A Few Good Men

Real Men Read

Springfield Public Schools is looking for a few good men to be a part of Springfield Real Men Read, a literacy and mentoring initiative that connects men with school children. In January 2010, Springfield Public Schools introduced Real Men Read in its five middle schools and Douglas School. Over 100 seventh grade students participated in the pilot.

MENtors simply visit classrooms once a month beginning in October. During their visit, they read and discuss the month’s selection and impress upon students the relationship between literacy and life success.

The mentors in last year's pilot program were excellent and included members of the business community, academia and the clergy. The district found that:

• 73% of students said they’d like to participate in the program next year;
• 67% of students said they were inspired to read because of Real Men Read;
• 75% of teachers said teachers and students not in the pilot were interested in the program;

The district is looking to Real Men Read during the 2010-11 school year. To date, 13 classes will have mentors next year (second, third, sixth and seventh grades) and the district is looking to place another 21 men who have already pledged to join.

Men from all walks of life and professions are needed. For more information, contact Donna Treadwell, coordinator of volunteers, at 217-525-3257.

August Volunteer Opportunities

August Volunteer Opportunities

Friday, August 13 – Sunday, August 22 – APL at the Illinois State Fair
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; 12:00 – 3:00 PM; 3:00 – 5:30 PM; 5:30 – 8:00 PM

The Animal Protective League is looking for volunteers to help park cars on the APL property during the Illinois State Fair. Parking fees earned during the fair help the APL fund operations throughout the year. Volunteers are needed each day during the shifts listed above. Please contact Lisa Burke via email at tb97@comcast.net if you would like to help.

Friday, August 13 - Central Illinois Foodbank School Supplies Drive

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM; 1:00 - 4:30 PM

The Central Illinois Foodbank will be hosting a mobile food pantry for kids on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 1:30 in the Brandon Court Housing Development. This event is designed to bridge the gap between the Kids Cafe Summer Program (which ended July 30th) and when school resumes August 23rd, when kids can receive free and reduced lunch. In addition to food, there is a great need for school supplies for the children in this program. If you have any school supplies that you would like to donate for this effort, please drop them off at the Foodbank anytime before August 13th.

*Feature Service Splash*
Saturday, August 21 – Special Olympics Bowling
9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

The Special Olympics Bowling tournament is a signature event at UIS, with over 30 students joining other volunteers to help out 100+ athletes. A friendly, high-energy, and fun event. Lunch and a T-shirt are typically provided. Call 217-206-7716 or e-mail volunteer@uis.edu to RSVP.

*Feature Service Splash*
Friday, August 27 – Welcome Week Service-A-Thon
1:00 – 4:00 PM

The Volunteer Center annual Service-A-Thon gives you an opportunity to meet new friends and give back to community during Welcome Week. Choose from three different service projects at Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, Southwind Park, or Ball School District Trail project. Call 217-206-7716 or e-mail volunteer@uis.edu to RSVP.

Ongoing – International Host Families
Ongoing

The Office of International Student Services is looking for families who could help facilitate learning and interaction between our international students and our community. The program does not require a home stay of any kind. Families are free to set whatever level of support they feel comfortable with. Some families and students choose a minimal level of activity, such as an exchange of contact information and an occasional meal together. Others do something weekly or decide on their own to share their homes, either for visits or for extended holidays. Some share all expenses. Other families choose to assist the students by completely covering the costs of any activities. If you wish to volunteer to become a host family for the coming school year, please contact Rick Lane at 217-206-6678 or e-mail rlane3@uis.edu.

Ongoing - Center for Teaching and Learning
1-5 hours per week

The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) is looking for volunteers who are talented photographers, fundraisers, and/or clerical workers (answering phones, e-mails, and scheduling appointments). CTL is looking for volunteers that can work 1-2 hours per week unless they are talented in other areas and would like experience in those areas. Please submit your resume using Career Connect and complete a volunteer application in the CTL - Brookens 460.

Ongoing - Mark Kirk Senate Campaign

5-15 hours per week

An internship with Mark Kirk’s U.S. Senate campaign offers college students and recent graduates the chance to join one of the most exciting and high-profile Senate races in the country. Interns will have the opportunity to get an inside look at a major political campaign, while learning new skills and gaining valuable hands-on experience. Interns will focus on calling voters from all across the state, going door-to-door to talk to voters about Congressman Kirk, building grassroots organization, assisting staff members with a variety of projects, distributing campaign literature, helping around the campaign office, and other key facets of the campaign. To volunteer, visit the "Kirk for Senate" website at http://www.kirkforsenate.com/, or call Michael M. Rasmussen at 217-241-9830 or email mmr.mrasmussen@gmail.com.


