April is National Volunteer Month, a month dedicated to honoring all of the volunteers in our communities and organizations as well as encouraging volunteerism throughout the month.
We are encouraging community members to use National Volunteer Week (April 7-13, 2019) as a way to take a moment and thank the volunteers in their lives.
“Without volunteers, the Y wouldn’t be the same; they’re the heart and soul of our organization and without their hard work, dedication and selflessness we couldn’t do the work we do every day to help kids, families and communities thrive,” said Bob Varga, Branch Executive of the Lansdale branch. “By bringing people together from all walks of life around a shared purpose to do good, the Y is creating a stronger, more cohesive community.”
As one of the leading nonprofits and volunteer organizations in the country, nearly 600,000 people volunteer at the Y each year and here at North Penn YMCA, over 380 volunteers give over 30,000 hours each year through activities such as mentoring youth, helping members, serving on our boards and spearheading fundraising drives. These opportunities also help volunteers enhance their personal well-being and develop meaningful relationships – all while making an impact in communities they care about.
It was Y volunteers who helped advocate to bring the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program to our Indian Valley branch, which has impacted over 120 cancer survivors in addition to their families in our community since its inception. Many more opportunities exist for others to help make a difference.
National Volunteer Week is a great time to get involved and give back. Here are a few ways individuals can take an active role at the Y and in their community:
- Help with Y fundraising efforts to ensure those in need can access essential programs and services to reach their full potential.
- Get involved with a Y mentoring or tutoring program to help youth learn new skills, build confidence and achieve their goals.
- Teach a class or ask Y staff about other ways to get involved with a program of interest.
- Invite friends and neighbors to join you in contributing to a stronger community.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at the North Penn YMCA, contact:
Lansdale branch: Bob Varga at 215-368-1601 ext. 216 or bobv@northpennymca.org
Indian Valley branch: Laura McMahon at 215-723-3569 ext. 112 or lauram@northpennymca.org
Harleysville Preschool branch: Diane Manus at 215-256-0767, or dianem@northpennymca.org
