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| Volunteer News |
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Volunteers needed for cleanup
CLEARWATER - Clearwater's Neighborhood Services Division and Keep Pinellas Beautiful Inc. are seeking volunteers to clean up the East Gateway area May 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cleanup will focus on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard between the split from Court Street and Five Points to the merge with Cleveland Street. Parking is available at the Dreyfus Law Firm, 1463 Gulf-to-Bay Blvd. Water, trash bags and litter grabbers will be provided. For more information, call Becky Melendez at 562-4585. |
Volunteers needed to assist with art exhibition
ST. PETERSBURG - Volunteers are needed to assist with the winter exhibition Vatican Splendors at Florida International Museum, 244 Second Ave. N. Vatican Splendors will present unique objects illustrating the Vatican's impact on history and culture through 2,000 years. The show will be on display through Sunday, May 11. Volunteers will greet visitors, take tickets and monitor the galleries during the show. Volunteers receive complimentary parking in St. Petersburg College parking garage and refreshment breaks. The volunteer shifts are three hours long. Call 341-7916. |
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Pinellas County Guardian ad Litem program training class
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Pinellas County Guardian ad Litem program is seeking volunteers for its next training class. The next class starts May 6 and will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. for five weeks at St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church in south St. Petersburg. As a Guardian ad Litem, volunteers speak up for abused, abandoned or neglected children and teens. The average time needed is four to six hours a month. As a child's advocate, a Guardian ad Litem visits the child every month, becomes familiar with the child's case and makes recommendations to the court to help ensure the child has a safe, caring and stable environment. Volunteers receive 30 hours of training to become a certified Guardian ad Litem. To volunteer and arrange to attend a 30-minute orientation, call 464-6528. For more information, a complete training schedule and an application visit www.guardianadlitem6.org.
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Volunteers needed for RCS Food Bank drive
CLEARWATER - RCS Food Bank requests volunteers May 10 to sort food during the Letter Carriers' Food Drive. An expected 100 tons of food should come in within six hours as truckloads of canned and boxed supplies come in from mail carriers. People or groups who would like to volunteer may call Mary Lou Miller, volunteer coordinator, at 443-4031, ext. 506. Refreshments will be provided for all volunteers. |
Salvation Army seeks supplies
ST. PETERSBURG - The Salvation Army emergency shelter in St. Petersburg needs blankets, single flat and fitted sheets, wash cloths, baby diapers and baby wipes. The shelter is helping families that are homeless or nearly homeless and are in need of assistance. Linens, unopened boxes or packages of disposable baby diapers and baby wipes may be dropped off at The Salvation Army Social Services office.
The shelter also is in need of food, toiletry items to provide to needy individuals and families. Items needed include: meats, mashed potatoes, salt, butter, sugar, tooth paste, disposable razors, soap, mouthwash, hand combs, shampoo, tissue packets, hand lotion, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Donations can be dropped off at the social services office located at 1400 Fourth St. S. in St. Petersburg between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Bulk donations of the above mentioned items may be picked up by The Salvation Army. To schedule a pick up or for more information, call 550-8080, ext. 332. |
Unused cell phones needed for seniors
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Inc. and its Senior Victim Advocate Program is collecting no-longer used cell phones. The cell phones will be distributed free as 911 emergency or safety phone to seniors who are at risk. Phones can be donated on weekdays at the Pinellas Park Senior Center, 7625 59th St., Pinellas Park; 4 Season's Estate clubhouse, 13225 101st St., Largo; Cingular Wireless Store, 25817 U.S. 19 N., Suite 940, Clearwater; Senior Resource & Referral Center, 1281 Court St., Clearwater; Rep. Leslie Water's office, 5611 Park St. N., Suite 101, St. Petersburg. For other collection areas, call Gay Wiechec, Area Agency on Aging, 570-9696, ext. 279. |
Free 911 phones offered for seniors
CLEARWATER - The Senior Safety Phone Project provides free 911 cell phones to seniors.
The Area Agency on Aging's Senior Victim Advocate Program and Clearwater's Office on Aging operates the project. The phones will be distributed from 9 a.m. to noon at various locations. They are:
- Ross Norton Recreation Complex, 1426 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.
- Clearwater Main Library, 100 N. Osceola Ave.
- The Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road
- Countryside Library, 2471 State Road 580.
To find out more about the rotating schedule, call Kerry Marsalek at 562-4830. |
Cars help club in a big way
PINELLAS COUNTY - Boys and Girls Clubs in Florida are running car campaigns to help support its programs. To donate an automobile, call (800) 246-0493. Some restrictions apply. |
Suncoast Center needs baby items
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Suncoast Center for Community Mental Health Inc., a nonprofit organization, is seeking donations of baby items in good condition. Items needed include cribs, changing tables, playpens, highchairs and infant car seats. Call 327-7656, ext. 238. |
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| Volunteer Opportunities |
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2-1-1 Tampa Bay
PINELLAS COUNTY - Resource volunteers are needed to commit to volunteering two hours a week assisting 2-1-1 Tampa Bay staff stay connected with more than 1,400 health and human service agencies and programs. Once trained, volunteers will assist staff in the 2-1-1 resource department by scanning local newspapers and other media outlets for new agency and program information; adding and updating agency program information in the 2-1-1 database; creating specialized guides for the community in response to special needs such as disaster guides, parent resource guides, and more; and assist in marketing efforts to the community about 2-1-1 services. Call 562-1531 or e-mail micki@211tampabay.org. |
4-H
LARGO - Adult volunteers are needed to serve Pinellas County youth, ages 8 to 12, involved in 4-H Afterschool at Extension. The program involves giving one hour a week to lead the kids through fun learning experiences. Training, material and support are provided. Days, times and locations are tailored to each volunteer's needs. A background check is required and training will be offered in August and September. Extension is at 12175 125th St. N. Call Karen Saley at 582-2411. |
Adopt-a-Grandchild program
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Adopt-a-Grandchild program is in need of mature volunteers to spend time with children who need extra adult support. Many of these children are from poor, single-parent households or have been placed with a relative due to abuse or neglect. Volunteers spend two to four hours a week with one child enjoying simple activities such as reading, fishing, baking or visiting the park. Training and support are provided. Make a difference in the life of a child. Call Beverly at 538-7460, ext. 3192.
