Check out a recent article written by Michael Holroyd, RSVP Manager at the Human Services Council, and published in the Columbian!

http://www.columbian.com/news/2011/dec/26/volunteering-benefits-emotional-health/

Volunteer Opportunities - Call 360-735-3683

Get BOLD Events is looking for volunteers to help with their January 8th Resolution Run in Battle Ground. Help with parking, at water stations and sideline cheering along the route, and at the personal belonging station.

 AARP Tax-Aide  needs qualified volunteers to assist low and moderate income, with special attention to those, age 60 and older with their tax preparation.

Council for the Homeless seeks Winter Hospitality Overflow volunteers at both St Paul and St. Andrew Lutheran Church. Volunteers will welcome and make conversation with shelter guests, prepare/serve snacks, prepare sleeping areas, organize laundry, conduct safety checks of the building and answer general questions . Activities and roles vary by location, shift and date.

CFTH is also looking for a Referral Specialist/Office Assistant to take phone calls from people in need of shelter, collect caller data on screening forms, data entry and filing related to calls.

Vancouver Housing  Authority  needs  volunteers to assist individuals with learning and/or improving their skills with PowerPoint and Excel computer applications. Times will be coordinated between the tutor and individuals.

PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center is in need of Licensed Estheticians to provide relaxing facials at the Cancer Center and Massage Practitioners willing to volunteer their services offering basic relaxation massages to cancer patients at the Kearney Breast Center at PeaceHealth approx. 4-8 hours per month.

American Cancer Society Discovery Shop has ongoing openings for cashiers, pricers and sorters Monday—Saturday. Greet customers, assist with purchases and help with donations as they come into the shop.

Furry Friends has many volunteer opportunities: Foster Homes, Phone Help, Education, Pet Showings, Administrative, Fundraising and at the Adoption Center.

Be Safe This Winter

The cold weather has arrived!  Now is the time to prepare for hazardous driving and allow extra time for driving to your volunteer site. Remember that if you are unable to make it to your volunteer site due to the weather, please be sure you notify them. We DO NOT expect you to travel in hazardous conditions. Your safety is priority. If you cannot get a hold of your volunteer site, please call the RSVP office at 735-3683.

Did You Know—One in eight adults in Clark County lack a high school diploma, that 13% of Clark County residents struggle with basic English communication skills and 8% of Vancouver residents lack basic literacy skills? 

The Clark College Student Learning Center at Town Plaza provides a variety of services to help adult learners with the reading, writing, math and English language skills they need to achieve their personal and career goals.  Individual and group tutoring opportunities are available now. 

Become a tutor!  New Literacy and English language tutor orientation and training will be held on Friday, Jan. 20 from 6-9 pm and Saturday, Jan. 21 from 9 am-1 pm.  Learn strategies for teaching reading, writing, math and language.  Help students reach “The Next Step” in their education, find better jobs and create a better life for themselves and their families. Minimum commitment of two hours per week for three months is required.

Top Service Hour Volunteers

 Bob Morgan (2,250 hours) - Bob has been volunteering with RSVP since 1999. He picks up and delivers food to organizations throughout Clark County as well as serves at numerous other agencies assisting veterans and youth. As an Eagle Scout in his youth, he says, “Through that process you learn that if you volunteer you are giving away a part of your life in order to help people, because ‘time’ is the most valuable ingredient of your life that you can share.” When asked what the most rewarding part of volunteering was he stated, “I have found that people needing help with food and friendship really appreciate it when someone helps them out. I feel ‘a vibration (of appreciation) between us’ when I am able to supply some of their needs, even if it is just fruit, vegetables, and milk.”

Bill Jessett (2,065 hours) - Bill has been a volunteer with RSVP since 2000 and serves at the Inter-Faith Treasure House.  When asked why do you volunteer, he quickly laughed, “It’s better than staying home and fighting with my wife!” He started heartily laughing again and added, “Although we have never, ever had a fight!” But the best part of volunteering came right from his heart, “It’s just so rewarding to be able to help other people.”

