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Holiday Volunteer Opportunities

Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services (Throughout County)
Holiday Sharing Program, now until end of December: This program matches donors with recipients, making it possible to serve over 5,000 families/seniors during the holidays each year. Become a donor for seniors and families in need; make a cash donation which is used to purchase food/clothing/toy gift certificates; sort toys or match donors with needy families and seniors. Donors contribute Thanksgiving and/or Christmas dinner, plus toys or clothing. Delivery is made in person. Families, clubs, businesses, schools and individuals can help the needy and celebrate the holidays in the true spirit of the season. Volunteers are also needed to help by entering data and working with client/donor matches each holiday season. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and have a basic knowledge of computers. For more information call 410-269-4461 or Email: mhuguley@dhr.state.md.us.

Anne Arundel County Food and Resource Bank (Annapolis/Central County)
Founded in 1988 their mission is to fight hunger by assuring that all county citizens in need have access to food and other necessities. Volunteers are needed to sort food for distribution Saturdays or occasional evenings in Crownsville. Especially needed: volunteers with pick-up trucks during the day and help with phones, copying, other office duties (8:30 am – 2:30 pm), data base, computers, webmaster. Call Bruce at 410-923-4255 or Bruce@aafoodbank.org. Website: www.aafoodbank.org .

Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region (Annapolis/Central County)
The Arc advocates for and supports County citizens with developmental disabilities/mental retardation. During the holidays, donations of food, clothing, gift and household items and gift cards makes a huge difference in the life of the children and families the Arc supports. For more information, please call the Arc at (410) 268-8085 or (410) 269-1883. See web site www.thearcccr.org.

Arthritis Foundation – Southern Maryland Branch
The Maryland chapter serves the residents of Maryland (except Montgomery and PG Co.), Delaware, and Eastern West Virginia, by making the public knowledgeable about arthritis and the importance of appropriate treatment and by helping people take personal control of their arthritis through self-help classes, warm water and land exercise programs and support and education groups. For more information about programs and volunteer opportunities, contact Grace Ban at 410-544-5433, gban@arthritis.org or visit www.arthritis.org.

• 6:30-10:30 am, Sun., Nov. 15, 2009, Jingle Bell 5K Run/Fun Walk for Arthritis:

Volunteer parking and race course monitors, especially males, teenage and older, are needed for this fundraiser event at Marley Station Mall in Glen Burnie. Volunteers must be able to be outside in inclement weather. For more information and to volunteer, contact Grace Ban at 410-544-5433 gban@arthritis.org.

Arundel Lodge (Annapolis/Central County)
Arundel Lodge, Inc. is a non-profit mental health agency in Edgewater, MD that provides residential and day program services for mentally ill adults. We are looking for volunteers to help with our holiday events for our mentally ill clients.

• Noon, Thurs., Nov. 26, 2009, Thanksgiving Dinner:

Volunteers will be needed for Thanksgiving Dinner for clients to help set up, serve food, and clean up. We may possibly need some help cooking the food earlier in the morning or even the night before. Please contact Lisa Chambers at (443) 433-5900 for more information and if you are interested in volunteering.

Assistance League of the Chesapeake (Central & West County)
Volunteer carolers are invited to participate in the "sing-a-longs " for seniors program at several locations before the holidays as follows:

• 10:30 am, Wed., Dec. 2, 2009, Future Care Nursing Home, College Pkwy, Arnold.
• 6:30pm, Mon., Dec. 14, 2009, Sunrise Assisted Living, Severna Park
• 10:30am, Wed., Dec. 16, 2009, Regency Park Assisted Living, Rte 3, Gambrills

Anyone interested in participating should e-mail info@ALChesapeake.org or bsysko@verizon.net to sign up or obtain further information.

Bello Machre (North County)
This nonprofit provides loving homes for adults and children with developmental disabilities. Contact Evette Watson at 443-702-3064 or ewatson@bellomachre.org. See web site: www.Bellomachre.org

• Holiday Opportunities: Volunteers needed to assist with decorating, making cookies, making crafts, playing games or simply being a friend to our individuals.
• Holiday Donations Needed: Men’s and Women’s winter coats, non-perishable food, and complete sets ofdishes and pans can be dropped off Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm at 7765 Freetown Rd. Pasadena MD

Books for International Goodwill (B.I.G) Project (Annapolis and South County)
Thousands of books gather dust in storage rooms and attics, while thousands of students and adults in developing countries lack both textbooks and recreational reading. Volunteers drop off good used books and/or help sort 8:00 am–12:00 noon on the second and fourth Saturdays each month (volunteers should call to verify) at the B.I.G. warehouse in the Triangle Tobacco Warehouse in Wayson's Corner (1325 Mt. Zion-Marlboro Rd. near Upper Marlboro, about 18 mi. from Annapolis) where B.I.G. operates and has a drop off. Individuals, high school age and older, are welcome on a "drop-in" basis. There is also a drop off at Extra Space Self Storage, 2107 West Street, just west of the Annapolis Mall next to Toys R Us. Both drop offs are open 24 hrs. a day and directions to both are on the website below. Special times may be arranged for groups. Groups should schedule with Steve Frantzich at 410-293-6865 or frantzich@comcast.net. Website: www.big-books.org. Volunteer & book sale dates:

• 8 am–12 Noon, Nov. 21, and Dec. 12, 2009: Book Sorting and Packing.
• 8 am–2 pm, Dec. 12, 2009: Book Sales: Select volunteers are welcomed Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to sort and shelve books for future Book Sales. Please contact Joyce at 703-919-0069 if you are interested in helping get books ready for a BIG Sale.

Caring Collection, Inc. (Annapolis)
The Caring Collection, Inc. creates stained glass artwork to benefit cancer patients at the Johns Hopkins Oncology Center in Baltimore and the Anne Arundel Oncology Center in Annapolis. Contact Bobbie Burnett at (410) 849- 5333, caringcollection@att.net , or visit www.caringcollection.org. Upcoming holiday activity: Volunteers are needed to assist at the Annapolis workshop Mon.–Fri., 9am–5pm to tell about the Caring Collection, help visitors select holiday gifts and help on our holiday angel assembly line. The studio will also be open evenings and weekends by special appointment. Also, volunteers are needed to go with us to Johns Hopkins and Anne Arundel Hospitals to sell our artwork.

