OnGoinG Service Opportunities

ONGOING SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES  

Below is a list of service agencies who may need volunteers on a regular basis.  Feel free to browse the list below and make contacts.  This list will be updated periodically. ** If you become aware of any contacts that have changed, please email Ms.Linden at klinden@duchesneacademy.org

*** Be sure to check the list of one-time opportunities because new opportunities are added regularly! ***

Children/Peers:

 Assumption – Guadalupe Catholic School, 5602 S. 22nd St, needs volunteers to help with providing childcare for once-a-month evening PTO meetings, helping with special events such as annual Halloween party, tutoring and reading to young students after school (3:00-4:00 p.m.), playing sports, chess, or other games, and serving as pen pals. If interested, Contact: Cheryl Castle, 731-1601, or email clynncas@cs.com for more information. (9/05)

 Big Brothers Big Sisters wants you to be a Big Brother or Big Sister to an elementary school child.  Just one hour a week of helping the child with his/her studies, and doing various activities like playing and making crafts can change a child’s life. “Big” and “Little” brothers and sisters are matched together based on interests, personalities, and the volunteer’s preferences.  Big brothers and sisters must complete an application, an in-person interview, and submit two references to be considered for the program. Contact: Abby Riessland, 330-2449, ext. 100, or volunteer@bigomaha.org, or visit www.bigomaha.org. (11/05)

Camp Fire USA Kids Café - Want to interact with incredible kids, respond to childhood hunger, and gain an understanding of the Hispanic culture? Camp Fire USA serves youth from pre-Kindergarten to High School. Please consider volunteering to help younger participants read, color, complete math, spelling, reading, or other homework.  You can also volunteer at the Kids Café program, which seeks to serve nutritious needs of children, throughout the school year between 3:30-5:00pm. Contact: Corrine Meyer at 397-5809 or CMEYER@campfireomaha.org. (11/05)

The Christ Child Society of Omaha serves the community by offering a broad base of support programs and services that include after-school activities for children like swimming lessons, gymnastic lessons, tutoring, field trips, and much more. Specifically, a group of 3 students are needed to work as tutors for the afterschool program, M-F, 3:30-5:30.  Contact: call Richard Martinez, at 342-4566, or email him at richard@christchildmail.com.  (11/05)

Heartland Family Service volunteers help young students with homework, tutoring, and after-school needs one afternoon a week at Family Service’s Soloman Girls Center or at their FAST (Families and Schools Together) program. Volunteers are also needed to provide childcare during Domestic Abuse Support Group meetings. Contact: Mary Langdon, 552-7442, or mlangdon@heartlandfamilyservice.org, visit www.heartlandfamilyservice.org.  (11/05)

Junior Friends, the new teen volunteer program of Heartland Family Service, helps with a variety of programs including a Party for the Children’s Shelter, Senior Prom, tutoring at the Solomon Girls Center, and by providing childcare at Heartland Family Service’s domestic abuse shelter. Various events are planned every year and they need your help in making sure the events run smoothly. Contact: Call Mary Langdon at 552-7442, mlangdon@heartlandfamilyservice.org. (11/05)

Hope Center, 2200 North 20th Street, offers kids in North Omaha a place where they can go to grow spiritually, socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually.  Many volunteer opportunities available including art center project assistant, children’s ministry, dance/cheerleading club, plus many more!  Contact: Kristin Petersen at 341-4673, ext. 1002. (11/05)

Indian Hill Elementary is looking for Spanish-speaking students who could act as interpreters for Parent – Teacher Conferences in the Spring.  Also, help is needed to assist with Field Day in the Spring.  Contact: Sharon Anania, 734-7594, Sharon.anania@ops.org.