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American Cancer Society
PINELLAS COUNTY - The American Cancer Society is in need of volunteers to drive patients to and from their cancer treatments. The society has a special program called "Road to Recovery." Volunteers also call and make appointments with those who drive the patients for their scheduled appointments. Countywide only 18 dedicated volunteers give of their time to drive these patients. Many more volunteers are needed to take clients to get their radiation or chemotherapy. The lack of having drivers is a very serious problem for thousands of cancer patients. It is not just a once a week trip, but some patients must go daily, over a several-month period. These patients are usually unable to drive because they are ill or have no car. The American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery program provides free transportation to and from their life-saving treatments. Volunteer drivers give their time and the use of their own cars to transport these patients. Requirements to be a driver are a valid driver?s license and a car in good condition. Mileage reimbursement is also available for volunteer drivers. Call Allison Young, the American Cancer Society Pinellas Unit, at 812-7006. Training, maps and directions are provided. |
American Red Cross Disaster Action Teams
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross needs volunteers to serve on Disaster Action Teams, that provide relief to victims of fires, floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters in the Tampa Bay area. Specialized training in preparedness and response will be provided at no cost to volunteers. Volunteers also are needed to work in shelters to provide relief to victims of hurricanes, fires, floods and other natural disasters Specialized training in shelter management, CPR and First Aid is provided at no cost to volunteers. Active or retired nurses with RN or LPN licenses also are needed to serve as volunteers. For details about becoming a Red Cross nurse volunteer, contact Kipp Holloway at 813-348-4820, ext. 893, or by e-mail to: Holloway@tampabay.redcross.org. More information about volunteering for the Red Cross Tampa Bay Chapter is available by visiting the Red Cross website, www.redcrosstbc.org or call Judi Knight at (813) 348-4820, ext. 874. |
American Red Cross Transportation Program
CLEARWATER - The American Red Cross Tampa Bay Chapter needs volunteer drivers and dispatchers to operate its Transportation Program in Clearwater. Drivers and dispatchers are needed to fill assignments from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Red Cross Clearwater Branch, 2481 Sunset Point Road. The Red Cross community service provides free transportation to those who have no other means of getting to critical medical and dental appointments, rehabilitation or therapy sessions. Volunteers must be dependable, in good health, able to devote at least five hours (one day) per week to driving or dispatching, have a good driving record, be familiar with area street systems, have an eye for detail, be willing to undergo a background check and possess a strong sense of caring and helpfulness for the clients who use the service. Dispatchers assist in scheduling and coordinating daily program operations, driver assignments, dealing with client pick-up and drop-off schedules. Prospective volunteer drivers and dispatchers undergo one to two weeks of training, which includes an orientation to the Red Cross and office computer systems, 'ride-alongs' with current drivers and participation in Red Cross CPR and First Aid courses. For information, call the office of volunteers at (727) 446-2358, or send an e-mail to moran@tampabay.redcross.org. |
Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Inc.
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Inc. is seeking volunteers to provide assistance for elders on Medicare and health insurance issues. Through its Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders program, 400 volunteers statewide provide services to elders, their families and caregivers. Volunteers should have an interest in working with the senior population, competent computer skills and the ability to use the Internet. For more information, visit www.agingcarefl.org/about/volunteer. |
Bay Pines VA Medical Center
BAY PINES - Bay Pines Veterans Administration Medical Center has a need for volunteers to provide companionship to disabled veterans at their homes for two to four hours, one day a week. The volunteers will receive training in a new program called “Volunteer Home Respite.” The purpose is to provide companionship to homebound veterans for brief periods so that their spouses or primary care givers may take a break during the week. Call 398-9531. |
Beach monitors
GULF BEACHES - Dr. Stephen Leatherman, a.k.a. Dr. Beach, is seeking "beach monitors" to keep watch on the coastline. Dr. Beach needs volunteers to measure beach erosion, test for red tide and rip currents. Volunteers will get training and equipment and will be asked to volunteer 10 to 15 minutes twice a week. The project is run by the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University. Call Patricia Houle at 305-348-6304 or patricia.houle@fiu.edu.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters
PINELLAS COUNTY - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County is seeking volunteers to become friends and mentors to children in their site-based mentoring programs. Children are individually matched with a quality adult volunteer to provide them with a positive and caring friendship. Often from single-parent households, Little Brothers and Little Sisters benefit from the consistency and friendship of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters. One hour a week can make a difference in the life of a child. Partnered with local elementary schools and recreation centers, matches meet either during the school day or in conjunction with the aftercare program at the child's school or site. The focus is on schoolwork, having fun and making a difference. "These volunteers will broaden our reach and allow us to provide more children with needed one-to-one mentoring relationships," said Jean Kingsbury, VP of Programs. Call Shirley at 518-8860 or e-mail shirley@bbbspc.org. |
Brooker Creek Preserve
TARPON SPRINGS - Be a part of history by volunteering at Pinellas County’s newest preserve. Volunteers are needed to fill positions at the Brooker Creek Preserve’s Environmental Education Center. Volunteer opportunities include being a Education Center receptionist, roaming naturalist, exhibit or theater assistant and more, to name a few. Interested persons should enjoy working with students and the general public. Prior education is not required but applicants should have an interest in nature or environmental history. On-site training is provided. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center is open Wednesday through Sunday. It is at 3940 Keystone Road. Call Tim Closterman, volunteer service manager, at 464-3945 or visit www.pinellascounty.org. |
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CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse)
ST. PETERSBURG - Advocates are needed for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Volunteers (age 16 and up) are needed to help in the CASA Collection Thrift Shoppe to accept donations, greet customers, price and display merchandise. Volunteers are asked to commit to one four hour shift a week (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Please visit the Thrift Shoppe at 1011 First Ave. N. to fill out an application Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 895-4912, ext. 107 or send an e-mail to info@casa-stpete.org.
