Volunteer Opportunities
By Marci Lutsky
I never envisioned myself as a stay at home mom. I worked very hard for my undergraduate and graduate degrees and wanted to see them put to good use. Then I had twins and my world changed. I was working in the nonprofit sector right up until I gave birth and it made more sense for me to stay home with the kids rather than return to work. I spent the first six years with my kids giving myself to them completely. When they began pre-school I started my blog, Vegging at the Shore. They are just completing first grade which is the first year that they are in school full-time. I’ve found myself with much more free time this past year that I’ve filled with many activities (like writing for Shore Local) and volunteering.
I’ve always enjoyed volunteering with different organizations, but this year I needed to find something that would fit into my schedule while my kids are in school. I have found two different volunteer opportunities that I’ve really enjoyed because they both feel very hands-on and make me feel like I’m making a difference.
If you find yourself with free time during the week at lunchtime, Sister Jean’s Kitchen in Atlantic City is a special place always in need of helping hands. Volunteers are needed to dish out food and serve plates to those in need. Hours for volunteering are 11:45 am to 2:00 pm Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. For more information, call 609-348-4300.
Another special place to volunteer is with Manna at the Shore. Once a month volunteers meet at Beth Israel in Northfield to package over 2,000 meals to be delivered to people living with AIDS/HIV and other life-threatening illnesses who are too sick to cook for themselves. Local chefs donate their time making the meals while volunteers are needed to package the meals. Manna volunteer dates are typically on Thursdays once a month from 9am to 2pm. Children are welcome to volunteer with Manna so long as they are accompanied by an adult. More information about volunteering with Manna can be found at www.mannashorenj.org.
Another great organization to volunteer with is Jewish Family Services in Margate. If you get on their mailing list, you will be updated about various opportunities. They receive a delivery from the food bank for their food pantry about once a month. My kids and I have helped unload and stock the shelves. The kids enjoy this because they are kept very busy and it gives them a real understanding of where people in need come to get food. Other volunteer opportunities available through Jewish Family Services include helping with mailings, delivering food to people who can’t get out and being a companion to people in need of company. For more information, visit www.jfsatlantic.org .
Keep an eye on this column to learn about more volunteer opportunities that are appropriate for kids as well as ones that are just for adults. If you find yourself with time while your kids are in school or over the summer all together, make time to give back. There is always need and organizations will appreciate your time.
Marci Lutsky is a local mom of seven year-old twins and can be reached at veggingattheshore@gmail.com.
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