Lutheran Family Services / Project SUN / Heartland Refugee Resettlement – MANY volunteer opportunities including working with children, serving food to the homeless, homework help, and mentoring young girls.  Contact: 346-6100.  (11/05)

United Way of the Midlands Kids Can at Social Settlement – The United Way of the Midlands needs your help with one of their 6 programs dedicated to serving kids in the Omaha Metro Area. Programs serve children from 3-13 years old, and many opportunities are available. All programs focus on building self-esteem, confidence and educational skills in children. The programs also strive to meet the needs of families and provide a safe and happy environment where kids can learn, make new friends, and develop socially. Contact Ned Schafer, 731-6988, or at tutoring@socialsettlement.org

Persons with Disabilities:

Children’s Respite Care Centers – Have fun and make a BIG difference in the life of a special needs child. The CRCC provides care to medically fragile, developmentally delayed, and physically challenged children and their siblings. Three locations: 2010 N. 88th St., 14245 Q, 4979 S. 118th St. Contact: contact Kori Kelley at 496-1000, M-F 8:00-4:30, for an application, or kkelley@crccomaha.org, or visit www.crccomaha.org.  (11/05)

The Just Friends Program, of The Arc of Omaha at the Ollie Webb Center, is seeking volunteer mentors for a peer mentoring and friendship program.  Just Friends gives teens with developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in social & recreational activities with teens without disabilities.  As a volunteer mentor, you would be required to get together with your new 'friend' twice a month for one year doing any social activity you wish (e.g., bowling, lunch, movies, etc.).  An application, interview, and training are required of all mentors.  Contact: Lisa Dougherty at 346-5220 ext. 22, or ldougherty@olliewebbinc.org.  (9/05)

The Madonna School for Exceptional Children, 6402 N. 71st Plaza, serves developmentally disabled children and adolescents between the ages of 5 and 21. The Madonna School provides a range of programs, including basic academic skills, speech therapy, pre-vocational and vocational training and adaptive physical education. Classroom assistance needed, or volunteer with Honey Sunday or Valentine’s Day Dance.  Contact: Steve Slater, 556-1883, or sslater@madonnaschool.org.  (9/05)

Millard Young Adult Program – The Millard Young Adult Program serves 18-21 year olds who are profoundly disabled, or preparing for independent living. Your help is needed with one-on-one crafts, activities, and special events. Contact: Rene McQuinn or Aline Jones at 894-6331 for more information. (11/05)

MOSAIC serves the Omaha community by supporting and advocating for those individuals with developmental disabilities. On-going opportunities are always available, and MOSAIC gladly welcomes volunteers from Duchesne. Contact: Brett Samson at 896-9988 ext 101 or email him at brett.Samson@mosaicinfo.org. (11/05)

Munroe-Meyer Recreational Therapy Programs offer volunteers hands-on experience interacting with children and youth, ages 3 through 21, who have developmental disabilities.  Volunteers assist the participants in various activities including art, music, cooking, sports, games, and swimming. All new volunteers are required to attend training before participating in our program. Contact: Nicole Giron at 559-3018, or ngiron@unmc.edu. (9/05)

Nebraska Special Olympics offers the opportunity for 1,500 disabled athletes to compete yearly. They need your help to make the games a success.  Contact: Joyce Werner, 331-5545, ext. 12, jwerner@sone.org.  (9/05)

Elderly:

Via Christe, our neighbor to the north, is always in need of volunteers both during and after school. Ocassionally, weekend help is needed.  Call: 551-5557

Comfort Care Homes is dedicated to personalized Alzheimer’s care in the comfort of six homes in residential neighborhoods throughout Omaha.  Various opportunities and flexible hours are available.  Wonderful opportunity!  Contact: Gina Mendick, 445-4474, ginam@cchne.com.  Also check out www.cchne.com.  (9/05)

Desert Ministries “GrandFriends” Program connects youth and older people together.  During each visit, the teens and their GrandFriends talk, discover each other, and enjoy each other’s company.  They can help write letters or read to their GrandFriend with the emphasis on building a lasting relationship.  Contact:  Paul Falkowski at 556-8032, info@desertministries.org, or www.desertministries.org.  (9/05)