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Center for Victim's Rights
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Center for Victim’s Rights is in need of volunteers to make calls or send e-mails to let residents know that a speaker is available to them and to organize the accumulated articles, literature and other operating materials. Computer knowledge is helpful but not a must. Volunteer time can be done from home. Other needs include financial contributions, small desk, chair, file cabinets, any office supplies, business cards, a place to make free copies and businesses that will allow us to leave information for their patrons. Help with computer use would also be helpful. Call Cynthia in Lecanto at (352) 628-6481 and leave a contact number or e-mail Advocate4Victims@aol.com. Contributions can be mailed to The Center For Victim’s Rights, P.O. Box 531915, St. Petersburg, FL 33747. |
Children’s Home Society of Florida
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Children’s Home Society of Florida has started a Model Mentoring Program, designed to provide mentors for youth, ages 4 to 15, who have an incarcerated parent. Mentors are needed in the Tampa Bay area where more than 11,000 children have an incarcerated parent. The mentoring services will be provided in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk counties. Mentors must be 21 years of age or older, reside in the same county as the youth, complete eight hours of training a year and commit to an hour meeting weekly for one year. Activities should take place in the local community and can consist of taking a walk at the park, going to a movie, assisting with homework, going to the library and most of all having fun. Children who receive services from mentoring programs show improvements in school, social behaviors and are less likely to use drugs and alcohol. Call Children’s Home Society at 552-1482, ext. 235, or e-mail Camilla.Hughes@chsfl.org. |
Clearwater Main Library Friends
CLEARWATER - Volunteers are needed to work certain days and hours at the Friends Book & Gift Store at the Clearwater Main Library. This is a good opportunity for people who like people and books. A short training session is required. The Friends Book & Gift Store is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday thru Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. To volunteer, Call Rosalie Murray at 531-0667. Donations of paperback books, in good condition, for resale in the store also are needed. Bring donations to the main library or call Judy Bazata at 461-6272 to schedule a pick up. |
Clearwater Parks and Recreation
CLEARWATER - Clearwater Parks and Recreation is looking for volunteers to help with, among other things, its tutoring programs in the recreation centers, the nature park, special events and festivals, community beautification projects and an adopt-a-park program. The city has about 125 individual volunteers and 75 groups that work in various areas. They also work with local Boy Scouts on their Eagle Scout projects. Call Karen Maldonado at 562-4803. |
Clothes To Kids
DUNEDIN - The Clothes To Kids organization is seeking volunteers for its committees. Members meet monthly and distribute information regarding clothing drives, clothesline projects, volunteer opportunities and other needs in the community. Call 441-5050. |
Faith in Action of Upper Pinellas
DUNEDIN - Faith in Action of Upper Pinellas needs volunteers willing to serve as members of its board of directors or on one of its committees - personnel and planning; budget and finance; volunteer training; public relations; grant writing; fundraising; and outreach. Faith Action is a not-for-profit, non-sectarian organization that exists through the efforts of volunteers to enhance the quality of life and promote the health and well-being of the frail elderly and persons with disabilities to enable them to remain independent in their own homes. To volunteer, call 738-4307, stop by the office inside the First Presbyterian Church at 455 Scotland St. or visit www.fiaup.org.
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Florida Botanical Gardens
LARGO - Volunteers who like flowers and garden-related products, are needed for Botanical Bounty, the gift shop at The Florida Botanical Gardens. The shop is at 12175 125th St. N. Call Barbara Goss at 442-0537. |
Florida Department of Elder Affairs
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Florida Department Of Elder affairs needs volunteers with computers to help lower income people obtain free or almost free prescription drugs. Full training is provided as well as reimbursement for mileage and incidental expenses. Call the Area Agency on Ageing at 570-9696, ext. 237.
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Friends of Fort DeSoto
ST. PETERSBURG - The Friends of Fort DeSoto is a nonprofit organization whose mission is, "Supporting the Preservation, Conservation and Promotion of Ft. DeSoto County Park". The volunteer group consists of approximately 70 to 100 citizens from the United States and Canada who perform services such as:
- Organize and fund various environmental projects such as, sea oats plantings, park clean-ups, building oyster bars and clearing thousands of nuisance plants, etc.