Beverly Schubert (1,748 hours) - Beverly Schubert has been a volunteer with RSVP since 2004. She volunteers for the City of Vancouver’s 50+ Travel Program. “The guests who travel with the tours do not want to drive any more, or just want to get out of the house and see something new. These people are so grateful. It makes it all worthwhile.”  Beverly will not be able to attend the Recognition Luncheon this year because she is already scheduled for another trip, but when asked what the most rewarding aspect of volunteering was, Beverly did not hesitate, “People just appreciate it so much!”

Guy Brainard (1,727 hours) - Guy has been a volunteer with RSVP since 1987. He’s volunteered for many different projects but is really known for his love of knitting hats. His average number of completed hats per year is about 3,000. When asked why he volunteers, Guy’s wife Donna said she believes it is, “Self-satisfaction. That at 95 years old (and proud of it) he is still giving back to the community. When a teacher, or someone else, says how much they appreciate him and all that he does, the biggest smile comes across his face. When someone shows him a picture like the ones sent to him from Louisiana after he supplied hats after Katrina, you have never seen a bigger smile on anyone.”

Laurel Winer (1,681 hours) - Laurel has been a volunteer with RSVP since 2006 and volunteers for Walnut Grove Elementary mentoring 3rd grade students in math and reading. She also helps teachers with projects that can’t fit into their very busy schedules.  “I was a Registered Nurse from December 1963 until January of 2004 when I had to retire for medical reasons. I had decided many years ago that when I retired I wanted to volunteer in some capacity working with children. It is such a blessing to be with the boys and girls. It is very rewarding to see them understand math concepts and increase their reading skills. Walnut Grove has a wonderful staff and I feel I’m the lucky one to be able to help them.”

Special thanks to all of our  members who volunteer and contribute so much to the community. Volunteers are what put the human touch into our community and help make it a great place to live. From all the staff here at Volunteer Connections, we wish you happiness and good health in the coming year.

Volunteer Opportunities 

Daybreak Youth Services needs help archiving paper client files then scanning into an electronic system for four hours once a week. Only minimal computer experience is necessary.

SeaMar Behavioral Health is looking for volunteers to help out in 4-hours shifts. Duties might include: filing, answering phones, helping with audit paperwork, Q1 projects, assisting on the front desk, transferring files from one site to another, and other reception work as needed. 

Clark County Department of Community Services is in need of Customer Service assistance. Volunteers will greet and direct the public as they come to the building looking for various departments and services, make available brochures and materials, and answer general questions. This is a very busy and interesting opportunity.

Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce desperately needs volunteers to help on a regular basis to update their membership directory, answer phones, call members to verify information, and work at the front desk.

Rocksolid Community Center needs one or two volunteers to input auction donation information into the computer. Basic computer skills are necessary.

Clark College Corporate & Continuing Education  is looking for Cooking School Assistants. This is a non-credit, just for fun opportunity on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Under the direction of the program manager and cooking school instructor, volunteers might help with shopping, set up, prep and sous chef functions, essentially acting as the instructor’s “right hand person”. 

Stream Team –Clark Public Utilities is in need of Student Tour Leaders. The Student Education Program educates nearly 4000 Clark County 4th & 5th graders about the water cycle and environmental science. Tour leaders are needed to provide a hands-on activity to the students. The ideal volunteer will be able to lead tours once or twice a month.

Divine Consign needs volunteers to help with Divine Bites—cupcake sales. Duties will include traying cupcakes in the morning, clean up and inventory at closing. Volunteers should be familiar with cash registers, credit card machines and have pleasant customer service skills.

Dream Big Community Center seeks a person who wishes to stay behind the scenes. The helper will work the logistics, technical, or administrative needs of the organization.

Share is looking for help with their Backpack Program. Volunteers will sort and organize food, fill bags, deliver to schools and breakdown boxes.

Council for the Homeless Winter Hospitality Overflow at St. Paul and St. Andrew Lutheran Church needs volunteers to welcome guests, set out coffee and snacks, prepare sleeping areas, answer general questions, clean up, coordinate shower times, etc. Four hour shifts run from 6 pm through 9 am.

Mount St. Helens Institute is taking applications for 2012 Volcano Volunteers. Volcano volunteers assist the public at the visitor’s centers by answering questions, interpreting the landscape, and assisting with directions to trails around the mountain. A commitment of at least four days per month for a minimum of two months is requested. Volunteers receive training, a uniform, housing and opportunities to join educational outings.