The Franciscan Adult Day Center is dedicated to promoting dignity and comfort, compassion and unconditional love, strength and courage to the Elderly of New Cassel Retirement Center. As a volunteer you can offer socialization and friendship to the residents, help provide nutritious meals and snacks, and participate in crafts and recreational activities. Contact Sr. Eva Fritz at 393-2277 for more information.  (11/05)

The Parson’s House, 14325 Eagle Run Dr., is an assisted living and Alzheimer’s care center for the elderly. Volunteer opportunities are numerous and include; leading BINGO, crafts, board games, playing music (flute, piano, etc.), men’s and women’s clubs, 1 on 1 visitation, adopting a resident, ball games, painting fingernails, book club, trivia, Bible study, rosary, walks, coffee socials, card playing and hosting movies with popcorn. Contact: Julie Grady or Christina Egan, 431-4830.  (11/05)

Rose Blumkin Home – Volunteers are needed to help with activity calendars, provide friendly conversation while playing BINGO, and help Seniors utilize the computer.  The Rose Blumkin home is attached to the Jewish Community Center, located at 323 S. 132nd St. Contact: Lois Wine to get an activity schedule, 334-6519.  (9/05)

Senior Help – There are countless older adults in our community who need a little help around the house. One specific need is to take an elderly friend grocery shopping once a week! As an individual, in pairs, or a group you can volunteer your time and help in many ways.  Be with friends, make a difference, get volunteer hours, no further obligation!  Contact: Karen at 444-6536. www.enoa.org  (8/06)

 
Thomas Fitzgerald Veterans Home, 15345 West Maple Road – Students can help during mealtime by serving trays and cleaning tables.  Students can be friendly visitors and meet with members, provide a listening ear and friendly smile, Tuesday afternoons from 3:30-5:00pm.  Students can join in with crafting, indoor bowling, and card playing.  Contact: Patti Howe, 595-2180, ext. 235, or patti.howe@hhss.ne.gov.  (9/05)

Health Related Fields:

Children’s Hospital Teen Connection, 8200 Dodge St. – MANY opportunities available including playing in the waiting rooms with patients and their siblings, facilitating art activities and decorating the waiting areas, delivering flowers and gifts, to name a few.  We ask for at least a 6 week, once-a-week commitment in any of the several service areas.  Contact: Molly Reese, 955-4012. mmahoney@chsomaha.org. (9/05)

Creighton University Medical Center, 601 N. 30th Street, cares for the largest percentage (of all local hospitals combined) of the poor and homeless.  This hospital is the oldest continually-operating hospital in the Omaha area, and has stayed true to its mission of serving the poor ever since they were established by two Sisters of Mercy nuns 135 years ago.  Come join their passionate team of hospital volunteers, who interact with and serve the patients of the medical center daily.  You must be at least 14 in order to apply. Those interested must complete an application and get a recommendation. You should contact Cheryl Morehouse, 449-4260, or Cheryl.Morehouse@tenethealth.com. (11/05)

Immanuel Medical Center, 6901 N. 72nd St., offers the opportunity to learn new skills, develop leadership qualities, open the door to new friendships, and have a positive experience by becoming a member of the Alegent Health Immanuel Center Teen Volunteer Program. Teen shifts are available are available Monday-Thursday and on Saturdays.  Contact: Colleen Cipolla, 572-2132. (9/05)

Lakeside Hospital Teen Volunteer Program, 16901 Lakeside Hills Court – Serve the sick right here in the West Omaha area.  Teenagers from 14-18 can volunteer their time in a variety of areas. Duties include: delivering flowers and mail to patients, gift shop assistance, clerical tasks, computer work, assisting in family lounges, and assisting the public. Come serve others while developing a sense of responsibility, increased self-esteem, and leadership skills. Contact: Amanda Alloway, 717-8185.  (11/05)

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is an organization dedicated to the ongoing fight against blood cancers. Help find blood cancer research, education, and patient services. The society has various volunteer service opportunities available, including a cancer survivors day, their Light the Night Walk, and a black tie auction. Contact: Ashley Sammin at 344-2242, sammina@lls.org or visit http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org.  (11/05)

