Be the helper
In January, I began volunteering for the Humane Educational Society. Not more than a couple of shifts in, the shelter largely closed to the public along with everything else. Volunteers were limited and assigned specific days in order to mitigate the effect of any positive COVID-19 test.
Two weeks ago, I got a call: “We need you.”
The return to school in a largely at-home format is further stressing the pipeline of potential helpers. According to a survey released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 25% of Americans volunteer. Most are between the ages of 35 and 54 and have children under the age of 18.
But needs are ramping up. The pandemic’s impact on organizations that largely depend on volunteers has been significant; one of the many facets of operating a nonprofit during widespread health and economic concerns. Below, you can read about some of the other ways our local nonprofits – lifelines to many in the community – have been affected and how they’re adjusting to meet the challenges.
– Jennifer Bardoner, editor