NatureScaping  has a “work from home” database coordinator opportunity available for  a volunteer experienced working in  Excel and/or Access. Duties will include: creating a volunteer database and report templates and entering past and current volunteer information.

Lutheran Community Services Multicultural Community is in need of Transportation Drivers for their Refugee & Placement Program to drive clients to various appointments. Volunteers must be flexible as some short notice needs may arise, have own vehicle with current auto insurance. Mileage reimbursement is offered.

Holiday Fun

Interservice Walk & Knock of Clark County are looking for driver and food pickup volunteers on Saturday the 3rd— help stomp out hunger!

The ARC of Southwest Washington needs help with their Phone for Funds event the 12th—16th. Volunteers will phone community members to discuss The ARC and ask for donations, training, snacks and a fun time are provided!

Vancouver Housing Authority  is looking for Musicians to provide musical entertainment for low income seniors at the annual holiday potluck dinner on the 17th.

The Kids Cooking Corner needs volunteers to help cook with the kids at their holiday baking camps and end of year celebration camp Dec. 19th—21st or 27th—29th.

Salvation Army is looking for Bell Ringer volunteers to help with their Red Kettle Campaign throughout Clark County until the 24th.

Luepke 50 and Better Programs is looking for help with their New Year’s Eve Dance & Party on the 31st from 6 pm—10:30 pm. Volunteers are needed to help during the event and with clean up at the end of the evening.

Get BOLD Events needs volunteer help with their Resolution Run January 8, 2012 including parking, staffing water station and  personal belonging stations, sideline cheering and more.

Health Insurance Questions?

 The Clark County SHIBA Helpline Program is part of a statewide network of volunteers trained by the Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s office, and is locally sponsored by the RSVP/Volunteer Connections Program. Volunteer Counselors receive extensive training and are mentored for the first six months to a year  to assist the public with information and assistance around  health care options and resources available in our communities. Health care information is often confusing, hard to understand and beneficiaries often find it difficult to navigate the sea of information from health care providers. SHIBA volunteers assist individuals with non-biased information regarding health and prescription insurance options, health care resources, prescription assistance and Medicare. Counselors help consumers understand their benefits and rights. The SHIBA program is always looking for motivated volunteers who are willing to learn and help in any of the following  teams located in Clark and Skamania Counties: Counseling, Office Support, Outreach & Networking, Public Speaking, Project Access and Recruitment and Training. SHIBA operates a drop-in clinic every Tuesday at the Human Services Council or on the 3rd Friday at Skamania County Senior Services. Contact SHIBA at 735-3686 for a full schedule of dates and times and to volunteer!

Volunteers Have Talent!

VOLUNTEES HAVE TALENT! To anyone who utilizes volunteers at their agency, that statement proves itself true everyday. Volunteers bring a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience that benefits our community and makes Clark County a better place to live. Whether you use those talents to assist veterans with services, write letters to children, or help during a disaster, what YOU do makes a difference.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) was honored to present the “Outstanding Volunteers of the Year” and “Top Service Hours” awards to its members on October 22. Meet these nominees and be inspired to share your talents!

Jim and Donna Warren, nominated by SHARE. Jim and Donna regularly help with the mailings, as well as assisting at the holiday center sorting and organizing donations.  “Jim and Donna are wonderful people to work with. They encourage the other volunteers and make everyone feel comfortable. These folks also volunteer with the Red Cross on Tuesdays and use their own time to help our community in many ways. Jim and Donna are warm, positive, genuine, and inspire those around them. ”

Jerome Kurtti, nominated by Empower Up.  Jerry deconstructs computers and electronics, sets up systems, and trains other volunteers. “Jerry is awesome! He comes in every weekday and is a great example for other volunteers. He is very thoughtful on how he interacts with others. Jerry does a dirty job—taking things apart. He is very conscientious of his impact on our processes and programs.”

Cynthia Green, nominated by the Parks Foundation of Clark County. Cynthia serves as the Administrative Assistant helping to maintain the donor database as well as other office tasks. She also is a CASA volunteer at the Clark County YWCA.  “Cyndi quickly learned and excelled at the tasks and duties assigned to her. She has taken ownership of her position and treats it as a job. She has become indispensable to the organization, taking on responsibilities that free the Executive Director to concentrate on the critical functions of nurturing donor relationships. Cyndi is an integral part of the Parks Foundation staff. Neither does she, or we, consider her a volunteer ...she is part of the team!”

