The Volunteer Center

February 2025 - Newsletter

Wed, 14 May 2025 20:23:37 GMT

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The Volunteer Center in Our Community

MLK Day of Service 2025 A Record Breaking Success!

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 17:23:19 GMT

MLK Day of Service 2025 A Record Breaking Success!

January 20th 2025 marked the 22nd Annual MLK Day of Service. Over the years, this day has offered various projects to support our nonprofit partners, but the mission of promoting volunteerism and service has always remained constant.

January 20th 2025 was a record-breaking event with the following achievements:

- 240 blankets donated to Betsy's Blankets

- 500 dog treats made for Orphans of the Storm

- 100 door hangers created for senior living facilities

- 400+ cards decorated with uplifting messages for veterans, children in hospitals, and immigrants

- 200 toiletry kits packed for Grace Network

- 200 gift bags packed for Holiday Heroes

These accomplishments were made possible by:

60 Volunteer Center volunteers

450+ community members

None of this could have happened without your unwavering support. Thank you for helping make this event a resounding success!

*Special thanks to Site Hosts the Community House Winnetka and Sponsor Warner Institute

December 2024 - Newsletter

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:43:01 GMT

December Newsletter

Support the Volunteer Center This Giving Season!

This year, your generosity can go even further! Thanks to a generous donor, every dollar donated today to The Volunteer Center will be matched up to $10,000. That means every gift will be doubled, helping us maintain our programming and support local nonprofits, service groups, and countless volunteers making a difference.

�� How Your Gift Helps:

Funds new initiatives, like our growing Junior Board for young volunteers

Expands resources to support over 100 local nonprofits through volunteer assistance

Strengthens community programs like Make A Difference Day, ensuring they continue to thrive year after year

Let’s make twice the impact together! �� Whether you can give $50 or $500, your donation on Giving Tuesday will create lasting change.

�� Click Here to Donate
�� or send via Zelle to treasurer@volunteercenterhelps.org.

Read Full Newsletter Here →

November 2024 - Newsletter

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 23:26:02 GMT

So Much To Be Grateful For

As we enter this season of thanks, The Volunteer Center has so much to be grateful for.

October 2024 - Newsletter

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 20:59:03 GMT

Make A Difference Day

Saturday, October 26th

Start collecting goods to donate!

Our annual Make A Difference collection drop off will be held Saturday, October 26, 9am - noon , at the Indian Hill Train Station Parking Lot in Winnetka - corner of Green Bay Road and Winnetka Avenue.

We once again have a great variety of nonprofits that have clients in great need. Below are the nonprofits and the goods they have requested.

IMPORTANT: please only donate what is on the list and make sure to SORT, BAG & TAG with the name of the recipient nonprofit. It makes the drive-thru much quicker for you all.
To see a complete list of nonprofits and what they are collecting see the bottom of this newsletter or visit VolunteerCenterHelps.org
Thank you!

Read Full Newsletter Here →

September 2024 - Newsletter

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 20:10:01 GMT

Volunteer Opportunities For All!

Volunteer opportunities for all ages and abilities is a core value of the Volunteer Center mission.

Visit and search VolunteerCenterHelps.org to find the right volunteer opportunity for you. Need help? Let us know. With deep knowledge of our 160 nonprofit partners needs, we can help you connect.

Click here to send us an email.

Read Full Newsletter Here →

August 2024 - Newsletter

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 20:01:57 GMT

Kicking Off A New Season!

It's been a great summer for the Volunteer Center and we're ready to hit the ground running this Fall with tabling events at the Wilmette Farmers Market on August 24th , the Christ Church Rummage Sale on October 3 .

Read Full Newsletter Here →

Better.net Awards the Volunteer Center Grant for “You Said It” Essay

Wed, 08 May 2024 19:28:05 GMT

The Volunteer Center is grateful to receive a Better Grant based on a “You Said It” essay that Executive Director Bridget Lewis submitted to Better Magazine, highlighting the many personal benefits of volunteering your time in service to others.

Better, part of Make It Better Foundation, identifies, supports, and promotes the most impactful nonprofits in their sector, accelerating their efforts to make life, and the world, better. The Volunteer Center is also grateful to Better for their valuable support as a Premiere Community Sponsor — further evidence of their deep commitment to making a difference in our community.

click here to read the article in better magazine

Looking to plan a service project for your family, business or community group? We’d love to help. Email us at info@volunteercenterhelps.org.

Looking to Make A Difference During the Holidays? Find Out How You Can Help Here!

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 20:28:16 GMT

‘Tis the season when many of our nonprofit partners are looking for a little extra help. Take a look at our Directory of Holiday Opportunities here — and make sure you visit this page often, as we will be adding new opportunities throughout the holiday season. You can also peruse our Directory of Nonprofits and reach out to them directly to see if they need volunteers.

BE A HOLIDAY HERO

Cancer patients and their families have a lot on their plate, especially during the holidays — but it’s not always food. This holiday season, through Culinary Care, you can fill their plates with hope, joy and critical nourishment when you give them access to one free meal — or a full year of meals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, AND TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN HELP, CLICK HERE .

Three Ways to Help New Trier Township Support Those in Need During the HolidaysCaring Neighbors

Caring Neighbors

Provide holiday gifts to NT Township resident families facing financial hardship.

Food Gift Cards
Provide hope and holiday cheer to NT Township Food Pantry clients by providing food gift cards that allow them to purchase their favorite holiday treats and enjoy a special holiday meal.

Organize a Food Drive for the NTT Food Pantry
This is a fun project for your friends, family, school or community group. Help the Food Pantry stock up at a time of year when the need is greater than usual, because children are home from school, and their regular donor base is on vacation.

For more information, and to find out how you can participate, click here.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOPE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY SUPPORTING LAWRENCE HALL’S ANNUAL WISH LIST HOLIDAY DRIVE

Request and Fulfill a Wish List for an at-risk youth
Organize a Gift Drive for your church, office or community group
Shop Our Amazon Wish List and send gifts directly to Lawrence Hall.
Contribute to Our Gift Card Drive that allows older youth to shop for what they need themselves.
Donate Cash Online to the Lawrence Hall Wish List Fund, and we’ll make sure every child has a gift to open.

For more information, to sign up, or to donate, CLICK HERE .

BRIGHTEN THE HOLIDAYS FOR A CNE FAMILY!

Childcare Network of Evanston is hosting its Holiday Gift Card Drive again this year, providing holiday gifts for children and families in their program. Their goal is to collect enough gift card donations to provide EACH CNE family with gift cards that will allow them to purchase: $50 in gifts for each enrolled child; $50 in gifts for each additional child in their household; $50 worth of food to make their holiday meals special.

For more information or to make a donation, Click Here .

LAMBS FARM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS FOR BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Breakfast With Santa is one of Lambs Farm’s most beloved annual events, that not only provides a festive lunch and a magical “safe” visit with Santa for visiting families, but also helps raise funds to support the many programs for developmentally disabled residents of Lambs Farm.

Volunteers are needed to help in the Cafe and the Visitors Center on December 9,10,16,17.

For more information about Lambs Farm or Breakfast with Santa, Click Here .

To register as a volunteer, email Angela Ramert at asr@lambsfarm.org or call 847-990-3864.

Support Junior League of Evanston-North Shore “Toys for tots” collection

JLE-NS is holding a donation drive for the Toys for Tots program this holiday season. You can support this program by dropping off your donations of new and unwrapped toys to the following locations: Community House Winnetka , 620 Lincoln Avenue in Winnetka, Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty , 2934 Central Street in Evanston, or Pure Barre , 910 Church Street in Evanston.

We will be collecting donations through December 15th.

For more information, click here .

Prepare Holiday Stockings for the Homeless

Every holiday season The night Ministry distributes over 1,000 holiday stockings filled with essentials like thermal socks, personal care items, winter hats, gloves, and more. Volunteer to help prepare them!

For more information email luke@thennightministry.org

Provide Secret Santa Gifts for Intellectually Disabled Residents at Glenkirk

The Glenkirk Holiday Gift Drive is an annual event that aims to ensure that each individual in our residential program receives a holiday gift. Gift lists are provided to assist volunteers in selecting thoughtful gifts.

For more information email cmayfield@glenkirk.org

Provide Gift Cards to Families With Young Children So They Can Shop for Their Children’s Christmas Wishes

The Infant Welfare Society of Evanston (IWSE) invites you to support our families with young children by purchasing gift cards for the parents to use to shop for and select gifts that are perfect for their children.

For more information, click here

Volunteers for Shore Holiday Parties

Volunteers are needed to help with Shore day programs on December 15th, 20th and 21st.

For more information, click here

Help Commemorate the 22nd ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11. Celebrate Local Heroes During Our Annual 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:28:32 GMT

Monday, September 11, 2023

The Volunteer Center’s Annual DAY OF SERVICE AND REMEMBRANCE is a terrific opportunity to say “thank you” to the local heroes we count on every day — and to commemorate the heroes of 9/11.

