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Service-Learning Handout

Avivo www.Avivomn.org Agency Description: Avivo’s (formerly known as RESOURCE) mission is to increase well-being through recovery, employment, and career advancement. We believe everyone deserves the chance to be “well”-economically, socially, and in health. We are committed to a vision of communities that are free of economic and health disparities. We provide licensed clinical treatment, care coordination, and recovery support to ensure that successes achieved are long lasting. Our workforce development services include assessment, credentialed career training, education placement, job search assistance, placement, retention & follow-up services, and wrap around support services. Volunteer Description: Chemical Health Division: Several opportunities are available in the chemical health division to help within the Mothers Achieving Recovery for Family Unity (MARFU) program. This program allows mothers who are in need of chemical health services to remain united with their children while utilizing our treatment and recovery maintenance services. AVIVO's family services are also designed to help educate the mothers about parenting, childhood development, and healthy families. Volunteers in this area must have experience working with children. 1. Childhood Development Assistants are needed for morning or afternoon programming designed to prepare children ages infant to 5 years old for kindergarten. Volunteers interact with children one-on-one or in small groups completing short lessons based around developing cognitive skills, motor skills, and creativity.

Where: Minneapolis When: Monday-Friday Mornings 8:30am-12:30 pm

OR Monday-Friday Afternoons 12:30pm-4pm

Commitment: 3 months 2. Children's Activities Assistants are needed in the afternoon to interact with youth in our family program while mothers engage in a parenting workshop. Volunteers could work with youth from infant to high school

Thaden-Koch, Brooke Social Change in Action and

Service Learning SOC 1103-10

Fall 2018

www.normandale.edu/cee 952-358-8119 servicelearning@normandale.edu

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aged, but more commonly volunteers help with the infant to 5 year old group. Activities may include homework, play, games, crafts, reading, etc.

Where: Minneapolis When: Every Monday or Tuesday 3:30 to 6:00pm Commitment: 3 months

3. Celebrating Families Curriculum Assistants are needed to assist with leading activities for children in the youngest age group (0-5 yr old). This curriculum is a 16 week lesson plan that we will rotate - we require that volunteers in this opportunity make the 16 week commitment or if beginning in the middle of the rotation, to commit to at least that session, preferably the following as well.

Where: Minneapolis When: Beginning Jan.11th, Every Thursday 4:30-7pm Commitment: 16 weeks minimum

Training Division AVIVO Institute of Career and Technical Education provides training to people with disabilities or other barriers to employment. Our training division support adult students in both beginner and advanced Microsoft Office Suite courses.

1. Classroom Assistant/ Lab Assistants are needed to assist AVIVO training staff with helping adult students while they are in the classroom learning Microsoft products. Students are adults of varying ages and abilities. Duties include but are not limited to: Assist adult learners with computers, programs, procedures, and projects related to their specific class. Instructor may give other tasks. Volunteer must be fluent and able to clearly give instructions on Microsoft Office 2010 products - may be asked to take an assessment before beginning to volunteer.

Where: Minneapolis When: Morning or Afternoons, 3 hours/week Commitment: 3 month minimum

How to Apply: Contact Rebecca Bedner at volunteers@avivomn.org or 612-752-8030 to begin application process. Volunteers are required to attend an orientation session and complete a background check. __________________________________________________________________________________________

Adult Options in Education www.adultoptions.org Agency Description: Free, local classes include English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education (for adults who want to acquire or improve their math, reading, grammar or writing skills), GED preparation and testing, Basic Computer Skills, and Career Pathways. Volunteer Description: Classes are at the Community Education Centers in Hopkins and Minnetonka, and at the St. Louis Park Learning Center. Classes are held mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Most volunteers work closely with classroom teachers to implement academic lessons and lead small groups on conversation, math,

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reading, writing, basic computer skills, on-line learning, and more. Volunteers may also help with outreach and marketing efforts. How to Apply: Contact Wendy Her, Volunteer Coordinator Wendy Her: wendy.her@hopkinsschools.org 952-988-5343

