by Kim Remesch

Created on: May 06, 2009   Last Updated: February 11, 2010

Big city or small town, volunteers are always needed and appreciated. Minneapolis, Minnesota, is no exception. You don't have to commit to a 40-hour work week to make a difference as a volunteer in Minneapolis. Every little bit helps. When one person's little bit is added to another person's little big it becomes a whole lot of help. Here are some volunteering opportunities. And remember, it is an opportunity.

The Bridge for Youth, located on West 22nd St., serves as a 24-hour emergency access for both young people and families in crisis. Basically, you'd help people in crisis wade through the massive sea of red tape that surrounds emergency shelter care, temporary and permanent housing and other community services. The aim is to help troubled or needy youth to get off the city streets and into a safe place within the community.

Where do you fit in? If you know your way around a computer, you can work in the computer lab as a resource aide or tutor. Not computer savvy, but you know your spatula from a slotted spoon, try turn in the kitchen as a cooking tutor. All the work is an attempt to help recipients becomes more self sufficient.

More standard opportunities include Independent Living Skills Specialists who help the young adults to learn skills needed for independent living. The volunteer may work with individuals or groups. Likewise, the Community Living Specialists help participants learn a sense of community. They teach a variety of skills needed to live independently-skills such as financial management, study habits and household skills.
As with most organizations that depend on volunteers, any type of administrative support is appreciated. In addition to these, the organization asks that you list any special skills you may have when you fill out the volunteer application. If you have an expertise that will benefit disadvantaged youth, they'll gladly put you to work.

For information, contact: The Bridge for Youth, 1111 West 22nd Street, Minneapolis, MN 55405, ATTN: Volunteer and Intern Supervisor. For the application, go to: http://www.bridgeforyouth.org/documents/Volunteer-In ternApplication.pdf

Homework Helpers. Were naturally good at school, or have you picked up tricks along the way that a child would find invaluable. Homework Helpers, located on 19th St., offers flexible for volunteers, but asks a minimum of a two, two-hour shifts per month. For more information, please contact Colleen O'Connor, Volunteer Program Associate, at 612-341-3148 x248 or

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