, the volunteer can give food and/or gift cards. Donations must be received by FIRN no later than Thursday, Nov. 16. If adopting for the holidays, the volunteer gives gift cards and/or gifts for the children. Donations must be received by FIRN no later than Monday, Dec. 11. There is no minimum or maximum to what the donor gives. • Nonperishable food items for our food bank. • Gift cards to grocery store and gas stations. • Toys for kids (various ages). • Donations should be delivered to FIRN (5999 Harpers Farm Road, Suite E-200, Columbia, Maryland 21044). Contact Kristin Lilly at 443-276-3166 or klilly@FIRNonline.org. Website: FIRNonline.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Girls on the Run Inspires girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. Volunteer requests: • Race day support staff to help with course monitoring, race registration, buddy runners, and other needs for our 5K events: Saturday, Dec. 3 and Saturday, June 3. • Coaches and mentors to serve as role models for the girls who participate in 60+ Girls on the Run programs in Carroll and Howard counties. Donation requests: • Monetary donations for scholarships, new sneakers, jogging bras and running gear. • Gift cards to grocery stores for healthy snacks. • Gift cards to Staples/Target/Walmart for program supplies. Contact Jessamine Duvall at 443-583-7740 or Jessamine.Duvall@GirlsontheRun.org. Website: GOTRCentralMD.org
Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center Provides supportive and professional 24-hour crisis intervention, suicide prevention, shelter, and outreach services to individuals and families experiencing a personal, situational, mental health or shelter crisis. Volunteer requests: • Off-site dinner preparers for 50 people. Volunteers to bring meals in to feed shelter residents. Groups can also make and bring in bag lunches for 50 people. Contact Dorothy Howard, kitchen manager, at 410-531-6006 to schedule. Donation requests: • Gift cards to BJ’s Wholesale Club, Costco, Giant, Sunoco gas station, Target and Walmart. • New sweatshirts and sweatpants for adults. • New men’s and women’s underwear and crew tube socks. • New twin size sheets and blankets. • New standard size pillows. Contact Anna Katz at 410-531-6006 or info@GrassrootsCrisis.org. Website: GrassrootsCrisis.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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HoCoPoLitSo Howard County Poetry & Literature Society Enlarges the audience for contemporary literature and poetry through the production of live and taped literary programs and encouraging community discussions. Volunteer requests: • Event hosts for the 40th Evening of Irish Music & Poetry with novelist Mike McCormack on Friday, Feb. 9, 2018 — 4-6pm for setup and 6-11pm for event support in Smith Theatre lobby, Horowitz Center, Howard Community College. • Readers (three to five needed) to review high school manuscripts submitted (in the poetry, short story, personal essay and playwright categories) to the All County Writing Competition in March/April 2018. Readers would review one category. Review to be completed by Thursday, April 12. Time commitment varies. Submit a letter of interest to hocopolitso@yahoo.com. Donation requests: • Bookstore gift cards to purchase contemporary classics as book awards for local high school students who participate in HoCoPoLitSo’s All County Writing Contest in March. Contact Pamela Kroll Simonson at 410-518-4568 or HoCoPoLitSo@yahoo.com. Website: HoCoPoLitSo.org HopeWorks of Howard County Supports and advocates for people in Howard County affected by sexual and intimate partner violence and engages the community in creating the change required for violence prevention. Volunteer requests: • Child care assistants. • Legal services and office assistants. • Community outreach, community engagement advocates and special events. Donation requests: • Thanksgiving baskets — Provide the fixings for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. Non-perishable items only. Grocery store gift cards to cover the cost of a frozen turkey and fresh produce. • Adopt-a-Family Holiday Drive — Adopt a family and provide presents and/or gift cards from a wish list of requests for the holidays. To participate, email HolidayDrive@wearehopeworks.org. Contact Brittany Eltringham at 410-997-0304 or beltringham@WeAreHopeWorks.org. Website: WeAreHopeWorks.