Chrysalis House (Annapolis/Central County)
Chrysalis House, in Crownsville, provides addiction treatment services for women and women with children in a residential setting. Volunteer assistance is needed to help collect and wrap Christmas gifts for Chrysalis House residents. Donations of food, clothing, household items, bedding, gift cards, and more are also needed. Contact Patty Shreve at pshreve@chrysalishouse.org or Lorene Lake at LLake@chrysalishouses.org or call 410-974-6829.

2C - Creating Communities (Annapolis/Central County)
The nonprofit organization’s goal is to build life skills and self-esteem and foster connections across cultures. Volunteers are needed to provide tickets and funding to take youth to cultural events, support the Arts Mentorship Academy for Arts, interview WWII vets and Holocaust survivors in the county, and visit patients at Anne Arundel Medical Center with therapeutic art cart. In addition, volunteers are needed to do web research to identify organizations serving the elderly in Anne Arundel County. Fundraisers are also needed tor the arts mentorship academy next summer. Contact Rob Levit at 410-263-6265 or info@creatingcommunities.net. Web site: www.creatingcommunities.net.

• 6 pm, Mon. Nov. 16, 2009 Thanksgiving Arts Jam: Volunteers are needed to help prepare, serve, clean-up and work with youth and families in the Arts Mentorship Academy at Eastport United Methodist Church. After dinner is served, children and family will be creating holiday cards and poems to be distributed at senior centers and nursing homes in Anne Arundel County. Contact: Rob Levit rlevit@comcast.net or 410-263-6265, email preferred.

EIF Autism Family Bowl (Annapolis)
Excellence In Fitness presents EIF Autism Family Bowl. Proceeds to help support community awareness and education of autism in Anne Arundel County. Form a team and have a great time while supporting autism awareness.

• Saturday Dec. 12, 2009 2 P.M. - 4 P.M.
• The Annapolis Bowl 2057 Generals Hwy.

Emmaus Center (North County)
Emmaus Center is a nonprofit organization which serves poor and homeless people to give them a sense of community by providing resources that otherwise would not be available. There is an immediate need for: 1. A volunteer bookkeeper with skills and experience in small business bookkeeping; 2. A volunteer grant writer, ideally someone who has a track record in researching potential grants and knowledge of nonprofit and faith-based funding sources; 3. Volunteer counselors with experience in working in areas of drug and alcohol abuse to work with adult male and female homeless persons and to develop community resources to whom such persons can be referred; the counselor would also facilitate working with a Pastoral Care Associate; 4. Volunteer general receptionists to help in the office; and, 5. Volunteers to help prepare lunches for 10-20. Hours are flexible. For more information, contact 410-766-7729 or emmauscenter@gmail.com. Web: www.emmauscenter.net.

• 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Thurs., Nov. 26, 2009, Thanksgiving Dinner: Volunteers are needed to help with thedinner to be served at St. Christopher's Episcopal Church. For more information and to volunteer contact the Center at 410-766-7729 or emmauscenter@gmail.com

Fouse Center (North County)
This Glen Burnie nonprofit provides transitional housing for homeless men in Northern Anne Arundel County. Its< goal is to assist men with the transition from homelessness to independent and stable living. Contact Mario at 410- 609-1224 or info@thefousecenter.com

• Holiday donations needed such as: food items, including drink mixes, prepared foods, nonperishable, frozenfoods and fresh foods such as milk, eggs, fruits and vegetables; toiletry items such as deodorant, toothbrushes, shampoo, etc; new or gently used men’s clothing, including suits, ties, shirts, dress shoes pants, jackets, hats, gloves, new socks and underwear; cleaning supplies, paper products, cookware; new or gently used linens, such as twin sheet sets, pillows, pillow cases and bath towels. For more specific information and for drop-off directions contact Mario at 410-609-1224.

Giving Back’s Backpack Program November-December Collection Drive
Over the past few years, Giving Back has developed a program to provide backpacks, coats and boots to the people directly on the streets of Baltimore and DC. Each backpack will include a heavy sweatshirt, thermal underwear (top and bottom), a hat, warm gloves, and a warm pair of socks. Last year we distributed nearly 2000 of these backpacks, and sadly, there was not enough. We are looking for organizations/neighborhoods/individuals to help us fill these backpacks for the 2009 drive. Giving Back will purchase the backpack, and provide them to groups willing to collect the materials to fill and return them. We are also looking for volunteers to assist with everything from publicity, working at the collection site in Annapolis from Dec 20-23, and helping with the deliveries on Dec 24. If you want to help in any way, please contact us. For more information, contact Steve Anstett (director) at homelessdrive@usa.com or 410-295-0889.

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Wed., 11/25/09 Thanksgiving Dinner
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake will hold its 54th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner & Career Fair on Wednesday, November 25th from 12 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. at the Baltimore Convention Center. Since its inception, in 1955, this Thanksgiving event has served over 102,000 people with the help of approximately 7,000 volunteers! In keeping with its mission to promote individual economic self-sufficiency, the organization will provide an accompanying Family Strengthening, Career, & Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than just a place to eat this Thanksgiving Dinner will promote family unification, health services, employment, and life skills training. With the financial help of Northwestern Mutual Goodwill is able to do even more for this year’s attendees by providing direct access to much needed services and health screenings. This year over 200 volunteers from across Maryland will join together to provide turkey and all the trimmings to approximately 3,000 people with disabilities or special needs. Tickets are available only through social service agencies or by contacting Goodwill directly. For information, please contact: Anastasia Bryant at 410.837.1800 ext. 141.