Project Happy is a group of energetic and outgoing teen volunteers who visit children in NE Medical Center and Clarkson hospitals and provide crafts, games, and companionship. They are looking for teens who are going to be entering their junior or senior year of high school. A year long, Wednesday afternoon commitment is asked of all volunteers. If you feel that you have the ability to work with children of all ages, lifestyles, backgrounds, and cultures, then please consider this wonderful service opportunity. Contact: UNMC (9/05)

Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, 620 S. 38th Ave, provides a ‘home away from home’ for families of sick children who come to Omaha for treatment at local hospitals.  Volunteers are needed to help clean, prepare and serve evening meals, make desserts and bring them to the House for the families, collect pop tabs and participate in their “Thanks a Million” program, or collect food, new toys, or other items on their wish list.  Contact: Shannon Liedel at 346-9377, or visit their website at www.rmhomaha.org.  (11/05)

VA Medical Center – Are you upbeat, energetic, and enjoy being around other people?  If so, there are many areas in which you can volunteer and assist the staff to provide quality care for our veterans. Such opportunities include: ambulatory care office, pharmacy, and many other departments throughout the medical center (located at the corner of 42nd and Center Streets.)  Contact: Michael Wittrock, 449-0649. (9/05)

VNA (Visiting Nurses Association) Teen Volunteer Program - VNA teens (14 and older) volunteer their time to make a difference in the lives of people in hospice.  Flexible scheduling and activities are available. Application process and training required.  Contact: Cindy Calhoun, 930-4261, VNATeens@vnam.org.  (11/05)

Visiting Nurse Association of Pottawattamie County – VNAPC is a progressive home health and hospice agency that provides homecare companionship for those in need of medical assistance. In addition, the agency serves the basic needs of patients like shopping and errands for those unable to take care of the tasks themselves. Contact Phyllis Moser at 712-328-2636 for more information. (11/05)

Homeless & Housing:

Habitat for Humanity – Volunteer in construction, yard work, and special events. 

Contact: Amanda Jones, 457-5657.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 1003 South 24th Street, is a store where individuals can donate new and used building materials.  These items are sold to the community for a reduced cost and the money made is put toward building Habitat homes.  Help is needed loading and unloading trucks, customer assistance, etc.  Contact: 934-1033.

Open Door Mission, 2828 North 23rd Street East - Volunteer Opportunities include serving at the Lydia House, Family Ministries, Food Service, and Outreach.  Contact: Yvonne Owens, 829-1512, yowens@opendoormission.org.  (9/05)

Siena/Francis House -Volunteers are needed for a variety of activities including: serving dinners, making sack lunches, helping with Sunday brunch, painting, cleaning, organizing the clothing room, and putting up holiday decorations. Hours are flexible. Call ahead to schedule a time to volunteer.  Contact: Kathy Gaines, 341-1821 e-mail: siena1702@sienafrancis.omhcoxmail.com  or visit www.sienafrancis.org  (11/05)

 
The Stephen Center serves the Omaha community as a homeless shelter providing various opportunities for community and volunteer involvement. Located at 2723 Q Street, the Stephen Center provides volunteers with the opportunity for direct service including the serving and preparing of meals. Contact: Bev Hoschar, 731-0238

Other:

Essential Pregnancy Services works to serve the needs of pregnant and mothering women, and has done so for over 30 years. EPS offers a wide variety of programs, and your help may be needed most by sorting clothes and preparing for boutiques where Mothers can shop, and fundraising for diapers, formula, baby wipes, lotions, baby wash and bottles.  Contact: Pamela Grosse or Sharon Mouton at 554-0121.  (11/05)

HETRA - Do you enjoy working with horses and also want to help children and adults with a variety of needs?  Volunteers are needed to assist with leading horses during classes, sidewalking during classes, and grooming horses.  This program is a lot of fun for everyone involved!  Evening and weekend hours are available.  Contact: Erin at 359-2179, erin@hetra.org or visit www.hetra.org to learn more. (11/05)

