Community Service Opportunities

Last updated September 10, 2011

 
Students -- see below for activities that suit your interests, are fun & engaging, and serve the community. There are possibilities large & small, at school and off-campus. There's something for everyone! (Parents, too!)

HOW DOES IT WORK?
  
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY?
To learn how Community Service works at Paly & Gunn,
click here or in the index =>		   Want to help kids? seniors? the needy? animals? the environment? Scroll down, or see the Index =>

To submit an item, please click here. Items that are partisan, sectarian, discriminatory, commercial, or otherwise inappropriate will not be accepted. PTA Council retains sole editorial discretion. PTA strives for accuracy, but cannot be responsible for errors.
 


QUICK CALENDAR

 
Sat Sep 17 NEW  Coastal Cleanup Day
 
 
  Stanford Study seeks Mothers & Daughters
 
     
     


PTSA COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

 
PALY PTSA COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS.
Join Paly students and parents participating in our PTSA-sponsored community service projects -- an exciting variety of opportunities to benefit the needs of others in our community! Meet new friends, work with good people, have fun, and learn more about the community we live in. These events are intended for Paly students and parents; Gunn students and parents are welcome too if space is available.
Watch for events throughout the school year!
Info: e-mail Danielle Mewes or Anne Stewart.
 
     
     


GUNN

 
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT GUNN.
Gunn logo   Come tutor other students in the Academic Center at Gunn, or at our neighborhood elementary schools! Check out the list of off-campus Community Service opportunities in the Guidance Office.
Questions? Kim Cowell, kcowell@pausd.org, 354-8204.
 
     
     
 
EXPLORATORY EXPERIENCE AT GUNN.
Gunn logo   Some opportunities may qualify for credit in Exploratory Experience, an unpaid off-campus course that provides students with an opportunity to earn Career/Voc Ed credit while exploring their career interests by direct observation and hands-on experience.
Info: Meri Gyves, Guidance Office, mgyves@pausd.org,
354-8221 (Mon & Thu), 329-3816 (Tue & Fri).
 
     
     
 
GUNN PTSA.
Gunn High School
Gunn PTSA logo
everychild. onevoice.
  VOLUNTEER TO HELP at an event, OR TO SERVE on a committee or on the PTSA's Board! To find out what opportunities are available, or to volunteer, please contact Gunn PTSA President Darice Koo, dkoo4@comcast.net.
 
     
     


PALY

 
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT PALY.
Painting © 2002 Katie Morton   There are lots of ways to help our school and ways to help your fellow students! Have fun and earn Community Service hours, right on campus! See the new Community Service Board, just inside the main entrance to the Tower Building.
Questions? Christina Owen, in the C&CC, cowen@pausd.org, 329-3877.
 
     
     
 
EXPLORATORY EXPERIENCE AT PALY.
Viking logo   Some opportunities may qualify for credit in Exploratory Experience, an unpaid off-campus course that provides students with an opportunity to earn Career/Voc Ed credit while exploring their career interests by direct observation and hands-on experience.
Info: Meri Gyves, in the C&CC, mgyves@pausd.org,
354-8221 (Mon & Thu), 329-3816 (Tue & Fri).
 
     
     
 
PALY PTSA.
Palo Alto High School
Paly PTSA logo
everychild. onevoice.
  VOLUNTEER TO HELP at an event, OR TO SERVE on a committee or on the PTSA's Board! To find out what opportunities are available, or to volunteer, please contact Paly PTSA President Suzanne Attenborough, suzanne_attenborough@yahoo.com.
 
   
     
 
President's Service Award   ... at PALY
Twice a year, Paly holds a lunchtime ceremony for students who have earned the President's Service Award by performing 100+ hours of community service in any 12-month period.
Application Deadlines
Fri Oct 1
Fri Apr 1
Awards Ceremonies
Fri Dec 3
Fri Jun 3
[Details] (award levels, & how to apply)
Info: Christina Owen, cowen@pausd.org, 329-3877.
 
     
     


CITY & COMMUNITY

 
YOUTH COMMUNITY SERVICE (YCS)
YCS logo   is a local organization co-sponsored by PAUSD to promote youth volunteer service. Apply now for YCS Fellows, an eight-month leadership & service program. Want more ideas about volunteer opportunities in our area?
Visit the YCS website, or contact Leif Erickson, leif@youthcommunityservice.org, 617-8961. At volunteermatch.org, you can search for opportunities by interest & location.
 
