25 Years Of Volunteerism

To the Editor:

The year 2000 has seen many milestones of national and global import, from millennium hoopla to the presidential election. But it also provides an occasion for celebration closer to home, as it marks the 25th anniversary of the Volunteer Center serving western Connecticut.

Founded in 1975 under the auspices of the Community Action Center of Danbury, the Association of Religious Communities, and Danbury Area United Social Services, the Volunteer Center has grown into an independent agency, which helps over 2,500 individual and group volunteers each year find meaningful opportunities with some 175 non-profit agencies meeting community needs in Newtown and other area towns. In addition to volunteer recruitment, Volunteer Center programs include Friendly Visitors and Tele-Care service for homebound seniors, the Corporate Volunteer Council promoting volunteerism among local corporations, a court-based Community Restriction Program, and a range of training and technical assistance to the non-profit community.

At the heart of all that the Volunteer Center does, and, indeed, at the very heart of our communities, are the volunteers who give so generously of their time and talents. On October 25th, the Volunteer Center, along with Newtown Youth Services and Ashlar of Newtown and other organizations, will be honoring over 350 individuals who are truly representative of the spirit of volunteering. As a member of the Center’s Board of Directors, I urge my fellow Newtown residents to join us in thanking all of our friends and neighbors who, as volunteers, have made such a difference in the lives of so many.

The mission of the Volunteer Center can be summed up in one phrase – helping you help others. Together, we’ve come a long way since 1975. Won’t you join us as we start on our next 25 years of service in Newtown and throughout Western Connecticut? For more information about volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, or groups, call the Volunteer Center at 203/797-1154.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Banks

71 Taunton Hill Road                     October 27, 2000