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Howard County Autism Society Provides support, promotes awareness and advocates for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Volunteer requests: • Office support: data entry, marketing, and administrative support. • Special event support: annual gala, One Step Closer Autism Walk/5K Run, summer/winter pool parties, picnics and other events. Donation requests: • In-kind donations, monetary donations and sponsorships for our gala and One Step Closer Autism Walk/ 5K Run. We accept donations throughout the year in order to provide resources for individuals on the spectrum and their families. Contact Janet Dabu at 410-290-3466 or janet.dabu@Howard-Autism.org. Website: Howard-Autism.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Howard County Conservancy Educates children and adults about our natural world, preserves the land and its legacy for future generations, and models responsible stewardship of our environment. Volunteer requests: • Help with our school field trip programs is needed! Training is provided. • Wednesday morning drop-in gardening from 9:30am-noon, weather permitting. Call ahead. Donation requests: • Monetary donations are also accepted. • Bird seed. • Digital cameras in working condition. • Picnic blankets. • Full and hand-size towels. • Red wagons. Contact Sue Phipps at 410-465-8877 or sue.phipps@HCConservancy.org. Website: HCConservancy.org
Howard County Office on Aging and Independence Promotes a full, dignified life for older people in Howard County, encouraging their involvement in all aspects of life and recognizing them as a vital force in the community. We seek to enrich the lives of older people, whether they live independently in the community, require assistance or are residents of long-term care facilities. Volunteer requests: • Collect new toiletry items to serve as gifts for low-income seniors who reside in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and in the community. Donation requests: • Monetary donations. • Toiletry items/toiletry gift sets (for low-income seniors who reside in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in the community) such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving cream/ lotion, and moisturizer. • Drop off your donations by Monday, Dec. 11, at any Howard County 50+ Center or the Howard County Office on Aging and Independence site at 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite 200, Columbia. Contact Darlene Vaselaros at 410-313-5951 or DVaselaros@HowardCountyMd.gov. Website: HowardCountyMd.gov * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Howard County Recreation and Parks Manages natural resources; provides excellent parks, facilities, and recreation opportunities for the community; and ensures the highest quality of life for current and future generations. Volunteer requests: • Howard County Recreation and Parks Family Volunteer Day on Saturday, Nov. 18, 9am-noon (various locations; ages 4 and older). • Holiday season volunteer project for a family, club or community group. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. • Registration required. Donation requests: • Yarn donations to support the Community Knitting and Crochet Group that creates afghans, lap blankets, baby blankets, hats, preemie hats, socks and scarves for many local charities, hospitals, nursing homes and occasionally supports projects abroad. Contact Linda DiPanfilo at 410-313-4704 or Ldipanfilo@HowardCountyMd.gov. Website: HoCoVolunteer.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Howard Hospital Foundation
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Provide the highest quality care to improve the health of our entire community through innovation, collaboration, service excellence, diversity and a commitment to patient safety. Volunteer requests: Symphony of Lights events • Dazzle Dash — Sunday, Nov. 19, 3:30-7pm • Twinkling Tots — Monday, Dec. 4, 5-8:30pm • Tail Lights — Monday, Dec 11, 5-8:30pm • Midnight at 7 — Sunday, Dec. 31, 4:30-8pm Contact Emily Shreve at 410-720-8706 or eshreve@jhmi.edu. Website: HCGH.org/give
KidsPeace Provides a variety of foster care and community-based treatment programs to help foster youth in-need to overcome challenges and transform their lives by providing intensive education, support services and placing children in safe and nurturing homes. Volunteer requests: • Loving foster homes throughout Howard County and Maryland, especially for teenagers. Training and support is provided. Donation requests: • Care packages for teenagers placed in a new foster home (blankets, bedroom linens, toiletries, journals, socks, gift cards, music, etc.). • Transition items for youth turning 21, aging out of care and starting out on their own (bedroom/bathroom linens, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies, gift cards, etc.) and new or gently used suitcases and large duffel bags. Contact Tracy Lane at 443-285-0220 or tracy.lane@KidsPeace.org. Website: FosterCare.com
