Worthy causes

August 18, 2008 12:36 pm

WHALE CENTER OF NEW ENGLAND: The Whale Center of New England, a nonprofit organization that focuses on the biology and conservation of New England's whales, is looking for volunteers to oversee its visitors center on Harbor Loop in Gloucester. Responsibilities include greeting guests, answering visitors' questions and light sales work in the shop/gallery. Morning, afternoon and weekend positions are available. Training is provided. Call 978-281-6351 or e-mail volunteer@whalecenter.org.

MONEY MANAGEMENT VOLUNTEERS: SeniorCare's money management program is looking for volunteers to assist low-income elderly with managing their checkbooks and paying bills. Volunteers are needed for four to six hours a month, and are asked to commit to the program for one year. Initial training is provided to orient volunteers on how to complete the necessary paperwork to safeguard clients, volunteers and the program. Training is available bimonthly. Call Debby Beveridge at 978-281-1750, ext. 374.

SECOND GLANCE: The Second Glance Resale Shop, 2 Pond Road, seeks volunteers to help during store hours to hang clothes, provide customer assistance, accept and sort donations, clean, and more. Many shifts are available. Call Elizabeth Moulton, Second Glance manager, at 978-283-4298. All proceeds support The Open Door/Cape Ann Food Pantry.

CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS: Cell Phones for Soldiers is a nonprofit organization that has raised more than $250,000 and has sent more than 9,000 prepaid calling cards to troops. Cape Ann Moose Lodge 1471 and Women of the Moose 896 will collect cell phones Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m., and Causeway Liquors on Essex Avenue will accept cell phones at any time. The program accepts any make or model of cell phone with the attached battery only. Cell phones are recycled for cash to purchase calling cards. Monetary donations are also accepted to purchase phone cards. To arrange for pickup of more than one phone, call 978-283-5042. Receipts are available. Call 781-659-7789 or visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com.

HAWC VOLUNTEER TRAINING: HAWC (Help for Abused Women and their Children) is seeking volunteers for a 24-hour hot line service to help end family violence. Volunteers must complete 30 hours of training on evenings and Saturdays. Training provides volunteers with the information needed to answer the 24-hour hot line, which can be answered from your home. Call Melissa at 978-744-2299, ext. 11, or e-mail melissae@helpabusedwomen.org.

ROBERT K. MULLOY SCHOLARSHIP: A scholarship fund in memory of Robert K. Mulloy has been established for a Manchester Essex Regional High School senior who exhibits Rob's strength of character, positive attitude, vibrant personality, strong academic performance, sense of humor and athletic excellence. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to the Manchester Education Fund, f/b/o Robert K. Mulloy Scholarship, c/o Cape Ann Savings Bank, Attn: Gail Ramos, 109 Main St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

AMVETS CLOTHING DONATIONS: AMVETS Post 32 collects clothing for adults for distribution at Massachusetts veterans hospitals. New or clean, used clothing in good condition is needed. Clothing may be dropped off at AMVETS Post 32, 14 Prospect St., weekdays after 10 a.m. To arrange for pickup, call Tom Glenn at 978-283-7516. AMVETS also collects flip-tops from aluminum cans for recycling. Proceeds benefit AMVETS veterans hospital programs.

AMERICAN RED CROSS: The Greater Beverly Chapter of the American Red Cross seeks volunteers in the following areas: motor corps drivers to take Cape Ann residents to medical appointments in Boston one day a month or one day a week; general office assistance for duties including data entry, telephone work, filing, typing, copying and assisting with office projects; disaster services as part of the chapter's Disaster Action Team, which includes training in disaster services and responding to emergencies and working on the chapter's Disaster Plan; public relations, work writing press releases and newsletters; working on special events; and work on the Web site to keep it current with events, photos, news, etc. Call Elizabeth Macomber, executive director, at 978-922-2224.