Calling all grateful individuals, families, friends, service organizations and community groups
to express their gratitude to local police, firefighters and emergency personnel by dropping by with:

Cards or letters
Children’s artwork depicting their heroism
PURCHASED bakery goods
Other expressions of personal gratitude

No need to RSVP, just visit your local fire/police stations and say thank you

Let us know you participated. Send an email and photos to info@VolunteerCenterHelps.org

This project is sponsored annually by the Volunteer Center: www.volunteercenterhelps.org

Register Now for our November 7th Nonprofit Workshop “Grow: How Organizations Can Use META to Build Communities, Raise Awareness and Fundraise”

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 19:45:29 GMT

The Volunteer Center invites all Nonprofit Executive Directors, Communications Managers and Development Chairs to a results-based workshop addressing all of your questions about social media and Meta!

Lead by global brand professional Mack Reynolds, we’ll be exploring questions like “How can I build an active online community?”, “How can social media help me raise money?” “How can I find and work with social media creators and influencers to build my following?” “What exactly is Meta, and why do I care?”

Monday, November 7th
11:30 AM
Clarkson Lodge at Clarkson Park
1950 New Willow Road, Northfield
Box Lunch Included

Whether you’re already doing it — or don’t really understand why Meta matters to you — you’ll come away with hands-on strategies that will give you the tools and confidence you need to take maximum advantage of this business-building social media platform. This is a can’t miss opportunity for all nonprofit leaders who are looking to unlock the mystery of Meta!

Presenter Mack Reynolds leads team building strategies to help businesses, nonprofits and organizations of all sizes tap into their true creative potential across Meta’s platforms. He has been helping brands tell breakthrough stories for 15+ years. Before Meta he was at agencies in Texas and Chicago. Mack is a Winnetka native, and current residents of Northfield with his wife and three kids.

Drop Off at Make A Difference Day — Then Drop by the Fall Fest Community Wellness Fair!

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:45:12 GMT

This Saturday, October 22nd, after you drop off your donations at Make A Difference Day, make sure you drop by the Fall Fest Community Wellness Fair, co-sponsored by VC partners North Shore Senior Center and New Trier Township. Make A Difference Day starts at 9am, which leaves plenty of time to treat yourself to a little personal wellness time at NSSC in Northfield from 10am-1pm. At this free, all-ages interactive wellness event you can get your flu shot, check your blood pressure, enjoy a chair massage — and entertain your kids with hands on attractions including the always popular Touch-a-Fire Truck.

The Volunteer Center Invites Nonprofits to a FREE Training Program: “The Basics of Board Governance” on June 15th

Tue, 31 May 2022 19:53:17 GMT

Program Agenda

Objectives of the Governing Board
Fiduciary & Legal Responsibilities of the Board
The Pillars of Good Governance
Legal Compliance and Public Disclosure
Effective Governance
Strong Financial Oversight
Responsible Fundraising

Nancy’s Profile

25+ Years of Experience

Nancy has more than 25 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant. Prior to starting her own firm, Nancy worked for many years as a consultant with a “Big Four” CPA firm. During her tenure she gained experience in both audit and tax departments of the firm’s Austin, Texas and Chicago, Illinois offices. Nancy also worked in a managerial capacity for a local and then a regional CPA firm serving Chicagoland. In February, 2008, Nancy organized a new kind of accounting firm, Nancy L. Gonsiorek, CPA, LLC, intent to serve nonprofit organizations. The firm currently serves nonprofit clients in Northeastern Illinois.

Nonprofit Specialty

Nancy has served nonprofit organizations of various sizes throughout her career, providing audit and other attest services, information return (form 990) preparation, and other business advisory services. The Firm practice is exclusive nonprofit organizations, currently serving approximately 60 organizations. The Firm library is well-equipped with nonprofit accounting and policy manuals and other specialized nonprofit practice aids to provide clients with exceptional business resources. Nancy has written a monthly column on nonprofit governance for a regional newspaper and serves on the Not-for-Profit Organizations Committee of the Illinois CPA Society, providing support to CPAs and nonprofit leaders throughout the state of Illinois. In 2018, The Illinois CPA Society Board of Directors presented Nancy with the Distinguished Service Award for outstanding contributions to the Committee.

About Nancy

Nancy has resided in Crystal Lake for the past 25 years, along with her husband, John, where they raised their two children. Nancy is an avid community volunteer, having served two terms on the local school board, and volunteering with several local nonprofit organizations. Nancy loves to garden and became a University of Illinois Master Gardener in 2002.

Volunteers Needed for Community Shredding Event Saturday May 7th. Bring Your Documents Too!

Mon, 02 May 2022 19:52:49 GMT

The Volunteer Center is joining with New Trier Township and Regina Dominican High School to sponsor a free community-wide document shredding and disposal event.

We need volunteers!

WHEN: Saturday, May 7th from 8:30am-11:30am (or until we fill the truck)

WHERE: In the parking lot of Regina Dominican High School, at 701 Locust Road in Wilmette.

This contactless, drive-through event is a great opportunity to protect your financial privacy and prevent identity theft by destroying financial and other private documents before you dispose of them. Please note there is a limit of 2 bags or boxes per person

We are looking for volunteers to help unload documents from donor’s cars and load them into the shredding truck, and to help with cleanup.

To volunteer, or for more information, email Barb Tubekis at info@volunteercenterhelps.org

The Volunteer Center and James Martin Associates Host Earth Day Service Event April 23rd

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 19:56:20 GMT

Join us for Special Restoration Projects in Honor of National Earth Day

When is the Earth Day event?
Saturday, April 23rd, from 9:00 -11:00am (an additional shift from 11:00 – 1:00pm may be added if there is a large overflow response)

Where is it?
Harbert-Payne Woods in Evanston on the North Shore Channel.

Who is invited?
Families, individuals and service groups of all ages are invited to participate in this year’s Earth Day projects. There are no strict age limits. However, youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and younger children would need to be closely supervised.

Volunteers should wear long pants and close-toed shoes and, keep in mind that generally clothes can get very dirty. If possible, participants should bring their own work gloves, shovels and trowels.

What will we be doing?
Volunteers will be helping maintain and restore native habitat for birds and pollinators:

plant trees, shrubs, and forms that need planting
reinforce sections of the paths with wood chips
line the path with logs from trees that have fallen in the woods
remove invasive ground cover (principally, creeping Charlie)
potentially digging a trench for watering purposes.

Those interested need to reserve space in advance. Simply email info@volunteercenterhelps.org and Identify your group and let us know how many volunteers will be attending. We will then email the exact location to meet at the Park and provide a link to the waiver that needs to be signed for the City of Evanston as protocol.

Questions? E-mail info@volunteercenterhelps.org

This Year’s Recognition Event Featured an Inspiring Group of Volunteers Who Are Making a Difference in Our community

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 20:05:46 GMT

Location: The Historic Wilmette Theater
1122 Central Avenue, Wilmette

More Detail About Our Honorees

Kate and Neal Shapiro purchased a laundromat in the Belmont-Cragin area of Chicago as a project to enable their adult son with disabilities an opportunity to have meaningful employment. They enhanced it to provide an interactive educational and community center where children can have an enriching read, learn, play experience. They have given away nearly a thousand books and provided many other activities and valuable supportive contributions to this community.

Kate and Neal Shapiro
Community Support

Nick Drivas, owner of the successful Grill House restaurant in Northbrook. Drivas is a generous supporter of local causes and organizations in need. He provided food for first responders and hospital workers during the pandemic, as well as provide 1,000 meals to children who would normally receive free lunches at school. He also hosts “Dine and Donate” programs, in which he donates a portion of a given day’s sales to local organizations. His support doesn’t end there!

Nick Drivas
Philanthropic Restaurateur

Pickles Group’s mission is to provide free peer-to-peer support and resources to kids affected by their parent or guardian’s cancer. Pickles’ kids develop resilience, have fun with friends who get them, and heal along the way.

Pickles Group Youth

Pickles Group Founders

Kerry Brown Hasbrook, Clara Nowkenkwo, Mandy Breaker
Radical Generosity

Radical Generosity Chicago (RGC) provides necessary donations of food and essential household items to thousands of families living in low-income, food and housing unstable communities in Chicago and its near north suburbs. The RGC team engages and mobilizes families, schools, local civic groups and businesses of volunteers nationwide to donate and distribute the critical support in those communities.

To receive a digital copy of our video of the event please email info@volunteercenterhelps.org

Volunteers of All Ages Honor Dr. Martin Luther King With Remote Service Projects

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 21:40:53 GMT

Thanks to Our Amazing Volunteer Community for Supporting This Year’s Remote MLK Day of Service

The pandemic did nothing to dampen our loyal volunteers’ enthusiasm for serving those need. Hundreds of volunteers picked up project kits, took them home to complete them, and returned them to be delivered to local nonprofits and their clients clients who needed a little winter cheer.

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE CHALET, THE WINNETKA COMMUNITY NURSERY SCHOOL, THE COMMUNITY HOUSE — AND OUR INCREDIBLE VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY — FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT.

George and Mary Pearce have been supporting our MLK Day of Service for 15+ years!

Kindness Rocks for healthcare workers were painted with cheerful messages …

…and distributed throughout local neighborhoods.

Girls Scout troops made blankets for the homeless.

Leftover fleece is also great for making dog toys for shelter animals.

Hundreds of bracelets, cheerful notecards, and butterfly tray favors were delivered to local nonprofits.

