Local nonprofits seek volunteer assistance

Though many students who aid local volunteer efforts have left Bloomington for the summer, opportunities still abound for individuals interested in serving the community.\nThe Bloomington YMCA is in need of volunteers throughout the summer. Adapted swim instructors are needed to help facilitate an eight-week program from June 18 to August 13. Volunteers teach people of all ages about swimming, safety, recreation and social skills. \n"This is a very rewarding program for the volunteers," said YMCA employee Sara Herold.\nFor information regarding these events, contact Herold at sherold@monroecountyymca.org.\nThe Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department also has a number of opportunities available for volunteers this summer. Workers ages 12 and up are needed June 12 to help establish the City Tree Nursery. Volunteers will assist in the planting of 350 trees and 25 people are needed for each shift. The first shift is from 9 a.m. to noon and the second shift will last from 1 to 3 p.m. Volunteers will be trained at the beginning of each shift.\nThe Bloomington Parks and Recreation program will be offering a variety of additional opportunities as well throughout the summer.\nTo find out more contact Kim Ecenbarger at ecenbarg@bloomington.in.gov.\nFood pantry Mother Hubbard's Cupboard also needs additional manpower this summer. The organization also assists in gardening throughout the community.\n"We are always in need of people to stock the pantry and help garden," employee Libby Yarnelle said. There is no minimum age for volunteers, and families and children are encouraged to volunteer together. To find out more about working with Mother Hubbard's Cupboard, contact Libby Yarnelle at mhc@bloomington.in.us.\n-- Contact staff writer Michael Pieper at mnpieper@indiana.edu.