Linwood Center Creates the possibility of extraordinary lives for children and adults living with autism and related developmental disabilities by providing education, vocational training, residential support and employment opportunities. Volunteer requests: • Professional photography services. • Special events assistance. Donation requests: • Monetary donations to support our programs and services for individuals living with autism. • In-kind donation of new or gently-used items in excellent condition, such as clothing, furniture, home decor, wall art, jewelry, accessories, antiques and more. Contact Peyton Plummer at 410-465-1352 or pplummer@LinwoodCenter.org. Website: LinwoodCenter.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Living Classrooms Foundation
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Strengthens communities and inspires young people to achieve their potential through hands-on education and job training, using urban, natural and maritime resources as living classrooms. Volunteer requests: • Tutors and mentors to assist in after-school programming (3-6pm) within the Baltimore-Washington community. • Other opportunities typically available during the hours of 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. Donation requests: • Thanksgiving food needs of boxed instant mashed potatoes, boxed stuffing mix, canned green beans, corn, and yams, turkey/chicken gravy mix (jarred or packaged), canned cranberry sauce, canned fruit or plastic cups (packed in water or own juice, not syrup), canned/boxed chicken broth, brownie/cake mix and icing if needed, cornbread/corn muffin mix, disposable turkey roasting pan, and reusable grocery bags • Winter needs of new or gently-used winter clothing for all ages (coats, hats, scarves, gloves, boots, socks, etc.). • Toys for students in grades 1-8 for holiday toy drive. Contact Erin Myers at 410-685-0295 or emyers@LivingClassrooms.org. Website: LivingClassrooms.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Maryland Horse Rescue Facilitates the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of abused and abandoned horses in Maryland. Volunteer requests: • Holiday assistance to cover shifts between Thanksgiving and Jan. 1. Training provided prior to volunteering. Times are flexible. • Regularly scheduled and part-time help to care for the horses and fill in, in case of last-minute emergencies. • Barn manager, volunteer coordinator, director of development (fundraising), maintenance coordinator and board members. Donation requests: • Monetary donations to purchase hay for the 36 rescue horses. • Gift cards to Southern States for elderly horses with special dietary requirements. Contact Melanie Biemiller at 410-294-1521 or MDHorseRescue@gmail.com. Website: MDHorseRescue.net
Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland Enables people to live independently at home through the provision of nutritious meals, personal contact and related services. Volunteer requests: • Grocery shoppers: Volunteers shop for a homebound individual in their area. Once the volunteer is matched, they work closely with their client to schedule shopping, prepare grocery lists and help put groceries away. One-year time commitment. • Kibble Connection: Volunteers pick up pet food from the MDSPCA four times a year and deliver to 4-5 homebound individuals with cats and dogs. One-year time commitment. • Phone Pals: Volunteers make contact with isolated individuals by phone once a week. Calls typically last about 30 minutes and can be made from the volunteer’s home or office. Six-month time commitment. • Friendly Companion Program: Volunteers help homebound individuals stay connected with the outside world with social visits and weekly phone calls. The visiting schedule is arranged between the volunteer and the individual and lasts approximately 1-2 hours. One-year time commitment. • For more information, please contact Katia Jones 443-573-0933 or jones@mowcm.org. Contact Emily Trotter at 410-558-0827 or volunteer@MOWCM.org. Website: mealsonwheelsmd.