     
     
 
YCS SUMMER OF SERVICE
YCS logo   Want to make a difference this summer? Register for YCS Summer of Service (SOS)!!! YCS SOS camp facilitates the development of student  leadership skills, and encourages students to meet new friends & have fun while helping out the community!
During camp students participate in community service at local organizations & learn how to tackle community issues. We also enjoy a fun day at Raging Waters and a closing celebration with a pool party!! Students also earn up to 20 community service hours!! This can be counted toward the Governors Award or Youth Presidential Award! Slots are filling up fast, so register today!! 
Registration: http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/recreation/enjoy
(In the printed Enjoy catalog, we are on pp. 22-23.)
Check out our Freshman Leadership Camp for incoming freshmen on page 23!
•
 Session 1 Mon Jun 20 - Fri July 1
•
 Session 2 Tue July 5 - Fri July 15
•
 Session 3 Mon July 18 - Fri July 29
•
 Session 4 Mon Aug 1 - Fri Aug 5 (one week)
Questions? Alicia Gregory, 650-858-8021, alicia@youthcommunityservice.org
 
     
     
 
CITY OF PALO ALTO -- ART CENTER
For art enthusiasts! Assist teachers in children's vacation art camps & Sunday family days. Be an art gallery greeter, or work in the art gallery shop. Help with data entry and mailings. Help with art materials preparation. Hours flexible. [info]
Contact: Rebecca Barbee, rebecca.barbee@cityofpaloalto.org, 329-2370.
 
     
     
 
TEEN LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD (T-LAB)
Students entering grades 6 thru 12: if you enjoy meeting people & want to make a difference in your public library, become a T-LAB volunteer. Members of T-LAB provide input about library programs, services & materials for teens. Meeting once a month at Mitchell Park Library, T-LAB participants help the library with artwork, writing reviews, helping with displays, working on Palo Alto Library’s teen webpage, or developing & presenting a special library program.
Application form: [click here] or get one at Main Library or Mitchell Park Library.
Details: [online], or call 329-2322. Questions: libraryteens@cityofpaloalto.org.
 
     
     
 
CITY OF PALO ALTO -- LIBRARY HOME CONNECTION
Library Home Connection provides a visit & delivery of materials to people who can't get to the library because of extended illness or long-term disability. The PA Library is seeking (1) people who could use this service, and (2) people who would like to volunteer. This could even be a great family acitivity--sharing the joy of reading with those in our community in need of a little hands-on help!
Info: Anita Delaney, Volunteer & Connection Coordinator, 650-617-3100 x3215, anita.delaney@cityofpaloalto.org.
 
     
     
 
CITY OF PALO ALTO -- RECREATION DEPT.
Many volunteer opportunities -- help with special events, assist in the office, apply to the Counselor in Training summer program, become a Science Camp Assistant, & much more. A few openings for individuals who want to help regularly in Junior Museum & Zoo. For an application, & more details, contact Virginia Gibbons, virginia.gibbons@cityofpaloalto.org, 463-4907.
 
     
     
 
ADOLESCENT COUNSELING SERVICES (ACS).
Ongoing need for help in office.
Contact: Nancy Contreras, nancy@acs-teens.org,
424-0852 x200.
 
     
     
 
COMMUNITY MEDIA CENTER.
Volunteers needed as camera persons, floor directors, & control room personnel. Shows are taped Mon-Fri evenings. Free orientation & training classes are available. During the school year, the Youth Advisory Council (10 high school students) meets weekly to discuss show ideas, produce content, and receive training on professional quality equipment. 10-hour minimum commitment.
Contact: Danielle Fairbairn, danielle@communitymediacenter.net, 494-8686 x37.
 