PAWSITIVE CONNECTIONS PROGRAM: SeniorCare Inc.'s Pawsitive Connections Program provides information and referral services, as well as assistance to elders to help them continue to live independently while being able to enjoy the company of their pets. The program, which receives no state funding, is sometimes able to contribute limited funding for temporary care, rabies vaccinations or food for very low-income elderly pet-owners. Pawsitive Connections participates in the Cash for Critters program and needs empty recyclable printer cartridges. Cartridges may be dropped off or sent to SeniorCare Inc., 5 Blackburn Center, Gloucester, MA 01930. Occasional pickups are arranged. For a list of acceptable cartridges, visit www.cashforcritters.com or call 978-281-1750, ext. 313.

KATHERINE E. "RENEE" NUTBROWN: The League of Women Voters of Cape Ann awards three $500 scholarships to graduating seniors of Gloucester, Rockport and Manchester Essex high schools. The scholarship is named in honor of Katherine E. "Renee" Nutbrown, a longtime League of Women Voters member and community activist, who died in 2007. For those wishing to honor Nutbrown and the league's commitment to the next generation of citizens, tax-deductible contributions may be sent to: June Michaels, P.O. Box 244, Rockport, MA 01966. Checks should be made payable to LWVCA, with "scholarship" written on the memo line.

KESTREL EDUCATIONAL ADVENTURES: Kestrel Educational Adventures, a nonprofit organization, brings hands-on science education to schools in Gloucester, Rockport, Manchester, Essex, Beverly and Salem. Entering its sixth year, Kestrel is launching its first fundraising and membership campaign which will support programs such as Forest Connections and Ponds in the Classroom, as well as the Animal Care and Conservation Afterschool Clubs. Kestrel focuses on bringing students out to explore local wild lands and bringing live animals into the classroom. Follow-up materials are provided for teachers and students to encourage the continued exploration of nature. Kestrel is looking for volunteers to join its board of directors or assist with many projects throughout the year. Visit www.kestreleducation.org or call 978-633-7100.

CONSERVATION COMMISSION: The Gloucester Conservation Commission seeks environmentally conscious volunteers. The purpose of the Conservation Commission is to protect environmental resources and the adjoining uplands from adverse impact by enforcing the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the city Wetlands Ordinance. The commission also advises other city boards on environmental matters and encourages public outreach on conservation issues. It meets the first and third Wednesday of the month. Anyone who is interested should send a letter to the Conservation Commission, 3 Pond Road, Gloucester, MA 01930.

CAPE ANN ANIMAL AID VOLUNTEERS: Cape Ann Animal Aid, 260 Main St., a no-kill, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding appropriate placement for adoptable animals, needs volunteers to help with paperwork, making phone calls or working with animals. People who can volunteer on a regular basis, several times a year or at special events are welcome. The shelter also seeks donations of trash bags (30-plus gallon size), paper towels, laundry detergent, bleach, dish detergent, SOS pads, chew toys for dogs, collars and leashes, Revolution for cats and dogs (all sizes), Frontline for cats and dogs (all sizes), printing paper, ink cartridges for a Samsung ML 1710 laser printer and a Canon 6012F copier. Call 978-283-6055.

FUND TO PREVENT HOMELESSNESS: The nonprofit organization based in Manchester provides one-time assistance to families in Beverly, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Manchester, Rockport and Wenham who do not qualify for any state funding. The fund, which gives 100 percent of contributions to families in need, defines families as a minimum of at least one parent and one child in the home. The board uses a volunteer professional intake coordinator to evaluate and assess the needs of families requesting assistance. Most families are referred by social service organizations or clergy. All inquiries and contributions may be sent to the Fund to Prevent Homelessness, P.O. Box 17, Manchester 01944.

DONATIONS TO HELP SENIORCARE: Residents who donate their car, truck or boat may receive a tax deduction while helping SeniorCare Inc. and its Meals on Wheels program. For details, call Helping Hands of America at 888-881-9090 or 508-384-1212, and be sure to mention Meals on Wheels. SeniorCare delivers Meals on Wheels to seniors in Beverly, Essex, Gloucester, Ipswich, Manchester, Hamilton, Rockport, Topsfield and Wenham. Call 978-281-1750 or 978-927-1046.