Happy Helpers for the Homeless (North County and Baltimore), Saturdays and Sundays This organization was created by a 10 year old whose vision was to provide, food, toiletries, and clothing with compassion and a smile to the hungry and homeless. Contact Bobbi Coffman at 410-766-4973 for more information.
Upcoming Holiday Volunteer Activities:

• 10:00 am–12:30 pm, Sat., Nov. 21, 2009, National Family Volunteer Day: Hundreds of Christmas presents will be wrapped at “Happy Helpers Headquarters” at 1550 Caton Center Dr., #L, Baltimore; at the same time 1,000 sandwiches will be made at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Glen Burnie.

• 11:00 am–2:00 pm, Thurs., Nov. 26, 2009, Thanksgiving Dinner: Happy Helpers volunteers will be serving the dinner to the homeless and poverty stricken of Baltimore and Glen Burnie. The dinner will take place in Curtis Bay and blankets and other necessities will be distributed.

• 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Sat., Dec. 12, 2009, Eleventh Annual Christmas Party for Guatamalan Families in Marydel: Refreshments, craft-making, clothing & grocery giveaways, a visit from Santa, and distribution of lots of Christmas presents will all be a part of this big and wonderful event.

• 10:00 am–4:00 pm, Sat., Dec. 19, 2009, 17th Annual Christmas Party for AA County’s Homeless: Entertainment, lunch, presents, and fellowship will make this party heartwarming; It is being held at Grace Point Presbyterian Church, 615 Donaldson Ave, Severn.

• 9:30 am–4:00 pm, Sun., Dec. 20, 2009 Huge Distribution of 2,000 Christmas Presents: Christmas presents will be distributed directly to homeless men, women, and children in Baltimore by an army of volunteers. Lunch, Christmas cards, and candy will also be distributed. Meet at the Happy Helpers Baltimore Headquarters, 1550 Caton Center Dr., #L.

• Holiday Donations: Clothing (all sizes and ages), Food (especially turkeys or hams and trimmings), Christmas presents: backpacks, hats, gloves, socks, McDonald’s meal certificates, toys, books, thermal underwear, and sweatshirts, toiletries. Can pick and drop off after 4 pm, seven days a week. Contact Bobbi as above.

Historic Annapolis Foundation (Annapolis)
Historic Annapolis Foundation is sponsoring and seeking entries from the public of one-of-a kind Gingerbread
Houses for its contest to benefit the Eastport Girls Club and the Foundation. The deadline for registration of entries is Nov. 20, 2009, and entries will be on exhibit throughout downtown Annapolis from Dec. 3-19, 2009. There will be an Awards Ceremony on Dec. 19 to announce winners. For more information, visit the web site at
www.annapolis.org or call 410-267-8146.

Holiday Homeless Drive, December 20–23, 2009
This annual event sponsored by the nonprofit organization, Giving Back, Inc., needs volunteers to collect and sort donations from 11 am to 5 pm on Dec. 20- 23rd at the farmers Market on Riva Rd. at Truman Pkwy in Annapolis and distribute to shelters in Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City on Dec. 24th. Volunteers needed to collect and sort blankets, winter coats, sweaters, baby clothing, non-perishable food, toys (new), bag lunches, and more at trucks. Volunteers are also needed to load & distribute gifts on Christmas Eve from 11 am to 3 pm. On Dec. 24th, specific volunteers are needed as doctors, nurses, carolers, musicians and people to dress up in costumes to go with the trucks which will be leaving from the Farmers Market on Riva Road at Truman Parkway. Volunteers also needed now to distribute fliers and assist with administrative tasks. For more information, contact Steve Anstett (director) at homelessdrive@usa.com or 410-295-0889.

H.O.P.E., Inc. (He Opens the Path to Everyone)(North County)
H.O.P.E., Inc. is an all volunteer non-profit Christian ministry serving families in need in the north AA County, Baltimore City areas and also the Appalachian region by collecting and distributing donated school supplies, household goods and furniture, and clothing. H.O.P.E. continues to need furniture for so many families, especially beds and dressers, during these holidays; currently we have over 12 families waiting for assistance. For more information and to inquire about volunteer opportunities, contact Leo Zerhusen at 410-859-1297 or E-mail
lzerhusen@peoplepc.com.

Hospice of the Chesapeake (Annapolis, Throughout County)
The Santa Claus raffle is being held through December 5, 2009 at the Chesapeake Treasures Resale Shop in the Park Plaza, the Hospice of the Chesapeake Annapolis office on Defense Highway, the Creston G. Tate & Betty Jane Tate Foundation Chesapeake Hospice House in Linthicum or at the James & Arloine Mandrin Chesapeake Hospice House in Harwood. The drawing will be held at 5 p.m., December 6, 2009, during the Holiday Open House. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six. For the 14th year, Chesapeake Treasures volunteer Virginia McConnell of Severna Park has donated a hand-made traditional Santa Claus doll to the shop for the annual holiday raffle. Ms. McConnell is the owner of Crafty Grannies – Yes Mrs. Claus, there is a Virginia. All proceeds benefit Hospice of the Chesapeake. For more information, call the Shop at 410-384-9260. Web site: www.hospicechesapeake.org.

• Hospice of the Chesapeake’s Holiday Wish List: 1) Gently used goods to sell at Chesapeake Treasures in Severna Park including clothing, jewelry, quality furniture and household items; 2) In-kind donations of services such as printing, catering and event support; 2) Gifts of time — become a Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteer; and 3) Monetary contributions of any value — every gift helps! This holiday season please consider Hospice of the Chesapeake during your gift giving celebrations. For more information on additional ways to support the organization, please contact 410.987.2003.

Junior League of Annapolis
This organization reaches out to women of all races, religions, and national origins who share an interest in and commitment to volunteerism and community service. Volunteers needed to work on projects supporting children and families, including the Teen Empowerment and Mentoring Program (TEAM) in conjunction with the Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Women’s and Children’s Division, the September Back to School Book Bag project, to assist with fundraising, serve on Board of Directors and support other programs and services. Call 410-224-8984 or e-mail: admin@jlannapolis.org. Website: www.jlannapolis.org

• 10:00 am–1:00 pm, Dec. 2–24, 2009, Gift Wrapping: Volunteers are needed to staff gift wrapping shifts at the “Wrap It Up!” store located in front of the Crate and Barrel in the west atrium at Westfield Annapolis Mall. Proceeds will benefit community outreach programs of the Junior League. Call 410-224-8984 for more information.