     
     
 
DOWNTOWN PALO ALTO FARMERS' MARKET
Work surrounded by fresh, healthy food, friendly people, live music, & PA's nicest foodies. Develop your expertise in local agriculture, retailing, marketing & food. The downtown PA Farmers Market has been run by volunteers since its founding in 1981. Proceeds from the market benefit Avenidas, our local senior services agency. Volunteers work under direction of the Market Manager to set up (or tear down) tables & equipment. Experienced volunteers may be allowed to assist growers in selling. Potential exists for experienced volunteers to assist in marketing the Farmers' Market online, and with planning or special events. Volunteers must be prompt, pleasant, attentive, & in good physical condition, able to lift 25 pounds. Four-week minimum commitment. All volunteers must sign a liability waiver.
Saturdays, Gilman Street, 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with at least a 30-min. break.
Location: behind Hamilton Ave. Post Office [map]
Dates:  Start, as soon as possible. End, Dec 19, when market closes for Winter.
Info: http://www.pafarmersmarket.org/.
Contact:  Phil Carter, pcarter@ymail.com, 650-492-4785.
 
   
     
 
Many volunteer opportunities for students & adults. Some are year-round or continuing; others relate to the monthly book sale, the 2nd Saturday each month.
•
 INTERNET SALES FULLFILLMENT.
FOPAL sells books & other media thru Amazon. Two of the three volunteers who have been handling listing & fulfillment of orders are retiring. Duties: receive order confirmations; find & ship ordered items within 24 to 48 hrs, & make sure the items get into the mail system.
Time commitment: 1 to 2 hours per day, 3 or 4 days a week.
•
 DELIVER EMPTY RED TUBS TO MAIN LIBRARY.
Can be done any day after Wednesday; Thu is preferred. Pick up empty red tubs from the FOPAL Main Book Room & deliver to PA Main Library. It helps to have a van or pickup truck, but it can be done with a wagon or SUV by making two trips when there are a lot of tubs. Time commitment: about 1 hour per week.
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 OFFICE SUPPLIES BUYER.
Stock & purchase office supplies used in FOPAL operations. Paper, pens, stickers, labels, etc. Keep track of supplies inventory and requests from FOPAL volunteers. Order (at store or online), using a FOPAL credit account or reimbursed by FOPAL. Good bargain hunting skills very useful! Manage OfficeMax Perks account, incl. returning used ink cartridges for credit.
Time requirement: about 2 to 3 hours per month.
•
 EBAY LISTINGS COORDINATOR.
FOPAL is adding eBay as a sales outlet. Duties: list items for sale & manage the account. This can be done mostly from your home. Knowledge of eBay is a plus; training is available. Time commitment: 4 to 6 hours per week.
•
 SALE DAY SATURDAY TICKET TAKER.
Organize the line & take tickets as buyers come in on Saturday morning. Ideal candidate has commanding or charismatic presence & is good with people. Time commitment: 10:45 a.m. to about noon, on sale-day Saturdays only.
•
 DATA ENTRY.
Temporary need for help with data entry & internet lookups for a collection of books on dolls & doll collecting.
Web site: http://www.friendspaloaltolib.org/
Info, or to volunteer: Jerry Stone, jpstone@gmail.com.
 
     
     
 
offers fun, rewarding, "done-in-a-day" projects on evenings & weekends -- sprucing up a park, food sorting, working with seniors, & more. Under 16, volunteer with a parent. Teens 16 to 18 can volunteer with a Minor Consent Form signed by a parent or guardian. Visit our web site to see which project is right for you.
Questions: info@handsonbayarea.org, 415-541-9616.
 
   
     
 
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF THE BAY AREA
Help teach citizenship classes! Teens work with adult volunteers to help adult students meet the requirements for becoming a US citizen. Volunteers make a 30-hour commitment & receive training.
Tuesdays, at Fair Oaks Community Center, 4 to 7 p.m.
Location: 2600 Middlefield Rd., Redwood City [map]
[web site]. Info, signups:  Sheryl Muñoz-Bergman, 650-780-7537.
 
     
     
 
Work with other volunteers at an international-themed gift shop that supports the work of the local United Nations Association. Hours flexible.
Contact Shelly Kosak, 326-3170.
 
     
     


KIDS / SCHOOL

 
PALO ALTO HOUSING CORP.
After-school homework helper needed Mondays & Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
A 5-minute walk from Paly, at Palo Alto Housing Corp's non-profit affordable housing property. Assist After School Program Leader with homework time for grades 1-5, hand out snack, lead storytime, supervise game time. Looking for an outgoing and mature high school student who loves working with kids.
Contact: Kate Young, kyoung@paloaltohousingcorp.org, 326-0111.
 
