CAPTION: Volunteers are needed for three events in Hutchinson to serve hot chocolate at the Zoo, distribute toys at the Salvation Army, or wrap gifts for TECH. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the Volunteer Center, and not the organizations. CREDIT THE VOLUNTEER CENTER
By Kate Irelan
The Volunteer Center through Hutchinson Community College is in its final push to find volunteers for holiday events before wrapping up for the year. Jenna Martin, assistant director of the Volunteer Center said that they’ve been able to fill the spots for their bigger volunteer needs, but there are still a few opportunities to help.
Martin said that volunteers are needed for three different events unless they get a last-minute request. Anyone interested in volunteering at these events should call the Volunteer Center at 620-665-4960 and not call the individual organizations.
The Hutchinson Zoo’s Nights Before Christmas needs help from volunteers to serve hot chocolate and cookies on December 21, 27 and 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Salvation Army Food Box and Toy Distribution needs volunteers to help distribute food boxes or toys on December 20 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
TECH Gift Wrapping needs volunteers to wrap gifts for TECH consumers on December 17 & 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
If a business or organization needs some volunteer help for the holidays, Martin says to turn in the requests now. “The Volunteer Center is closed when the college is closed, December 24 through January 2,” said Martin.
They do have some volunteer requests already for the new year in late January and early February.
One service the Volunteer Center provides is Friends in Action, where they match volunteers with seniors aged 65 and over to help them remain independent, improve their social and emotional well-being, and provide companionship. “These seniors will receive a Christmas letter from the Volunteer Center and a visit from their matched Friend in Action for Christmas, whether it is to have a cup of coffee or just visit,” said Martin.
Anyone interested in becoming a Friend in Action volunteer will need to contact the Volunteer Center, complete an orientation, and pass a background check.
