Written By: Lacey Kara, WWU Service-Learning student

Despite volunteering for local non-profit organizations, such as Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and Bellingham Parks and Recreation through Whatcom Volunteer Center, and frequently viewing their list of current volunteer opportunities, I’ve never been to their office.  Last week, I finally visited the WVC office, and discovered what else they have to offer.  Not only do they provide a place for volunteers and local non-profits seeking opportunities and assistance to be matched, but they have their own programs established in our community.  Three such programs include “Volunteer Chore Program,” “House 2 Home Network,” and “Project Warm-Up.”

The Volunteer Chore Program serves the elderly and adults with disabilities in Whatcom County, offering no-fee services like housekeeping, shopping, household repairs, and yard work, for example.  Volunteers are able to provide their time and “know-how” to these individuals, helping them to obtain these services, when other resources are simply unavailable to them.

House 2 Home Network assists individuals who were previously homeless and recently obtained housing furnish their new homes, through a first of its kind “Virtual Furniture and Household Items Bank.”  Instead of a warehouse full of donated items, a database of donor furniture and items are kept, and requests are immediately matched to donors.  A volunteer from the furniture bank is then able to pick up the donated item, and deliver it to its new owner- making it a convenient means to donate by.

Project Warm-Up collects donations of yarn and handmade hats, scarves, blankets, and mittens from local knitters and crocheters, and distributes them to low-income and homeless individuals and families in Whatcom County.  The “Fiber Circle” is also established, and meets once a month to make warm items.

This is just a summary of three programs offered by WVC, but without visiting the office, I personally wouldn’t have known about these resources, and other services which they provide. Needless to say my trip was well worth the time!