Aliveness Project Agency Description: The Aliveness Project links people living with HIV to resources for leading healthy, self-directed lives. Founded in 1985, Aliveness operates a member-based community center in south Minneapolis that houses supportive services for people living with HIV, including case management, care linkage, meals, food shelf, integrative therapies, member services, and nutritional therapy. The Aliveness Project also operates prevention and outreach programs. Anyone living with HIV in Minnesota can become a member of The Aliveness Project and access our community center and services at no cost. Position Descriptions: Kitchen Volunteer Our kitchen volunteer is relied on to help establish a positive and welcoming environment. Specific duties include assisting the staff cook with prepping food, setting up the dining room, serving food cafeteria-style, running dishwasher, and cleaning up the dining room and kitchen. Hours: Lunch: Monday-Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Dinner: Monday-Thursday from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, Brunch: Saturday from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM Food Shelf Volunteer Our food shelf volunteer is relied on to help establish a positive and welcoming environment. Specific duties include assisting our Food Shelf Coordinator with filling bags of groceries for distribution, re-stocking shelves, record-keeping, and signing-out bags to members with appointments. Hours: Monday, Wednesday, or Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Wednesday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Digital Media Volunteer Assist Aliveness with posting on social media, updating the website, and writing content for our e-newsletter. Students with an interest in marketing, communications, journalism, and/or development are encouraged to apply. Flexible business hours; Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. How to Apply: 1. Email Laura Henry at laura@aliveness.org with the subject line “Normandale volunteer request”. Please include why you would like to volunteer at Aliveness, availability, and preferred volunteer position. 2. Complete volunteer application, 45 minute orientation, and volunteer paperwork, which includes a background check.

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Bridging www.bridging.org Agency Description: Through the effective reuse of donated items, Bridging improves lives by providing quality furniture and household goods to those transitioning out of homelessness and poverty. Bridging serves over 80 households each week who are given a sense of dignity and stability as they rebuild their lives. We rely on volunteers to do just about everything at Bridging. Without your help, we simply could not help over 4,000 Twin Cities families in need every year. Listen to our story, meet the clients who benefit from our program and see the place in action. Website: www.bridging.org Position Description: Select from a variety of departments and offer up your talents and skills: Warehouse assistant, office support, shopping assistant, and product sorting OUR GREATEST NEED: Warehouse Assistance

• Move donated furniture, bags and boxes throughout the warehouse. • Restock shelves for client shopping. • Accept community donations at the dock door. • Load and unload vehicles. Lifting required; carts and dollies available. Scheduling: Set a regular weekly schedule OR rotate from week to week/flexible scheduling. Current openings and schedules will be covered in your orientation tour.

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 11:30am, 9:30 - 1:00pm, 12:00 - 3:00pm, 3:00 - 6:00pm OR 12:00 - 6:00pm (Some 6-hour shifts will be available during the semester). Friday: 9:00 - 12:00pm OR 12:00 - 3:00pm Saturday: 9:00 - 12:00pm OR 12:00 - 3:00pm (fill fast!)

NEXT STEPS:

• Our ~30 minute new volunteer tour will give you a better idea of how individual volunteers make a positive impact in the lives of others. We’ll also explain the next steps to take if you’re interested in volunteering at Bridging (in particular scheduling) Tours are offered weekly throughout the year. Opportunities available in Bloomington and Roseville.

• A minimum of 20 service hours is required per volunteer/semester. All shifts are booked in advance. No drop-in volunteering.