Welcome back students! Check out what our office has to offer at www.uis.edu/volunteer.

New Civic Engagement Website Released

We just released a whole new section of our website focused on civic engagement here at UIS. Features include: policy info on every major candidate for the upcoming national elections in November; info on the American Democracy Project at UIS; a Constitution quiz; and a whole host of links to readings, videos, documentaries, lectures, and other interactive tools.

We hope you enjoy using it as much as we enjoyed putting it together!

http://www.uis.edu/volunteer/civicengagement/index.html

Summer Volunteer Opportunities

*Feature Volunteer Opportunity*
Saturday, July 10 – Taste of Downtown and American Music Show
Multiple Shifts Available

Great music and great food equal good times in downtown Springfield on Saturday, July 10, during the 11th annual Taste of Downtown and American Music show. Held on 5th Street between Jefferson and Adams, this summer celebration lasts from noon until midnight and requires a host of volunteers to run smoothly. Lots of different jobs and shifts are available. Volunteers receive $10 worth of food/beverage tickets as well as a volunteer t-shirt. Contact Kathleen Alcorn at (217) 544-1723 or volunteers@downtownspringfield.org for more info.

Saturday, June 5 – March for Meals
12:00 – 2:00 PM

The 4th Annual March for Meals Walk-A-Thon will be held Saturday, June 5 at Washington Park. The event raises money for the American Red Cross Meals on Wheels program, the only home-delivery provider of diet-specific meals in Springfield. You can support the program by raising pledges and walking in the event, dropping off pledges at the event, or simply coming out to show your support and learn more about the Meals on Wheels program. Contact Faraji Martin (fmartin@il-redcross.org) at (217) 787-7602 x237 for more info or to sign up.

Monday, July 12 - Friday, July 16 - Trail Maintenance Project

Various shifts available

Adams Wildlife Sanctuary is seeking volunteers to help put a new layer of woodchips on their trails. The Sanctuary is making preparations for the classes of students who often tour the sanctuary in the fall. If you are available for a few hours in the morning, afternoon, or evening during the week, please contact Jo Skoglund at (217) 544-2473 or jskoglund@illinoisaudubon.org.

Ongoing during the Summer – Meals on Wheels Drivers
Multiple weekly shifts

The Meals on Wheels program helps senior citizens, people with disabilities, the chronically ill and others who may need meals delivered on a short or long-term basis remain out of hospital and nursing home care. Volunteers are needed to help with delivering meals Monday-Friday throughout the summer. Contact Faraji Martin at fmartin@il-redcross.org. Must have a valid driver’s license.

Ongoing throughout the Summer – Radio Information Service
Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 8:00 – 9:30 AM

Radio Information Service is a broadcast program of WUIS (91.9 FM) that provides audio broadcasts of print materials to the visually impaired. RIS is currently in need of volunteer readers on Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings from 8:00 to 9:30 AM for their live broadcasts of the State Journal Register, plus two Saturday mornings a month. Those interested in reading should contact Sinta Seiber-Lane at (217) 206-6404 or e-mail ris-email@wuis.org.

Atention: Are you a student looking to fulfill a service-hours requirement for a class this summer? Stop by the Volunteer Center in SAB 60 and talk with us about your options! We will help refer you to the right organization and make your experience as easy and rewarding as possible. With over 100 nonprofits in the Springfield area that could use your help, we’re sure to find something that matches your interests and goals.

May Volunteer Opportunities

May Volunteer Opportunities

*Feature Volunteer Opportunity*
Thursday, June 10 – Sunday, June 13 – LPGA State Farm Classic
Multiple Shifts Available

The LPGA State Farm Classic is here once again, and we need your volunteer spirit more than ever. As a Golf Course Marshal, you will have the responsibility of maintaining fair playing conditions for the contestants and helping to ensure a smooth flow of play. If interested, contact the Volunteer Center at volunteer@uis.edu. All volunteers must be registered by April 30th, so don’t wait!

