AMHERST — Amherst residents are invited to attend a volunteer fair on Sept. 21 to connect with local organizations that need more volunteers.
“The goal of the Amherst Volunteer Fair is to offer a platform for town departments and local organizations to engage with students and community members who are interested in helping to support their missions,” explained Julia MacFadzen, senior services volunteer and outreach coordinator. “It’s a way to showcase to the community all the important work being done in and around Amherst.”
The free event will take place on the Amherst Town Common where local organizations and potential volunteers can discuss what the organizations need and how potential volunteers might help to fill those roles. Amherst Senior Center, Jones Library and ESL Center, the town of Amherst, Amherst Recreation, Amherst Historical Society and Museum and the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are all scheduled to attend.
“While I can only speak to the need of the volunteer positions that I oversee at the senior center, I would argue that one can always be sure they are contributing essential support by donating their time to any organization that provides social services that promote a safer and healthier community,” said MacFadzen. “Before taking on a volunteer job, volunteers should know the difference their time and efforts will make. Many local organizations rely on volunteer support to fulfill their missions. Just a few hours a week can help to foster connections and make a meaningful impact on someone’s life.”
MacFadzen helped to organize the first volunteer event last year when organizations were looking to spring back after the pandemic. With assistance from a capacity-building grant from Mass. Service Alliance, many local organizations gathered and spoke highly of the opportunity to come together and learn about each other’s work. By collaborating wth the Amherst Farmer’s Market for this fair, MacFadzen hopes to reach out to even more people.
“Increased collaborations with Amherst College and [the University of Massachusetts] have brought more student engagement to the senior center,” noted MacFadzen. “However, part of our goal is to increase recruitment of year-round community members to foster long-term relationship building. The pandemic has certainly played a role in decreased volunteer activity, as well as uncertain economic conditions and cultural shifts in how we communicate.”
MacFadzen added that volunteering is accessible for everyone, regardless of skill, ability or mobility level. Currently, the senior needs volunteers for its free community Wednesday market, the weekly cafe and the reception desk.
“If you are able to make a time commitment and be a reliable source of support, there will be a volunteer opportunity suited to your particular strengths and needs,” said MacFadzen.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