     
     
 
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF THE PENINSULA.
Come out and make a difference! Break away from your daily routines to spend time with our kids. One hour a week can truly make a difference in a child’s life! Spend that 1 hour –
•
 Assisting in the game room
•
 Coaching a sports team
•
 Reading to a child
•
 Teaching a life skills class -- cooking, computers, art, ...
•
 and many more!
Why volunteer?
•
 Experience in job training
•
 College Preparation
•
 Because helping people is rewarding and FUN!
To get started, complete & submit a volunteer application form, and contact our Volunteer Director to schedule a discussion about your interests and our current opportunities. You should be willing to commit to at least one hour per week of service for at least three months. We provide training and a background check.
Fall program, Sep-Dec.: opportunities offered after school, 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Info: Merilyn Tonga, mtonga@bgcp.org, 650-646-6062.
Find us on our [web site] and on [Volunteer Match].
 
     
     
 
NEW  BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF THE PENINSULA.
Taft Community School is looking for Summer Camp Counselors.
Mon-Fri 8:30-12:30. On Fridays everyone goes on field trips!
8:30-10:30 a.m., Academic Classes; Lunch; 11:30-12:30, Electives
We are looking for 4 to 8 volunteers. Volunteers can come as many days a week as they are able -- ideally, at least two days a week. If you are interested or know anyone who would be interested in the summer program, please have them contact:
Merilyn Tonga, mtonga@bgcp.org, 650-646-6062.
 
     
     
 
BUILDING FUTURES NOW,
a non-profit organization in East Palo Alto, works with 4th- and 5th-graders from nine different schools. Volunteers needed between 3:30 and 5:30 on Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays, to be tutors with our students. Volunteer tutors help our students as "homework buddies" and/or "reading buddies."  Volunteers are needed to help students with their homework, plan fun activities for recess time and read with students who finish their homework early.
Must be willing to commit to 1 day per week for 3 months.
Contact: Alison Upton Lopez, alopez@buildingfuturesnow.org, 380-9038.
 
     
     
 
EAST PALO ALTO TENNIS & TUTORING
needs volunteer academic tutors! We're a nonprofit youth development org at Stanford, offering free tennis instruction & one-on-one academic tutoring to kids in grades K-6. We prefer Juniors & Seniors who can commit to 2x per week, 4:30 to 6 p.m. Will consider mature frosh/sophs with strong academic records. Taube Tennis Stadium is 5-10 minutes walk from Paly.
Info. www.epatt.org, or volunteer@epatt.org, 725-4450.
 
     
     
 
"I HAVE A DREAM" -- EPA.
Help students in East Palo Alto. (During the school year, not summer.)
Contact Taylor Martin, tmartin@buildingfuturesnow.org, 650-520-8480.
 
   
     
 
PAUSD SUMMER SCHOOL.
For students entering grades 9, 10, 11 & 12 in August 2010. Student Aides needed Mon Jun 21 to Fri Jul 16 for summer school programs:
•
 Elementary Math Intervention, at Barron Park, 8:30 to 12:30 each day;
•
 Middle-School Reading & Math Intervention at JLS, 8:00 to 12:15 each day.
You can be paid, or you can receive Community Service Hours.
Apply at the PAUSD Classified Human Resources Office, 25 Churchill, 329-3957.
Questions? Contact Wendy Velez, wvelez@pausd.org, 329-3769.
 
   
     
 
seeks volunteers to serve during the school year, as little as 1 hour a week, as reading tutors for elementary school children from underserved communities who are reading below grade level. Volunteering is flexible, simple, effective, & fun -- about 87% of our students narrow the achievement gap. Locations available throughout the Bay Area, including EPA, Menlo Park, Atherton, & Mountain View.
Interested? For info & orientation schedule, click here, or contact Jennifer Ginorio, jennifer@readingpartners.org, 408-945-5720.
 
   
     
 
ROSALIE RENDU CENTER -- HOMEWORK CLUB.
Assist in the after-school study program, Homework Club, at the Center.
Tuesdays or Thursdays 3:30 to 5:30. Must be in 11th grade or older.
1760 Bay Road #24, EPA. [map]
Info: http://www.rosalie-rendu-center.org
Contact: Sister Trinitas Hernandez, rosalierendu@att.net, 473-9522.
 
