Want to help your community? Then Be Counted!

Did you know, California looses $1,000+ per person per year for each person who is not counted in the Census? That is billions of dollars that can go to improved hospitals and healthcare, schools, roads, and many more resources for our communities. Remember, all information provided on the Census is confidential. You don't have to be a citizen to Be Counted. As a person living in the United States, it is your Constitutional Right to Be Counted!

Make a difference, Volunteer!

Looking for volunteer opportunities?  At http://www.handsoncentralcal.org/ you can find 100+ opportunities in almost any field you can think of.  Here are a few current opportunities:

Book Bank
Description: Process books to be given to schools in low-income neighborhoods

Blue Ribbon Display Outreach
Description: Help paint the town Blue!  Tie blue ribbons around the trees in Downtown Court House and the Tower District in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Spend Friday night with a special needs child
Description:  Often families struggle emotionally and spiritually because of the effect disability can have on the family.  Joni and Friends has started a program to provide temporary respite (relief) for parents of children with special needs.  The purpose of the program is to give these parents free time to go on a date, grab coffee, or just run errands without interruption.

If neither of these interests you, remember we have plenty more opportunities available on our website.  So drop on by; you never know what might catch your eye.

Yesterday, we put on a Thank You Reception and Art Hop in honor of the volunteers who helped in the drought food distribution of 2009. Volunteers were able to enjoy a variety of desserts; cupcakes, strawberry shortcake, brownies, and tarts to name a few, while melodic tunes and cheerful conversations wafted throughout the office. The Volunteer Connections beehive was transformed into a wine tasting area with wine graciously served by Twin Rivers Vintners of Fresno County. Our Art by Hand store was also open, showcasing magnificent art pieces: paintings, purses, and other creations by local artists for the public to browse and purchase.
We want to again thank those who volunteered in the drought disaster food distribution for the dedication of your time and service during the disaster, and for being the change in your community. Also, a big thanks to the Community Food Bank for partnering with us to serve our communities.

Others news:

• Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and we are currently selling Valentine's for Volunteers.  Send your loved one a valentine and support volunteerism in the valley!
• We are currently accepting nominations for the annual Hands Across the Valley Volunteer of the Year Awards.  Nominate your amazing volunteers for this tremendous honor.  Nomination packets are due no later than February 19, 2010.