Assist at Empower Up!

Empower Up is a reuse & recycling center that accepts donated computers and electronics from the public and businesses.  Volunteer traineesrefurbish the computers to provide grantsto families in-need and non-profits in Clark County. Empower Up has several volunteer positions that assist  in running their computer reuse and recycling programs.

· Orientation Leaders- Assists with trainee orientations, paperwork, safety tours and scheduling.

· Recycling Leaders- Assists with teaching trainees the process of deconstruction and materials sorting of recycled electronics.

· Reuse Leaders- Assists with teaching trainees the process of testing and refurbishing computers and other electronics for reuse and resale, including retail store operations.

· .Administrative Assistant - General office assistant, data entry and answering phones.

· Grant Writing - Working with the Development Committee to identify and submit grants to meet  funding goals.

· Development - Fundraising and donor development.

· Events- Assisting with the several fundraising events held each year.

Immediate help is needed for assistant cashiers to run the cash register (using credit card machine), stock shelves, help customers and keep the store tidy.

Innovative Services NW

 Innovative Services NW is a non-profit organization that values, assists and supports children, adults and families in our community who have disabilities or other disadvantages; offering a continuum of services including therapy and childcare for children; employment training and job support for teens and adults; intervention, education and support for families; and adult day health care for senior citizens and adults who require daytime assistance. Innovative Services NW provides services to more than 1,100 children, families and adults every week here in Clark County. You can be a part of making a difference!

 Many volunteer opportunities are available for short-term projects, long-term commitments, and internships. It may be as simple as helping out in one of the Childcare classrooms or assisting with registration at any one of three annual events. You might have an interest in serving on a committee, moving an office or assisting with some clerical support. Innovative Services NW can use your help. TALENT is another area where you can become involved as an Innovative Services NW donor. Are you a web developer, writer, experienced in public relations or have a desire to help out with soliciting goods and services for their Annual September Care Affair? Much like giving time, the gift of TALENT, is yet another way to express and connect you to Innovative Services NW in a very meaningful way. Consider giving the gift of TIME.

Current volunteer opportunities include:

* Childcare, HR/Safety Committee, Supervised Visitation, Adult Day Health Center *

Volunteer Connections Office Updates

 RSVP welcomes your calls to service at 360-735-3683 Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. We are closed from noon to 1:00pm. Please note we are currently adjusting to reduced funding and resource support.  This is being addressed at the local, state and national program levels.  Immediate impacts that will be felt in Clark County include reduced staffing at the Human Services Council reception desk.  We are in the process of recruiting volunteers to staff the front desk of the Volunteer Connections office. Shifts are available Monday—Friday 8 am - 12pm and 1pm-5pm.  Please give us a call if this sounds like a fun volunteer opportunity for you, or if we can help you find another perfect volunteer position!

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a program of Volunteer Connections of the Human Services Council

201 NE 73rd Street, Suite 101 Vancouver, WA 98665

Phone: 360-735-3683  Email: volunteerconnections@hsc-wa.org

Summer Fun!

Summer is a great time for enjoying the sun and taking vacations, but it’s also a wonderful time to help your community! Join us at one of these events and make a difference. Call —360-735-3683 to sign up!

LUTHERAN COMMUNITY SERVICES NW is holding their Pour Me A Glass (wine tasting benefit for refugees) on July 16th.  Volunteers are needed to help post flyers and hand out brochures advertising the event. Volunteers will also be needed that evening to help with selling tickets at the door, parking, serving food and passing out packets and raffle tickets. 

CHILDSPREE - RSVP is seeking volunteers who enjoy working with children to assist at the annual Childspree held in early August. Volunteers assist disadvantaged children purchase clothes for school.  Every child is paired with a volunteer to assist them with their back-to-school shopping from a prepared list of the child’s needs.  As a volunteer you will be responsible for leading the child through the store, keeping track of clothing total, and assisting with the final purchase using a provided gift card. Please take into account this is a volunteer position that requires a lot of walking and standing. 