- Conduct nature walks and tours of the fort for the public and community groups
- Act as a Political Action Committee for government initiatives and legislation that, either directly or indirectly, affect Ft. DeSoto County Park
- Secure grants and raising money for projects, such as the Barrier-Free Nature Trail and the Quartermaster's Storehouse Museum
- Support community activities, such as history re-enactment groups, local sporting events and other initiatives that require volunteers
Volunteer time, hard work and dedication are an important element in the park's success. Due in part to the efforts of the Friends, working with the park staff, Fort DeSoto is one of the most visited parks in the U.S.
The park's annual attendance averages more than 2.7 million visitors.
Additionally, the park's North Beach was named America's top beach for 2005 by Dr. Stephen Leatherman, known best as "Dr. Beach".
The Friends of Fort DeSoto needs more friends and is seeking active members. For those who frequent the park, consider giving back to it. Tierra Verde residents might consider lending a hand. Contact Friends of Fort DeSoto, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715 or call 582-2267. |
Guardian ad Litem Program
PINELLAS COUNTY - Volunteers are sought for the Sixth Judicial Circuit's Guardian ad Litem Program that provides advocates for county children caught between an overburdened welfare system and an abusive or otherwise dysfunctional home. GAL volunteers provide a voice for these children and speak out in court on what is in the best interest of a child who has been a victim of abuse, neglect or abandonment. As trained advocates, GAL volunteers are appointed by judges to be the courtroom voice for these children. It is the Guardian ad Litem vision to provide a volunteer for each and every abused child who needs one. Unfortunately, today's world creates an unending need for GAL volunteers, who receive free training and certification on how to be a powerful influence in a young person's life. The Criminal Justice Center is at 14250 49th St. N. Call 453-3160 or visit www.gal.fl.gov. |
Gulf Coast Community Care
PINELLAS COUNTY - Gulf Coast Community Care needs volunteers age 30 and older for its mentoring program. Volunteers are matched with children from single parent homes who need adult companionship. Many of the children are in foster care or live with a single mother who is going to school and working. There is a special need for volunteers for children ages 10 to 14. Volunteers spend a few hours a week in simple activities such as reading, fishing, baking, teaching a craft or visiting a park with a child. They give the gift of time to one child and are provided social events and support by agency staff. No experience is necessary. There are no costs. There are 60 children throughout Pinellas waiting for mentors. Laugh with a child. Call Beverly at 479-1841 or Bonnie at 479-1825. |
Gulf Coast Museum of Art
LARGO - The Friends of the Gulf Coast Museum of Art, the volunteer arm of the Museum membership, has a number of opportunities for those interested in promoting the welfare of the museum by encouraging membership involvement, providing needed volunteer service and aiding and supporting the exhibition and educational programs of the museum. The variety of interesting responsibilities for volunteers includes: the docent program, gallery greeters and monitors, museum store clerks, library, education department, reception and administrative support, special events, and marketing ambassadors. The GCMA, located in Pinewood Cultural Park, features permanent and changing exhibitions of contemporary art created by Florida artists from 1960 forward and fine contemporary craft media objects from the Southeastern U.S. Educational programs that supplement the exhibitions include lectures, films, festivals, tours, interactive events, a partnership with St. Petersburg College to offer noncredit classes and workshops for children and adults in ceramics, metalsmithing, painting, sculpture, photography and drawing. The museum is at 12211 Walsingham Road. Call 518-6833, ext. 206 or visit www.gulfcoastmuseum.org. |
Haven of RCS
CLEARWATER - The Haven of RCS is in need of volunteers to assist in various areas of their organization. People who are bi-lingual/Spanish are especially needed. There are many varied opportunities for volunteers, including legal support. Dedicated to the prevention of domestic violence, the group requires its volunteers to attend training three hours for four evenings. Classes take place quarterly. No experience is required. Contact coordinator Barbara Stephensen at 442-4128, or e-mail Stephensen@havenrcs.org.
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Help a Child
PINELLAS COUNTY - Help a Child Inc. is seeking parent aide volunteers. While providing friendship and emotional support, the volunteers will share life skills with parents facing the unique challenges of raising children in today’s society. Volunteers should be able to share information on discipline techniques, being consistent, stress reduction, nutrition, budgeting, how to access community resources and more. Volunteers also will help parents understand what their children can do for their age. Contact Kathy Mize, program coordinator, at 544-3900, ext. 168, or visit www.HelpAChild.org.
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Hi-Five Pinellas
PINELLAS COUNTY - Be a hero - become a mentor. Hi-Five Pinellas, an Eckerd Youth Alternatives program, is seeking those with a warm and friendly heart to become a friend to a fourth or fifth grader. A child is waiting to share new experiences, set new goals and dream new dreams with a special person. Call Carolyn Gallagher at 461-1236, ext. 366. Hi-Five Pinellas is funded by the Juvenile Welfare Board.
