Looking for a way to beat summer boredom? Eager to engage in the community? Volunteering is an excellent way for students to build their resumes, meet new people, and most importantly, make a difference in others' lives.
There are many excellent volunteer opportunities in the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area, but to make the search a bit easier, The Eastern Echo has compiled a list of four organizations in the area that are looking for volunteers.
Washtenaw Literacy
Students with a passion for teaching may shine as tutors with Washtenaw Literacy. This nonprofit provides tutoring in reading, writing, math, digital skills, and English as a second language to adults 16 and older in Washtenaw County.
No prior experience is required to become a tutor, so for students who would like to develop their teaching skills and build their resume, Washtenaw Literacy provides an excellent opportunity. Tutors must be 18 or older and must commit to volunteering about three hours a week for four to six months.
The first step for prospective tutors is to attend the ABCs of Washtenaw Literacy, a free information session offered both online and in person. On June 12, an in-person session will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. at Schuler Books, located at 2513 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor. For those who cannot attend in person, there is also an online session on June 17 from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Prospective volunteers can RSVP for either session on Washtenaw Literacy's website.
For more information, email info@washtenawliteracy.org or call 734-337-3338.
The Corner Health Center
Located at 47 N. Huron Street in Ypsilanti, the Corner Health Center offers physical and mental health care to young people moving into adulthood. Although it is not a free clinic, it offers services to anyone regardless of insurance or financial status.
The Corner offers several different volunteer opportunities. In-person options include working in the Corner Store and Food Pantry, providing outreach support at events, and mentoring youth. The Corner also offers remote volunteer opportunities, such as designing social media posts and researching relevant health topics. Time commitment and location vary depending on the volunteer activity.
To get started, fill out the Volunteer Interest Form on the Corner's website.
Work and Play Disability Community Center
Located at 444 N. Hewitt Road in Ypsilanti, the Work and Play Disability Community Center provides programs and support for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Programs include the Cheerabilities Squad for athletes with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, the upcoming Inclusive Summer Art Program, and the Life Skills Cooking Program. The center also offers support groups and fun activities such as game nights.
Volunteers do not need any prior experience, and there are many different opportunities. Whether volunteers want to help with center programs and events, create social media posts, raise funds, or advocate in their communities, they can find a meaningful activity at the center.
To get started, fill out the Volunteer Form on the center's website. Those interested in volunteering can also follow the Work and Play Center on Instagram or Facebook for more information.
Peace Neighborhood Center
Located at 1111 N. Maple Road in Ann Arbor, the Peace Neighborhood Center provides academic support, after school programs, leadership development opportunities, and a supportive community for children and teenagers. It also offers services for families, such as the Family Enrichment Program and the recently-launched Wellness Program.
Peace offers several enriching volunteer opportunities. For instance, the center is currently looking for volunteers to tutor students in kindergarten through high school during the after school programs. Tutors will help students with their homework and provide academic support for core subjects, such as reading and math. They are expected to meet with a student at least once a week throughout the fall, winter, or spring semester.
To get started, prospective tutors should fill out the online volunteer application on Peace's website and contact Anabel Cruz at acruz@peaceneighborhoodcenter.org to schedule a tutor orientation.
Volunteers can also help with food distribution. Peace partners with Food Gatherers to distribute fresh, healthy food to about 40 families every week on Friday mornings. From 8:30 am to 12 pm on Fridays, volunteers unload, organize, and bag food; help with distribution; and clean up the space after distribution. Food distribution volunteers must be at least 16 years old and able to lift at least 25 pounds.
To learn more about food distribution volunteer opportunities, call 734-662-3564 or email MaryAnn Johnson at mjohnson@peaceneighborhoodcenter.org.