Friday, April 30 – Sunday, May 2 – APL Cat Adoption
Multiple Shifts Available

The Animal Protective League needs volunteers to work the cat adoption at PetSmart’s upcoming National Adoption Weekend April 30 – May 2. Shift times are:

Friday, April 30: 3:30 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, May 1: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday, May 2: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Volunteer duties include assisting potential adopters, answering questions, and assisting with keeping cages tidy. All volunteers receive a free T-shirt. Volunteers who work Saturday or Sunday will receive lunch free. To volunteer, call Trish Gorda at (217) 206-5534 or e-mail trishy9989@yahoo.com

Saturday, May 1 – American Heart Association Heart Walk
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

This yearly fundraiser for the American Heart Association raises money for heart health research and patient support. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Kids Zone, registration, parking, and other areas. RSVP to volunteer@uis.edu if you’d like to help. Transportation provided.

Thursday, May 6 – Saturday, May 8 – Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily, Different shifts available

Kevin Moore, a lifelong Springfield resident, will be experiencing the dream of home ownership in 2010! Kevin is a 52 year old gentleman suffering from Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a disease that progressively damages the retina. Volunteers will be building Kevin’s house from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. To volunteer, call Jeff Jerousek at (217) 523-2710 ext. 17 or e-mail him at volunteer@habitatsangamon.com. All skill levels are accepted and appreciated.

Saturday, May 8 – Colored Glass Recycling
7:30 AM – 12:30 PM

The Springfield Glass Recycling Day is back and needs your help. Volunteer duties include assisting with setup, erecting signs, directing traffic flow, handing out literature on recycling, counting vehicles, unloading glass from vehicles, and cleaning up at end of the event. Anyone working 2 hours or more will receive a free lunch (probably Jimmy John’s). To register, contact Wynne Coplea at (217) 789-2327 or email her at Wynne.Coplea@cwlp.com.

Saturday, May 15 – UIS Commencement
12:00 – 3:00 PM

Commencement time is quickly approaching and needs volunteers to help make this year’s Commencement a day to remember. As a volunteer, you will ensure a pleasant, rewarding ceremony for all of our graduates. All volunteers should to report to the Prairie Capital Convention Center by 12:00 PM and will be allowed to leave shortly after the ceremony begins. Of course, you are also invited to stay and enjoy the afternoon’s festivities as well! To register, call Grant Johnson at (217) 206-8428 or e-mail him at gjohn05s@uis.edu.

Ongoing in May – Radio Information Service
Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 8:00 – 9:30 AM

Radio Information Service is a broadcast program of WUIS (91.9 FM) that provides audio broadcasts of print materials to the visually impaired. RIS is currently in desperate need of volunteer readers on Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings from 8:00 to 9:30 AM for their live broadcasts of the State Journal Register, plus two Saturday mornings a month. Those interested in reading should contact Sinta Seiber-Lane at (217) 206-6404 or e-mail ris-email@wuis.org.

April Volunteer Opportunities

Friday, April 23 – UIS Cares Day
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
*Featured Service Splash*

Celebrate National Volunteer Week with us this year on UIS Cares Day. Our partners at the Springfield Park District need our help revitalizing the hiking trails at one of Springfield’s most frequently used parks. Come enjoy the weather, the outdoors, and help make Springfield a better place to live and thrive. RSVP to (217) 206-7716 or volunteer@uis.edu.


Saturday, April 10 – Camp Widjiwagan
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

The Girl Scouts of Central Illinois need help preparing their outdoor camp for the spring and summer scouting season. A wide variety of jobs are available and everyone is welcome. Help make Camp Widjiwagan a beautiful place for all girls. Lunch, drinks, and snacks will be provided. Be sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty! RSVP to (217) 206-7716 or volunteer@uis.edu.

Monday, April 19 – Jonathan Sprinkles, “How to be a Change Maker”
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Brookens Auditorium

Jonathan Sprinkles is a dynamic public speaker who has won national awards for his inspirational talks on leadership, diversity, and service. Using a highly interactive speaking style, Mr. Sprinkles will talk about how those with the most influence on others are almost always those who serve others - that true leadership comes from those who put others first. An ECCE Speaker Series Event. Co-sponsored by the Student Government Association. This event is free and open to the public.

Tuesday, April 20 – Good as Gold Volunteer Awards Ceremony
4:30 – 7:00 PM
Sangamon Auditorium Lobby

The Volunteer & Civic Engagement Center is proud to host the second annual Good as Gold Ceremony, a recognition ceremony for UIS and community members that have volunteered their time and resources during the academic year. Join us for this celebration of the huge amount of good work that has been done by our campus and our community. Co-sponsored by the Springfield Junior League and Illinois Campus Compact. If you’d like to attend, please RSVP by April 9 to (217) 206-7716 or volunteer@uis.edu.