Light House Shelter (Annapolis/Central County)
This Annapolis emergency shelter facility provides shelter for single men and women and families and runs a transitional housing program. Volunteers, 18 and over, are needed for a variety of duties associated with the food program, children’s programs, facilities cleaning & maintenance, office and administration, and adult education programs. The hours are flexible for many tasks and training is provided. In addition to volunteers, the shelter has an immediate need for pantry food items because of a greatly increased demand for lunches. To volunteer, contact Volunteer Coordinator Holly Mallonee at (410)349-5056 or mallonee@AnnapolisLightHouse.org . Call 410-263-1835. Web: www.annapolislighthouse.org
Donations Needed: The Light House is asking for canned goods, especially foods that can be used for its holiday meals, as well as 30-gallon trash bags, laundry detergent, and sweaters, socks, and sweat suits for its older residents.
Maryland Food Bank Ravens Food Drive (Throughout County)
The Baltimore Ravens and the Maryland Food Bank have launched the Ravens Virtual Food Drive as part of the Ravens November Collection efforts which includes two ways to win tickets to the November 22, 2009 Ravens vs. Colts game at M&T Stadium. You can get in on the action and be a hunger hero at the same time. The Ravens Virtual Food Drive can be accessed by going to www.mdfoodbank.org/ravens . The online food drive will run from October 26, 2009 and close at 5:00 PM on November 18, 2009. Recruit team members to help you win the Honorary Captain position. Ask your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members to help send you onto the 50-yard line. You could be the deciding factor against the Colts and in the fight against hunger. For more information,contact Rebecca Pon at (410)737-8282 x 223.

Maryland Therapeutic Riding (Throughout County)
Located in Crownsville, MTR is a Premier Accredited Therapeutic Riding Center that offers therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children and adults with special needs. Volunteers, ages 14 and up, assist with the riding lessons Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings. In addition, volunteers are needed throughout the week to assist with horse care, barn, stable and facility maintenance. Volunteers are also needed to assist with special events, serve on committees including fund raising, and general office duties. All volunteers are required to attend a training session prior to beginning their volunteer service. If you would like to attend an upcoming training session (held monthly), please call 410-923-1187. Please visit website: www.horsesthatheal.org. Volunteer applications may be downloaded from the site. Contact Volunteer Coordinator Ellie Hardnack at 410-923-1187 for more information.

• 1:30–3:30 pm, Sat., Nov. 21, 2009, Volunteer Training Sessions: Call Ellie at 410-923-1187 for moreinformation about volunteering.

Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland (Throughout County)
Individuals and groups can assist the homebound. Volunteer as little as two hours a month to make a world of
difference. Drivers needed to deliver meals Monday through Friday (holidays included) between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Volunteers also needed to accompany drivers, and pack meals. Many opportunities are flexible. Locations in Glen Burnie (Pascal Senior Center), Annapolis (St. Martin’s Lutheran on Forest Dr.), and Severna Park (Woods Church). Drivers are especially needed for Glen Burnie Call Terry Lehr at 410-431-5257 or lehr@mowcm.org. See www.mealsonwheelsmd.org.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Chesapeake Region (Throughout Region)
The mission of MADD is to stop drunk driving, support victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. As a means of saying thank you to law enforcement officers for the life saving work that they do, MADD Maryland is planning to continue its annual Cookies for Cops campaign this holiday season. With the help of volunteers, MADD will bake and deliver some homemade goodies to each and every law enforcement agency in the state. This opportunity runs from November 24th - December 31st and help is needed across the state. If interested in baking, delivering or both please contact Lisa Spicknall at lisa.spicknall@madd.org or 410-964-5757.

Movable Feast (Baltimore City and surrounding counties)
This nonprofit provides home delivered meals for clients who are homebound with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers, as young as 16 (15 & under w/adult) are needed to deliver meals Monday through Friday between 9 am and 3 pm and 5 pm–8 pm. Meal delivery takes about 1 hr and drivers have flexibility in setting their schedules. Volunteers are asked to deliver once a week or once a month. Contact Tom Patrick at 410-327-3420, Xtn 31 or tpatrick@mfeast.org. See www.mfeast.org.

• Saturday, Nov. 21 (Noon time - 5 pm): Volunteer drivers needed to deliver turkey and the fixingspackages to our families.

• Monday, Nov. 23. - Wednesday, Nov. 25: Volunteers needed in the kitchen to help prepare meals.

• Thursday, Nov. 26, Thanksgiving Day (7am - 1pm): Volunteers needed to deliver Thanksgiving meals.
  

My Brother’s Pantry (Central County)
This nonprofit, located on the grounds of College Parkway Baptist Church in Arnold is supported by nine area congregations to provide food for families in crisis because of unemployment or disabilities. Volunteers are needed to work in the food pantry and donate food and other items. Call 410-757-5190. Upcoming Activities: Now through December 25th, sponsors needed for Christmas food baskets, gifts and gift certificates. Sponsors are needed who can provide Christmas food baskets and/or holiday gifts for children of local families in need.

Our Daily Bread (Baltimore)
The largest soup kitchen in Maryland is located in downtown Baltimore and serves a 780+ hot lunches 365 days a year and breakfast on weekday mornings. Volunteers as young as 14 are needed to assist in serving lunch from 9 am–1 pm daily. Donations of casseroles, cookies, desserts, canned foods, baby food, diapers, and seasonal decorations are needed. Contact 410-659-4016 or visit: www.catholiccharities-md.org.

Partners in Care (Throughout County)
What if you were too old or too frail to decorate your home for the holidays or unable to drive yourself to the store to buy holiday goodies? Partners In Care has ongoing needs for small handyman repairs and needs for drivers to Partners In Care's mission to help older individuals remain independent in their homes. During the holidays Partnerstransport elderly individuals to the doctor, the grocery store, holiday shopping, etc. All these activities support In Care would like to hear from individuals who would like to assist in wrapping presents and delivering them to older adults. Partners In Care is also very much in need of the donation of a truck and/or van in good condition. Again, these activities are ongoing so please phone Partners In Care at 410-544-4800 for details.