HELP LINE VOLUNTEERS: The substance abuse help line seeks volunteers for 24-hour, seven-day-a-week information and education phone service to persons affected by alcoholism and substance abuse. Close proximity to the MBTA. Call 617-536-0501, ext. 201, or visit www.helpline-online.com.

ERIN K. ERNEST SCHOLARSHIP: The family and friends of Erin K. Ernest have established a scholarship in her memory for a Gloucester High School student pursuing higher education. Erin graduated from Gloucester High School in 1998, and died Sept. 8, 2004, after a brief illness. Erin had many interests, but one of her passions was animals. Scholarship preference will be given to a student pursuing a career in the field of veterinary medicine or veterinary technician, although all students planning to further their education should apply. Scholarship applications are available at the Gloucester High School guidance office. To make a contribution, send a check payable to the Erin K. Ernest Scholarship Fund, c/o Danvers Bank, 1 Conant St., Danvers, MA 01923.

ADDISON GILBERT VOLUNTEERS: Addison Gilbert Hospital in Gloucester seeks applicants to join its team of enthusiastic and professional volunteers. The Emergency Department, Surgical Day Care Unit and Adult Unit need volunteers to give directions, assist with activities, transport patients within the hospital, and help serve refreshments. Opportunities are also available for clerical assistance and sales positions in the gift shop for morning, afternoon and evening shifts. Training, free parking and meal vouchers for the hospital's cafe are provided. Call 978-922-3000, ext. 2307.

FAMILY SHELTER VOLUNTEERS: Wellspring House needs volunteers to help at its Family Shelter in Gloucester. House volunteers are critical in the daily life of the staff and guests, and may work a weekday morning or an afternoon shift. Volunteers work withstaff to prepare meals, greet visitors, and assist with any activities that help the house run smoothly and promote a hospitable atmosphere. Volunteers are an essential and a much-appreciated part of the Family Shelter Program. Call Outreach Coordinator Sarah Grow at 978-281-3558, ext. 303.

WELLSPRING CAPE ANN FAMILIES: The family support and education center of Wellspring House Inc. has volunteer opportunities available in the following areas: child care, teen role models, teen mentors, newsletter mailing, parent mentors, group facilitators, Family Focus team, and computer instruction. Call 978-281-7856 or e-mail abaylies@wellspringhouse.org.

CAROLYN O'CONNOR SCHOLARSHIP: The Carolyn O'Connor Scholarship has been established by the Cape Ann Chamber Businesswomen. The $1,000 scholarship, named in honor of the group's first chairwoman, will be awarded annually to a Cape Ann woman looking to change careers or re-enter the work force. Each applicant must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, be a legal resident, and be accepted into an accredited college, university or job training program. Applications are available at the chamber office or by calling 978-283-1601. Contributions, made payable to Businesswomen's Scholarship Fund, may be sent to Chamber Businesswomen's Division, Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, 33 Commercial St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED: The American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery program needs volunteers to drive local cancer patients to and from chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments. Drivers use their own vehicles. The schedule is flexible, and treatment appointments take place weekdays, primarily during business hours. Call 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

VNA CARE NETWORK & HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS: VNA Care Network & Hospice, a nonprofit visiting nurse association, needs volunteers to provide practical and emotional support to terminally ill patients and their families on the North Shore and Cape Ann. Volunteers receive training, supervision and support. Call Susan Smith, volunteer coordinator, at 888-663-3688, ext. 1402, or visit www.vnacarenetwork.org.