No-sew blankets for the homeless are great winter projects…

…for families…

…and friends…

…of all ages!

If You’re Looking for At-Home Volunteer Projects: Ideas and Instructions

Materials : Most of these projects use materials you can find in your home, or are not difficult to purchase. Feel free to be creative with any supplies you have. However, please do not use any glitter in your projects – they are dangerous inhalants for those in the hospital or those with breathing issues, and a MESS to clean up.

Completed Projects : We have provided some ideas of the kind of nonprofits who would LOVE to receive your thoughtful volunteer projects. Please feel free to choose an organization you already support, or search our database to find a nonprofit that would be happy to receive your donations. You’ll find our searchable database on our homepage.

NO-SEW BLANKETS For the homeless

Materials:

4 yards of fleece — that’s it!

COMPLETE INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE: Download No-Sew Blanket Instructions Here

KINDNESS ROCKS dedicated to our very hardworking healthcare workers.

Materials:

Smooth, flat (river rocks) – any size – best are rocks a minimum of 3”. You can buy them at craft stores or online OR if you have any paintable small rocks at home.
Permanent Markers, paint markers or acrylic paint and brush.

Messages should relate to healthcare workers. When you are finished, find a public area outdoors you would like to place the rock – if you know a healthcare worker, put it outside his or her door or someplace where others will see it. Please keep their names anonymous. Then kindly take photos of the rock – you can be in the photo as well, and send a good quality jpeg of your photo to us at: info@volunteercenterhelps.org and we will put it on our website and our e-news.

FRIENDSHIP AND/OR VALENTINES NOTES For Seniors, Veterans, Children in Hospitals

Materials:

8.5×11 white cardstock, fold in half
Colored Pencils, markers, crayons, watercolor paints – whatever your preference.

Carefully plan your cover and message inside, keeping in mind the recipient category of your choice. We have included colored pencils for the artists and adults and crayons for the rising artists. Of course, if you have the 240 count crayon box at home, dig in and use them!

If you want sign your name, please use your first name. If your very young child creates a card all on his or her own (recommended), please feel free to sign it “from a caring 2- (or whatever age) year-old”. Adults can do it, of course, but understanding it came from a very young child makes it very special too.

TRAY FAVORS For Seniors in Residential Facilities

Coffee Filter Butterflies

Materials: White Coffee Filters • Markers Clothesline clips

Instructions:

Color Coffee filter with markers
If using water-based markers, mist colored filters with water – the colors will bleed, making interesting designs. Dry for 20-30 minutes.
If using permanent markers, do not mist with water. Draw with any design, or duplicate actual butterfly patterns found in nature like monarchs, etc.
Clip middle of filter with clothesline clip and draw a face on the butterfly

BRACELETS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH AT RISK

Materials:

Craft Beads, pony, wooden, or any others of your choosing
Pipe Cleaners or elastic or plastic craft thread

Have fun being creative with patterns and colors! Make as many as you would like. This bracelet is intended to let the recipients know there are kind people out there who wish them well. If using the pipe cleaner, twist the ends a few times, then tuck into the first and last bead.

T-SHIRT BRAIDED DOG TOYS For Dogs at Orphans of the Storm

Materials:

Find 3 T-shirts of similar width. Large size shirts work best.
Scissors

Instructions:

Lay the T-shirts flat. Begin by making each T-shirt a square or rectangle, by cutting straight across both back and front of the shirt from one armpit to the other.
Starting from the bottom of the shirt, cut three 5” high horizontal bands across the width of the shirt, cutting through both front and back of the t-shirt. Discard any bands that are not 5”.
Cut one end of each of the bands to form 3 long ropes of fabric.
Tie the 3 ropes together at the top.
Braid the ropes very tightly with1person firmly holding the knot at the tied end.
Secure the end with another knot.

Each set of 3 T-shirts should make 1 to 2 of the long toys. Use the rest of the T-shirts by braiding shorter swatches of T-shirt fabric cut from the sleeves across. (Instead of having a band to cut and make a long rope, you will have 2 half sized ropes)

Looking Forward to Next Year’s MLK Day Service — Hopefully In-Person Once Again!

As always, we couldn’t be more grateful for the volunteers who support all of our Days of Service, and are looking forward to meeting in person again soon! A few memories from past MLK Days….

Recycle Your Goods for Good at This Year’s Make A Difference Day on Saturday, October 23rd

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 20:46:52 GMT

Now is your chance to clean out your closets to help nonprofits who serve people in need in our local community. Make A Difference Day is one of the North Shore’s premiere days of service that is a perfect opportunity to join with your family, friends, school and community group to recycle your gently-used goods to benefit nonprofits who need them. Please sort, bag & label your items then drop them off at the Indian Hill Train station in Winnetka (111 Green Bay Road) on Saturday, October 23rd from 9-12. See you there!

Please Sort, Bag & Label Your Items for Each Organization Below Before You Donate

Books4Cause — Gently used books, all genres, including textbooks, CDs, DVDs and vinyl

Connections for the Homeless — Disposable NEW men’s razors, men’s coats and warm outerwear (boots, gloves, etc.), duffels, backpacks and rolling suitcases

Counseling Center of the N.S. — Women’s clothing and coats, & men’s clothing (Connections for the Homeless is collecting men’s coats)

Gears 4 Goals — Sports equipment – no golf, hockey or ski equipment

Glass Slipper Project — Jewelry and dressy purses

Hadley Institute for the Blind — Eyeglasses and cases

Infant Welfare Society — Baby diapers (any size), wipes and formula (any kind)

Junior League of Evanston/North Shore — Casual Purses, formal dresses, warm outerwear (no men’s), household items and

NEW travel-sized or small toiletries:

Shampoo/conditioner
Lotion
Soap/Body Wash
Dental Floss
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Mouthwash
Deodorant

Lawrence Hall Educational games and puzzles

Madonna Mission — NEW School Supplies:

Erasers
Pencil Sharpeners
#2 Pencils
Index Cards
Notebooks
Composition Books
Highlighters
Ballpoint Pens
Glue Sticks
Crayons
Markers
Individual Tissue Packs

Northfield Food Pantry — Non-perishable food, household cleaning supplies and paper goods

Northwestern University Settlement House — Baby, toddler and children’s clothing, coats and shoes

Orphans of the Storm — Any pet supplies & toys, food, twin size & small blankets, gently used towels

Support for Developing Country Social Enterprises — Gently used adult sized athletic shoes (no holes, tears)

Working Bikes — All bikes (adults and youth) in repairable condition

Take action today to help victims of crisis in Afghanistan. Here are some ways you can help you can help

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 20:53:00 GMT

The crisis in Afghanistan has humanitarian implications across the globe, including right here in Chicago. VC partners Madonna Mission, Refugee One and World Relief are springing into action to help refugees fleeing the danger in Afghanistan settle into new homes and build new lives as we welcome them to our community. They need help.

VOLUNTEER – Support refugee neighbors in Chicago by volunteering as a mentor for 2 educational programs:

English as a Second Language (ESL) – Tutoring for refugee women – Both remote and on-site tutoring options available. All persons participating in on-site tutoring must be vaccinated. For remote tutoring, you and your assigned student have the flexibility to choose a day and time that works for both.
Offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:30-11am
After School Program (ASP) – Homework help/reading program for refugee students grades K-8. Vaccinations required for volunteers.
Offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 4-5:30 pm

DONATE – Make an immediate difference today through in-kind donations of basic teaching tools, or financial support. Donate here.

To learn more about Madonna Mission, click here.

VOLUNTEER – With new arrivals, we will need all hands on deck and are especially in need of volunteers, with flexible schedules, to help with the arrival process. Volunteers help us with critical needs like setting up apartments and welcoming families at the airport. Apply to vo lunteer h ere.

LOCATE HOUSING – Not only will we be in need of volunteers, but we will also be in need of housing opportunities for those coming to the Chicagoland area. If you, or anyone you know, has access to rental property that is available at an affordable rate, contact Robin Johnson at RAJohnson@wr.org

DONATE – Make a one-time or recurring gift to help families fleeing violence and persecution. Your gift helps cover the immediate basics like food, housing, transportation, and also supports families to begin to rebuild their lives here in Chicagoland. Donate here.

To learn more about World Relief, click here.

VOLUNTEER TO BE A MENTOR OR TUTOR – As families arrive, they’ll need volunteers to support them! See more here about becoming a volunteer mentor or tutor for refugee adults or youth. Find out about being a volunteer mentor or tutor here.

ORGANIZE A CO-SPONSOR TEAM – Interested in organizing a co-sponsor team to help welcome a newly arriving refugee family by raising funds, setting up an apartment, and walking alongside them as they adjust? Join the live co-sponsor info session on September 29 or 30. Find out more and sign up here.

DONATE – Help provide housing assistance, English classes, employment coaching, academic support, mental health services, and more. Donate here.

To find out more about Refugee One, click here.

Looking to Volunteer this Summer? We Can Help!

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 20:55:21 GMT

Summer is a great time to volunteer at a local nonprofit.
Let us help you help others!

Have a particular cause you would like to support? Not sure what you would like to do? Simply visit our listing of 165 nonprofits to check out their missions and volunteer needs. When you see something that might be of interest, you can send a message directly to the nonprofit letting them know you’re interested and available. It’s that easy!