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Metropolitan Washington Ear Provides free multimedia services to bring blind, visually impaired and other print-disabled people into the mainstream, rather than segregating them from society. We serve all of D.C., Maryland and Virginia. The Ear’s services are available throughout the metropolitan area 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Volunteer requests: • Readers to read The Washington Post, USA Today, Time and Washingtonian magazines and other current local and national publications daily. In addition, volunteers read grocery and shopping ads, magazines, TV listings, and audio-described theater listings. The Washington Ear studios are located in northern Silver Spring. Volunteers are asked to give two hours a week. A short audition is required of all applicants. Donation requests: • Monetary donations are welcomed on an ongoing basis to help support our free services to the blind, visually impaired, and other print-disabled people in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Contact Rene Schecker at 301-681-6636 or volunteermanager@WashEar.org. Website: WashEar.org
Mid-Atlantic Chinese Shar Pei Rescue Operation, Inc. Rescues, rehabilitates and facilitates the adoption of Chinese Shar-Pei. Our purpose is to find as many qualified homes for abused, given-up, neglected and abandoned Shar-Pei where they can become a loving member of the household. Volunteer requests: • Transportation of dogs from various shelters, to/from vet appointments and adoption events. • Foster homes for rescue dogs. • Dog walkers/handlers. Contact Betty Trojan at 240-683-1319 or peirescue@MACSPRO.org. Website: MACSPRO.org
Moveable Feast Fosters a community that cares for people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses by preparing and delivering nutritious meals and groceries and providing nutritional counseling and other services at no cost. Volunteer requests: Holiday: • Delivery drivers Thanksgiving and Christmas mornings between 9-10am. Assigned three-to-six clients for delivery of meals and/or toys for the family. • Meal preparers to help prepare and package client meals. Monday-Friday from 8-11am or 9am-noon; Saturday-Sunday from 9am-1pm. Ongoing: • Kitchen assistants to prepare and package client meals and contracted service meals: Monday-Friday from 8-11am or 9am-noon; Thursday from 5:30-8pm; Saturday-Sunday from 9am-1pm. • For groups up to 15: Monday-Friday from 9am-noon or noon-3pm; Thursday from 5:30-8pm; Saturday-Sunday from 9am-1pm. Donation requests: • Holiday wrapping paper, scotch tape and toys for newborn-18. Contact Angie Elliott at 410-327-3240 or AElliott@MFeast.org. Website: MFeast.org
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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NAMI Howard County Improves the lives of individuals with mental illness and their families through education, advocacy and support, and increases awareness of mental illness throughout the community. Volunteer requests: • IT help with the office database and listserv. • Speakers to share their personal experiences about living with mental illness. Donation requests: • Monetary donations are needed to support programs and services that we provide to the community at no cost. Contact Beverley Francis-Gibson at 410-772-9300 or bfgibson.namihc@gmail.com. Website: NAMIHowardCounty.org
Neighbor Ride
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Enhances the health and quality of life for Howard County’s seniors by providing affordable, volunteer-based supplemental transportation. Volunteer requests: • Drivers needed to provide a couple of quick trips a month for local seniors — giving them the lift they need to stay healthy, active, and independent. Rides for medical appointments, shopping, social outings, faith services, volunteer activities, and other day-to-day needs are requested. Incredibly flexible and rewarding daytime, evening and weekend opportunities are available. Volunteer drivers simply choose to provide the rides that fit their schedules and are convenient to their homes, offices, and daily routines. Parents are welcome to bring their children along when volunteering for a fantastic family service experience. • Volunteer orientations are held in the Neighbor Ride office on Tuesdays at 9:30am and one evening a month. Orientations for groups of five or more can be arranged. Contact: Patrice Cerwonka and Holly Waddell at 410-884-7433 or volunteer@NeighborRide.org. Website: NeighborRide.