How to Apply: 1. Choose a Bridging Location (map & directions at www.bridging.org)

• Bloomington: Please contact Sara Felix at 952.460.3750 or sara.felix@bridging.org • Roseville: Please contact Wendy Erickson at 651.319.9295 or wendy.erickson@bridging.org

2. Contact your selected location to RSVP for a new volunteer tour. 3. All volunteers must complete a volunteer profile (available at www.bridging.org) _____________________________________________________________________________

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Fraser www.fraser.org Agency Description: Fraser has been serving children and families for over 75 years and is recognized as an innovator in serving those with special needs. Fraser involves the entire family - parents and caregivers are the experts when it comes to their children. Since 1935, Fraser has been helping children, adolescents and adults in the greater Twin Cities area reach their potentials. One of the largest community resources of its kind, Fraser offers a lifelong spectrum of services: diagnostic evaluations, comprehensive mental health services including individual and group therapy, rehabilitation services including physical, occupational, speech-language, and music therapy, child care and education for children with typical needs and special needs, housing for adults and children with developmental disabilities, workshops and seminars for parents, caregivers and professionals Position Description: With the support of our volunteers, Fraser serves nearly 10,000 children, adults, and families living with special needs! Volunteers use their time, energy, and passion to create bright futures for our clients. Create bright futures. Volunteer with Fraser. There's an opportunity for everyone. Our volunteers interact with Fraser clients, share their skills or talent, gain valuable experience in a diverse, inclusive environment, help plan and run Fraser special events. Some opportunities include:

• Be a Buddy- As a Buddy, you can be a trusted friend to an adult with special needs living in our Independent Living Apartments and create memories that last a lifetime! Whatever it is you enjoy, odds are you'll enjoy them even more with your Buddy- whether it’s bowling, reading, cooking, or watching movies. Make a difference. Be-A-Buddy!

• Fraser School- Explore the power of imagination with young learners! Under the guidance of our experienced staff, you’ll work with children ages 6 weeks to 6 years old on activities that integrate the imagination into various aspects of learning. Through this program you’ll travel through the unpredictable adventures in literature, provide important enrichment opportunities through art projects, and conquer the uncharted terrains of the playground. Fraser School Classroom Volunteers encourage learning and give valuable individual attention and encouragement to students.

Please go to our website at www.fraser.org/Volunteer for more opportunities. How to Apply:

1. Match your interests with one of our current volunteer opportunities. For more information on opportunities go to http://www.fraser.org/Volunteer 2. Complete our online application at https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?ap=1866138023 3. Once we receive your online application, we will contact you to arrange an orientation. 4. Contact Claire Sandahl, Volunteer and Intern Program Manager with questions: claire.sandahl@fraser.org or 612-798-8337

Ginew/Golden Eagles

Agency Description: The Ginew/Golden Eagle program is an after school prevention program serving at-risk Native American youth ages 5-18 in South Minneapolis. The goal of the program is to help American Indian

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youth develop and strengthen skills they need to make positive life choices and live healthy lifestyles. Ginew Golden Eagle is located in the Minneapolis American Indian Center at 1530 E Franklin Ave Minneapolis, MN 55404. Position Description: Volunteers assist with the after school prevention program including helping with homework during the Indian Youth Study Time and helping kids get involved with sports during the recreation time. Volunteers also help prepare meals occasionally and assist with programming and are encouraged to share their talents and interests. Schedule: The after school program is Mondays through Thursdays at the following times:

• Monday 4:30-7:00 pm (5-10 year olds) • Tuesday 4:30-7:00 pm (5-10 year olds) • Wednesday 4:30-8:00 pm (11+ year olds) • Thursdays 4:30-8:00 pm (11+ year olds)

How to Apply: Contact Yeeleng Vue at yvue@maicnet.org or by phone at (612) 879-1708 to apply. (E-mail is preferred).

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Interact Center for the Arts

http://www.interactcenter.com/ Agency Description: At the Interact Center for Visual and Performing Arts, our mission is to create art that challenges perceptions of disability. 80 adult artists with a range of disability labels work in our studio and rehearsal room developing original work in a radically inclusive, creative environment. Our artists are supported by a team of staff instructors and collaborate with guests artists. Instructors and guest artists are active in the arts community in a variety of disciplines, mediums, and performance forms. This is the ideal learning opportunity for fine arts, theater, music, dance, and art education majors. Visual artists, musicians, songwriters, performers, and dedicated art lovers also add a lot to our program. Those interested in disability issues and alternative programs for people with disabilities are also a great fit. Rehearsal Assistant: In the performing arts program, our artists participate in improvisation exercises and workshops to develop new pieces of theater. Singing, dancing, physical work and dramaturgy (writing and research) are a regular part of the rehearsal day. Volunteers participate in these activities, coach artists as peers, lead games and add to the fun and playful vibe that guides our performing work. They offer light care assistance and serve the maintenance of the rehearsal studio. They also contribute to research related to upcoming projects and lead small groups creating scenes, characters, and songs. Studio Assistant: As a volunteer in the visual arts department, you would be an extra pair of hands in the studio, whether it be working one on one with one of the artists on a specific project, assisting staff members with gallery preparation and special events. This position will provide practical assistance as requested for instructors and artists. There are also possibilities to help out in the gallery, particularly when we are installing a show.