THE CLARK COUNTY FAIR  needs volunteers to  help in August.  Volunteers assist Superintendents with fair exhibits, assist with hanging ribbons, recording ribbons, hanging quilts and pictures,  setting items out for display, and providing security for items.   Volunteers with experience working with animals can watch over the animal areas and help with feeding and caring for the animals. Volunteers are asked to work at least a 4 hour shift.

Volunteer Opportunities - Call 360-735-3683

Innovative Services NW is looking for volunteers who want be part of the system that helps to keep foster children safe. As a Community Support Volunteer you will document the behaviors and interactions of children and their families. This documentation is frequently used to assess parenting skills which may determine whether a child is returned to his or her family of origin. You will learn about the foster care system, the legal impact of foster children and their family of origin, and how the Department of Children and Families gets involved with Clark County Families. Training is provided. Volunteers are asked to have a minimum of two years experience working with children and families, a current Washington State Driver’s License and a current First Aid and CPR certificate, including infants and young children.

AmeriCorps*VISTA is sponsored by the Human Services Council; they are looking for volunteers to serve on and help develop an Advisory Council. Members will help the Supervisor support a team of 9 VISTAs, assist with site placements, VISTA selections, team trainings and recognition.

Friends of the Carpenter is seeking newsletter and mailing assistants on the second Wednesday of the month from 1 - 3 p.m. Cashiers are also needed at the 2nd Chance Thrift Store to greet customers, ring up sales, accept donations, and some arranging of merchandise.

Affordable Community Environments has several residents that want to learn more about quilting. A volunteer is needed to assist these residents. Two to three sewing machines and materials are provided. A volunteer is also needed to assist a local resident with organizing her home and assisting with maintenance once a month.     

Smith Tower is seeking a volunteer to assist a single senior woman who is temporarily residing at Smith Tower while her apartment building in Portland is being remodeled. She needs assistance with cleaning the bathroom and kitchen floors, changing bed sheets and doing laundry. A volunteer is also needed to assist her with grocery shopping in Portland 1-2 times per month (Oregon food stamps) through July.

RSVP is looking for interested volunteers to serve on the Advisory Council, who can commit to a two-year term, and attend meetings held on the last Tuesday of each month. Members perform duties necessary for the purpose of guiding, supporting and enhancing the RSVP project. Some of the events the Council helps coordinate are the annual recognition luncheon and 50+ Connections Expo.

Volunteer Chore is seeking volunteers to provide transportation for low-income and elderly clients to medical appointments. Mileage reimbursement provided.

Vancouver Housing Authority is seeking a Volunteer Coordinator to find volunteer opportunities and handle income calls from volunteers. You’ll be an important part of the neighborhood’s efforts to provide job training and volunteer opportunities to the area. Garden Mentors are also needed to supervise garden activities for a few hours every week. You’ll have opportunities to teach Fruit Valley families how to garden and cook home-grown food.

Salvation Army VancouverCorps needs volunteers who enjoy a labor orientated job with general public contact to serve as their Bread Truck Drivers. You will drive or ride along in a 15 ft. truck to grocery stores and pick up food and other items. The truck leaves at 7:30 a.m. Monday-Friday. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one day week. Drivers and riders must be in good physical condition, capable of lifting, standing on feet, and have adequate eyesight. Food Room Workers are also needed to sort donated food items, stock shelves, prepare bulk food items in family size packets etc.

Two Rivers Heritage Museum, located in Washougal, is looking for Hosts and Tour Guides. All Saturdays are available as well as some weekdays. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one four hour shift once a month.

Volunteer at Columbia Springs!

Explore, Experience, and learn at Columbia Springs. This 100-acre open space provides environmental education opportunities for the community and students of all ages through on-site education and outreach programs.

Last school year more than 5,500 Clark County students and chaperones visited Columbia Springs for field trips and service learning activities offered through the on-site education program.  

Columbia Springs' 100-acres of urban green space is located between State Highway 14 and the Columbia River. It shares its campus with the circa 1938 historic Vancouver Trout Hatchery.

 This summer there will be many different volunteer opportunities to get involved in! Call 360-735-3683 if one of these interest you!

