STAFF AT HANDS/ON WEST CENTRAL OHIO VOLUNTEER TOO !

Sidney – HandsOn West Central Ohio staff recruit volunteers for area non-profit agencies every day. But last Friday they also were the ones that did the volunteering.

The HandsOn staff, which also includes the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, came together and chose to spend part of their day at the Holy Angels Soup Kitchen in the Sidney, giving of their time and talent. Nikki Winner, HandsOn West Central Ohio program director said, “Even though the staff work each day with volunteers, we as individuals also want to give back to the communities. Volunteering is not only an opportunity to help others through actions, but to learn more about each other, ourselves, and how we can work together as a strong team. We try to show everyone how there are “Opportunities Every Day” to connect passion with action, and make a difference.”

The Holy Angels Soup Kitchen is open to anyone that needs a warm, nutritious meal with a caring individual preparing it. The soup kitchen, which began in 1999, serves approximately 100 lunchtime meals on every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It is located in the Alpha Community Center at 330 East Court Street in Sidney. The kitchen is run completely by volunteers, with about 120 volunteers needed during the year to help to prepare food, cook and serve the meal, and clean up the center. Because of the current economic conditions this center has become even more important to the local community; they continue to see a significant increase in people and meals served during this year.

But through HandsOn West Central Ohio there is no end to the creative options and opportunities available for all ages to get involved in the communities. You can volunteer as a family, learn something new, or work for an issue that you feel strongly about. We even have opportunities where you don’t have to leave your home. We will help match your interests, talents, and skills with just the right volunteer project that will fit YOU. Sherry Baker, HandsOn volunteer coordinator is available to help anyone in Darke County find an opportunity to give of their time and talents to the area’s non-profit organizations.

HandsOn West Central Ohio, including RSVP, is a program of Council on Rural Services… programs for innovative learning. Their programs provide education, support, and volunteer services in nine counties. You can learn more about the agency and program opportunities in Darke County by checking the Web site at www.councilonruralservices.org  – www.handsonwestcentralohio.org or calling 937-548-8002.