Pets on Wheels/Life Enrichment Program/Mom & Me (Throughout County)
Volunteers for all these programs visit one-on-one or with their pets or children at homeless shelters, nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, adult day-care centers or other sites where people lack visits from family and friends. Volunteers are asked to share at least one hour each week at the facility of your choice. With more than 76 facilities to choose from throughout the county, there are many opportunities to brighten someone's day close to your home. Minimum age of 13 if visiting one-on-one with own pet, under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 410-222-0738 or e-mail info@powlemm.org for more information. See website: www.powlemm.org.

• 6:30 pm, Tues., Nov. 10; 10 am, Tues., Dec. 1; and, 6:30 pm, Wed., Dec. 9, 2009, Volunteer Orientations: Call 410-222-0738 or e-mail info@powlemm.org to enroll.

Providence Center
Providence Center is a nonprofit that provides employment, vocational training, recreational, retirement, medical
day care, and transportation services to developmentally disabled adults.

• 9am-4pm, Sat., Dec. 5, 2009, “Gathering of the Greens”: Volunteers are needed to help with selling fresh Christmas trees, Poinsettiaa, roping, food, and more; pottery crafts and wood working products made by our participants will be sold. There will be workshops where people can make a birdhouse or decorate a wreath, for example. We will also have our Art Gallery open and Carolers with Holiday songs. There will be a dance performance by our newly formed dance troupe. For information and to volunteer, contact Caroline at cmillett@providencecenter.com or 443-336-0556. See Website: www.providencecenter.com.

Rude Ranch Animal Rescue (throughout County)
Rude Ranch animal rescue is located just outside of Annapolis, Maryland. The mission of Rude Ranch is to find loving, permanent homes for any adoptable placed under their care; to provide a safe haven and rehabilitation to feral and neglected cats rescued from abusive situations and to put an end to needless euthanasia because of pet overpopulation.
Holiday Project: During the holidays volunteers are needed to help with fundraising, being Santa’s helper and helping with photos with Santa at their Harwood location. They also need help with gift wrapping. They accept group and youth volunteers (minimum age 16) and family volunteers (as long as parent is present). They need donated canned cat food and dog food. For more info contact Katherine Rude at 410-798-9559 or at rrar@ruderanch.org or on the web at www.ruderanch.org.

Salvation Army (throughout County)
Volunteers are needed for the Salvation Army’s 2009 Christmas Programs. Donations of meals for sorters of Angel Tree gifts, sponsorship of Angel Trees, and donations of non-perishable food are also being sought. Contact Captains Richard and/or Ruth New at 410-263-4091 for more information and to volunteer. Now and continuing – Annapolis Food Pantry on Hilltop Lane: Donations of nonperishable food items are needed. Now through Nov. 20, Adopt-A-Family:Request to adopt a family to sponsor for the Christmas holiday. You may choose the size family that you wish to assist. Information about ages, sizes and gender provided. You provide gifts and a holiday meal if you wish, but please no perishable items. Now through Dec. 11, Toy Drive: Assist with toy drive by bringing new toys to the Salvation Army office in Annapolis or call to arrange a pickup. The toys will be distributed to holiday families. Nov. 13 – Dec. 24th, 10 am – 8 pm, Kettle Sites:Stand at a kettle site ringing a bell in shifts of one hour or more. All supplies are provided. You will be relieved by the next scheduled person. Nov. 22 – Dec. 13, 2008 - Help with Angel Tree at Westfield Mall (Annapolis Mall): Volunteers needed for 2 hour shifts during mall hours to sign-out angel tags as they are taken from the tree and log in gifts as they are returned. Now until Dec. 18, 9am–noon, and 1–4pm. Volunteers are needed to help sort the Angel Tree gifts and get them ready for the families to pick up. Dec. 21 & 22, 9am–12 noon & 1–4 pm Angel Tree Distribution: Distribution of gifts to families at the Salvation Army’s Annapolis office on Hilltop Lane; Spanish speaking volunteers needed for both days.

Severna Park Assistance Network (SPAN) (Central County)
SPAN in cooperation with area churches help persons in their community in need of crisis assistance because of evictions, utility turn-off notices, emergency medical or prescription needs, food panty or other services. SPAN is located behind Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, 400 Benfield Road. Contact 410-647-0889 or E-mail: SPANhelps@yahoo.com. Web Site: www.spanhelps.org
Through December 25, 2009 – Holiday Caring Program: Registering Sponsors SPAN invites individuals, families and groups to sponsor a family in crisis by doing any or all of the following: provide a Thanksgiving and/or Christmas food basket; donate a grocery gift certificate; provide Christmas gifts for children; or donate a department store gift certificate. A sponsor may select a family from the pool according to size of family and ages/genders of children. Names of families and sponsors remain confidential. Contact 410-647-0889 for information.

South County Assistance Network (SoCan), Lothian
SoCan and area churches help persons in their community with emergency needs, food pantry or other services SoCan needs volunteers at their facility at St. James’ Church in Lothian on Thursdays and Saturdays, from 9 am to Noon, to stock shelves, bag food and donate food and other items for the pantry. Call Dottie Fender at 301-261- 5265.

Toys for Tots Campaign–U.S. Marine Corps Reserve (Throughout County)
The local Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots is a toy drive for the underprivileged children in Anne Arundel (and Howard) Counties. With many Marines serving on foreign shores, now more than ever, the Toys for Tots program needs the assistance of members of the community to help make this year’s campaign better than ever. Along with BankAnnapolis, a substantial number of other businesses have already committed to being a drop-off location. For more information on the program and a list of sponsoring businesses across the county, go to http://anne-arundelmd. toysfortots.org/, E-mail Pete Pervi at papervi@verizon.net, or call 410-987-3811.