Click here to visit our VC Nonprofit Page and start your search!

Volunteers Needed for Community-Wide Document Shredding Event Saturday, November 13th

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:36:56 GMT

The Volunteer Center and New Trier Township are sponsoring a free community-wide Document Shredding and Disposal Event — and we need volunteers!

WHEN: Saturday, November 13th from 8:30am-11:30am

WHERE: In the parking lot of Regina Dominican High School, at 701 Locust Road in Wilmette.

This safe, contactless, drive-through event is a great opportunity to protect your financial privacy and prevent identity theft by destroying financial and other private documents before you dispose of them.

We are looking for volunteers to help unload documents from donor’s cars and loading them into the shredding truck, and to help with cleanup.

To volunteer, or for more information, email Barb Tubekis at info@volunteercenterhelps.org

Celebrate Earth Day 2021 with The Volunteer Center and our Partner James Martin Associates Saturday April 24th

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 15:37:33 GMT

Get down and dirty and help “Restore our Earth”!

The Volunteer Center and James Martin Associates
Host A Special Opportunity to Honor Earth Day

Saturday, April 24th, from 9:30-11:30 am

Individuals and families are invited to participate in this year’s National Earth day theme, “Restore Our Earth” by removing invasive plants and other projects that will help restore native habitat for birds and pollinators in Harbert-Payne Woods in Evanston on the North Shore Channel.

Registration is required, as the project is limited to 30 people, ages 5 through adult

In order to accommodate safe distancing — and to facilitate small group led projects by the Woods’ lead volunteers — registration is limited. Please do not delay your reservations! To Reserve space(s), email Barb Tubekis at info@volunteercenterhelps.org. Once we have your registration we will provide you the exact park location to meet us the morning of the 24th. We will also email you a waiver to sign and bring with you from the City of Evanston as protocol. There will be some supplies available, but volunteers are encouraged to bring shovels or hand trowels, work gloves, water bottles and sun protection and Masks are required . There are no fees required, but donations are welcome for the Channel Habitat Fund to purchase more plants to support the restoration work at Herbert-Payne Park and the Ladd Arboretum.

More info About the Project and Harbert-Payne Woods

Allison Sloan, a steward of the Channel will provide information about the project and its importance of these three acres of cottonwood forest along the east bank of the North Shore Channel. Over time, the woods have become overgrown with invasive buckthorn bushes and strewn with dead ash trees killed by the invasive emerald ash borer beetle. Community members have come together to replace the invasives with native shrubs and wildflowers to provide food and cover for native songbirds, and to plant a forest of native food-producing plants for humans to educate future generations about the critical role of wild foods in our ancestors’ survival. After all, wild onions are the namesake for “Checagou” by Native Americans.

About James Martin Associates Landscaping

Project sponsor and Volunteer Center partner James Martin Associates has been designing and managing practical, creative and award-winning landscapes in the Chicagoland region since 1977. They are a nationally recognized, employee-owned landscaping firm as well as a steward of our environment. Through the use of recycled materials created at their facility and an emphasis on green and lean strategies, they do their part to help maintain the environment for their clients.

About the Volunteer Center

Established in 1960, The Volunteer Center (VC) works with over 165 nonprofit partner organizations to help individuals, families, and service groups find ways to volunteer their time and help others in the community. We also help groups develop and implement effective service-learning programs in schools, faith-based organizations and civic groups, and sponsor community Days of Service.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RESERVE SPACE(S), CONTACT BARB TUBEKIS AT Info@volunteercenterhelps.org

It May Have Been Virtual, But This Year’s Annual Celebration of Our Super Hero Volunteers Was As Inspiring As Always!

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:44:11 GMT

For complete bios of this year’s Super Hero honorees visit our official event website, VolunteerCenterVirtual.com

Watch Our Event Recap Here!

Make a Donation in Honor of YOUR Super Hero Volunteer Here

2020 Recognition Event Registration

To help us celebrate our 60th year -- and recognize our 2020 outstanding volunteers -- on Wednesday, March 4th at Michigan Shores Club, please provide the following information and complete the payment process. Then join us for a festive appetizer and cocktail buffet.

More Ways for All Ages to Learn and Serve on MLK DAY

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 16:46:02 GMT

Additional Opportunities to Learn and Serve on MLK Day

Although we will not be hosting our MLK Day of Service in person this year, we would like to provide volunteers meaningful ways to honor the extraordinary legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We have some suggestions for individuals or families to engage in productive activities to help advance social justice in this unsettling year of racial strife. We are inviting volunteers to make the no-sew blankets that have been a part of our MLK Day of Service since we began in 2005. See below for project details and drop-off requirements.

Also listed on this page are additional educational and impactful service resources for people of all ages and interest levels.

No-Sew Blanket Project Details

I. Make your blanket(s) in your own home, then drop them off at the Community House either on MLK Day or the following Saturday. We will deliver them to local nonprofits that support at-risk and homeless communities.

II. Drop off your completed blanket(s) at the Community House on MLK Day, Monday, January 18th or January 23rd between 10am and 1pm only on both those days. The VC board members will be collecting the blankets at the Community House in Winnetka in the Pine Street Parking lot entrance with the large awning.

III. You may purchase your own four yards of fabric at a local fabric store, or buy one of the Volunteer Center’s limited supply of 36 blanket sets (includes four yards of fleece fabric) we have available for $20 each.

NOTE: If you are interested in buying one or more of our 36 blanket sets, email the Volunteer Center at info@volunteercenterhelps.org for information about how to reserve your blanket sets and when and where to pick them up. The blankets are on a first come-first served basis and we will have them available until all sets are purchased.

IV. Blanket Instructions

Additional MLK Day Educational and Service Resources

People across the United States may choose to make an immediate impact with hands-on traditional service projects that support the homeless and other poverty stricken communities, but there are other ways to honor Dr. King’s legacy of furthering equality and civil rights in a direct, educational way that helps us understand and support racial justice. This is an opportunity to honor the legacy of Dr. King, and continue his mission to empower and strengthen local communities.

*Please participate in the HEROS – Healing Everyday Racism in our Schools Virtual Workshop, Jan 17th, 2-4pm :In partnership with HEROS, the Volunteer Center is proud to invite N.E. Metro Community Members to register for this Virtual Workshop on Sunday, January 17th from 2-4pm. Educational and productive online workshop that features five breakout Session appropriate for adults, parents and teens to learn how we can become The Beloved Community. Additional information and Registration here.

A note about volunteerism in honor of Dr. MLK, Jr .: Dr. Bernice King (Daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King and Director of The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia): ”And so in terms of volunteerism, this is a marathon that we’re talking about when you are committing to eradicating, dismantling racism. It’s not a sprint. It’s not a singular act. It’s continual struggle, it’s continual work, it’s continual education, it’s continual stretching, it’s continually getting out of your comfort zone, it’s continually being willing to share power. It’s continual sacrifice.”

The United Way of Illinois Launches ’21 Week Equity Challenge. Participate!

From Martin Luther King Jr. Day (1/18) to Juneteenth (6/19), participants will complete weekly learning assignments about equity, racism, bias and more. The 15-minute assignments include readings, videos, and questions for participants to consider. Upon completion, they’ll receive a digital certificate and tips and tools to help continue the conversation in their local community. Information and registration here .

This MLK Day on Monday, January 18th, the organization 9/11 Day encourages you to honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by taking a moment to visit 911day.org and performing one of the good deeds we’ve curated in observance of the 26th annual MLK Day of Service. As a federally recognized day of service, we at 9/11 Day are proud to support MLK Day. Our website features more than 50 activities you can consider for MLK Day or any other day of the year. Most of our online service ideas are 100% free for you to perform and can all be completed quickly and safely from your own home computer or mobile device.

Please take a moment now to visit 911day.org to learn more. Also consider visiting the official federal website for MLK Day as well.

Join an MLK Day On-line Observance, The Beloved Community Global Summit on January 14th and 15th

Sponsored by The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia. This is an opportunity for mission aligned individual organizations who are dedicated to creating the Beloved Community to come together and share ideas. Participants will hear from a myriad of national and international individuals who share their vision for a more just, humane, equitable and peaceful world. https://thekingcenter.org/event/2021-king-holiday-observance-beloved-community-global-summit/

From the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS – Americorps)

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Historical timeline of the Day, Traditions, MLK Day Stats, and How to Observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Support the Efforts of The Lawndale Christian Legal Center (LCLC) – An Important Restorative Justice Organization

Lawndale Christian Legal Center : “We can put just justice back in the criminal justice system. We’ve already begun in North Lawndale, one of the most segregated, under-resourced and heavily policed neighborhoods in Chicago.” LCLC is working to break the arrest/incarcerate/release/repeat cycle that continues to threaten young lives and decimate the North Lawndale community. They negotiate peace within the community and help emerging adults find a more constructive solution to repair harm than incarceration. This is a valuable opportunity for those who work within the criminal justice system. Join their efforts – LCLC.net

AGE ORIENTED PROJECT RESOURCES

Your children are for the most part not too young to learn to understand ways to embrace people of all colors, abilities and cultures. Understanding the history of racism and how far we still need to go to create Dr. King’s “Beloved Community” in this country is an essential part of volunteer participation.

