Making a difference could be as simple as taking time to help others in the community.
Catholic Charities is looking for volunteers for various programs in Prince William County.
The 71-year-old non-profit offers services in 21 counties and seven cities. Its goal is to help the poor.
“We serve all those in need, regardless of religion,” Director of Volunteers Sally O’Dwyer said.
About 120 staff members and 2,700 volunteers help the Catholic Charities meet its mission.
“We are very volunteer dependent, and I think that’s … the way we should be. We should be working with the community and also facilitating people who want to give back, [be]cause a lot of people — they want to help, they want to serve, but they don’t really have a way,” O’Dwyer said. “So, volunteering at Catholic Charities is a great way to plug in and get connected, and make a difference.”
County residents who are interested in serving others have several opportunities to get involved.
Catholic Charities needs some help with its transitional housing program on Wednesday nights.
Volunteers do activities and spend time with children while their parents are participating in life skills training.
Assistance is also needed with English as a Second Language classes, which are offered at churches throughout the county.
“The students are so anxious to learn,” O’Dwyer said. “It’s great getting involved in that.”
Catholic Charities is seeking community members who can serve as mentors for its Welcome Home Re-entry Program, as well.
The program helps jail inmates transition back into society.
According to O’Dwyer, the feeling that comes with helping others can’t be surpassed.
“When you help somebody else, what you get back is pretty amazing. That’s when you find out what you’re true value is,” O’Dwyer said. “When you give to another person that is in need with a sincere heart, it comes back to you tenfold. I think people are looking to do that. People want to connect, they want to be of help to other people.”
To learn more about additional volunteer opportunities, contact O’Dwyer at sally.odwyer@ccda.net.