Volunteer Center For Anne Arundel County (Annapolis/Throughout County)
Volunteers and donations are needed for the following event:

• 2-4:30 pm, & 6:30-8 pm, Sat., Nov. 21, 2009, Family Volunteer Day Project: On Family Volunteer Day 2009, the Volunteer Center will engage family volunteers in activities with families at Sarah’s House, a supportive housing program for homeless families located off of Rt 175 in Ft. Meade. Volunteers can also engage in two, family-friendly, pre-event projects prior to Family Volunteer Day, by: 1. Donating small new toys/games to fill draw-string bags for the children at Sarah’s House, and 2. Creating activity books of their own design. The latter can include mazes, connect the dot pictures, and/or printed coloring pages from a computer, leaving some blank pages for the kids to use. The toys and activity books will be distributed to the Sarah’s House kids on Family Volunteer Day. RSVPs are required to fill the volunteer time slots at Sarah’s House on November 21st from 2-4:30 pm & 6:30- 8 pm. Toys and activity books must be delivered to the Volunteer Center by close of business Mon., Nov. 16th. Contact Fay or Jennifer for more information & to RSVP at 410-897-9207 or info@volunteerannearundel.org. See website at: www.volunteerannearundel.org.

We Care and Friends (Annapolis)
Nineteenth Annual Free Thanksgiving Diner, Monday, November 23, 2009 The local nonprofit, We Care and Friends, presents its annual free Thanksgiving Dinner for the homeless and needy from 4 to 9 pm on November 23 at the Stanton Center, 92 W. Washington St., Annapolis. This annual dinner feeds over 3,000 people and continues to grow thanks to donations of food (turkeys, hams, roast beef, desserts, beverages), paper goods, time and money. Volunteers are also needed to pick up prepared food items before noon on Nov. 23th and to assist with the dinner and clean up. For more information, contact 410-263-2874 or wecareandfriends@yahoo.com. Web site: www.wecareandfriends.com.

Winter Relief Program, mid-November through early-April – Rotating Locations
Churches in Annapolis, Ferndale, Glen Burnie, Linthicum, Odenton, Arnold, Millersville, Pasadena and Severna Park support a shelter program until April. For one week at a time, each participating church hosts men (and some can also accommodate women) in need of a hot meal and shelter for the night and breakfast the next morning. The Winter Relief shelter needs volunteers to assist at Intake at the Salvation Army in Glen Burnie and to be transportation escorts for showers for our guests. For additional information, or to volunteer your time and services to Winter Relief, please contact Phil Bailey at 410-863-4888 ext. 13 or pbailey@arundelhoh.org.

Wreaths Across America, Dec. 12, 2009
Wreaths Across America, a non profit 501(c)(3) organization, was formed as an extension of the Arlington Wreath Project started at Arlington Cemetery in 1992 with the donation and laying of 5,000 Christmas wreaths. This year, over 350 locations will hold wreath laying ceremonies in every state, Puerto Rico, and 24 overseas cemeteries simultaneously. Over 100,000 wreaths will be placed on veterans graves with over 60,000 volunteers participating. Annapolis National Cemetery, the final resting place of 2,996 brave veterans and their families dating back to the Civil War, will participate for the first time in Wreaths Across America on December 12, 2009 at 12 noon. Wreath donations are being sought: Visit web site: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org to sponsor a wreath for $15; designate the wreath to the Annapolis National Cemetery by entering location ID code MDANCM. The deadline for wreath donation to be placed this holiday season is November 25, 2009. To learn more and to help initiate this program at Annapolis National Cemetery, E-mail Christina Seidel at seidelclan@verizon.net.

YMCA Camp Letts (South County)
6:30 am–Noon, Nov. 26, 2009, Tenth Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Chase 5K Run/Walk, 10K Run: Volunteers are needed indoors to help with registration and giveaways, and outdoor needs are course monitors, water stations. Some volunteers will be needed as early as 6:30 am; registration begins at 7:30am, and the 10K Run and 5K walk begins at 8:45 am. For additional information please contact. Contact Chessa Ormond at 410-919-1410 or info@campletts.org. Web site: www.campletts.org/

YWCA
The YWCA Annapolis and Anne Arundel County provides comprehensive integrated services for individuals and families through domestic violence shelter and hotline; sexual assault services including a hotline, counseling, support groups and hospital accompaniment for rape victims, legal, career, counseling and family services; childcare; adult educational programs including GED, ABE and ESOL, a mentoring program for emotionally challenged children and youth and an after-school program for high-risk middle school students. Volunteer opportunities for teens exist in our after-school Star Academy program at Annapolis, Lindale, and Chesapeake Middle Schools. Volunteers would be working with middle school students as tutors, mentors and engaging with the students during their recreation time. There is also an ongoing need for childcare aides who are adults over age 21 for the Moms and Tots programs. Contact Tracey Cherry at 410-626-7800 x 129 or tcherry@ywcaaac.org for information or to request a volunteer application.

• Nov. 18–Dec. 22, 2009, “Be An Angel” Holiday Sharing Program: “Be an Angel” and adopt a family from our holiday Angel Tree. Beginning on Nov. 18, we invite the public to adopt less fortunate families and provide personalized gifts and necessities to those who would otherwise receive very little or nothing during the holiday season. Angels can be selected at our Arnold location at 1517 Ritchie Hwy. Donors can be confident that their gifts go directly, and without excessive overhead, to those who are truly needy. Requested donations include new clothing, toys, diapers, formula, coats, gloves and hats and will be accepted until Dec. 22. For more information please contact the YWCA at 410-626-7800 x129 or tcherry@ywcaaac.org.
• Holiday Wish List: Donations needed for the program that assists women and children. Items needed include:baby clothes, gift cards, hats/gloves, jackets for middle school students, laundry detergent, new car seats, blankets, towels, sheets for twin/full beds, and more. Items can be dropped off at the Ritchie Highway location by December 14th. Need donations of bus tokens, gift cards for Giant/Safeway, diapers, ready to wear women’s professional clothing, toys, baby food, nonperishable food, cleaning items, detergent, wash clothes, toys & clothes for toddlers, gas cards, queen/king bed sheets, gift cards to Wal-Mart or Target, and board games. Contact the YWCA at tcherry@ywcaaac.org or 410-626-7800 etx.129.