YOUTH SERVICE AMERICA -YSA– Youth Changing the World – http://ysa.org/antiracist/

Resource for Youth of all ages like how to plan and implement and Anti-Racist Service Project, toolkits for Youth changing the World, Kits

YSA Book/Reading Lists for Youth

TIME: https://time.com/5848192/childrens-books-about-race/

Embrace Race- 20 Picture Books for 2020: Readings to Embrace Race, Provide Solace & Do Good

https://www.embracerace.org/resources/20-picture-books-for-2020

10 Children’s Books About Racism And Activism To Help Parents Educate Their Kids

LISTEN. LEARN. ACT TO END RACISM:

https://www.pointsoflight.org/listen-learn-act-to-end-racism-november-2020/

KEY TAKE-AWAYS FROM THIS EVENT INCLUDED:

Do the necessary work: Before you can take actions against racism, it’s important that you do the necessary work. You need to not only do the research to understand the issues, but need to do some self-reflection about your views on racism as well.
Power in the people: The real solutions come from the power of the people. You need to first listen to understand the issues and then have the right people at the table.
Move from being safe to brave: Safe won’t solve the problems that we’re in, so we have to be brave to speak truth to power. We have to challenge thoughts and know that in doing so we may make people uncomfortable.
We created these systems of inequity: When it comes to systemic racism, it’s important to remember these systems were created by people. We are all a part of a system, and to dismantle racism we need to make individual commitments to not be silent in these environments.
We have the power to create change: We as individuals collectively have the power to change what we’re calling, ‘systemic racism’ by starting with ourselves and making a commitment in the environments where we find ourselves. We need to ensure we are identifying and exposing systems of racism, while offering suggestions on how we build a new table with everyone at the table represented.

TEENS THROUGH ADULTS

HOW TO BE AN ANTIRACIST, by Ibram X. Kendi

IBRAM X. KENDI is a New York Times bestselling author and the founding director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University. A professor of history and international relations and a frequent public speaker, Kendi is a columnist at The Atlantic. In How to Be an Antiracist , Kendi takes readers through a widening circle of antiracist ideas—from the most basic concepts to visionary possibilities—that will help readers see all forms of racism clearly, understand their poisonous consequences, and work to oppose them in our systems and in ourselves.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The following questions were provided to enlist thought provoking discussion opportunities to understand Anti-Racism.

In How to Be an Antiracist, Kendi shares his own experience with racist thinking. How does his honesty help give us space to acknowledge and name our own racist behaviors and attitudes?
Kendi writes, “The only way to undo racism is to constantly identify it and describe it—and then dismantle it.” Why does he believe we need to call out racism when we see it, even if it can be uncomfortable to identify?
The book’s central message is that the opposite of “racist” isn’t “not racist.” The true opposite
of “racist” is antiracist. “The good news,” Kendi writes, “is that racist and antiracist are not xed identities. We can be racist one minute and an antiracist the next.” What does it mean to have to constantly rea rm your identity as an antiracist? Is there any benefit to the fact that you can’t just decide you are “not racist” or an antiracist and be done with it?
What is the first step you, personally, will take in striving to be an antiracist? How will you check yourself and hold yourself accountable if you notice you, or someone else, is being racist?
Kendi thinks that we should assess candidates as being racist or antiracist based on what ideas they are expressing and what policies they are supporting—and not what they say is in their bones or their heart. Do you agree with him? Why or why not?
Anyone who values immigrants from European countries and devalues immigrants from Latin America is guilty of racism. Have you ever been guilty of this type of racism? Discuss the unique resilience and resourcefulness people possess if they leave everything in their native country behind and immigrate to another, as Kendi examines in the chapter on Ethnicity.
There’s a stronger and clearer correlation between levels of violent crime and unemployment levels than between violent crime and race, but that’s not the story policymakers have chosen to tell. Discuss why you think this is. How might our society and culture change if policymakers characterized dangerous Black neighborhoods as dangerous unemployed neighborhoods?
Why do you think it is so hard for people to not assess other cultures from their own cultural standards? How does doing this trap people in racist ideas?
Inequities between Light and Dark African Americans can be as wide as inequities between Black and White Americans. How have you seen colorism play out in real life and/or in the media?

Kendi writes, “White supremacist is code for anti-human, a nuclear ideology that poses an existential threat to human existence.” How are white supremacists and their ideology actually harmful to all of humanity—including white people?
Kendi makes the case that to be antiracist, one must stand against all forms of bigotry. Why is standing against other bigotries so essential to standing against racism?
Kendi closes the book comparing racism and cancer. What do you think of this comparison?
Kendi believes we can defy the odds, heal society of racism, and create an antiracist society. Do you? Why is hope so central to the antiracist movement?

THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND DEDICATION TO SOCIAL JUSTICE!

The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Lives On, in Spite of the Pandemic

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:54:42 GMT

Although we couldn’t all be together in person for our 17th MLK Day, we were joined in spirit. The variety of participants in the HEROS program and our annual no-sew blanket project provided perhaps a deeper impact than usual, as those who participated felt the spirit of community combined with a shared goal of equity.

In partnership with HEROS (Healing Everyday Racism in the Schools) , The Volunteer Center invited the community to participate in HEROS’ very enligtening MLK LEGACY Workshop that focused on Dr. King’s 1965 speech in Winnetka and the concrete steps we can take locally to create Dr. King’s “Beloved Community”. Over 200 people from the township and the surrounding North Shore area participated. It was very well received and provided additional ways to be active following the event. More details on this event, and ways you can work for social justice year-round, can be found here on the HEROS website .

MLK “WEEK” No-Sew Blanket Program

As service has always been a hallmark of MLK Day , the VC also invited volunteers from the community to participate in its signature DIY fleece blanket donation program for homeless shelters and refugees. Instead of working side by side, families made their blankets independently for MLK “Week”. This year’s MLK Day remote DIY blanket program will provide over 50 blankets to Connections for the Homeless , The Night Ministry and Refugee One — with a special shout out to North Shore Country Day School for involving their parents.

We were also touched to receive a blanket from the Chiaravalle Montesorri School in Evanston’s Pan African and Caribbean Affinity group (P.A.C.). by 1st and 2nd grade class members. The P.A.C. is a group dedicated to listening, highlighting, and empowering black and brown voices within our rich and growing community.

Thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s remote MLK activities. Looking forward to seeing you all — in person — next year!

Happy Holidays — and Happy Volunteering — from The Volunteer Center

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 17:03:09 GMT

We’ll post holiday volunteer opportunities as we receive them, so check back regularly. In the meantime, you can also peruse our listing of nonprofits and contact them directly
to see if they need volunteers.

Holiday Baking Volunteers Needed

Do you enjoy baking, singing holiday songs and spreading cheer? We are looking for volunteers to sign up to support Lambs Farm Bakery & Country Store during our busy holiday season. We need help at the Bakery making delicious treats which helps provide income and meaningful employment for the farm’s residents that includes people of all abilities. Tasks that you may help with are: baking, packing, chocolate-making, labeling, cookies, bread, truffles, dog biscuits, muffins, granola, jams…it is our busy time of year so anything goes!

When : November through December, Monday – Saturday

Where : Lambs Farm Bakery and Country Store production areas

Available Shifts : 9:00 am – 12 Noon, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Contact : Angela Ramert, email asr@lambsfarm.org

Holiday Gift Program and Food Pantry Donations Needed

The New Trier township is collecting donations for their Holiday gift Program and the Food Pantry.

For details visit their website here.

Suggestions to Safely Help Others During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 16:21:05 GMT

To our generous volunteers:

The current Coronavirus Pandemic is challenging us to protect our own health which also keeps others well. As a result, it has also brought us a new formula for social norms which require distance and isolation from family and friends — and make traditional ways of volunteering and human connection particularly challenging. As usual, compassionate volunteers are eager to support the frontlines as much as they can. But we will get through this together!

THE VOLUNTEER CENTER OF N.E. METRO CHICAGO’s

SAFE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Important Universal Ways to Help All Nonprofits

Donate Financial Support : If you were going to give time, give that value in other ways. Resources are needed now more than ever. Help that pet shelter, senior home, or advocacy organization that had to cancel its spring event keep its doors open. If your company gives you paid time off for volunteer time, see if they will convert that to cash to match your donated funds.
Donate technology, hardware and software : Get your company involved too. Most nonprofits don’t have these important resources to operate and promote their efforts. Work with your company to donate critical technology if possible.
Use Your Voice : Post on your social network to advocate for them and their cause.
Educate Yourself on the Issues : Awareness of issues and the impact of these environmental forces on our communities is a necessary step for us all to take action, particularly when we transition from emergency response to recovery.