Stewardship Saturday - July 9, August 13

Volunteers help with a variety of on-site grounds maintenance and environmental restoration projects from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Help with trail work and gardening, invasive species removal or small construction projects.

Invasive Species Invasions - June 25 & July 23

Volunteers help to remove invasive plant species and do restoration work surrounding the implementation of Columbia Springs’ Invasive Species Management Plan. It is very rewarding work to see all of the ivy and other invasives that we remove in a day to help steward the native forest.

Join one of RSVP's Community Action Teams!

The Clark County Human Services Council is launching a new volunteer option for persons 55 years and older. The new RSVP Action Team option invites volunteers to:

• Train, work, learn and celebrate as part of a small team of volunteers
• Work on projects that fit your interests
• Make a difference in the community
• Help design and build this new approach in RSVP volunteering
• Meet other volunteers and expand your social circle
• Improve old skills; develop new ones

Five Action Teams are planned to begin in 2011. They are: (1) Veterans & Families of Veterans; (2) Community Education; (3) Environmental Education; (4) Youth Education; (5) Grant & Resource Development. Additional Teams will be established based on community need and available resources.

RSVP Action Team for Veterans & Families of Veterans

The RSVP Action Team for Veterans & Families is currently recruiting volunteers, 55 years of age and older. The team will work with veterans and family members individually and in small groups at several locations in Clark County. Team duties and responsibilities will include life mentoring, career mentoring, reference & referral, facility management, group recruitment & management and more.

Numerous informational meetings will be held over the next couple months. Contact Jo Jones at 360-735-3690 to find out more about serving on one of these RSVP Action Teams.

50+ Connections Expo Thank You!

Thank You to our co-presenter, sponsors, and contributors for helping make the 15th annual expo a huge success!

A big thank you also goes out to the Volunteer Connections Advisory Council who organized and planned the expo, as well as all the community volunteers who helped !

Co-Presenter:

Event Sponsor:

Grand Prize Sponsor:

Sponsors: Providence Health Plans, At Your Place, A Caring Heart, The Quarry and Glenwood Place Senior Living, Waterford at Fairway Village, Humana Market POINT, SW WA Agency on Aging and Disabilities, Memory Health Center at Summit Research Network, Blue Bird Moving and Storage, Vancouver Funeral Chapel, Maxim Healthcare Services, Edward Jones Investments, Human Services Council, Highgate Senior Living, Kaiser Permanente, Global Health Alerts, Fresenius Medical Care

Contributors: Retirement Connection Guide

Bike To Work Project

Do you have an adult size bike in good condition that you are no longer using? Why not donate it to the Bike-to-Work Project!

This is a Grant funded program that provides low-income residents of Clark County a bicycle, helmet, lights, lock and 5 hour road safety and bike maintenance course in order to get to work or work related activities. 

For more information contact: Anthony Gitch @ 360-285-2103

Volunteer Connections

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Volunteer Center, Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA), Volunteer Mobilization Center, VISTA

201 NE 73rd Street, Suite 101 Vancouver WA 98665

Phone: 360-735-3683  Email: volunteerconnections@hsc-wa.org

RSVP Action Teams

The Clark County Human Services Council is launching a new volunteer option for persons 55 years and older.  The new RSVP Action Team option invites volunteers to:

• Train, work, learn and celebrate as part of a small team of volunteers
• Work on projects that fit your interests
• Make a difference in the community
• Help design and build this new approach in RSVP volunteering
• Meet other volunteers and expand your social circle
• Improve old skills; develop new ones

Five Action Teams are planned to begin in 2011.  They are:  (1) Veterans & Families of Veterans; (2) Community Education; (3) Environmental Education; (4) Youth Education; (5) Grant & Resource Development.  Additional Teams will be established based on community need and available resources.

RSVP ACTION TEAM for VETERANS & FAMILIES OF VETERANS

The RSVP ! Action Team for Veterans & Families is currently recruiting volunteers, 55 years of age and older.  The team will work with veterans and family members individually and in small groups at several locations in Clark County.  Team duties and responsibilities will include life mentoring, career mentoring, reference & referral, facility management, group recruitment & management and more.

