Where did such outrageous offers originate? It seems that fundraising just goes to incredible lengths at the turn of the year. Now, for some relief—the University Retirees Volunteer Center does not ask for your money, but instead seeks generous patrons who will contribute time. And if you want to double or triple your volunteer gift from 2016, that is simply up to you. Perhaps you can find a friend to volunteer with you—to “match or multiply” that wonderful gift.

Consider a 2017 New Year’s Resolution! Give a little of your valuable time for the good deed of volunteering for a project to help the less fortunate. Here are a few suggestions for your consideration, but if they don’t meet your concept for what you can best contribute, just check in with URVC at [email protected], where you can submit a Volunteer Profile. We will try our best to find an opportunity to match your valued services.

1) Become a “phone companion” for the many isolated seniors in our community with few or any family or friends. You can do this from your home phone. This is a project of Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly. (Contact URVC.)

2) Open Arms of Minnesota prepares meals in its “state-of-the-art” kitchen with volunteers and professional staff. Volunteers deliver the meals to clients. Whether you enjoy kitchen duties or driving a short route, your work is greatly needed. A typical shift is two hours. Contact URVC for additional information.

3) Be a Volunteer Leader for produce and grocery distribution at selected schools and other locations for families. This is a project of Second Harvest Heartland. (Contact URVC.)

4) “Friendly Visitors” are matched with senior citizens in West Metro to visit weekly, or receive training as a “Memory Companion” to visit those with mild to moderate memory loss (giving caregivers a break). These are rewarding opportunities for a caring volunteer. (Contact URVC.)

These are only a few of the many potential projects in which you can engage in the new year. These particular opportunities are chosen because they are purposely focused on meeting the needs of those in our community who are underserved. Contact URVC to see what fits for you.

Alan L. Kagan, Project Director,
University Retirees Volunteer Center
[email protected]