     
     
 
ST. ELIZABETH SETON SCHOOL.
September thru end of May. Homework Help, Tutoring, Sports, Arts. Activity 3:30 to 4:30, and you're welcome to stay until 5:30.
Age 16 and older, please!
Contact Teresa Lund, teresalund_2000@yahoo.com, 326-9004.
 
   
     
 
SEAN -- COLLEGE READINESS FOR ALL.
SEAN, the Student Equity Action Network, is a student-led 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that is working towards closing the achievement gap and towards college readiness for all in our community. We help underserved students with college plans and provide resources to help them achieve their goals.  This is a great place to get leadership & community service experience.  We need volunteers for
•
 research, outreach, & advocacy projects;
•
 web site, social media, & marketing;
•
 grant writing and fund raising;
•
 mentoring, college planning, & tutoring.
Lead your project. Hours flexible.
Info: www.pasean.org, or Tremaine Kirkman, info@pasean.org
 
     
     
 
BECOME A SEAN FELLOW.
SEAN has openings for the 2010-2011 academic year in its Fellows Program -- a paid leadership position. Earn a $300 stipend while you gain community service and leadership experience. You will focus on a high-impact research project that will be published under your name as a SEAN Briefing Paper, and you will also be involved in important outreach and advocacy projects. Lead your project, hours flexible.
Info & application: Tremaine Kirkman, info@pasean.org.
 
     
   
     
 
WALTER HAYS ELEMENTARY.
Three teachers need classroom help after school. Details, see the "Big Blue Bulletin Board" or contact Christina Owen (in the C&CC), cowen@pausd.org.
 
     
     


KIDS / SPORTS

 
PALO ALTO AYSO --
is looking for high school students interested in volunteering with a special-needs kids' soccer program this Fall. Volunteers will be "buddy" volunteers to help kids play soccer, cheer, and provide encouragement, assisting with drills and other aspects of the game. No experience needed. Meets this Fall on Sundays, at Hoover Park, Palo Alto, from 1:30 to 3:00. Any days you can come will be appreciated!
Info: Chuck Malone, c_t_malone@yahoo.com, 650-856-8010.
 
   
     
 
PALO ALTO FAMILY YMCA.
The Palo Alto Family YMCA builds strong kids, strong families & strong communities.
Volunteer opportunities for teens in youth programs, sports, special events & administration. Contact Judith Don, jdon@ymcamidpen.org, 856-YMCA (856-9622).
 
     
     
 
U.S. YOUTH VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE.
SOPHOMORES, JUNIORS, & SENIORS:  BE AN ASST COACH/COORDINATOR --
have fun, work with kids, and earn community service hours!
Sat Sep 10,
    10 a.m.		 Mandatory Coaches' Clinic at Mitchell Park.

Mon Sep 12
   to Sat Nov 5

 Practices, at Mitchell Park. We prefer to have a commitment for the season. We can be flexible, & won't require a commitment for every practice, but we need to know, ahead of time, which practices you can attend, to ensure that we have enough volunteers. Volleyball experience preferred but not required. On Nov 5, we'll have a get-together to thank everyone for helping during the season!
Info & signups:  Jeri Gloege, jeri.gloege@gmail.com, 283-1677.
 
     
     


HEALTH / SAFETY

 
STANFORD STUDY SEEKS MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS
Stanford Psychology Dept's Mood & Anxiety Disorders Lab is conducting a study of mothers who have suffered from depression in the past and their 9-to-15 year old daughters, to better understand how they think & process information. Long-term goal: to improve treatments for emotional disorders. The study involves visiting Stanford University a few times to participate in interviews, perform game-like computer tasks, & fill out questionnaires. Most girls also have a brain scan, & take home a picture of their brain as a souvenir. $40/hour for 3 to 10 hours over up to three visits. Info: Jessica Gallagher, 736-2318, http://mood.stanford.edu.
 