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Paws4Comfort Fosters bonds between pet owners, animals, and the county residents they visit. This initiative of the Office on Aging and Independence serves residents in nursing homes, adult day care and assisted living facilities, as well as emotionally and mentally challenged youths and adults. Donation requests: • New gifts for residents of Lorien Nursing Home, including socks, shawls, scarves, puzzle books, calendars, small stuffed animals and jigsaw puzzles. • Unwrapped items may be dropped off at the Bain Center (5470 Ruth Keeton Way) or at the Howard County Government Gateway Building (6751 Columbia Gateway Drive) in the “LORIEN” box no later than Friday, Dec. 8, 2017. Contact Ingrid Gleysteen at 410-313-7461 or igleysteen@HowardCountyMd.gov. Website: HowardCountyMd.gov/ooahealthandwellness
Pets on Wheels Brings therapy animals to facilities across Maryland for friendly visits. Each year, more than 175,000 people enjoy our volunteer teams’ visits at nearly 400 facilities and special events, including hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices and disaster areas. Volunteer requests: • Year-round friendly therapy pet visits. Must be certified. • Year-round work by our Volunteers Without Pets to help with database needs, office support, event staffing and more. Donation requests: • Monetary donations are needed to fulfill our mission since we never charge the facilities for our teams’ visits. Contact Gina Kazimir at 443-977-9726 or info@PetsOnWheels.org. Website: PetsOnWheels.org Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Project Linus
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Provides love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children (from preemies to age 18) who are seriously ill, injured, traumatized or otherwise in need, through the gifts of new handmade blankets or afghans lovingly created by our volunteer “blanketeers.” Volunteer requests: • Blanketeers to make blankets. • Label sewers to sew Project Linus labels onto donated blankets. • Delivery person to deliver donated blankets to one site in Baltimore. Donation requests: • New handmade blankets. • Monetary contributions. • Gift cards to Costco, Jo-Ann Fabric, Staples, Walmart, etc. • Yarn (no wool or wool blend) in worsted weight. • Fabric, especially fleece in child-friendly colors and patterns. Contact Joyce Hoelzer at 410-418-4994 or jrhhoelzer@gmail.com. Website: ProjectLinus.org
S.A.F.E. Food Pantry Supplying Allergy Friendly and Emergency Food Pantry Provides gluten-free and allergy friendly food to those in need. Volunteer requests: • Board members, advisory council members, content curator, bloggers, and workplace and community food drive coordinators. • Middle and high schoolers to conduct Youth Fighting Hunger food drive in the community. Service hours available. • Skills-based volunteer projects that enhance this organization. Donation requests: • Monetary donations to support our dedicated gluten-free and allergy friendly food shelves at the Howard County Food Bank. • Gift cards to grocery stores and health-food stores in order to help people in-need obtain gluten-free and allergy friendly food. • Gluten free and allergy friendly food donations can be dropped off at One Dish Cuisine, 8001 Hillsborough Road, Ellicott City. Contact Tiffany Holtzman at 443-741-1060 or Info@SafeFoodPantry.org. Website: SafeFoodPantry.org Special Olympics Howard County Helps Special Olympics athletes into the larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted, respected and given the chance to become useful and productive citizens. Volunteer requests: • Volunteers are needed year-round to assist Special Olympics athletes at sports practices. Practices are held evenings and weekends at schools and recreation and parks facilities in Howard County. Contact Janet Larrimore at 410-740-0500 or info@somdhc.org. Website: somdhc.org
Success in Style Provides business attire free of charge to disadvantaged men and women seeking employment. We operate four upscale resale boutiques in Historic Savage Mill to support this mission. Volunteer requests: • Friendly, upbeat, energetic people to help process donations and work in our retail boutiques. Please fill out our volunteer application on our website. Once received, you will be contacted. • We also welcome groups of up to 10 to help with various processing tasks. Email volunteer@successinstyle.org for info.