Quick and (Somewhat) Easy Suggestions to Help

Donate Gift Cards from local restaurants, services, and retailers to shelters who house low income individuals, families and seniors, and residential disability facilities. Buy some for yourself and celebrate after life returns to normal.
Give Blood – Consult the Red Cross and ask how you will be protected from infection.
Be Social to Someone Lonely or in Need– but not in person! Be a friend to a homebound senior. Reach out to your neighbor, your relatives or your local senior center. Contact The North Shore Senior Center in Northfield for their suggestions –847-784-6000. Bring meals, groceries, books, etc. Connect via email, phone, Skype or Zoom with your family or a group of friends!
Take a Walk with a friend at the same time — but not the same location and route. Then chat on the phone and cheer him or her up while you walk.
Prepare Meals : With CPS closings, many students are left with no breakfast or lunch. In one community, parents are preparing “Grab and Go” boxes of breakfast and lunch for pick up at a school parking lot.
*Clean Out & Donate (when able): Use this time at home to clean out your closets and donate your gently used items to a homeless shelter ( see our nonprofit list on this website ) or one of the local rummage sales that donate the proceeds to nonprofits. Christ Church Winnetka and Winnetka Congregational Church . Please check their sites for updates on sales. But don’t stop that closet cleaning!
*Note: We have learned the drop-offs locations for these Rummage Sales are closed for a while to keep support staff and others safe with so much inventory. Continue your tidying, but consider putting your donations aside for a bit. Keep checking with the sales for drop off instructions and the actual Rummage Sale dates as they most likely will change as well.

SPECIFIC VOLUNTEER CENTER NONPROFIT PARTNER REQUESTS

Please support our nonprofit partners –There are many ways volunteers can continue to safely provide help and support

The Volunteer Center of N.E. Metro Chicago contacted its nonprofit partners ( featured on this website ) to see if they needed any support from volunteers to help them continue their unique missions. You may find additional information about each of these nonprofits by visiting this page on our website. Whether it is financial support, food or clothing donations, meal deliveries or safe social and educational connections, below is what we have heard so far. Please contact us – info@volunteercenterhelps.org if you are aware of additional needs and nonprofits that could use volunteer help and other important assistance. We will continue to update this Guide as new needs are posted.

NEW URGENT REQUEST FOR DIY or PURCHASED MASKS AND CAPS!

URGENT NEED ASAP! Great project to share with your family, friends and service groups . The Volunteer Center is responding to a volunteer who lives on the North Shore who has many family members working in the ER and on the front lines in hospitals and other medical facilities who still are in urgent need of additional PPE equipment – specifically masks and surgical caps. They are eager to receive purchased or DIY fashioned coverings for multiple uses. The Volunteer Center is helping her enlist volunteers to make the equipment. There is a minimum goal of 300 masks and 150 caps . She has identified the facilities that need them and will deliver as the VC hands them off to her. If the goal is exceeded, we will deliver to additional needs.

If you have a favorite DIY pattern, use it. If not, try these:

Face Mask with Pocket from T-shirt

Easy no sew, no elastic

To make caps, DIY Easy Scrub Caps

RESOURCES for Masks to Purchase:

9 Retailer fabric masks to purchase

N95 masks for purchase – will arrive by Monday, April 27th

DROP OFF LOCATIONS:

The Glencoe, Keilworth, Northfield, Wilmette and Winnetka Public Safety Departments have generously agreed to serve as drop-off facilities for your PPE donations.

Glencoe : drop off box inside their Public Safety vestibule located at 325 Hazel Avenue in Glencoe

Kenilworth : 419 Richmond, Kenilworth Police Station vestibule

Northfield : 1800 Winnetka Road, Northfield in front of the Fire station under the canopy by the US flag drop off box.

Wilmette: Wilmette Police Dept, 710 Ridge Road.

Winnetka : drop off box inside their vestibule located at 410 Green Bay Road in Winnetka

ALONE.TOGETHER. Let’s Make a Difference and Get This Done! More details – info@VolunteerCenterHelps.org

Lawrence Hall
LawrenceHall.org

NEW Group Service Project Opportunity . The Lawrence Hall youth and families of our DCFS, Foster Care, Transitional Living and residential youth are in need of some supplies and items. We would love if some volunteers can assemble care packages for them. We ask that all care packages MUST be pre-made/prepackaged before drop off. All drop offs MUST be scheduled and set for a specific date and time. Some of the care packages are broken down below:

Transitional/Independent Living
• Extra cleaning supplies, soap and food for TLP youth

• Games, books, headphones, and food for community youth

• Hygiene bags and Food bags Hygiene Bags ▪ Toothbrush/Toothpaste ▪ Deodorant ▪ Carmex/ChapStick ▪ Kleenex ▪ Soap ▪ Hand Sanitizer ▪ 8 pr. Rubber Gloves

Food Bags

Microwave Popcorn ▪ Tuna Kit ▪ Microwavable Rice Bowl ▪ Pringles Potato Chips ▪ Fruit Cup ▪ (2) Rice Krispies Treats ▪ (1) Bowl of Cereal ▪ (6) Packages of Instant Oatmeal

activities for the youth to do while not in school: books, games, portable DVD players
medical supplies as needed

Foster Care

Supplies: masks, vinyl gloves, hand sanitizer, and child friendly wipes
Games for children, art supplies

General

Games, snacks, food for the youth and staff on residential units
Care packages for the staff and their families who might find themselves in need during this time
Incentive gifts for direct care staff (ie gift cards)
yardwork/garden/flowerbed planting

Please contact Lawrence Hall – Monique Davis ( mdavis@Lawrencehall.org ) to coordinate a date and time to drop-off care packages in bulk! All drop offs will be at our Main Campus location.

Good News Partners
GoodNewsPartners.org

If you’re in a low risk situation, this lin k will take you to a form where we have several opportunities to volunteer with some of our elderly and other high-risk residents: picking up groceries or medication, helping with cleaning, or even just giving them a call a few times a week to check in and chat.

If you have stable income, this link will take you to a page where you can donate specifically to help with the cost of rent for those in our community who have been furloughed or lost their jobs because of the safety precautions enacted. We thank you in advance for any and all ways you can help.

Lambs Farm
Lambsfarm.org

At Lambs Farm, we currently need PPE (personal protective equipment) supplies for our staff to use while caring for participants. If volunteers are asking how they can help, please forward this request.

Lambs Farms needs: gloves, goggles, gowns, alcohol, thermometers.

Please send supplies directly to: Lambs Farm, Attn Vicky Raier or Katie Bouwens, 14245 Rockland Road, Libertyville, IL 60048

Clearbrook
Clearbrook.org

Masks needed. If you (or anyone you know) is able to sew, here are instruc tions on how to sew a mask . We have the filter inserts, but we do need help sewing these masks. If you are able to help with the masks, please let Shama Valame know by e-mailing her at svalame@clearbrook.org The mask can be dropped off or shipped to 1815 W. Central Rd. Arlington Heights IL. 60005. Thank you!!

Center for Enriched Living
Centerforenrichedliving.org

Make a personal connection with Center for Enriched Living (CEL) members and make a real difference in their lives with CEL’s #PanPals .Many of these members have limited interaction with family members on a regular basis, and with the Coronavirus that has been compounded. With CEL’s programs transitioning to virtual, they now don’t have access to the friends and support they rely on.

Simply click https://www.centerforenrichedliving.org/panpals/ and choose a member (or members) to send a letter, card or picture to and let them know you’re thinking of them. You can also support our efforts to combat social isolation and keep our members connected by donating here . Your gifts are what allow our staff to keep working so they can deliver virtual programs for those with online access.

New Trier Township Food Pantry
793 Elm Street, Winnetka, 60093 847-446-8203

URGENT NEED! Our local New Trier Township pantry has a very diminished stock of food and paper supplies. Now more than ever, pantry users are in need of help. The pantry is eager to continue to serve these families in need. Donations of either checks or cash will help pantry staff purchase exactly what is needed. Checks should be addressed to New Trier Township Angel Fund, Inc. . Or, donate any non-perishable foods and paper goods MTW &F (closed Thursdays) between 10am and 2pm. As the township offices are on lock-down, you must call Brian Leverenz in advance 847-446-8203 and set up a drop off. Something you could also do is organize a food drive with your friends and neighbors. Leave a note at your neighbors’ giving them a specific day and time you will pick up donations and then set up with Brian Leverenz the date and time you will drop off. Terrific family project while you’re all homebound together. Plan it out!

Counseling Center of the North Shore (CCNS)
992 1/2 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093 (847) 446-7787

The Counseling Center of the North Shore’s clinical staff is operating remotely, proving telehealth therapy sessions via HIPAA-compliant videoconference and telephone ( www.ccns.org ). However, the Winnetka Thrift Shop, the primary source of funding for CCNS, is temporarily closed. You can support CCNS in two ways: 1. Make a donation online at www.ccns.org/donate , and 2. Purchase Winnetka Thrift Shop items online at Poshmark.com, ebay.com , and soon the Winnetka Thrift Shop’s online store. Information at www.winnetkathriftshop.org .

Beacon Place
603 S. McAlister, Waukegan, IL (847) 497-5787

We are collecting food right now to distribute to our families here in Waukegan. With the shutdown of restaurants and bars, many of our families are not going to be paid for several weeks. We are in need of shelf stable food like canned goods, pasta, rice, beans, etc. All donations can be dropped off at our center located at 603 S. McAlister, Waukegan, IL p. (847) 497-5787

If anyone has any questions they may call Barbara LaFasto, Co-Founder of Beacon Place (847) 609-6768.