     
     
 
AMERICAN RED CROSS, Palo Alto Area
Many opportunities -- [click for info]. Examples:
(1) "SAFE RIDE" program, run by & for high-school students, provides free & confidential rides home on Fri/Sat nights, 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Volunteers answer phone, navigate, & drive Red Cross vehicles, typically working at least 4 or 5 times per year.
(2) Call for interesting afternoon & summer projects, including data entry, facilities support, & office support.
Contact: Margot Harrigan, mharrigan@paarc.org, 650-688-0431.
 
     
     
 
Volunteer for Facilitator Assistant, Phone Support, Stroke Awareness, Community Outreach, Media Relations, and Web Designer / Computer Tech. Info: http://www.psastroke.org/volunteer.html.
Contact: Joe Caruso, joe@psastroke.org, 650-565-8485.
 
     
     
 
STANFORD BLOOD CENTER
Be a part of the Stanford Blood Center team! Most of our volunteer positions involve interaction with blood donors & medical personnel. All our volunteer positions help us achieve our goal of providing blood products to patients in need. Volunteers may choose among positions at our donor centers (in Palo Alto & Mountain View), or at blood drives located throughout the Peninsula & South Bay at companies, schools, community organizations, etc.
Contact: Tessa Moore, tessamoore@stanford.edu, 650-723-6795.
 
     
     
 
VETERANS' HOSPITALS
Clinical and administrative work, at VA Hospital in Palo Alto (near Gunn) or Menlo Park. Must be 14 or above, & work min. 4 hrs/wk. Call 493-5000 x65800.
 
     
     


SENIORS / DISABLED

 
CHANNING HOUSE
is a skilled nursing facility and retirement home. Volunteers visit with residents & assist with bingo, word games, arts & crafts, special events, & parties. During the holidays, there are musical programs & art projects that volunteers can be involved in as one-time service projects. We also love to have music programs come visit & bring their special programs.
Contact : Suzan Gabin, sgabin@channinghouse.org, or leave msg at 324-7572.
 
     
     
 
TECH HEROES PROGRAM
of the HEROIC IMAGINATION PROJECT
Technology has become a vital part of our everyday life, but unfortunately not for our seniors. More often than not, they are left behind. The Tech Heroes program connects youth & seniors through technology, to help seniors learn to communicate with their families, access new media, & find information they need. Beginning in September, work on site with residents at Sunrise Senior Living Center in Palo Alto, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. One-on-one tutoring will be the primary teaching strategy in this self-paced learning environment. One of the milestones of the program will be capturing for posterity hero stories from the residents. Not only will this likely generate some fascinating stories just about to be forgotten, but it will also help create a deeper engagement between the student and the seniors. Connecting youth who are steeped richly in the technology with those who are rich in heritage will provide measurable and meaningful benefits to both groups.
Info & signups: Clint Wilkins, Director of Education,
clint@heroicimagination.org, 949-433-7815.
 
     
     
 
LYTTON GARDENS
Change a life with a smile! Lytton Gardens (in downtown Palo Alto) is home to a diverse population of over 500 low-income seniors who have amazing stories to share. Lytton welcomes friendly volunteers who want to connect with residents & brighten their days. Ways to get involved: go for walks or play games with a senior, bring your pet to visit, take a senior out for ice cream, help a senior with his or her computer, host Bingo or crafts projects, etc.
To join the Caring Connections Volunteer Program, write to volunteer@lyttongardens.org, or contact Bethany Dinh, bdinh@lyttongardens.org,
617-7367, or Janette Herceg, jherceg@lyttongardens.org, 617-7355.
Very flexible hours; 20 hrs minimum. Orientation required.
 
     
     
 
SPECIAL OLYMPICS, SILICON VALLEY REGION.
Coaching opportunities for students 16 & up. Younger students may participate with a parent or with a friend or sibling over 16. Year-round program. Practice sites vary throughout county. Volunteer orientation (required) will be held as needed.
[info] Contact: Renee Ontiveros, reneeo@sonc.org, 408-392-0170 x204.
 
     
     


FOOD / SHELTER

 
COMMUNITY SERVICES AGENCY
Help with organization & distribution of food to low-income & homeless individuals & families. Individuals age 16 & older are welcome; also 12-15-year-olds with an adult. 3-hour work shifts available Mon-Fri.
Contact: Alison Hopkins, ahopkins@csacares.org, 964-4630.
 