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Humane Society of Pinellas
CLEARWATER - The Humane Society of Pinellas is seeking weekday and weekend volunteers and help for the canine enrichment KONG Team. Opportunities vary from direct animal interaction using the acclaimed Open Paw method, administrative assistance, adoption counselors, event and fundraising, humane education amongst others. Animal lovers will enjoy an opportunity to join the first shelter in the Southeast to implement Open Paw while playing an important role in saving homeless pets. For more information, visit the Web site www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org or call Bobbie at 727-797-7722, ext. 237. |
Junior Achievement of West Central Florida
PINELLAS COUNTY - Junior Achievement of West Central Florida Inc. is seeking volunteers. JA offers programs from kindergarten through 12th grade and orients volunteers on how to use the program materials and work with students. JA volunteers serve to teach young people about business, economics and the free enterprise system. Time commitment varies from a single half-day session to weekly one hour visits for five to 10 weeks. To volunteer for JA, call 530-0884, ext. 34, or visit www.jawcf.org. |
Kiwanis Club of Seminole Breakfast
SEMINOLE - The Kiwanis Club of Seminole Breakfast is seeking volunteers to be part of its preschool reading program.
Participants will read to children to help instill appreciation of books and learning. All age groups are encouraged to be a part of this endeavor. For details, call Lee Walters at 319-8343. |
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Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is a volunteer program administered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. This program advocates for those living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities by investigating complaints concerning their safety and welfare. It also conducts annual assessments to ensure facilities are properly licensed and in compliance with state laws. Anyone may apply to volunteer. The program needs expertise of experienced dietitians, pharmacists, elder law attorneys, social workers, teachers, nurses, physicians, speakers, governmental employees, administrators, veterans, accountants, etc,. Retired individuals and spousal duos of all professional and cultural backgrounds are a plus. Mileage and meals reimbursements are provided at the state rate for all official ombudsman duties. Call 1-888-831-0404 or visit ltcop.myflorida.com/info.jsp to apply.
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Morton Plant Mease Health Care
CLEARWATER - Morton Plant Mease Health Care provides opportunities for members of the community to make a difference. Volunteers at Mease Countryside Hospital, Mease Dunedin Hospital, Morton Plant Hospital, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, Bardmoor Outpatient and Surgery Center, Trinity Outpatient and Surgery Center and Turley Family Health Center enrich the lives of patients and families by generously donating time and services.
Volunteers are needed to support the CareVan, CareLift and HealthRide programs of Morton Plant Mease Health Care in Pinellas and Pasco counties. These programs provide patients and family members with free van transportation services to and from Morton Plant, Mease Countryside, Mease Dunedin and Morton Plant North Bay hospitals.
Volunteers also are needed to assist at each of the four Morton Plant Mease hospital gift shops. Gift shop hours and days of operation vary. Call volunteer services at 734-6262. |
Neighborly Care Network
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Neighborly Care Network provides life-sustaining services to county seniors in need. The network's services include meals-on-wheels, home and day care and transportation assistance. There are volunteer opportunities for all age groups. Volunteering for the Neighborly Meals on Wheels program is a hands-on, front-line experience. People with one to two hours to spare around midday are needed to help in their neighborhood. Volunteers help improve the life of others and make a real difference in this critical area of need. Many Pinellas County seniors are living alone, too poor to buy food or too frail to shop and cook for themselves. And the need is growing every day. Volunteers will to help can make an extraordinary difference even if they drive only one day a week. Call Pat Hofstadter at 573-9444, ext. 291. |
Ombudsman Advocacy Councils
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, a division of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, is a statewide volunteer program advocating for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Seventeen volunteer councils serve long-term care residents in Florida. The four councils serving the immediate Tampa Bay area currently need more volunteers in Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough, Polk, Hardee, Highland, and Manatee counties. Training is provided to investigate complaints and conduct inspections of facilities. Ombudsmen are selected after being interviewed and approved by local councils. The governor’s office must also approve each applicant. Anyone can apply to become an ombudsman, but some councils also need specialized volunteers who are pharmacists, elder law attorneys, registered dietitians, social workers, nurses and physicians. The program seeks individuals of all cultural backgrounds; fluency in multiple languages is a plus. Ombudsmen and their immediate family members are required to be free from conflict of interest (must not be affiliated with long-term care facilities). Mileage and travel expenses are reimbursed at the state rate for persons selected as ombudsmen. Call (888) 831-0404. |
Palms of Pasadena
ST. PETERSBURG - Palms of Pasadena Hospital is offering volunteers something fun and rewarding to do with spare time, new skills and an opportunity to develop new interests and make new friends. The rewards and benefits of volunteering at Palms range from greeting and providing information to patients and their families at the information desk, radiation oncology, new emergency room, new surgical waiting area, outpatient diagnostic center, health information services, admitting as well as other office positions, and of course, helping out on the inpatient floors by delivering magazines, newspapers, blankets, refreshing water pitchers and generally assisting the nurses in helping make a hospital stay more comfortable. The hospital is at 1501 South Pasadena Ave. Call Jean Mullen or Gladys Spaulding at 341-7840, or go to the information desk in the hospital's main lobby for an application. |
Parent Aide Program
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Parent Aide Program is asking for help from volunteers to share wisdom and life skills with a parent and volunteer as a visiting role model to give the gift of friendship, encouragement and emotional support as a parent faces the unique challenges raising young children in today's society.
- Help a parent understand what their children can realistically do for their age - help the parent begin to have fun with their child.
- Encourage parents to respect and focus on the good qualities in their child.
- Introduce information on discipline techniques such as being consistent and time-out.
- Introduce stress reduction techniques, information on better nutrition, budgeting methods, setting and attaining life-enhancing goals.
