VOLUNTEERISM COMMITTEE

The Volunteerism Committee makes donations of their time to help many organizations in our community that may need assistance. The chairperson coordinates and sets up schedules that work well for the volunteers and the organizations. Although we are always open to new suggestions, the club is currently involved with:

Transition to Adult Program (TAP) – This program emphasizes practical skills for jobs and socialization on regulary scheduled dates for certain Monroe High School students in the special needs porgram. The volunteers meet with the students and their teachers at the Monroe Senior Center. No experience needed!

Ronald McDonald House Caring Cooks – Volunteers are scheduled in small groups to prepare a meal, once a month, for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in New Brunswick. The Volunteers decide what they want to cook (within guidelines), shop for the ingredients, and cook in the Ronald McDonald House kitchen. Join together with your friends and volunteer as a group or get matched up with other volunteers.  This is so much fun and so rewarding!

RAVE – This program is coordinated through the Children’s Department at the Monroe Library. A reader is matched up with a teacher in a local school to read to the class on a regular schedule, decided between the reader and the teacher. The reading session is usually 30 minutes once a week but is very flexible, depending on the teacher.

Tutoring – This program is coordinated through the Children’s Department at the Monroe Library. Volunteers tutor students after school and during the summer session.

Children’s Specialized Hospital – The Children’s Specialized Hospital’s main location is in New Brunswick but there are some other nearby locations. There are many different ways you can help, including Cuddling infants and transporting patients to and from their therapy programs within the hospital. These children need all the attention they can get! We have the appropriate forms to get you connected with the right people at the hospital.

NJRise – NJRise Community Services in Hightstown offers various initiatives for those interested in contributing their time and energy.  Volunteer opportunities include assisting at their food pantry, thrift store, and with seasonal programs and special activities.  Visit their website at www.njrise.org to view their calendar of events and sign up through the “Volunteer” tab.

During the pandemic, NJRise is looking for individuals to prepare short videos of tutorials showcasing talents in such subjects as career paths, cooking, knitting, painting, wellness, etc.  They are also seeking Certified Public Accountants to donate their professional services during tax season.  Contact Valerie Benites, Program Coordinator, at vbenites@njrise.org for additional information.