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How to Apply: Email Scott Reynolds for opportunities, Volunteer/Internship Coordinator at scott@interactcenter.com P: (651) 209-3575 include "Volunteer" in the email subject. _____________________________________________________________________________

Open Arms Agency Description: Open Arms of Minnesota offers a unique model of care for people in our community who are sick, need nutritious food, and have nowhere else to turn for assistance. Open Arms is the only nonprofit organization in the state that cooks and delivers free meals specifically tailored to meet the nutrition needs of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, MS, ALS, cancer and more than 60 other diseases. Position Description: Open Arms was founded as a volunteer-driven organization and we continue to rely on the dedication of our volunteers for every aspect of our operation. Our volunteers have fun while they make a profound difference in the lives of our clients. Join us in one of the following volunteer opportunities, designed to fit any schedule!

• Meal Delivery: From the Open Arms kitchen to our clients’ doors, meal deliveries are an essential part of our organization and our greatest volunteer need. Delivering is the number one way to truly see the impact of our work on our clients, as you get to personally hand them delicious food and see their smile in return. Meal deliveries start at 11 a.m. Monday through Friday. A typical route consists of 4 - 6 stops in an area of the Twin Cities and takes 1 hour - 2 hours to complete. Volunteers deliver in their own vehicles. You can volunteer in a pair if you prefer.

• Kitchen Support: Chopping fresh, organic veggies and packaging savory soup in our state-of-the-art kitchen; baking mouthwatering cookies in our warm, sunny bakery-- there's plenty to be done at Open Arms. Join us as a kitchen volunteer for a 2-hour shift and work with our chefs to create delicious, nutritious food for our clients. Shifts fall between 7:30am-9am, 9am-11am, 11:30am-1:30pm, 5pm-7pm during the week. We offer two Saturday shifts from 8am-10am and 12pm-2pm.

How to Apply: First, go to Open Arms' website (http://www.openarmsmn.org/new-volunteers/) and sign up for a required New Volunteer Orientation (which lasts 2 hours). Orientations fill up quickly so sign up as soon as you can. During this required training, you'll learn all about the work of Open Arms and the volunteer opportunities available. After you complete new volunteer orientation, you will be able to sign up for volunteer shifts online!

Restorative Justice Community Action http://www.rjca-inc.org/ Agency Description: Restorative Justice Community Action is a community-based nonprofit organization that utilizes community conferencing to address livability crimes with adults and youth. Community conferencing consists of small group meetings that allow all stakeholders to have a voice in the justice process. Community members who may live, work, or worship in the neighborhood where the crime occurred meet with the

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offender to discuss and come to an agreement on how the offender will repair the harm that was done. Participants that successfully complete the program have a lower recidivism rate (less likely to reoffend) than those who go through the court system. Position Description: Conference Volunteers: Volunteers first must observe 2 adult conferences before participating in small-group community conferences as a community member. Adult community conferences are 6 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 am on Saturdays, and some Monday mornings at 10AM. Adult conferences are approximately 2 hours long with an average of 7-10 conferences scheduled per month. Time commitment is 1-2 hr/wk (24 hr/semester) or 5-10 hr/wk (54 hr/semester).There is the opportunity to participate in youth conferences also. Those dates and times are more fluid, based on the availability of the youth and their family. How to Apply: Contact Tina Sigel 612-746-0780, or email tsigel@rjca-inc.org. Volunteers are required to attend a volunteer/intern orientation.

