Trending
Marshall County’s first-ever “volunteer fair” brought together nonprofits looking for a little help with local residents eager to provide it.
The Marshall County Family Resource Network, Williams Energy and Grand Vue Park hosted fair the Thursday in the park’s banquet hall. Stacie Dei, executive director of FRN, organized spaces for 20 organizations that are either based in Marshall County or serve Marshall County residents to hold information booths at the event.
Earlier in the day, 30 Cameron High School Future Business Leaders of America club members toured the fair for information on how they can contribute to local organizations’ missions and activities. Williams Energy employees also attended to seek out volunteer opportunities.
Toya Cunningham, licensing coordinator for the National Youth Advocate Program’s Wheeling location, said the volunteer was a useful resource for the organization, resulting in residents sending in inquiries to be foster parents and more.
“I think all of us that were here today benefited,” she said. “We have a couple potential foster home possibilities after today, which is always exciting. This was a great tool to let people know what’s out there and how they can be a part of it.”
Jay Jack, administrative manager at Harmony House, said speaking with high school students on the organization’s mission to prevent child sexual abuse was an important education tool.
“Students were really interested in some of the statistics,” Jack said. “We served over 900 individuals over the past year. As small as our valley is, 900 people dealing with sexual and other kinds of abuse is very high. I think the kids found that staggering and appreciated the information.”
Craig White, Grand Vue Park manager, said students could find several employment opportunities through volunteering.
“A park setting is a place that they can not only learn respect for property, but they can also have the opportunity to get their first job here at Grand Vue Park,” White said. “Volunteering is a great way to get your foot in the door.”