To learn more, join us at the RSVP Action Team Information Night, Wednesday, April 20^th, 6:00-6:45pm at the Human Services Council, 201 NE 73^rd St., Vancouver, WA 98665.SPACE IS LIMITED AND RESERVATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED BY CONTACTING: Jo Jones at 360-735-3683.

50+ Connections Expo - April 17

Are you an empty nester? Thinking about retirement? Looking for resources and opportunities for aging parents? All ages are welcome to attend the 50+ Connections Expo, scheduled for Sunday, April 17th, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the Vancouver Hilton Convention Center, 301 W 6th Street, which is on the C-Tran bus route. Attendees may also park at the Luepke Center, 1009 East McLoughlin Blvd. and board a shuttle that runs every 20-30 minutes.

Enter your name for a chance to win a Cruise to the San Juan Islands, offered by USA River Cruises and Sunshine Travel; and visit the 140+ exhibits that will feature information and hands on activities on travel, recreation, health, nutrition, housing, finances, health resources and more. Take advantag! e of health screenings such as $25 cholesterol testing, blood pressure, blood glucose and lower extremity circulation screening provided by PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, free Blood Glucose screenings offered by Fred Myer and sample acupuncture from Vancouver Acupuncture. Relax to the beautiful music of Professional Pianist Yvonne Payne who plays a wide variety of music including classical, gospel and light jazz. Throughout the day enjoy mini-presentations on American history by Living History Presenter Todd Weber at the USA River Cruises and Sunshine Travel Exhibit. And don’t forget to stop by and say hello to Rojo and Smokey the Llamas. They will be sure to make you smile!

This event is presented by the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program sponsored by Human Services Council and the Senior Messenger newspaper! RSVP’s focus for the past 39 years has been to engage empty nesters and retirees in meaningful! volunteer service at nearly 200 non-profits in Clark County. PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center is this year’s Event Sponsor. Other sponsors include: USA River Cruises and Sunshine Travel, Providence Health Plans, At Your Place, A Caring Heart, The Quarry and Glenwood Place Senior Living, Waterford at Fairway Village, Humana Market POINT, SW WA Agency on Aging and Disabilities, Memory Health Center at Summit Research Network, Blue Bird Moving and Storage, Vancouver Funeral Chapel, Maxim Healthcare Services, Edward Jones Investments, Human Services Council, Highgate Senior Living, Kaiser Permanente, Fresenius Medical Care, and Global Health Alerts. Contributors include: Retirement Connection Guide.

            For more information call Volunteer Connections at Connections call 735-3683 or visit our website at www.50plusconnectionsexpo.org.

Enjoy the Outdoors - Become a Volcano Volunteer

The Volcano Volunteers at the Mount St. Helens Institute are one of the Institute’s best resources. These volunteers lead hikes, guide school groups, and share information with the public at the Monument’s visitor centers and other tourist sites. They greatly enhance visitors’ experiences at the volcano by explaining scientific information, monument rules, and travel and safety tips.

If you’d like to join this wonderful group of outdoors-oriented folks, consider becoming a Volcano Volunteer. You’ll be rewarded with new knowledge, stronger communication skills, and a chance to spend time in the blast zone. We’re looking for individuals with good speaking skills and an ability to lead groups. A science background is helpful but not required. We request a com! mitment of at least 4 days per month for a minimum of two months. If you’d like to volunteer for a longer amount, that’s great! We need volunteers for up to six months at the Monument.

Volunteer Opportunities - Call 360-735-3683

The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce is seeking a volunteer to research and compile a list of prospective members. Duties many also include general clerical assistance and answering of incoming telephone calls. Interested volunteers must be adept in use of Microsoft applications, particularly Excel, Outlook and Word. Familiarity with database management programs preferred.

Lutheran Community Services needs Tutors who can teach English to refugees. These compassionate and patient volunteers are asked to commit to two hours a week.

Smith Tower has approximately 15 residents interested in learning computers skills. Current skill  levels range from turning on a computer to those wanting to learn advanced skills in word processing, email use, setting up folders, internet, etc. A computer lab is provided. Volunteer schedule is flexible but a one to one and a half hour class one to! two days a week is preferred.

EOCF is looking for volunteers to assist their Safety Committee with Data Review and Entry. Volunteers are asked to commit to a 7-8 hour day once or twice a month.