Presbyterian Homes Agency Description: PHS is a non-profit, faith-based organization providing housing choices and services to older adults aimed to promote independence, vitality, and well-being. Nearly 500 residents call our Bloomington campus home. We have a full continuum of care ranging from out-patient services and transitional/rehabilitation care to long-term care and memory care. We also have assisted living and independent living apartments under our roof. We are honored to care for the seniors that live at Presbyterian Homes and Services of Bloomington. We hope to create smiles in the eyes of the people we serve --- will you help create smiles? Position Descriptions: Unit Attendant\Smile Maker Volunteers in this position are assigned to specific areas of the campus and complete tasks that enhance our overall customer experience. This could include greeting people at our entrances; making rounds to common areas and main hallways to make sure everyone knows where they are going; checking in with nursing stations to see if anyone will need help with admissions or discharges; and helping with minor non-personal tasks of residents, like fetching them a beverage or adjusting the blinds. Duties will be determined based on schedule and length of shift. Life Enrichment Activities In each unit of our building we have a calendar full of events to help enrich the lives of our residents and contribute to their overall wellness. Volunteers help residents get to activities by escorting them in their wheel chair; assisting them complete some tasks; and in some cases leading the activity. Activities include BINGO, crafts, manicures, reading, news, etc. Shifts are typically 1-1.5 hours. A weekly commitment is preferred. Specifically looking for individuals on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays between 10-12 and 1 -5. Technology Tutors Volunteers needed to help residents with their technology issues and questions. Everything from how to download and use an app on a phone or tablet to how to check email. Available any day of the week between 9-4 pm, evening shifts from 6-7:30 pm may also be available. A regularly scheduled weekly volunteer shift of 2-3 hours. Full semester commitment required.

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One-on-One Visitor Most of our residents receive regular visits from family and friends but those who don’t may become lonely. Visiting and one-on-one communication is an important component in an older adult’s life and their overall wellness. Volunteers are able to come and connect with 1-4 older adults individually. This opportunity is also great for parents that are interested in family volunteering. Daytime, Evening, and Weekends Available. Shifts are typically 1-1.5 hours. A weekly commitment is preferred. Full semester commitment required. Beauty Salon Assistant Volunteer needed to escort residents in our care center to and from their hair appointment. Volunteer also visits with residents while they are waiting and is able to offer hand massages and basic manicures if they feel comfortable doing so. Opportunities available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays in the morning and early afternoon. How to Apply: Contact Samantha Sleeman at ssleeman@preshomes.org to inquire about opportunities or complete online application by visiting www.myvolunteerpage.com. Please go to the bottom of the page where it asks “Did an organization send you here?” or “Search for Organization” or “ Organization Search” on the bottom left hand side of the page. Search for Presbyterian Homes of Bloomington and then proceed in creating a profile & filling out an application. Deadlines coordinate with school deadlines. Application, background study, and orientation required before service begins.

Simpson Housing Services Agency Description: In the heart of Minneapolis, Simpson Housing Services offers a variety of services that strive to bring people in off the street and help them find and obtain stability. Their mission is to house, support and advocate for people experiencing homelessness. Position Description: Simpson Housing Services’ shelter provides one-on-one advocacy services and overnight shelter for 22 women and 44 men every night of the year. Shelter guests may stay at the shelter from 30 days to three months, depending on their situation. Staying at the shelter provides individuals with housing advocacy, healthcare services, toiletry and basic clothing supplies, showers, lockers, and three meals a day. Simpson’s goal is to help shelter guests move into safe, affordable, and stable housing as soon as possible. Around 200 individuals move out of the shelter and into their own home each year. Two Shelter Support volunteer shifts are available every day of the year:

• Evening Shift: 4:45 pm - 9:45 pm • Morning Shift: 7 am - 9 am

Volunteers assist staff with welcoming guests to the shelter, distributing supplies, providing wake-ups, and answering questions. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older and orientation and training is provided. Shifts are available every day of the year and scheduling is done online. This site requires a minimum commitment of 50 hours in a 6-month period.