- Reassure parents as they learn to explore and access community resources.
Volunteers receive the added bonus of knowing they have made a difference in the life of a family - they have helped to improve the parent-to-child relationship and provided excellent tools for a family to continually succeed. Volunteers will have gifted a family, shared life skills and made a huge impact. Call Kathy Mize, coordinator for the Parent Aide Program, at 544-3900, ext. 168. |
Pet Pal Rescue
ST. PETERSBURG - Pet Pal Rescue, a no-kill animal shelter that recently opened in St. Petersburg, is seeking dedicated volunteers. Volunteer positions are available seven days a week, mornings and afternoons, to perform jobs that range from cleaning kennels and exercising dogs to answering phones. Volunteers meet monthly at the shelter on second Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. New volunteers are encouraged to attend. Interested pet lovers may pick up a volunteer application at the shelter office. The new 4,600-square-foot shelter is at 405 22nd St. S. Call the shelter at 328-7738 or visit www.petpalrescue.com. |
Pinellas Association for Retarded Children
ST. PETERSBURG - PARC is seeking volunteers for its thrift store. Volunteers are needed to greet customers, sort and stock merchandise and tag priced items. The 26,000-square-foot store offers quality merchandise at reasonable prices, including furniture, glassware, small appliances, clothing and books. The thrift store is open seven days a week. Flexible shifts are available. Since 1963, the PARC Thrift Store has supported the programs of PARC.
To volunteer, call Elliott Rakofsky at 341-6930 or e-mail erakofsky@parc-fl.org. PARC's Web site is www.parc-fl.org or call 345-9111. The store is at 5825 66th St. N. |
Pinellas County Volunteer Services
PINELLAS COUNTY - The county is in search of a few good volunteers. Volunteers do not replace employees; rather their efforts add support for county departments and expand services to the public. Volunteers are a variety of ages, come from diverse ethnic backgrounds and have a multitude of skills. And they all have one thing in common - they care about their community. Pinellas County's Volunteer Services Program has standard volunteer opportunities in all departments. Applications are available online at www.pinellascounty.org or call 464-3945. |
Pinellas County Animal Services
PINELLAS COUNTY - Pinellas County Animal Services is looking for volunteers. Most opportunities do not require special skill or training. The minimal age requirement is 18 years old. Call 582-2648.
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Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Sheriff’s Office Volunteers In Partnership (VIP) program is looking for interested citizens who would like to volunteer at the Sheriff’s Office. The VIP program is always looking for new volunteers. To qualify, citizens must fill out an application and agree to a background check and a polygraph, due to the sensitive nature of some of the materials they will handle. Call Gail Brnich at 582-6271.
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Pinellas Park Middle School
PINELLAS PARK - Volunteers are needed to provide a variety of help at Pinellas Park Middle School.
Opportunities to volunteer include:
Mentors - By serving as a role model, a mentor offers moral support and a sense of caring for struggling students. Mentors meet one hour a week with their students. A free two-hour training course is required.
Tutors - Work on an individual basis with a student or small group of students who need help in academics to reinforce basic skills. Math tutors are in demand but other subjects such as reading or geography need a boost, too.
Speakers - Volunteer to be a classroom speaker any time during the year.
Clerical and office support - The front office, grade offices and library could use help with filing, data entry, copying and answering phones.
Field trip chaperones - Teachers can always use extra hands for support on field trips during the year. Parents who drive on field trips need to fill out a field-trip vehicle information form before the trip.
Sports and club activities - The school has a variety of sports and clubs to offer students to round out their academic programs. Volunteers and sponsors are needed.
Partners in Education - Parents or the businesses they work with can adopt a class or the school to lend a hand with financial work, supplies and equipment.
Brochures are available at the school on opportunities for volunteers. Call Kimberly Paine at 545-6400. |
Pinellas Seabird Rehabilitation Center
TIERRA VERDE - “Save Our Seabirds,” the Pinellas Seabird Rehabilitation Center, needs committed volunteers to help at its facility. For more information, call 864-0679.
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Pinellas Talking Book Library
CLEARWATER - The Pinellas Talking Book Library needs volunteers to assist in providing library services to the blind, low vision, physically and reading-handicapped eligible Pinellas County patrons. The volunteers also send and receive audio cassettes, which we call "books" to and from patrons. Current volunteer opportunities including processing of incoming books, book inspections, and book shelving. Volunteer book inspectors must have the ability to open containers, compare book title and number, and rewind cassettes. Volunteer sorters of incoming books and book shelvers must have the ability to bend, stretch and reach. Training is provided for all volunteer positions. The Pinellas Talking Book Library is at 1330 Cleveland St. Library hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call Marilyn Stevenson at 441-9958 or e-mail mstevenson@pplc.us. |
Rape Crisis Program of Family Service Centers
CLEARWATER - The Rape Crisis Program of Family Service Centers needs volunteer rape crisis counselors. Volunteers are on call two shifts a month during nighttime, weekend and holiday hours to provide victims of sexual assault with crisis counseling and support. Commitment and follow-through are key requirements for this worthwhile activity. Family Service Centers provide training and pagers. Classes for new volunteers will be in November. For an application or more information, call Maria at 535-9811.