STEPHEN B. ROSS SCHOLARSHIP: Stephen Ross was a Gloucester High School freshman who was struck and killed by a drunk driver while walking home one night in 1993. This scholarship is given to deserving Gloucester High School seniors every year. To donate, send contributions to Bob Gillis at the Cape Ann Savings Bank, 109 Main St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

RAYMOND R. ANDERTON SCHOLARSHIP: The Raymond R. Anderton Scholarship Fund has been established by family and friends to honor his life. The scholarship is awarded to a deserving Gloucester High School senior who has been accepted at an accredited school of continued learning. The recipient must demonstrate a commitment to community service and social change through activities, school-sponsored and otherwise. Applicants should possess a strong character, unique interests and an eagerness to "think outside the box." Scholarship applications may be picked up at the Gloucester High School guidance office. To make a contribution, send a check payable to the Raymond R. Anderton Scholarship Fund, c/o Cape Ann Savings Bank, 109 Main St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED: The Wellspring Adult Learning Center, located at Sawyer Free Library, seeks volunteer tutors to help adults learn English. Volunteers are also needed to help students with basic math and literacy. Call 978-281-9763, ext. 23.

MARGARET F. PARSONS SCHOLARSHIP: A scholarship in memory of Margaret (Muggs) Parsons, former office nurse for Cape Ann OB-GYN, Dr. Lawrence Ross and Dr. Hamer Lacey, is awarded to a graduating senior of Gloucester High School who plans to major in the medical sciences and has demonstrated good character, dependability and self-help skills. Applicants must show financial need. Grades are not a determining factor. Send donations to Margaret F. Parsons Scholarship Fund, c/o Patricia Sargent Burleson, 600 Washington St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

CAPE ANN SOCIAL CLUB VOLUNTEERS: The Cape Ann Social Club seeks enthusiastic and caring individuals to greet people, play games, help cook and enrich the lives of adults who attend evening and weekend programs funded by the state Department of Mental Health. Volunteers share special interests, skills and hobbies on a regular basis. Call Jane, Kay or James at 978-281-5585.

CHARLIE THOMAS SCHOLARSHIP: The family of Charlie Thomas has established a scholarship in his memory to be awarded each year to a graduating Gloucester High School student. Charlie Thomas was a dedicated teacher who was devoted to his profession and enjoyed teaching students not only in the classroom, but also through extracurricular activities and sports. Students planning a career in education will be given preference. Send donations to the Charlie Thomas Scholarship Fund, c/o Mary Thomas, 90 Langsford St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

ASHLEY RICHARD SCHOLARSHIP: The Ashley Richard Memorial Scholarship, created by family and friends in her memory, is awarded each year to a deserving Gloucester High School senior who has participated in Junior ROTC. The student must demonstrate the leadership, citizenship and perseverance to strive to make things better. Qualified students must be accepted at an accredited school of continued learning. To donate, send a check payable to the Ashley Richard Memorial Scholarship, c/o Cape Ann Savings Bank, 109 Main St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

JAMES EASON SCHOLARSHIP: A scholarship in memory of James A. Eason has been established. Applicants must plan to pursue a career in the trades or be seniors enrolled in automotive, electrical or machine technology, carpentry or cabinetmaking at Gloucester High School. Applicants must be committed to giving their best at all times, have integrity and strength of character, and not allow adversity to slow them down. Strong academics are not a requirement. To donate, send contributions to the James A. Eason Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Rockport National Bank, Railroad Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930, Attn: Cathy Ketchopolus. Call Joan Dallin at Gloucester High School for more information.

HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS: Hospice of the North Shore is seeking specialty volunteers for its Dementia Support Program. Volunteers provide companionship and assistance to patients and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Opportunities exist for visiting patients in long-term care and assisted living facilities located in various communities north of Boston. All volunteers, after completion of the core volunteer training, receive special Alzheimer's Association training and ongoing support. Call 978-774-7566 or e-mail info@hns.org. Visit www.hns.org.

VISITOR CENTER: The Gloucester Tourism Office is looking for volunteers at the Visitor Welcoming Center at Stage Fort Park. The Visitor Center is open seven days a week, beginning Memorial Day weekend through the fall. Volunteers are especially needed on the weekends. Call Suzanne Silveira at 978-282-4101.