Family Focus of Evanston
2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston, IL, 60201 (847) 475-7570

IMMEDIATE NEED – Help Line of Technical Support for parents in their after school program who are struggling with e-learning – either access or knowing what to do. Looking for volunteers who could form an online help resource.

Our early childhood team and DCFS team are receiving calls from families who have lost their jobs or hours have been severely cut who are in desperate

need of diapers, formula, food. They are loading their cars with what we have on hand and making deliveries. We could use some help with the purchasing and delivering of these items. Our teams are getting worn out. Colette Allen . Director of Evanston, Family Focus – Evanston, 2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston IL, 60201, Ph: 847.475.7570

Meals on Wheels
847-316-1337

Currently our greatest needs are donations of hand sanitizer and financial support . Please consider a gift of either. If you are able to help with hand sanitizer please call our office (we are working remotely – calls are being forwarded to the Volunteer Coordinator at 847-316-1337 to make arrangements for drop off. If you are able to assist with a monetary gift please go to our website https://mealsonwheelsnei.org/donate

Bernie’s Book Bank
917 N Shore Dr, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 (847) 780-7323

Use your time at home to sort through children’s books (ages birth through 6th grade) that you no longer need and donate to Bernie’s Book Bank

A Just Harvest

A Just Harvest is not open for sit down meals and has suspended its food pantry until further notice. Volunteer orientations are also suspended.With the help of our partners, our nightly hot meal is being offered “to-go” from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.This also means that opportunities for on-site volunteers are greatly reduced at this time.

**HOWEVER, we could use help in the purchasing, ordering and/or delivering of supplies. (please find LIST here ). Financial gifts are crucial in sustaining our work in this crisis. (please DONATE here ).

The Sports Shed

Due to the COVID-19 situation and the NCAA Tournament cancelation, the Sports Shed Bracket Challenge has been cancelled. We are thinking of all athletes and families who are facing sickness, disappointment and hardship at this time. If you would like to still donate to make summer AAU basketball possible for girls in programs like Lady Reign Basketball please do so below.

Lady Reign gives 80 girls on six teams the opportunity to compete in tournaments that set them up for higher level of play and possible scholarship opportunities.

Refugee One

Refugee One is doing everything it can to help families navigate healthcare, mitigate loss of wages, and remain in their homes. Meanwhile, we continue offering our regular services to the fullest extent possible while staff works remotely. Visit our website to learn how we’re supporting refugees impacted by the virus.You’ll also find resources for volunteers and information about how you can help.

Refugee One has no doubt our community will weather this storm together. They’ve already been so encouraged by the way friends like you are stepping up to support refugees at this time. However, your support is needed to ease the burdens of refugees experiencing the direct and indirect consequences of COVID-19. Please consider a gift today.

The Josselyn Center
847-441-5600 x 1

Affordable Tele-Mental Health Services . We are here for you by Zoom or phone: Call 847-441-5600 x 1 to schedule an appointment. Tele-psychiatry • Tele-therapy-Case management • The Living Room (ages 18+) • Supported employment (ages 18+)

Our Living Room is a free service staffed by Peer Specialists. To talk with our Peer Specialists, call 847-496-3170 Monday-Friday between 9am – 5pm and Saturday 9am – 2pm.Josselyn accepts Medicaid, Medicare, most private insurance, and we have a sliding fee scale. If you have other medical questions, please consult with your primary care physician or pediatrician.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO HELP YOU DURING THIS CHALLENGING TIME

Setting Up Zoom info: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPlbiZUSoW4

Thank you Women’s Exchange for this Zoom help: Click Here for a Helpful YouTube re: Using Zoom

Tips and Technology Suggestions for Working at Home and More from Executive Service Corps

https://mailchi.mp/execservicecorps/workathomewithkids?e=ee3f53ffd5

Supporting Families During COVID-19

https://childmind.org/coping-during-covid-19-resources-for-parents/

World Health Organization

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

What to do if you have been exposed:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html

Thank you for your kindness and generosity — and for your participation in our volunteer community.
Stay healthy and safe.

Provide Groceries for Low-Income and Homeless Families at Our Annual “Share Your Bounty” This Thanksgiving

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 17:31:54 GMT

The Volunteer Center is once again looking for volunteers to provide holiday groceries to families and individuals in need at Good News Partners (GNP) this Thanksgiving. Any individual, family or group looking for a way to safely help during this particularly challenging time is invited to fill either a cloth or double bagged paper bag — or small box — with all of the items in the list below , then drop it off between 10am and noon on Thanksgiving morning to 1600 W. Jonquil, Chicago (Rogers Park area off of Howard). Read on for more details.

Maybe Your Nonprofit IS the Bomb. But Is It Hitting the Right Target?

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 17:31:41 GMT

21st CENTURY COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIES FOR YOUR NONPROFIT

Nonprofit Directors and Communications Officers , please join the VC — and 2 industry heavy-hitters — for breakfast and a highly motivational training program designed to help you build effective marketing and communications strategies for your nonprofit. This will be a thought-provoking workshop that will also be a valuable opportunity for you to network with other nonprofits facing the same challenges you are. The VC will also share a comprehensive local media contact list for attendees. Registration Required by November 18 am. Registration form below.

Tuesday, November 19
8:30-10:30am

Winnetka Community House
620 Lincoln Avenue
Winnetka

Susan Noyes
Founder & Publisher of Make It Better Media Group

Susan will discuss “Activating Your Audience”, highlighting best communication practices that have proven to build awareness of and support for successful nonprofits – particularly online. This Amplification & Connection Strategy is particularly effective in improving sponsorships, donations and ticket sales for major fundraising events.

Chris Hogan
Managing Director of i3Insights and Executive Service Corps Member

Chris will cover “Marketing Your Nonprofit”, with focus on applying Marketing Positioning to define and solidify your nonprofit’s image in the hearts and minds of your constituents. He will provide you a framework to help you articulate your nonprofit’s unique benefit, and why your constituents will believe it, over other relevant non-profits.

About Our Presenters

About Susan Noyes
In 2007, Susan founded makeitbetter.net , a small, community website. It blossomed into a multi-platform publishing company, serving similar demographics throughout Chicagoland, Marin County and San Francisco Bay Area — with a vibrant digital ecosystem, print magazines, custom publishing partnerships, videos, awards and signature events.

All three publications–Better, Marin Magazine and SPACES and their corresponding digital platforms help generate those powerful, positive connections that will inspire you to live, love, work and play with greater purpose.

She also launched the Make It Better Foundation and annual Philanthropy Awards in 2012. She occasionally appears on CNBC’s Closing Bell Investor Roundtable. Susan practiced law for Sidley & Austin from 1983-1989, then focused her efforts as a philanthropist, and uber volunteer while raising 6 children. She serves on multiple Chicago nonprofit boards including American Red Cross Chicago Chapter, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, and Poetry Foundation.

Better , formerly known as Make it Better began as a small website 12 years ago and has grown into a multi-platform publishing company, serving similar demographics throughout Chicagoland and the San Francisco Bay Area — with a vibrant digital ecosystem, print magazines, custom publishing partnerships, videos, awards and signature events.Better’s dream continues to be to create, strengthen, and connect communities across the country. Simply put, Better helps generate those powerful, positive connections that will inspire you to live, love, work and play with greater purpose.

About Chris Hogan
Chris is the Founder and Managing Director of i3Insights, a marketing and consumer insights consultancy across many industries. Chris is also a member of Executive Service Corps (ESC) an organization which provides consulting for non-profit organizations. He brings to his clients the knowledge gained and lessons learned from 35 years of experience working in consumer insights, shopper insights, analytics and category management. Chris has also taught consumer research as an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Chicago.

Previously, Chris was SVP Consumer Insight & Analytics at ConAgra. His responsibilities included insights and analytics for both the Consumer and Commercial Business Units. Prior to ConAgra, Chris had a variety of insight positions with increasing responsibility at Kraft Foods including: VP Consumer Insights & Strategy Kraft International responsible for consumer and shopper insights in 70 countries around the globe; VP Category Management Kraft North America responsible for the creation and leadership of Kraft’s Shopper Insights team, as well as leading the Category Management initiatives for the Kraft Sales organization; Director Consumer Insights for multiple business units across the Kraft U.S. portfolio of products.

i3 Insights was founded by Chris Hogan, after Chris successfully accumulated 30+ years of experience leading Insights, Analytics and Category Management teams at multiple Fortune 100 companies. This includes both U.S. and International experience identifying marketing insights that drove Brand Strategy, Brand Communication, Innovation and Category Management Opportunities. As a result, i3 Insights provides an uncommon level of both breadth and depth of knowledge in activating consumer insights, shopper insights, analytics, and strategic marketing that influences, inspires and impacts your business results. Chris also is an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Chicago,teaching consumer research design and analysis.

For more information, email Barb Tubekis at barb@volunteercenterhelps.org, or call 847-441-7665

Please Join Us at Our School Service-Learning Workshop and Networking Event

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 16:35:13 GMT

THIS EVENT IS RESCHEDULED FOR SPRING 2020. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFORMATION LATER THIS YEAR.