   
     
 
ECUMENICAL HUNGER PROGRAM
provides boxes of food to meet basic nutritional needs of families & individuals experiencing temporary emergency needs or special circumstances. Help is welcome for a range of jobs including sorting food & clothing, packing food boxes, interviewing clients, & data entry.
Contact: Donald Hunter, info@ehpcares.org, 323-7781 x25.
 
     
     
 
INNVISION PENINSULA PROGRAMS.
Assist us in our mission to provide food, housing & self-sufficiency for the homeless & very poor in our area --
•
 help the downtown Food Closet distribute bags of groceries;
•
 help with the daily Breaking Bread Hot Meals program;
•
 help sort donated clothing at the Clothes Closet;
•
 organize a donation drive for non-perishable food items, towels, blankets, toiletries, new underwear, jeans, socks, sweatshirts, etc.;
Visit our web site for other volunteer opportunities, or contact
Trina Lovercheck, tlovercheck@innvision.org, 853-7076 x205.
 
   
     
 
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK
needs volunteers to help sort food for our low-income families & seniors.  Each month, Second Harvest Food Bank provides food to more than 42,000 low-income families & seniors in San Mateo County.
Contact:Rita Guntern, rguntern@shfoodbank.org, 650-610-0800 x415.
 
   
     
 
TEEN ADVOCACY COUNCIL (TAC).
A new program! My New Red Shoes seeks passionate teenagers to join the Teen Advocacy Council (TAC) to make a difference in their community while earning college credit. TAC is a four-month (late Jan to late Apr) after-school service-learning leadership program for high school students. TAC centers on homelessness & poverty to empower students to become leaders, advocates, & activists in support of their homeless peers. Meetings will be Tuesday afternoons, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at the Burgess Recreation Center, 700 Alma St, Menlo Park. [map] Participating students can earn community service hours. Juniors & seniors also earn 3 units of college credit from SF State University. [Web site] [Application form for TAC]
Info session at Paly: Tue Jan 20, ERC (in the Library), Lunch (11:40-12:20). [map]
Questions, becca@mynewredshoes.org.
 
     
     


HOMES / CONSTRUCTION

 
PENINSULA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
helps low-income families build & buy their own homes. Volunteers can help build houses, work in the office, help with newsletter, or assist with children's activities. (You must be 16+ to work at a construction site.)
Contact: Jamin Sartor, volunteer@peninsulahabitat.org, 650-568-7342.
 
     
     
 
REBUILDING TOGETHER PENINSULA
Many opportunities --
- at a Project Site doing yard clean-up, painting, or repair;
- in the Office, filing, mailing, phone calls, data entry, photocopying, computer work, web design & maintenance;
- in the Warehouse, helping organize, inventory, & maintain materials & supplies.
Contact: Susie Shanahan, info@rebuildingtogetherpeninsula.org, 366-6597 x230.
 
     
     


ANIMALS / ENVIRONMENT

 
NEW  COASTAL CLEANUP DAY EVENTS
ON PALO ALTO CREEKS.
This is one of two cleanup events each year to remove trash from the banks & creeks. Most of the work involves picking up trash in & near the creeks. Volunteers are encouraged to wear long pants & sturdy shoes. Participants in this event can earn three community service hours.
Sat Sep 17, many locations, 8:30 a.m. to noon. [Santa Clara County map]
Volunteers are still needed on San Francisquito & Matadero Creeks. To register:
•
 Matadero Creek: Maree Doden, 329-2495, maree.doden@cityofpaloalto.org
•
 San Francisquito Creek: Arnie Thompson, 962-9876 x310, arniet@acterra.org
Experienced volunteers from past events, who might help lead work teams, would be greatly appreciated on these creeks and also on Adobe Creek -- please contact Jim McCarthy, 424-9366, jim_mccarthy@acm.org.
There will be some opportunities for working from a canoe or kayak on Matadero and Adobe Creeks. [details]
Details for these and other Santa Clara County sites, plus contacts & registration info: http://www.cleanacreek.org/.
Watch for Creek Cleanup Day in May, too!
 