MENTORS NEEDED: Wellspring House's One Family Scholarship Program is looking for volunteer mentors to guide and support low-income female scholars in education, career development and leadership potential. Women of all ages and life experiences who are self-aware, supportive, reflective, organized, motivational and positive are invited. Mentors must commit to a one-year relationship. Training and support are provided. The program matches scholars with professional women in or close to their fields of study to provide educational and career guidance, networking, help obtaining resources and moral support. Mentors help scholars balance their roles as single parents, students, community leaders and workers. Scholars and mentors meet monthly and stay in contact through phone and e-mail. The program provides support to single mothers who have been homeless or are at risk of being homeless. It offers a safe, comfortable base from which scholars gradually learn to shift their efforts from a struggle for survival to improving their own lives, those of other families in need and their communities. Call Betsy Simmons at 617-796-9066 or e-mail betsy.simmons@verizon.net.

BOULEVARD IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE: The Boulevard Improvement Committee is looking for volunteers to help beautify Stacy Boulevard. The committee will be setting up short- and long-term goals for the area, one of the most scenic spots in Gloucester and a gateway for many to the community. The committee is looking for people willing to help plan these goals, fundraise and get their hands dirty to make the Boulevard a spectacular place once again. Call John Orlando at 978-283-2277.

CELL PHONES FOR SENIORS: The TRIAD Council at the Gloucester Senior Center seeks used cell phones for a program providing free 911 emergency service for seniors. Residents are encouraged to drop off phones (with chargers) at the Rose Baker Senior Center. To arrange for a pickup, call 978-281-1647.

PAT ROY SCHOLARSHIP: The board of directors of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce has established a scholarship in honor of past President Pat Roy, the first woman leader in the organization's history. The scholarship will be awarded each year to a young woman pursuing business courses in college. The chamber will provide an annual endowment of $500 and welcomes additional contributions from those wishing to honor Roy's accomplishments as a key member of the Woodman family business and in strengthening the business and civic climate of the region. Send checks to the Pat Roy Scholarship Fund, c/o Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, 33 Commercial St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

GLOUCESTER FISHERMEN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION: The Gloucester Fishermen Athletic Association seeks new members to ensure that Gloucester athletics remain a strong tradition. There is a $50 membership fee. Membership forms are available at Ben's Paint, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Destino's, Eaton Apothecary, George's Coffee Shop, Gloucester Cooperative Bank, Gloucester High School main office, Liquor Locker, Lobstaland, Magnolia Variety, Marshall's Farmstand, Northern Lights, Rockport National Bank (Gloucester branches), Seabreeze Liquors, Seaside Graphics, Tony's Mobil Mart, Tony's Variety and Willow Rest. Information and checks may be sent to: The GFAA, P.O. Box 3010, Gloucester, MA 01930. For details or a membership form, call Dick Wilson at 978-525-3293.

MELANOMA EDUCATION FOUNDATION: The Melanoma Education Foundation seeks volunteers to help raise melanoma awareness. Volunteers should preferably have two or more weekdays per month available and be willing to plan and organize fundraising events in their area in memory of a loved one or friend whose life was lost to melanoma. Examples of fundraisers are races, raffles, dinners and auctions. For details, call 800-259-1633, e-mail MEF@skincheck.org or visit www.skincheck.org.

SCHOONER ADVENTURE: The schooner Adventure needs volunteers for office support, exhibit development, event organization, photography, public relations and the ship's store. Anyone interested should call Joanne Souza at 978-281-8079 or e-mail at jsouza@schooner-adventure.org. The Gloucester Adventure Inc., a nonprofit historic preservation and educational organization, was established to restore the schooner Adventure as a historic community resource and living classroom. Volunteers help year-round with vessel restoration, educational programs, events and fundraising. Visit www.schooner-adventure.org. Call Sally Curry at 978-281-8079 or send donations to the Gloucester Adventure Inc., P.O. Box 1306, Gloucester, MA 01931.

CAPT. HARRY "PINT" JOHNSON SCHOLARSHIP: A scholarship in memory of Capt. Harry "Pint" Johnson is available to graduating seniors from Cape Ann who will be entering a trade school, maritime arts school or the emergency services field. Send contributions to Speedwell Engine Co. 2, c/o Phil Tanson, 15 Prospect St. Rockport, MA 01966.

