United Way column

Art of Recycle offers upcycled craft resources — similar to these — to teachers and others, and has classes at its Ephrata headquarters. The group is in need of a variety of different kinds of volunteers.

 JORGE FRANGANILLO | UNSPLASH

Did you know that today, April 7, is National Coffee Cake Day and is also National No Housework Day? I had no idea until I looked at a calendar listing of special days, but I’m glad to have an excuse to put my feet up and avoid some chores today while, hopefully, eating some coffee cake this afternoon.

We are also one week into National Volunteer Month, which is recognized each April. Did it sneak up on you like some holidays and birthdays do to me? I joke about this a little because our calendars are full of different observances and holidays, with some more important than others. But I do think it’s important to recognize volunteers of all kinds in our community.

National Volunteer Month was established by President George H.W. Bush in 1991 in order to honor the millions of volunteers across the country who support charitable and nonprofit causes.

Volunteerism has a long tradition in American society, with groups and individuals coming together to address a wide range of humanitarian, environmental and social issues. Volunteers regularly play vital roles supporting vulnerable populations, responding to crises, advancing social causes and contributing to the well-being of our community.

Local volunteers support and amplify the work of hundreds of nonprofits all around Lancaster County, and improve the lives of thousands of people in our community every day.

If you are wondering, “What can I do?,” there are a few ways to get involved. First, thank the volunteers that you see. Let them know you value their efforts. Second, start volunteering, or get back into volunteering if it’s been a while. There is a need in our community for the time, effort, and experience that you have to offer.

Here are a few current volunteer opportunities, and please visit our Get Connected volunteer website to find even more.

Art of Recycle

Art of Recycle is a community art center in Ephrata that provides educational art programs, space to create and craft, resources for teachers, special events and a community craft store that runs on donations. They use their space and programs to benefit the whole community, promoting access for all to be inspired and empowered to create by using donated, discarded and unwanted items.

Volunteers who like to organize things are needed to help categorize books and match greeting cards with envelopes. Volunteers who like to decorate and help clean up are also needed. There is even an opportunity to host a crochet or knitting club. Please note that background check and clearances are required, and assistance is provided.

For more information and to volunteer please visit tinyurl.com/ArtofRecycle.

Lafayette Fire Company BBQ Fundraiser

Calling all chicken and pork barbecue lovers! We need your help prepping, packaging and expediting service during Lafayette Fire Company’s BBQ Fundraiser on Saturday, April 13. Volunteers are needed to help with preparation on Thursday, April 11, and Friday, April 12, and on the day of the event.

Community members can also preorder dinners to support the 100% volunteer-run Lafayette Fire Company, which serves the area just east of Lancaster. For more information, including to volunteer and to preorder dinners please visit tinyurl.com/LafayetteFireBBQ.

Get connected to volunteer opportunities

Visit the United Way of Lancaster County’s Get Connected volunteer site at uwlanc.galaxydigital.com. At the site you’ll find a variety of volunteer opportunities from around the county, and you’ll be able to sign up to receive updates when new opportunities are posted.

Joel Janisewski is director of the volunteer center and community listening for United Way of Lancaster County.

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