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Religious Community Services Food Pantry
CLEARWATER - Volunteers make up the backbone of the RCS Food Pantry. Doing everything from sorting food to interviewing clients more than 90 percent of the work is a volunteer effort. Anyone can lend a hand for an hour, a day or anytime during the year. The food bank is at 700 Druid Road. Call Bill at 443-4031. |
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is seeking seniors age 55 and older to make a difference. To be a volunteer in your community, call the main office at 327-8690, ext. 22, or the Clearwater office at 443-1916 or visit www.poc-inc.org.
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Safe Children Coalition
PINELLAS COUNTY - With more than 4,500 dependent children in Pinellas and Pasco counties due to child abuse, neglect or abandonment, foster homes are needed to meet the growing need in the community. Candidates must be at least 21 years old, have appropriate housing and must pass a background screening. Candidates also must complete a home study and 30 hours of special training. Candidates must have adequate space to be able to provide for a family. Financial assistance will be available but may not be used to pay unrelated bills. Foster parents may be single or married, have a family or be an empty-nester. To become a foster parent, call the Safe Children Coalition Recruitment Line at 1-866-271-661-5656. |
Safety Harbor Neighborhood Family Center
SAFETY HARBOR - The Safety Harbor Neighborhood Family Center has been serving residents of Safety Harbor since 1997. The center provides a variety of children and early childhood development programs. Although Center staff is partially funded by the Juvenile Welfare Board and the city of Safety Harbor, community need is now outpacing the capacity of the small Center staff. The Center is seeking a regular group of volunteers who enjoy working with elementary and middle school children. Volunteer opportunities are available in 2004 for a variety of events such as planning of activities, set-up and breakdown, drivers and chaperones for field trips and volunteers to assist with daily activities. Call the Safety Harbor Neighborhood Family Center at 791-8255. |
St. Petersburg Free Clinic
ST. PETERSBURG - The St. Petersburg Free Clinic is in urgent need of volunteers to help fill summertime gaps and to assist in the maintaining of current service levels and assistance efforts. Individuals are needed to serve as agency receptionists; to assist with client registration and intake; to perform data entry, record keeping and general clerical duties; to help with the pick-up, delivery and handling of large volumes of donated food; to assist with building maintenance and grounds-keeping; and to perform general property upkeep and repair tasks.Volunteer orientation sessions are conducted on second and third Tuesdays, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the clinic. The clinic is a nonprofit human services agency providing temporary assistance with food, clothing, shelter, basic medical care, limited financial assistance and information and referral services to those in need throughout the county. It relies primarily on volunteers to provide services. The clinic is at 863 Third Ave. N. Call Gregg Rose at 821-1200, ext. 118, e-mail greggspfc@yahoo.com or visit www.stpetersburgfreeclinic.org. |
St. Petersburg Police
ST. PETERSBURG - Applications are now being accepted to become a volunteer with the St. Petersburg Police, Volunteer Road Patrol and Parking Enforcement Specialist Unit. For an application appointment, call Fred Harriman at 893-7063. Visit www.stpete.org/police/volunteers-rp.htm. |
Science Center of Pinellas County
ST. PETERSBURG - The Science Center of Pinellas County is looking for volunteers to work in their gift store one day a week, 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Science Center is a unique learning environment for children and adults, offering hands-on education activities to promote an interest in and understanding of science. The center is at 7701 22nd Ave. N. Call Sue Allen at 384-0027.
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SCORE Chapter 115 of Pinellas County, an all volunteer organization giving free counseling to small businesses meets third Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. at Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce, 1130 Cleveland St., Clearwater. The chapter's focus is helping people develop and grow their business. If you are an experienced business person and would like to volunteer to advise and mentor small businesses call 727-532-6800 or send an e-mail to score115@ij.net.
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SPCA TAMPA BAY
LARGO - The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Tampa Bay needs volunteers to foster puppies and kittens. Pet foster parents care for the young ones in their own homes until they reach acceptable weight and age requirements for adoption. The SPCA provides food and supplies. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have adequate time and space to foster. The SPCA also is seeking outgoing individuals to assist in the planning and implementation of fundraising and community events. Call 586-3591, ext. 127. |
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Sojourn Bear, an all volunteer organization, distributes handmade teddy bears to cancer patients of all ages. Call 481-9782.
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Starkey Elementary School
SEMINOLE - Starkey Elementary School is in need reading tutors to give one-on-one attention to first and fourth grade students. Kindergarten volunteers also are needed. The requirements are versatility, flexibility, patience and a fondness for working with small children. The school is at 9300 86th Ave. N. Call Arlene Kline at 547-7841. |
Stop Pet Overpopulation Together (SPOT)
SAFETY HARBOR - SPOT, Stop Pet Overpopulation Together, an all volunteer, nonprofit organization, whose mission is dedicated to ending pet overpopulation by educating the public about the importance of spay/neuter and adoption has volunteer opportunities are available in a variety of areas. Call 789-2809.
