Albany, New York, was first settled by the Dutch in 1624 and became capital of the state of New York in 1797. The city has a rich history and many attractions. It also offers a multitude of volunteer opportunities that are beneficial to the Albany community and inspire physical activity and physical fitness. Whether you're building homes with Habitat for Humanity, helping the city with its annual "Jingle Jog" in the winter, or simply helping a senior citizen with grocery shopping, Albany's volunteer activities will give you the opportunity to improve your health through physical activity and your community.
National Organizations for Volunteers Activities
There are many volunteer activities in Albany, New York, connected to national groups and organizations. If you are a first-time volunteer, an organization with a history of volunteerism is a good place to start. Habitat for Humanity, American Red Cross, Angel Food Ministries, Jaycees, Kiwanis Club, and Rotary Club all have chapters or branches in the Albany area and are always in need of dedicated volunteers.
The Albany Chamber of Commerce is also a great place to volunteer as well as a resource for volunteer activities.
University of Albany Volunteer Activities
The University of Albany also offers volunteer activities. The "UAlbany Ambassador" program provides a way for university alumni and "friends" of the university to lend their experience and talent to the community via career mentoring, guest lecturing, constituent groups, advisory councils, and more. University ambassadors also lend volunteer hours to college fairs, receptions for admitted students, and open houses.
Senior Services Volunteer Activities
The city of Albany is dedicated to making the lives of its senior citizens as comfortable as possible through its Senior Services program. Senior Services of Albany relies on volunteers to keep its programs and initiatives running smoothly, so there are many volunteer opportunities to be found here. "Friendly Home Visiting" is a program in which seniors are matched with volunteers of similar locations and interests for weekly visits and fellowship. Seniors enjoy the companionship of their visitors while the volunteers learn from older generations and create lasting relationships. Volunteers for Senior Services can also assist in activities such as grocery shopping assistance, Meal-on-Wheels delivery and planning a community service day.
City of Albany Special Events Volunteer Activities
The City of Albany Office of Special Events and Volunteer Services hosts a variety of events every year, for which it needs volunteers. Special events include: Winterfest, which features indoor and outdoor entertainment in the form of games, music, "Jingle Jog," and more, Tulip Festival, a floral festival held to celebrate Mother's day, Alive at Five, a free music celebration held weekly during the summer months, and the annual Father's Day concert, featuring music and fireworks. Volunteers are needed to help reinforce ground rules of the events and help with event organization.
Other Volunteer Opportunities
Other organizations throughout Albany offer volunteer activities, including the City School District of Albany, the public library, and youth and adult learning centers. Parsons Child and Family Center is a multi-services agency in Albany dedicated to early childhood family support, parenting education, and other services that support families. It relies on the service of volunteers to help with administration and program services, facilities management and upkeep, fund raising, and special events. Parsons also has volunteer activities, such as big brother/big sister, homework aids, sports coaching, and holiday gift distribution.
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