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Timeframe: This volunteer opportunity is available 7 days a week, year round. Benefits: Service learning at the shelter is an excellent way to provide a direct service to people experiencing homelessness and talk with people you have never met before. Past service-Learning students have said the following:

• "The most rewarding aspect of volunteering has been the impact we make on the guests' lives. They seem so pleased when a familiar face continues to volunteer, it makes their day and it also makes mine. It is also rewarding to see so many people laying their head down in a shelter, versus outside."

• "Doing something for someone other than myself is a privilege and Simpson makes it easy to make this a habit."

• "I really liked hearing 'thank you' from the guys, being able to fix a plate for the late arrivals, hearing their stories and making that human connection, learning more about myself, seeing an improvement in my patience and humility."

• "I enjoyed the great conversations with intelligent men and working with really great, well rounded staff."

• "Some of the Simpson guests are wonderful people and great conversationalists, but sitting down and having meaningful exchanges on the sidewalk is not an option. Simpson provides a safe place to get to know new people and learn from their life experiences. I appreciate this interaction."

How to Apply: Please see our volunteer process below.

1. Complete our online application: http://www.simpsonhousing.org/volunteer_ap.html. Be sure to select “Shelter Support Volunteer” in the volunteer position drop down menu.

2. Simpson staff will review the application and contact you to schedule a 15 minutes phone interview for Tuesday, September 12th.

3. Volunteers who are accepted will be invited to register for an orientation session. 4. After orientation, Simpson Housing Services will process a criminal background check. When that is

complete, you will be invited to schedule a training shift. 5. The minimum commitment is to share 50 hours in a six-month period.

Contact Christina Giese at cgiese@simpsonhousing.org or (612) 455-0859 with questions.

St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP)

Agency Description: The St. Louis Park Emergency Program’s mission is to identify, address and respond to the critical and emergency needs of residents in St. Louis Park. We are the St. Louis Park community food shelf and social service agency. We directly provide food and clothing to residents in need, as well as advocacy, referrals, and build a collaborative relationship. Since 1975, STEP volunteers and professional staff have been empowering lives and restoring hope.

Position Description: Individuals that volunteer on an on-going basis during STEP’s office hours are critical to supporting the daily service needs of ST. Louis Park families. Volunteers assist in various areas of STEP-the most common roles

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are listed below although STEP is always open to talking about how your talents and skills can meet the needs of our organization. STEP is open for volunteering Monday through Thursday from 8am-4pm and Friday from 8-12. Please note: All volunteers must be at least 18 years old to help during STEP’s office hours.

• Food Shelf Volunteer: 4hr. shifts: sorts food donations, stocks the shelves in the food shelf, packs up groceries for clients (must be able to lift at least 10 lbs)

• Clothes Closet Volunteer: 3 hr. shifts: sorts clothing donations, staffs the Clothes Closet and assists clients in finding their clothing needs

• Food Rescue Volunteer: All shifts would take place in the morning, from 8-12, Monday through Friday in STEP’s warehouse. Help unload, sort, organize and get rescued product out to food shelf clients. Volunteer would need to be able to lift boxes up to 50 pounds on a regular basis

• Receptionist Volunteer: 4 hr. shifts: answers phone calls, greets clients and checks them in for their food shelf appt., greets donors and accepts donations

How to Apply: 1. Fill out the STEP Volunteer Application Form found online on our website:

http://stepslp.org/volunteer/volunteering-options/weekly-volunteer-opportunities/. Then, please attach the application to an email addressed to Mari@STEPslp.org.

2. Within a few days, Mari-Claire will contact you to schedule a Volunteer Interview. If you have questions, contact:

Mari-Claire Dart Volunteer and Community Relations Coordinator Mari@STEPslp.org or (952) 925-4899 ext. 18 6812 West Lake Street, St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Volunteers should apply 2-4 weeks before their desired start date. Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer for STEP!