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Donation requests: • Clothing and accessories for men and women. Business and casual attire, formal wear, high-end fashions, shoes, boots, jewelry, etc., as well as bridal gowns (no older than 10 years please) and veils. Clothing should be folded and placed in bags, not boxes. No hangers, please. Contact our volunteer coordinator at 301-498-5035 or volunteer@SuccessInStyle.org. Website: SuccessinStyle.org
Voices for Children: Howard County’s Court-Appointed Special Advocate Program Advocates for and supports abused and neglected children (birth to 21 years) in the court system and ensures their right to safe, stable permanent homes. Volunteer requests: • Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) training available. Apply online. Donation requests: • Small denomination gift cards to Panera Bread, Target, Walmart, etc. Contact Erica Byrne at 410-740-0933 or ebyrne@VoicesForChildren.org. Website: VoicesForChildren.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Winter Growth Provides community-based services, including adult medical day care and assisted living, for seniors and disabled adults to support them in achieving their highest potential for independence, dignity and life satisfaction. Volunteer requests: Holiday: • Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23), meal helpers from noon–2pm. • Decorators, one day between Nov. 28 and Dec. 1. • Visitors the week of Dec. 26 between the hours of 10am-3pm. Ongoing: • Heart to Heart Volunteers: Enjoy an hour or two of laughter and high energy with our more active residents; or, if you prefer, make quiet connections with seniors struggling with physical or cognitive challenges. Make a difference by lending a hand with lunch, playing board games, participating in arts and crafts activities, chatting with residents, teaching basic computer skills or leading small group learning encounters. Bring your ideas and talents to share; we love trying new things. Winter Growth has a special one-hour orientation program to get you started. • One-on-one computer assistance for day program participants and residents. • Playing an instrument or singing with our day program participants. • Visiting with participants or doing room visits with residents. • Assisting with arts and crafts projects with day program participants. • Weekend visitors to play cards, board games or chat with residents. Donation requests: • Small holiday gifts for men and women. • Depends (adult pull-ups). • Personal care items (toothbrushes, toothpaste, unscented lotions, razors, shaving cream and body wash). • Gift cards to Costco, Dollar Tree, Giant, Safeway, Target or Walmart for program supplies. • Twin sheets, comforters and bed pillows. • Bath towels. • Laptop. • Tablets for program activities. Contact Vivian Golden at 410-964-9616 or Vivian.Golden@WinterGrowthInc.org. Website: WinterGrowthInc.org * Agency can identify families in need of Thanksgiving/holiday food donations.
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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Addendum Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults Changes lives by creating a community of support for young adults, and their loved ones, as they fight cancer and embrace survivorship. Donation requests: • Holiday Gift Drive - We are in search of volunteers to adopt a family for our annual Holiday Gift Drive. The Ulman Cancer Fund will match volunteer groups with a cancer patient and their family in the Howard County and surrounding area. The volunteer group will receive a family profile outlining what each family member wants for the holidays. The group will be responsible for shopping, wrapping and delivering the gifts to the patient's home. Contact: Lauriann Parker at 410-964-0202x105 or lparker@ulmanfund.org Website: ulmanfund.org
Giving in times of disaster In order to provide the best assistance to survivors and impacted areas: 1. Do not self-deploy as a volunteer. Local resources to support you will be limited. 2. Follow instructions provided by local authorities — which may be ever-changing. 3. Send money, not material goods — every disaster, every survivor has unique needs. 4. Give locally — local nonprofits are more familiar with local needs and resources. 5. Volunteer locally to obtain training and prepare to serve. 6. Think long-term. Recovery continues long after the TV cameras and media leave. In order to learn more about giving wisely in times of disaster, visit nvoad.org. Visit VolunteerHoward.org to identify organizations that serve in times of crisis and volunteer.
Save the date January 15, 2018
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service For more information, visit VolunteerHoward.org/hocomlkserve.
For further information: Please contact the Volunteer Center Serving Howard County 6310 Hillside Court, Suite 100 • Columbia, MD 21046 410-715-3172 • phone 410-715-0845 • fax info@VolunteerHoward.org • email VolunteerHoward.org • website
Opportunities in the Guide to Giving are subject to change and managed by the posting partner organization. For current details and additional opportunities, visit VolunteerHoward.org.
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