     
     
 
ACTERRA
Help preserve the environment by volunteering for Acterra in Palo Alto --
(1) Mondays & Thursdays (11 to 3), volunteer at the Native Plant Nursery next to Foothills Park
Info, signups, & directions, Deanna Giuliano, nursery@acterra.org, 650-949-3158.
(2) Wednesday Weed Warriors -- Wednesdays May-Sept, 6 to 8 p.m., help combat weeds at the Pearson-Arastradero Preserve. [map]
Questions? Contact Miriam Sachs Martín, arastradero@acterra.org.
(3) Habitat Restoration Days -- 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month (except August), 9 to 1, work at the Pearson-Arastradero Preserve (removing invasive plants, installing, watering and monitoring native plants, etc.). For this activity, you must register online and also bring waiver signed by your parent or guardian. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing & bring a refillable water bottle. [map]
Questions? Contact Miriam Sachs Martín, arastradero@acterra.org.
 
   
     
 
CANOPY
Help maintain & care for city trees in Palo Alto & EPA --
Contact us about Fall planting and other volunteer opportunities!
Contact Sharon Kelly,  sharon@canopy.org, 964-6110 x2.
 
     
     
 
COYOTE POINT MUSEUM
Several volunteer opportunities available for teens (age 13-17) who care about animals & the environment: work with the Wildlife Keepers, educate visitors about local wildlife, train to handle education animals; facilitate hands-on science & art activities, and more. Most volunteer positions require an ongoing commitment. Some opportunities for short-term service. Send in your application and we will contact you to discuss the possibilities.
Info & volunteer application: www.coyoteptmuseum.org, or contact Lee Cauble, Volunteer Manager, 650-340-7580, lcauble(at)coyoteptmuseum.org.
 
   
     
 
GREENWASTE
Need Community Service Hours? Want to help summer events be zero waste? We're looking for committed, responsible, people-oriented individuals to volunteer at events this summer. The volunteers will be stationed at “eco-stations”, educating the public and acting as recycling-compost-garbage experts. They will be trained on what is recyclable, what is compostable, and what has to go in the garbage. Their role will be to pass this knowledge on to the public and help us keep the bins uncontaminated. We need volunteers for
•
 Clay and Glass Festival
Sat-Sun Jul 10-11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
•
 Art and Wine Festival
Sat-Sun Aug 28-29, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
You need to commit to at least 3 hours.
Contact: Zea Luce, GreenWaste, zluce@greenwaste.com, 650-799-3213.
 
   
     
 
HIDDEN VILLA
An organic farm and wilderness preserve in Los Altos Hills, dedicated to teaching about the environment. Volunteers can work in the organic vegetable garden (Wednesdays 9:30-12:30, followed by optional potluck lunch) or in the ornamental gardens (Fridays 9:30-12:30 and some Saturdays 10:00-1:00). No experience necessary. Commitment can be one-time or ongoing. Contact: Nayna Patel, volunteers@hiddenvilla.org, 949-8655.
 
     
     
 
PALO ALTO JUNIOR MUSEUM & ZOO
Join our group of teenage volunteers (must be at least 14). If you like children, animals, and nature, this is the place for you. Be a Discovery Guide by volunteering in the Exhibit Hall and Zoo, or volunteer behind-the-scenes with the Exhibits or Zoo, or help with Special Events. To learn more, visit us online at www.cityofpaloalto.org/jmz
 
     
     
 
PENINSULA HUMANE SOCIETY
Junior Volunteer Program runs Jun-Aug, for students age 15 to 17. Provide support to clinic volunteers & shift captains. Primary duties involve food preparation, dishwashing, cleaning & sanitizing cages, etc. Junior Volunteers do not directly handle animals. On completing the program, you may be invited back as a Clinic Volunteer. To work hands-on with animals, you must take the Basic Training class. Available shifts in Palo Alto & other locations, 7 days a week, 11 to 2 and 3 to 6.
[info] Contact: Brian Probst, bprobst@phs-spca.org, 340-7022 x 328.
 
     
     
 
SAVE THE BAY
Monthly Saturday projects, or the possibility of setting up your own group projects.
Save The Bay relies on volunteers to make our campaigns and programs a success. Whether you plant marsh gum plant along the banks of San Francisquito Creek, distribute info at local events, or stuff envelopes in our office, we need your help to celebrate, protect, & restore San Francisco Bay.
Info, http://www.saveSFbay.org, 510-452-9261, savebay@saveSFbay.org.
 
     
     


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