WATCH www.watchmn.org Agency Description: WATCH is a court monitoring and research organization based in Hennepin County focused on improving how the justice system responds to crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and neglect and human trafficking. The mission of WATCH is to make the justice system more effective and responsive in handling cases of domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking so victimized women and children can rebuild their lives and experience safety and stability and to create a more informed public. Position Description: Volunteers are sent into courtrooms in Hennepin County (Minneapolis), Ramsey County (St. Paul) and Washington County

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(Stillwater) to observe and take notes on cases pertaining to violence against women and children. Volunteers are required to fill out the necessary forms provided by WATCH each time they observe a case and to turn them into the WATCH office after each shift. WATCH volunteer shifts take place Monday through Friday. Shifts are divided into morning 8:45-12:45pm, and afternoon 12:45-4pm. There is no deadline to apply as a volunteer because WATCH has an online training that is to be completed on the applicant’s own time. Applicant is required to fill out a volunteer application, interview with the Program Manager and pass a background check before volunteering. How to Apply: Please contact the Program Manager Ellen McDaniel at watchvolunteer@watchmn.org. There is a link to our application in the volunteer section on our website http://www.watchmn.org/. Please complete the form and e-mail it to the above e-mail or send via mail.

WISE

Agency Description: Women's Initiative for Self-Empowerment (WISE) is a multicultural 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization serving immigrant/refugee women and girls from all countries, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds. WISE started in 1995 to provide opportunities for women and girls in the immigrant communities to achieve their full potential and to increase their skills towards economic success. WISE utilizes volunteers in many of its programs & benefits greatly from the involvement of college students. For more information, please see the WISE website: https://www.womenofwise.org/ WISE’s Programs Girls Getting Ahead in Leadership (GGAL) is a college preparation, career exploration, and leadership development program for immigrant/refugee girls in grades 7-12. The program is structured around:

• Educational Workshops: Provide information on planning, financing, preparing for college and career exploration.

• Group Activities/Discussions: Provide resources on organization, time management, self-esteem, public speaking, and other issues that the girls need and want to discuss.

• Support Services: Provide individual assistance in areas of academics, scholarship searches, job/internship research, and personal issues.

GGAL Alumnae Program, once participants graduate from high school and go to college they become a part of the GGAL Alumnae Program. The purpose of this program is to provide academic support and career coaching to participants as they complete their educational degrees. The program is structured around:

• Weekly homework help sessions • Monthly workshops on professional development topics such as resume writing, interviewing, and

financial management • Support services: providing assistance in areas such as scholarship application, internship applications,

and personal issues.

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Position Description: As a volunteer mentor you will have the opportunity to connect with participants in the GGAL or GGAL Alumnae program and learn about the issues impacting refugee/immigrant communities. Skills you will gain from this experience include: counseling, communicating across culture and differences, tutoring, academic advising, public speaking, and program implementation. Role/Responsibilities:

• Time Commitment: One academic semester, participating in one weekly GGAL/GGAL Alumnae program session.

• Facilitate small group activities such as ice breakers, reflections, or discussions • Work one-on-one with girls during session • Attend Mentor Training Session to maximize your impact as a mentor • Assist with program session set up and clean up • Have fun! Get to know program participants and provide positive encouragement.

Hours and Locations:

• GGAL is held at two different sites each week o 1 after school sites: Oromo Community (465 N Mackubin St, St. Paul, MN 55103) (Tuesdays and

Thursdays; 4:00pm-5:30pm) o 1 school day site: Washington Tech Magnet High School (1495 Rice St, St. Paul, MN 55117)

(Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 1:45pm-3:00pm) • GGAL alumnae program is held at WISE’s office (570 N Ashbury St # 202, St Paul, MN 55104) (HW help

sessions are weekly, Saturdays 12-3pm)

How to Apply: o Email Naly Vang, GGAL Program Coordinator at nvang@womenofwise.org for application.

• Questions: Email nvang@womenofwise.org or call 651-646-3268. • Immigrants and women of color encouraged to apply

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Wed. Sept. 19th

Wed. Dec. 5th