Thursday, April 22 – 2010 Women’s Expo
5:00 – 10:00 PM

The 2010 Women’s Expo features over 60 booths for women with information on health, safety, education, and services specifically for women. In addition, the event will feature a fashion show, auction, entertainment, and food and drinks. Volunteers are needed to help with admission, handing out programs, and assisting at the tents. The event benefits a number of area women’s organizations, including Sojourn Shelter and Services, an emergency services, educational, and legal assistance organization to victims of domestic abuse. To sign-up, or for more information about the Women’s Expo, please contact Candi Clouse at (217) 726-5100 ex. 213 or sojprevention@aol.com.

Saturday, April 24 – Sunday, April 25 – American Girl Fashion Show
Shifts from 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM both days

The American Girl Fashion Show is a fun-filled event for girls and their families, friends, and favorite dolls. Participants celebrate the experience of being a girl through a colorful presentation of historical and contemporary fashions. The event is a fundraiser for St. John’s Children’s Hospital. Volunteers are needed for a variety of positions including ticket taking, registration, seating, and assisting participants back stage. Contact Laura Michelotti at laura.michelotti@st-johns.org for information on available opportunities. The registration deadline is April 16.

• Be sure to celebrate National Volunteer Week this April by going out to serve your favorite organization, or just by thanking those volunteers who help make your life safer, healthier, and richer year-round.
  

March Volunteer Opportunities

Saturday, March 27 – Trail Cleanup
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
*Featured Service Splash*

Ready to breathe some fresh air to ring in the spring? Join us Saturday, March 27 for a trail cleanup at Carpenter Park Nature Preserve here in Springfield. Carpenter Park is home to dozens of species of birds, a sizable white-tailed deer population, and one of the oldest trees in Illinois (over 400 years). Help us keep this place beautiful for all who enjoy it. RSVP to (217) 206-7716 or volunteer@uis.edu.

March 1 – April 10 – Hunger Clean Up
Approximately 3 hours/week

Help us fight poverty in Springfield and abroad. We're looking for a student to lead a “Hunger Cleanup” here at UIS, a national student movement consisting of a month-long fundraising drive culminating in a national day of service. It only takes three hours a week to help feed your neighbors and make a difference in someone’s life. For more information about this event, go to: http://www.hungercleanup.org/about.html. If you’re interested in serving, contact the Volunteer Center at volunteer@uis.edu or (217) 206-7716.

March 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 – 27th Annual “Bowl for Kids’ Sake” Fundraiser
Afternoon and Evening start times

Our local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization is holding their annual bowling fundraiser at King Pin Lanes in Springfield. Funds raised will provide guidance and support to at-risk children through Big Brothers Big Sisters various mentoring programs, including two programs here at UIS. To register or for more information, call (217) 753-1216 or visit their website at: http://www.bbbscapitalregion.org/fundraising_bowlforkids.php

Saturday March 6 – Polar Plunge
10:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Attention! More “Polar Plungers” are wanted to jump into Lake Springfield on Saturday, March 6th! The plunge is at noon and supports Special Olympics Illinois Sangamon/Area 17, serving athletes with intellectual disabilities in Sangamon and Menard Counties. Lunch will follow the plunge at The Knights of Columbus Hall #4179. Lunch is free for Plungers and $5 for non-Plungers. You can register for the Plunge at http://www.plungeillinois.com or by contacting Darrin Burnett at (217) 544-3023. Last minute Plungers are welcome to register the morning of the event. Costumes and craziness are encouraged!

Saturday, March 6 – Invasive Species Removal
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

The Friends of the Sangamon Valley are continuing their exotic species cleanup in Washington Park. All work is “deep woods” so bring work gloves and a beverage. If interested, meet at the Rose Garden parking lot below the Carillon at 10:00 AM. Contact George Rose at (217) 787-1940 for more information.

Thursday, March 11 – American Red Cross Volunteer Orientation
5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

The American Red Cross offers many different volunteer opportunities to match your interests and skills. Examples include, responding to local and national disasters, teaching first aid, CPR, life guarding, and disaster training courses, delivering meals to community members through the “Meals On Wheels” program, and assisting with special events and fundraisers. Begin your volunteer experience by attending the Volunteer Orientation on March 11. For more information call (217) 787-7602 or visit http://www.il-redcross.org/getinvolved/volunteerinfo.html.