Calling All Faith-based and School Parent Organization Presidents and Service-Learning Outreach Chairs

STAY TUNED FOR DATE

AND LOCATION IN SPRING 2020

Need to spice up your faith-based or school’s community service program for your families and students? Don’t currently have a service program? This Volunteer Center workshop will give you a solid foundation to start — or enhance — one. We will provide new ideas to engage your youth in age appropriate service activities that benefit nonprofits who are making a difference in our community. Network with your volunteer colleagues and share insights at this best-practices training on how to plan Service Projects or full scale Service-Learning Programs that will inspire your congregations and students to a lifelong passion for service.

The Volunteer Center is also excited to introduce a new Junior Board for public, private and parochial middle school students! More information will be shared about this at the workshop as well.

Join Us! If you have questions, please e-mail us at info@volunteercenterhelps.org, or call Barb Tubekis 847-441-7665

Our Biggest Make A Difference Day Ever!

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 16:39:08 GMT

A Generous Community Cleaned Its Closets to Benefit People and Animals in Need

Make A Difference Day is one of the North Shore’s favorite opportunities to lend a hand to local nonprofits serving people in need. Even with the challenges of the pandemic, this year was no exception. With support from our dedicated volunteer partners from Highcrest Middle School — and this year’s host Wilmette Junior High School — we were able to send our nonprofit partners away with cars and trucks bursting at the seams with valuable donations. And our guest dog from Orphans of the Storm even found a home! Many thanks to all who helped make this such an inspiring event.

Participating Nonprofits and Items Collected

Books4Cause — Gently used books, all genres, including textbooks, CDs, DVDs and vinyl

Childcare Network of Evanston — Infant Baby diapers, size newborn to 6. Baby wipes and pull-ups, especially 3T-4T boys and girls. Formula – Regular, Gentle Ease and Similac

Connections for the Homeless — Men’s casual winter clothing and coats, hoodies and sweatshirts; duffels, sleeping bags, suitcases

Counseling Center for the North Shore — Women’s clothing and coats

Gear 4 Goals — Sports equipment

Glass Slipper Project — Women’s jewelry and formal/dressy purses

Hadley Institute for the Blind and the Visually Impaired — Eyeglasses & Cases

Junior League of Evanston/North Shore — Casual purses, travel-sized toiletries

New Trier Township Food Pantry — Non-perishable Food, paper goods, laundry detergent

Northwestern Settlement — Baby, toddler and children’s clothing, coats and shoes

Orphans of the Storm — Pet supplies, food, newspapers, pets to adopt!

Refugee One — Winter boots for all ages and genders

Woman’s Club of Evanston — Prom dresses and dress shoes

Working Bikes — Adult bikes in repairable condition and gently-used kid’s bikes

YMCA of Metro Chicago — Toys, games and school supplies

Check Out Last Year’s Make A Difference Day

For More Information:
email info@volunteercenterhelps.org

Historic Wagner Farm Bonfire and Barndance

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 16:41:44 GMT

The annual Bonfire and Barndance is a fun event for all and includes country music, games, s’mores making and general fun around the farm. Volunteers help with tending the bonfires, handing out s’mores fixings, admissions, set up and clean up. If you’d like to come and enjoy a great evening at the farm and help out at the same time, this event is for you!

The Volunteer Center

February 2025 - Newsletter

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MLK Day of Service 2025 A Record Breaking Success!

MLK Day of Service 2025 A Record Breaking Success!

December 2024 - Newsletter

December Newsletter

November 2024 - Newsletter

So Much To Be Grateful For

October 2024 - Newsletter

Make A Difference Day

Saturday, October 26th

September 2024 - Newsletter

Volunteer Opportunities For All!

August 2024 - Newsletter

Kicking Off A New Season!

Better.net Awards the Volunteer Center Grant for “You Said It” Essay

Looking to Make A Difference During the Holidays? Find Out How You Can Help Here!

BE A HOLIDAY HERO

FOR MORE INFORMATION, AND TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN HELP, CLICK HERE .

Three Ways to Help New Trier Township Support Those in Need During the HolidaysCaring Neighbors

For more information, and to find out how you can participate, click here.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOPE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY SUPPORTING LAWRENCE HALL’S ANNUAL WISH LIST HOLIDAY DRIVE

For more information, to sign up, or to donate, CLICK HERE .

BRIGHTEN THE HOLIDAYS FOR A CNE FAMILY!

For more information or to make a donation, Click Here .

LAMBS FARM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS FOR BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

For more information about Lambs Farm or Breakfast with Santa, Click Here .

To register as a volunteer, email Angela Ramert at asr@lambsfarm.org or call 847-990-3864.

Support Junior League of Evanston-North Shore “Toys for tots” collection

For more information, click here .

Prepare Holiday Stockings for the Homeless

For more information email luke@thennightministry.org

Provide Secret Santa Gifts for Intellectually Disabled Residents at Glenkirk

For more information email cmayfield@glenkirk.org

Provide Gift Cards to Families With Young Children So They Can Shop for Their Children’s Christmas Wishes

For more information, click here

Volunteers for Shore Holiday Parties

For more information, click here

Help Commemorate the 22nd ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11. Celebrate Local Heroes During Our Annual 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance

Monday, September 11, 2023

The Volunteer Center’s Annual DAY OF SERVICE AND REMEMBRANCE is a terrific opportunity to say “thank you” to the local heroes we count on every day — and to commemorate the heroes of 9/11.

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This project is sponsored annually by the Volunteer Center: www.volunteercenterhelps.org

Register Now for our November 7th Nonprofit Workshop “Grow: How Organizations Can Use META to Build Communities, Raise Awareness and Fundraise”

Drop Off at Make A Difference Day — Then Drop by the Fall Fest Community Wellness Fair!

The Volunteer Center Invites Nonprofits to a FREE Training Program: “The Basics of Board Governance” on June 15th

Program Agenda

Nancy’s Profile

Volunteers Needed for Community Shredding Event Saturday May 7th. Bring Your Documents Too!

The Volunteer Center is joining with New Trier Township and Regina Dominican High School to sponsor a free community-wide document shredding and disposal event.

We need volunteers!

To volunteer, or for more information, email Barb Tubekis at info@volunteercenterhelps.org

The Volunteer Center and James Martin Associates Host Earth Day Service Event April 23rd

Join us for Special Restoration Projects in Honor of National Earth Day

Questions? E-mail info@volunteercenterhelps.org

This Year’s Recognition Event Featured an Inspiring Group of Volunteers Who Are Making a Difference in Our community

Location: The Historic Wilmette Theater 1122 Central Avenue, Wilmette

More Detail About Our Honorees

To receive a digital copy of our video of the event please email info@volunteercenterhelps.org

Volunteers of All Ages Honor Dr. Martin Luther King With Remote Service Projects

Thanks to Our Amazing Volunteer Community for Supporting This Year’s Remote MLK Day of Service

If You’re Looking for At-Home Volunteer Projects: Ideas and Instructions

NO-SEW BLANKETS For the homeless

KINDNESS ROCKS dedicated to our very hardworking healthcare workers.

FRIENDSHIP AND/OR VALENTINES NOTES For Seniors, Veterans, Children in Hospitals

TRAY FAVORS For Seniors in Residential Facilities

BRACELETS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH AT RISK

T-SHIRT BRAIDED DOG TOYS For Dogs at Orphans of the Storm

Looking Forward to Next Year’s MLK Day Service — Hopefully In-Person Once Again!

Recycle Your Goods for Good at This Year’s Make A Difference Day on Saturday, October 23rd

Please Sort, Bag & Label Your Items for Each Organization Below Before You Donate

Take action today to help victims of crisis in Afghanistan. Here are some ways you can help you can help

To learn more about Madonna Mission, click here.

To learn more about World Relief, click here.

To find out more about Refugee One, click here.

Looking to Volunteer this Summer? We Can Help!

Summer is a great time to volunteer at a local nonprofit. Let us help you help others!

Click here to visit our VC Nonprofit Page and start your search!

Volunteers Needed for Community-Wide Document Shredding Event Saturday, November 13th

Location: The Historic Wilmette Theater
1122 Central Avenue, Wilmette

Summer is a great time to volunteer at a local nonprofit.
Let us help you help others!

The Volunteer Center and James Martin Associates
Host A Special Opportunity to Honor Earth Day

We’ll post holiday volunteer opportunities as we receive them, so check back regularly. In the meantime, you can also peruse our listing of nonprofits and contact them directly
to see if they need volunteers.

Lawrence Hall
LawrenceHall.org

Good News Partners
GoodNewsPartners.org

Lambs Farm
Lambsfarm.org

Clearbrook
Clearbrook.org

Center for Enriched Living
Centerforenrichedliving.org

New Trier Township Food Pantry
793 Elm Street, Winnetka, 60093 847-446-8203

Counseling Center of the North Shore (CCNS)
992 1/2 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093 (847) 446-7787

Beacon Place
603 S. McAlister, Waukegan, IL (847) 497-5787

Family Focus of Evanston
2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston, IL, 60201 (847) 475-7570

Meals on Wheels
847-316-1337

Bernie’s Book Bank
917 N Shore Dr, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 (847) 780-7323

The Josselyn Center
847-441-5600 x 1

Thank you for your kindness and generosity — and for your participation in our volunteer community.
Stay healthy and safe.