Make-A-Wish Foundation has worked to fulfill the wishes of over 1,200 children faced with life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions since 1980 in the Omaha area, and more than 150,000 children around the world. Your help is needed to continue the foundation’s mission of spreading hope and joy. Opportunities include participating in local special events, gift-wrapping at Oak View Mall during the holiday seasons, and much more. Contact: Sarah Price, 333-8999 ext. 14, sprice@nebraska.wish.org.  (11/05)

Nebraskans United for Life serves our community dedicated to securing the legal right to life of each individual from our biological beginning to natural death.  Help with school presentations, participate in their Loving Life Radio show, or sort clothes and provide general assistance at the Surprise Thrift Shop where all funds go to support the Right to Life. Contact: 399-0299, or visit http://www.nebraskansunitedforlife.org/. (9/05)

Project Linus has a mission to provide love, a sense of security, warmth, and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans lovingly created by volunteers.  Project Linus, which was named after the adorable security blanket-toting character from the Peanuts comic strip, provides a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals for the benefit of children.  Students of Duchesne Academy can help make a difference in the life of a child by making and donating blankets.   A fleece blanket for Project Linus requires only 1 ½ yards of fleece fabric.  Contact: Ginny DeBates at 212-3975, or Mary Arkfeld at 896-0439, or jmmkarkfeld@cox.net.  A Project Linus blanket is like a big hug…when you need one most!  (9/05)

Project Welcome, a ministry for Catholic Sudanese Refugee Families, has camps in June and a summer school program in July, plus various needs throughout the year.  Contact: Nancy Pawloski, 334-5160.

Sarpy County Teen Court – The Sarpy County Teen Court is a diversion program for juveniles who are charged with their first non-violent, misdemeanor offense. Cases that involve drugs, gangs, and assaults are not heard in Teen Court. As a volunteer, you may act as a juror, bailiff, or attorney for those charged. Volunteers will never hear cases of people that they know, or that go to their school. Teens between the ages of 14 and 17 can become volunteers. Volunteers need to be available for hearings on Tuesday nights from 5-7 pm. New volunteers must attend a two-hour training session. Contact Kris at 593-2207, or send an email to teencourt@sarpy.com. (11/05)

United Way of the Midlands Youth Leadership Committee promotes civic involvement and responsibility by providing high school students with opportunities to participate on the United Way board, committees and allocation panels, assist in fundraising for the United Way/CHAD campaign, and perform monthly community service projects. Contact: Raenna Kuzma, 522-7933 for more information.  (9/05)

Youth Emergency Services serves and protects at-risk youth by providing shelter, programs, and advocacy that educate and promote personal and family development. In order to successfully complete this mission, your help is needed. The Drop-in-Center located at 2057 Harney St. provides a safe place for youth to receive services such as a hot meal, shower, laundry facilities, and other assistance. Volunteers help prepare a hot meal for these teens and present an educational program. Contact 345-5187 for more information. (11/05)

ALSO CHECK OUT THESE GREAT RESOURCES FOR MORE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES!!!

http://www.uwmidlands.org/volunteer.htm – Comprehensive list of ongoing volunteer opportunities searchable by category, zip code, and agency.  Maintained and updated regularly by the United Way of the Midlands.

www.volunteersolutions.org/omaha/ - Create a profile or search by various criteria for the perfect volunteer opportunity in Omaha.  Sponsored by Volunteer Solutions Omaha.

The Catholic Network of Volunteer Service offers its annual Response directory of full-time, faith-based volunteer opportunities.  Check out a comprehensive list of one week to one year national and international volunteer placements. Online at http://www.cnvs.org/. 

The United Way of the Midlands Community Volunteer Network has released their “Volunteers Wanted: 2005 Edition”. This 31-page document contains a massive list of volunteer needs throughout our Omaha community.