RAPE CRISIS CERTIFICATION: The North Shore Rape Crisis Center seeks the support of North Shore residents to help those affected by rape and sexual abuse. The center is looking for volunteers willing to become rape crisis counselors and staff its 24-hour hotline at 800-922-8772. After the training, volunteers will be certified to counsel victims of rape and sexual abuse. Classes are held Thursdays and Saturdays for five weeks at the HES North Shore Rape Crisis Center, 156 Cabot St., Beverly. Training is open to all North Shore residents, and registration is free. Call 978-927-4506, ext. 208. Health and Education Services offers programs in mental health, substance abuse, victimization, homelessness, HIV/AIDS, primary prevention, outpatient treatment, emergency care and residential placement. HES is part of an integrated network of health care services operated under the support of Northeast Heath System Inc. Visit www.hes-inc.org.

SENIORCARE VOLUNTEERS: Drivers are needed to take elders to local medical appointments or to deliver meals to those who are homebound. Drivers willing to go to out-of-town medical facilities are also needed. Mileage reimbursement is available. The SeniorCare RSVP America Reads Program connects volunteer reading coaches with children in kindergarten to grade three who need help with reading. Coaching is usually done after school in the student's local public library for one hour, free of charge. Volunteers are needed for Cape Ann communities. Anyone interested in being a friend to an elder who is lonely should join RSVP's Friendly Visitor Program. SeniorCare RSVP needs volunteers to help with Red Cross blood drives in several North Shore communities and on Cape Ann. The nursing home ombudsman and money management programs also need volunteers. Call 978-281-1750.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM: The Riverdale Youth Center after-school program at the Gloucester Housing Authority's family development program offers a safe environment, nutritious snacks and recreational activities five days a week for children ages 5 to 14. The program also tutors children with reading and homework assignments. Donations of paper products, new books and videos, and new arts, crafts and paint supplies are needed. The program also seeks volunteers who enjoy working with young children. Call Sarah Hollaway at 978-283-4470 or Kathy Ross at 978-281-4770.

SENIORCARE'S ELDER SERVICES: SeniorCare offers elder services in Beverly, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester, Rockport, Topsfield and Wenham. SeniorCare's mission is to provide and coordinate services to elders, enabling them to live independently at home and remain part of their community. Services include information and referral, home care, Meals on Wheels, elder care advice, caregiver support, abuse prevention services, nursing home advocacy, nursing and screening services, money management, volunteer transportation, volunteer services and Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Pawsitive Connections and supportive services. Call 978-281-1750.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SeniorCare RSVP is partnering with Bedside Advocates to help recruit volunteers from the North Shore and Cape Ann to provide comfort and compassion while helping fragile and elderly patients by accompanying them to the doctor's office, the hospitals, nursing home and helping them in their homes. Once trained, volunteers will encourage patients to ask questions, follow medication regimes and get prompt attention to problems. An introductory meeting is planned for the spring in Peabody. No prior medical experience is necessary, but a plus. Dr. Jonathan Fine will provide the training. Call Lydia Bertolino at 866-927-1050.

MEALS ON WHEELS DRIVERS NEEDED: SeniorCare Inc.'s Meals on Wheels program needs volunteer drivers to deliver fully prepared and packaged, hot noon-time meals to homebound seniors. Anyone interested in volunteering one day per week, or more, should call Linnea at 866-927-1050 or 978 281-1750, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drivers are especially needed in Ipswich, Gloucester and Hamilton.

WELLSPRING HOUSE VOLUNTEERS: Wellspring House needs volunteers to help out in numerous ways at Wellspring's Family Shelter in Gloucester. House volunteers are critical in the daily life of the staff and guests and may work a weekday morning or afternoon shift. They work with the staff to prepare meals, greet visiting members of the community, answer the phone and do any jobs that helps the house run smoothly and that promote a hospitable atmosphere. Volunteers are an essential and very appreciated part of the Family Shelter Program. Call 978-281-3558, ext. 303.

