IHS’s 2-1-1 Helpline Give Help Volunteer Site

On Wednesday, 2-1-1 Helpline will introduce a new initiative to increase volunteer opportunities for people of all ages in the Southern Tier.The Give Help web site is a resource for large and small organizations that seek to recruit volunteers and match them with the right opportunities. Agencies can post ongoing or one-time volunteer opportunities, plan events, post agency news, keep records of their volunteer opportunities, and communicate with volunteers.Individuals of all ages can use the site to search for volunteer opportunities that match their interests, skills and preferred location.“We are pleased to be able to leverage the 2-1-1 Helpline service in our area in support of volunteerism and civic engagement,” 2-1-1 Helpline Director Carol Wood said. “Since Helpline’s founding in 1984, and now providing access by simply dialing 2-1-1, we have enabled thousands of people to find help and the Give Help site will connect people of all ages to projects, activities and organizations in our region.”The Give Help project is funded through Venture Grant from United Way of the Southern Tier (UWST) and is being launched in conjunction with Day of Caring, UWST’s day of volunteerism, on June 9.“United Way is committed to increasing opportunities for people of all ages to volunteer,” said Barbara Hubbell, Director of Community Solutions at United Way. “We are excited to be part of this project that benefits not only individuals seeking these opportunities, but also the non-profit agencies that can use their help.”For more information about 2-1-1 Helpline Give Help or registering your agency, dial 2-1-1 or visit 211helpline.org.2-1-1 Helpline is a free and confidential information and referral service that connects individuals with resources and volunteer opportunities in our community. 2-1-1 Helpline directs those in need to hundreds of local human service agencies, government programs, and self-help and support groups. Callers speak directly with our information and referral specialists Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, with crisis referral 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. Dial 2-1-1 or search www.211helpline.org.2-1-1 Helpline is a service of The Institute for Human Services (www.ihsnet.org).