MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Volunteer Center of Reno County is seeking additional volunteers to support nonprofit and governmental organizations throughout the community.
Leah Chandler and Jenna Martin of the Volunteer Center said the organization currently has about 1,200 active volunteers and works with approximately 85 nonprofits across Reno County.
The center recruits volunteers, identifies their interests and skills and matches them with organizations that need help. Volunteers may choose ongoing assignments or assist with short-term projects and special events.
“We really can work with any schedule,” Chandler said.
Last year, 1,275 registered volunteers contributed more than 96,000 hours at nonprofit organizations throughout the county.
Current volunteer opportunities include assisting at the Kansas State Fair, working at the Reno County Food Bank, mentoring students, serving at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and helping with the Salvation Army thrift store.
Volunteers are also needed for Beyond Barriers’ Disability Mentoring Day on Oct. 21, the Circles program, Rise Up and the long-term care ombudsman program. Ongoing needs include Meals on Wheels deliveries, elementary school mentoring and food bank assistance.
The Volunteer Center includes the AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, commonly called RSVP, for adults 55 and older. Its Volunteer Action Corps serves people age 54 and younger.
The center has operated as a program of Hutchinson Community College since 1973. Its mission is to strengthen nonprofit and governmental organizations by recruiting, referring and supporting volunteers.
The organization also coordinates the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program with the IRS. The program uses trained and IRS-certified volunteers to provide free tax preparation and electronic filing for people earning $75,000 or less annually.
Chandler said the center helped prepare about 650 federal and state income tax returns and homestead returns last year. The service typically operates from late January through early April.
Another program, Friends in Action, connects volunteers with frail or isolated residents who lack local support. Volunteers provide weekly companionship or assist with grocery shopping twice a month.
People interested in volunteering may call the Volunteer Center at 620-665-4960, visit its website or follow the Volunteer Center of Reno County on Facebook.
Chandler said volunteers control how much time they contribute.
“You get to pick and choose how much time you want to volunteer,” she said. “Please just contact us and see where you might be able to help out in the community.”