Eastern Shore

Adopt-A-Bear
Contact Roe Squire. 410-758-0682│Adopt-a-bear.org.
This program works with elementary schools, family support centers, and other organizations throughout the Mid-Shore to provide wrapped gifts to needy children for Christmas. “Bear Trees,” which are decorated with bear tag ornaments that include the name of a child, their age, size, and any special requests, are placed at local businesses by volunteers. Choose a tag and return a wrapped gift to the same location by the specified date, and Adopt-A-Bear volunteers do the rest. December 12 is a special “Shop and Wrap” day.

Talbot Optimist Club’s Annual Tree & Green Sale
410-924-7265│Mdsdoptimist.org.
Offering freshly cut Fraser and Douglas firs, fresh pine roping, and decorated wreaths for sale to benefit local youth organizations. Through December at the Talbot County YMCA, Easton. Open weekdays from 4–8 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

10th Annual 4-H Toy Drive
410-778-1661
Maryland4h.org.
Drop toys off at local schools and businesses throughout Kent County. 4-H members then wrap and deliver the toys to children in need. Through December 15. For more information, contact the Maryland Cooperative Extension Office in Chestertown.

Brighter Christmas Fund
c/o The Star Democrat, Box 600, Easton, MD 21601

Midshore Community Foundation
410-820-8175│www.mscf.org
Connects private resources with public needs to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's and Talbot Counties, Maryland.

Talbot Hospice Foundation
410-822-6681 │www.talbothospice.org
Offers hope, compassionate support, and services to all members of the community facing end-of-life issues. Provides patient/family care, community education and advocacy while respecting both curative and palliative treatment choices. All services are provided without charge through the generous support of the community.

Mid-Shore Pro Bono, Inc
410-690-4890 │www.midshoreprobono.org
Provides access to free or reduced-fee legal services to qualified litigants in civil matters and is dedicated to serving the citizens of Kent, Queen Anne's, Caroline, Talbot and Dorchester counties.

Waterfowl Festival, Inc
410-822-4567 │www.waterfowlfestival.org
Dedicated to wildlife conservation, the promotion of wildlife art, and the celebration of life on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Pets on Wheels of Delmarva, Inc
renk@atlanticbb.net │ www.petsonwheels-delmarva.org
Provides companionship and comfort by sharing pets with residents of nursing homes and other facilities.

National Kidney Foundation Delmarva Services
443-322-379 │www.kidneymd.org
Dedicated to preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation.

Talbot Special Riders Inc.
410-604-2290│www.talbotspecialriders.com
A therapeutic horseback riding program providing therapy for physically, mentally and emotionally challenged individuals.

Talbot County Chamber of Commerce
410-822-4643 │www.talbotchamber.org
Encourages business and community growth and planned development by promoting economic programs designed to strengthen and expand income potential of all business within our trading area.

Talbot County Department of Social Services
410-770-4848 │www.dhr.state.md.us/talbot.htm
Assists people in economic need, protects children and vulnerable adults, and promotes the safety and well-being of the citizens of Talbot County.

Talbot Mentors
410-770-5999 www.talbotmentors.org
Matches young people in Talbot County, Maryland with volunteer mentors in order to support those children in the challenges and opportunities of adolescence through friendship, guidance, and education.

Talbot Humane Society
410-822-0107 │ www.tchsmd.org
Devoted to protecting all animals from cruelty, providing spay/neuter services saving homeless pets, bettering our community and educating the leaders of tomorrow.


Queen Anne's County Character Counts
410-758-6677 │www.peopleofcharacter.org
Strengthens personal character traits, builds families with character and a more cohesive community through character coaches who teach about the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.


Channel Marker, Inc.
410-822-4611│www.channelmarker.org
Provides programs to enhance the functioning of individuals recovering from severe mental illness in order to reduce the stigma of mental illness.


Talbot Partnership
410-819-8067│www.talbotpartnership.org
Encourages the community to recognize the problems and implement solutions related to alcohol, tobacco and other drug abuse by implementing policies, promoting early intervention programs and building a community culture that favors drug-free youth.


Habitat for Humanity of Talbot & Dorchester Counties
410-820-6186│www.hfhtdc.org
Strives to build not only homes but also to collaborate with all people interested in the prosperity of Talbot & Dorchester Counties through the creation of affordable housing opportunities.

Maryland Coalition of Families for Children's Mental Health
410-730-8267│www.mdcoalition.org
Dedicated to improving services for children with mental health needs and their families, and building a network of information and support for families across Maryland.

Caroline Habitat for Humanity, Inc.
410-479-9200│www.carolinehabitat.org
A locally run affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization.

Queen Anne's County Department of Animal Services
410-758-3493│www.qacac.petfinder.com
Provides pet adoption and a low cost spay/neuter center.

Caroline County Humane Society
410-820-1600│www.carolinehumane.org
An active adoption program for homeless domestic animals that offers low cost spay neuter clinics and programs for pets belonging to Caroline County residents.

St Michaels Volunteer Fire Department
410-745-9393│www.stmichaelsfd.org
Protects the lives and property of citizens and visitors by providing a full range of high quality emergency services including fire protection, advanced life support, medical assistance, and education programs in fire and safety.

St Michaels Food & Wine Festival
410-745-5577│www.stmichaelsfoodandwinefestival.com
An event which raises over $100,000 for local charities while highlighting the immense culinary talent that exists within St Michaels and the surrounding towns of Easton, Oxford and Tilghman Island.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation-Heart of the Chesapeake Project
410-268-8816│www.cbf.org
Fights for strong and effective laws and regulations while working cooperatively with government, business, and citizens in partnerships to protect and restore the Bay.

Animal Resource Foundation, Inc.
410-643-8700 │ www.arfusa.org
Dedicated to saving and improving the lives of animals throughout the mid-Atlantic region by rescuing from animal shelters.

Adkins Arboretum
410-634-2847 ext 22│www.adkinsarboretum.org
A 400-acre native garden and preserve on Maryland's Eastern Shore dedicated to promoting the appreciation and conservation of the region's native plants.