PATHWAYS VOLUNTEERS: Pathways for Children needs volunteers to help out, either for one time only or on a weekly basis, working with support staff in the classroom, sharing a special interest or skill or assisting with homework. Pathways has opportunities working with all ages, beginning with infants and toddlers in the Young Families Initiative, Head Start preschool program, and School-Age Care, which provides after-school programs for children up to age 12. There are also some opportunities available outside the classroom. Call Diana Foster at 978-281-2400, ext. 320 or e-mail dfoster@pw4c.org.

NEIL G. RAMSDEN ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Donations are being accepted for this memorial award given by the Essex teachers. This award is given to Essex seniors who are also graduates of Essex Elementary School and are enrolling in at least a two-year program of study. It is awarded on the basis of academic achievement, citizenship and service. Donations may be made in the form of a check made out to the Manchester Federal Credit Union, c/o Susan Hardy, Essex Elementary School, 12 Story St., Essex, MA 01929.

LISA SPARACO SCHOLARSHIP: Donations are being accepted in memory of Lisa Sparaco, who was killed in a drunken driving accident. A scholarship will be given to an Ipswich High School senior who needs assistance to attend college. Send donations to the Lisa Sparaco Scholarship Fund, c/o First National Bank of Ipswich, Attn: Jenny, 31 Market St., Ipswich, MA 01938.

WELLSPRING HOUSE VOLUNTEERS: Wellspring House is Gloucester organization that has developed programs that help people who want to move out of poverty. By providing shelter for homeless families, affordable housing, education and community support programs, the organization helps strengthen the traditions of social justice and mutual responsibilities. Volunteers have always been central to Wellspring's work. There are numerous ways to participate in Wellspring's programs as a volunteer. For details, call Sarah Grow 978-281-3558, ext. 303.

LISA BETH CURCURU SCHOLARSHIP: A memorial scholarship has been established to remember Lisa Beth Curcuru. All proceeds go directly to an annual scholarship awarded to a Gloucester High School student. Donations may be made to the Lisa Beth Curcuru Scholarship Fund, c/o Cape Ann Savings Bank, 109 Main St., Gloucester, MA 01930.

DAVID L. BENJAMIN MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP: Donations are being accepted for the David L. Benjamin Music Scholarship. The $500 scholarship is awarded annually to a Gloucester High School senior who is active in the instrumental or vocal music programs at Gloucester High School. Checks may be sent to: David L. Benjamin Music Scholarship, c/o Maureen Klopotoski, 169R Magnolia Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930.

FOSTER HOMES NEEDED: The Massachusetts Department of Social Services needs homes for adolescents in the Gloucester area. Training sessions for foster parents will be held in Gloucester. Call Carla King at 978-825-3862.

MAB COMMUNITY SERVICES: Donate your old car to MAB Community Services, formerly the Massachusetts Association for the Blind, which provides services and programs to the blind and vision-impaired community of Massachusetts. Free tow and quick pickup are available. Old cars, boats, trailers, campers, motorcycles, Jet Skis and snowmobiles may be donated. Call 888-613-2777.

SENIOR CENTER DRIVERS: The Gloucester Senior Center needs volunteers to drive local seniors to their medical appointments, as well as to stores for grocery shopping. This may be done on a monthly basis. Call Bea Robbins at 978-281-9765.

GARDEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Essex County Greenbelt needs garden volunteers for Cox Reservation, 82 Eastern Ave., Essex. The construction of Greenbelt's new "green" headquarters is complete, and now its focus has shifted to the landscaping and perennial gardens around the Cox house. Experienced gardeners are needed to help plan and execute a simple landscape and garden design. This will require attendance at meetings and regular correspondence with Greenbelt and other garden volunteers. Anyone who is interested in volunteering some amount of time (weekly/bi-weekly) to maintain the perennial gardens at the Cox Reservation are also needed. Volunteers should be physically fit for some strenuous activity and lifting. Contact Kate Walton at kwalton@ecga.org or 978-768-7241, ext. 15.

Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.