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Suncoast Haven of Rest Rescue Mission
PINELLAS PARK - The Suncoast Haven of Rest Rescue Mission is seeking volunteers to help the city's homeless population. The mission, located at 5625 Park Blvd., needs someone to teach an evening or day anger management course. Help is needed in a variety of other areas besides instruction. The mission is in need of volunteers to help pack and distribute box lunches to various parts of the city. For more information, call the Rev. Lionel Cabral, the mission's executive director, at 545-8282. |
Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation
PINELLAS COUNTY - The Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation Inc. needs volunteers in all areas of the sanctuary to help with animal care, cleaning, office work, gardening work, maintenance on building and equipment, fundraising, animal food prep and staffing the guest relations table at the front gate. To volunteer, visit www.suncoastprimates.org, call 943-5897 or come to the volunteer meeting the second Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. The foundation is a 501(c)3 corporation run entirely by volunteers. |
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
INDIAN SHORES - With baby bird season fast approaching, the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is seeking bird lovers interested in volunteering. Individuals interested in feeding and caring for orphaned baby birds, rescuing injured seabirds and caring for all types of wild birds are needed. Experience is not necessary as the sanctuary will provide training. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. A commitment of a block of four hours each week is required. Day and evening shifts are available. The sanctuary is at 18328 Gulf Blvd. Call 391-6211 or visit www.seabirdsanctuary.org. |
Suncoast Search and Rescue
PINELLAS COUNTY - Suncoast Search and Rescue is in need of new volunteers. The not-for-profit organization provides manpower to municipalities throughout Pinellas County when mass disasters occur. They operate primarily as a mass triage team, providing on-site patient assessment and stabilization while awaiting transport to nearby hospitals. Additionally, Suncoast Search and Rescue provides assistance to the American Red Cross, American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and local Emergency Operation Centers with communications, search coordination, shelter operations and emergency medical assistance. Volunteers must be 21 years of age or older, pass a drug and physical exam, pass a homeland security background check and have a professional attitude. A medical background is not needed. Training will be provided. Call Major Shaw at 278-1160, Sgt. Tuttle at 688-7652 or by e-mail at flinst@aol.com.
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Sunken gardens
St. Petersburg - Sunken Gardens is currently accepting volunteer applicants to assist with gardening, greeting guests, bird care and conducting guided tours. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this historic botanical treasure, while learning about horticulture and the wonderful birds in our collection. Call Bill O'Grady at 727-551-3148. Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth Street North, St. Petersburg.
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Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber
GULF BEACHES - The Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce is in need of volunteers. Volunteers aid visitors to the area with directions, suggestions on where to stay, eat and play. Four-hour shifts are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1 to 5 p.m. Call 360-6957, ext. 24. |
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Tarpon Springs Historical Society
TARPON SPRINGS - The Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society is looking for additional volunteers to serve as docents and receptionists at its Historical Society Depot Museum in downtown Tarpon Springs. Docent and receptionists greet visitors, guide visitors through the Depot Museum, and answer questions about the Museum's activities and other activities in the community. Training is provided for all volunteers, and extensive information on the history of Tarpon Springs is available for docent and receptionists to consult. Docents and receptionists are asked to work at least once a week for 2 1/2 hours. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 943-4624 to volunteer or for additional information.
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The Hospice of Florida Suncoast
LARGO - There are numerous, wide-ranging volunteer opportunities with The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast for individuals interested in activities that truly make a difference in the lives of people with chronic illnesses and those nearing the end of life or addressing end-of-life issues. Volunteers involved in patient and family support become family friends to those served by The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast, assisting with a broad variety of needs that arise, such as visiting with patients and families, running errands, helping with light household chores and much more. In addition, The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast offers volunteer opportunities that serve patients and families behind the scenes. Call Kathy Roble, director of volunteer services at 586-4432 or visit www.thehospice.org. |
United Methodist Cooperative Ministries
CLEARWATER - United Methodist Cooperative Ministries needs people willing to help refugees and immigrants learn English. Volunteers would teach once or twice a week at one of three sites in Clearwater. A tutor training class will be offered at $35 or free to those who tutor. People previously trained to teach English need not attend. The workshops are Monday, April 4, 6 to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, April 9 and 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Union Street United Methodist Church, 1625 Union St. Call 442-6881. |
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
ST. PETERSBURG - The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary needs administrative and operational volunteers. The organization serves as a civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard, promoting safe boating in the classroom and on the water, assisting in search and rescue and monitoring safety and security zones. Flotilla 72 is at the U.S. Coast Guard base, 1300 Beach Drive S.E. Call 823-3753 or 895-8785. |
Veterans Liaison Council of Pinellas County Honor Guard
PINELLAS COUNTY - Volunteers are needed for the Veterans Liaison Council of Pinellas County Honor Guard. Male and female veterans are needed. Volunteers must be sufficiently physically fit to handle an M-1 or M-14 rifle, and march for short distances. For those without weapons experience, or who are just rusty, training is available. Currently conducting more than 100 funerals a year, the Honor Guard's primary purpose is to provide final honors for departed comrades. They also perform flag raising ceremonies and participate in other events. There is no cost to join the Honor Guard other than the cost of a uniform. The group meets first Sundays, 5:30 p.m., at Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home, 7950 131st St., Seminole. Call Ed Lillich at 546-2246 or e-mail elillich@aol.com; or call Herb Karkheck at 392-0392 or e-mail herbflight@tampabay.rr.com. |
YAR Community Grants Board
LARGO - Youth and adult volunteers are needed for the YAR Community Grants board of directors. The board meets once a month for approximately two hours. Board members are expected to be involved in financial development, community outreach, grant cycle management, support both the program in general as well as the youth led projects. Board members also assist with evening and weekend YAR functions. YAR serves youth up to age 18 who want to help an organization in the community. School or church groups, youth service clubs, and nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for the funds. To volunteer, call Mary Barnhart at 582-2103 or visit www.pinellasteeninfo.com. |
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Tampa Bay Newspapers
9911 Seminole Blvd.
Seminole, FL 33772
(727) 397-5563
Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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