Daybreak Youth Services is looking for a volunteer to help in the office scanning files and providing light filing. Days and hours are flexible.

The American Cancer Society Discovery Shop is seeking cashiers and general assistants. Duties include assisting customers at the cash register, sorting, pricing, etc. All proceeds from the shop support cancer research.

Volunteer Chore Services needs volunteers to drive low-income seniors and disabled individuals to medical and other urgent appointments. Transportation is an urgent need as many seniors, particularly in rural areas have no access to public transportation.

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) Helpline ! Program needs volunteers to join our team and assist citizens with information regarding health insurance. Good listening skills, ability to work with people of all ages and backgrounds is a must. This is a great way to make an impact on people’s lives. Computer skills are a plus! Volunteers are mentored, work in a team setting, and are provided with on-going training and support.

Friends of the Carpenter is looking for volunteers who under the supervision and support of the Shop Foreman, prepare parts for projects needed at woodworking events.  A Kitchen Coordinator is also needed to keep the kitchen up to health codes and assist with special events by helping prepare, serve and clean up meals.

SHIBA Health Insurance Counseling

SHIBA volunteers meet with people who are seeking assistance in signing up insurance and prescription plans. Sites and meeting time options include the following:

 Vancouver: Kimberly Center

201 NE 73^rd St, Vancouver, WA 98665

Walk in every Tuesday 12:30-3:30 pm

Firstenburg Center

By appointment only (360-487-7015) every 2^nd and 4th Mondays

Battle Ground Community Library

2^nd Fridays 11-1

1207 SE 8^thWay, Battle Ground, WA 98604

Grass Valley Medical

2005 NE 192^ndAve, Suite 201, Vancouver, WA 98607

By appointment only 360-735-3686

Dozer Day - Where Kids Drive

Dozer Day is an exciting community event where kids get to ride the  big yellow equipment of the construction industry. The Lunch Buddy program also uses this as their end of the year celebration.

Be a “Buddy for a Day”

Need: Each child must have adult supervision, so volunteerbuddies are needed to be paired up with two children who will then rotate through fun and exciting activities!

When: Friday May 20, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Where: Fisher Quarry, Vancouver (off Hwy 14th at 192nd Avenue and Brady Road)

Lunch: Donated by Northwest Natural

Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

A certified volunteer in the Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program serves persons who reside in long-term care by providing them with information about their rights and available resources. Ombudsmen also obtain factual information about resident’s complaints and assist with protection of their rights, and otherwise assure that they receive fair treatment from service providers.

Volunteers are asked to visit with residents weekly. More frequent visits are desirable and important. Monthly in-service training sessions must also be attended.

Volunteer Training

May 9, 11, 16, 20 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Trauma Brain Injury Conference

What is trauma brain injury?

What are my options?

Are there resources available?

Find out the answer to these questions and more!

Wednesday May 11th   9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Red Lion Hotel at the Quay - 100 Columbia Street Vancouver, WA

SHIBA Health Insurance Counselors will be on hand following the conference to answer your questions.

To reserve your seat, and for questions, call 360-735-3586

Washington Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Week

Since the early days of our nation, volunteers have helped us through our greatest challenges and triumphs – patriots who fought for our founding ideals – and ordinary citizens who came to the aid of people in need. To recognize the countless acts of service performed by one of Washington’s most valuable assets – its volunteers – Governor Chris Gregoire proclaimed April 10-16 as Washington Volunteer Appreciation Week. Gregoire said, “I urge all citizens to join me in recognizing and supporting those who volunteer and serve.”

To celebrate Washington Volunteer Appreciation Week, on April 11 the Seventh Annual Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards will be presented in a ceremony at the Executive Mansion honoring the contributions of 46 volunteers for their dedication and commitment to improve their communities through service.

Help us in congratulating one of the nominees, our very own VISTA! Volunteer Christopher Keuscher, for his service to the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) Program of Volunteer Connections. “Chris has done an amazingjob at building sustainability and team pride within our SHIBA Program. In the pastyear the program has far exceeded its goals in assisting the communitywith health insurance questions due to his ability to recognize, leadand empower the volunteers serving.  The program has had many successesdue to his example of service to the community.”