CASA of Queen Anne's County, Inc.
410-758-8610│www.casaqackent.org
Advocates for the best interests of children who are under the protection of the court system because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. CASA provides trained volunteer advocates to make assessments and recommendations to the court, with the goal of securing a safe, permanent home for every child.

Pickering Creek Audobon Center
410-822-4903│ www.pickeringcreek.org
Dedicated to community-based conservation of natural resources through environmental education and outreach on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay

Crossroads Community, Inc.
410-758-3050 │www.ccinconline.com
Provides mental health rehabilitation and case management services to residents of five counties on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Community Meditation Upper Shore, Inc.
410-810-9188│ www.shoremeditation.org
Provides accessible conflict resolution services through mediation, education, and training in order to promote respectful resolution of conflicts and disputes throughout Queen Anne’s, Kent and Cecil Counties in Maryland.

Caroline County Council of Arts, Inc.
410-479-1009 │www.carolinearts.org
Povides access to quality arts performances; facilitates and maintains the arts; and encourages community appreciation, support and participation in a broad spectrum of artistic pursuits.

Community Alliance for the Performing Arts (CAPA)
410-924-1350│www.capaarts.com
Setting the stage for youth to succeed by fostering the growth and diversity of performing arts on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Chesapeake Film Festival
410-822-5089│www.chesapeakefilmfestival.org
Entertains, enriches and inspires by bringing the finest in narrative, documentary and short film to the Chesapeake Bay community. The films showcased are broadly focused to illuminate both the diversity and the universality of the human condition.

Character Counts Midshore, Inc.
410-819-0386│www.charactercountsmidshore.org
Provides community leadership for the development of character education to schools, churches, businesses, athletic leagues and other community groups.


Chesapeake Bay Maratime Museum
410-745-2916 │www.cbmm.org
Dedicated to furthering an interest in, understanding of, and appreciation for the culture and maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and its environments.

Dorchester County Historical Society
410-228-7953│ www.dorchesterhistory.org
Dedicated to the collection, preservation, maintenance, exhibit, and making available for research artifacts, documents and other items relative to the history of Dorchester County.

Dorchester Humane Society
410-228-3090│www.dorchesterhumane.org

Eastern Shore Alano Club
410-778-0533 │www.easternshorealanoclub.org
Provides a stable and safe meeting place for people who are working to recover from the effects of addictions or compulsive behaviors.

Eastern Shore Land Conservatory
410-827-9756 ext 166│ www.eslc.org
Works to sustain the Eastern Shore's rich landscapes through strategic land conservation and sound land use planning.

James B Richardson Foundation, Inc.
410-221-1871│www.richardsonmuseum.org
Dedicated to preserving and promoting the boat building heritage of Dorchester County and the Chesapeake Bay area of Maryland, including its influence on U. S. maritime history through research, preservation and exhibition of artifacts and archives, and the promotion of the wooden boat building industry and related skills.

Kent Center
410-778-7303 ext 14 │www.kentcenter.org
Provides highly personalized, 24-hour a day services for adults who have a broad spectrum of developmental disabilities such as intellectual disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, and/or physical disabilities.


Kent County Economic Development Office
410-778-7434 │www.kentcounty.com/bus
Assists local and prospective businesses in achieving their company’s goals and objectives. Provides a centralized problem solving location for county, state, federal and private resources designed to continually improve the county’s business climate and living and working environment.

Maryland Cooperative Extension-Talbot County
410-822-1244 │www.talbot.umd.edu
Provides outreach and education in many topics relating to agriculture, the Chesapeake Bay, youth programs, gardening, nutrition, health, the environment and more to citizens and residents of Talbot County.

Mid Shore Community Mediation Center
410-820-5553 │www.midshoremediation.org
Dedicated to providing free conflict resolution services for all the residents, businesses and organizations of Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot Counties

Queen Anne's Historical Society
410-758-3010│www.qahistory.org
Preserves the community’s historic heritage by maintaining a community history archive and holding five meetings annually, which feature programs emphasizing community and Washington history.

Talbot County Free Library
410-822-1626│www.tcfl.org
Committed to serving the cultural, educational and entertainment needs of its community.

Women In Need Inc.
410-778-3844│www.win-foundation.org
Services the changing needs of families in Kent and Queen Anne's counties and provides a critical bridge between economic crisis and financial independence for families.

The Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region
410-269-1883│www.thearcccr.org
Advocates for the rights and respect of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing resources and inspiring community awareness and action.

Evergreen Cove Holistic Learning Center
410-819-3395│www.evergreencove.org
Provides compassionate and enriching services that help to restore body mind and spirit. ECHLC offers a wide range of modalities from massage therapy and reiki to nutritional counseling and psychotherapy.

Deaf Independent Living Association
410-742-5052│www.dila.org
Promotes access to the services and resources for the Eastern Shore residents who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Delmarva Community Services
410-221-1900│www.dcsdct.org
Offers persons with developmental disabilities an opportunity to expand horizons through education, training, and employment.

Dixon House
410-822-6661│www.dixonhouse.org
Dedicated to providing high quality and affordable residential care to seniors in an enriching home-like environment

For All Seasons
410-822-1018│www.forallseasonsinc.org
Provides rape-crisis intervention; therapy to enable clients to function at their optimum; advocacy to serve as a representative for individuals, groups, and the community to enhance their well-being; and education to impact social problems by expanding knowledge.

Environmental Concern
410-745-9620 ext 201│www.wetland.org/
Dedicated to increase understanding of, foster appreciation for, and encourage the stewardships of wetland systems through materials/curriculum development, schoolyard habitat development and innovative outreach programs.

Women's and Girls Fund of the Mid-Shore
410-770-8347│www.womenandgirlsfund.org
Provides grants to non-profit organizations for programs addressing unmet or underserved needs of women and girls in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot counties in Maryland.

National Autism Association of Maryland-Eastern Shore
4108209005│ http://www.naaofmdes.org
Dedicated to helping communities affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Wildfowl Trust-North America
410-827-6694│www.bayrestoration.org
Promotes environmental stewardship at the 510-acre site, the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (CBEC), through education, restoration and conservation.

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