According to 2013 figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 63 million U.S. residents volunteered at least once last year. While that is roughly one-quarter of the nation’s population, the number represents a decline of more than one percent in the volunteer rate – now at its lowest point in more than a decade.
There is perhaps no better time to help counter this downward trend. April is National Volunteer Month, which is intended to emphasize the importance of serving the community. Events and opportunities on the Northside and throughout Minneapolis will coincide with state and national happenings occurring over the course of the month, making it an ideal occasion to pitch in.
Volunteering is an equal opportunity endeavor. There are opportunities for everybody to get involved in some cause, regardless of their areas of interest. Leading a busy life needn’t be an impediment to making a difference. While some organizations have minimum time commitments, many others welcome any contribution – no matter how brief or sporadic – from community members.
People typically think of volunteering as benefiting the cause being served, whether that is a group of individuals, the environment, or some other recipient. As any volunteer can attest to, however, serving provides many personal benefits. Volunteering can allow individuals to build workforce skills while developing stronger leadership abilities and nurturing their own well-being.
Volunteering on the Northside represents a way to improve safety and increase opportunity for all Camden residents. Serving provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with the community in stronger ways. Families can grow closer while serving together, meanwhile benefiting neighbors and area institutions – such as schools, arts organizations, and community centers.
When people are invested in creating a better quality of life in the community, everyone benefits. Kick things off early in the month – and carry on the habit.
Following is just a small sampling of opportunities available to Camden residents:
v Help in our parks. In addition to organizing the annual Minneapolis Earth Day Clean Up (see article pag 1), the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board provides additional opportunities to volunteer. People are needed to coach youth sports, lead park classes, complete gardening projects and help at special events. Learn more about individual and group volunteer projects at volunteers@minneapolisparks.org or 612-313-7779.
v Assist in our libraries. The Hennepin County Library features opportunities for people of all ages to volunteer. Adults can provide homework assistance to K–12 students or help nontraditional learners improve English skills, prepare for GED exams or ready for occupational assessments. Teen volunteers can work with books, create displays, assist with library programming, and serve in other roles. People interested can visit hclib.org or call 612-543-8633.
v Get involved in a neighborhood association. Each of Camden’s seven neighborhoods has a group of people who organize events and engage with residents on area issues. People can join in community-building efforts in a wide range of roles. From volunteering at a community forum to joining an association committee, there are many opportunities to improve the quality of life in a neighborhood while getting to know others who live there. Get neighborhood association contact information on pages 8 and 9.
v Join a block club. While warmer April temperatures lift the spirit after a cold winter, the crime rate also rises in spring and summer months. People who want to be part of the solution can join a block or apartment club. Crime prevention specialists from the Minneapolis Police Department train volunteers to work with neighbors to lower crime and improve the quality of life in a location. To learn more contact crime.prevention@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-5704.
v Volunteer in a school. Many Camden Community parents already volunteer in schools attended by their children. People who aren’t necessarily parents, however, can also join in the effort to improve learning and achievement among students in Minneapolis Public Schools. Volunteers, under the supervision of a classroom teacher or school staff person, tutor individuals or groups of students in diverse subject areas. For more info contact volunteermps@mpls.k12.mn.us or 612-668-3880.
v Help a senior. Many initiatives benefit seniors in the community, including the Neighborhood Involvement Program. Some volunteers help those 60 and over complete chores such as cleaning, lawn mowing and minor home maintenance. Other participants make social visits or arrange recreational activities for people who live alone or in nursing homes. Individuals who are interested can contact seniors@neighborhoodinvolve.org or 612-374-3322.
If none of these volunteer options have appeal, pursuing opportunities through a house of worship, an employer, or a civic organization can result in the right placement. There are also many different websites that provide leads for making a difference in the community. HandsOn Twin Cities (handsontwincities.org), VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org), and the Corporation for National and Community Service (nationalservice.gov) are just a few.