United Way creates new web site to match nonprofits and volunteers

The Middlesex County United Way has created a web site that matches volunteers and nonprofit groups, such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Middlesex United Way invites local nonprofit organizations to post volunteer opportunities through its free online matching system Volunteer Solutions.

Volunteer Solutions can help local nonprofit organizations meet the increased demand for services by matching more than 500 registered users to opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and time availability.

Visitors to the site will find the perfect organization and cause to donate their time to and truly make a difference.

“Middlesex Habitat for Humanity is proud to be a partner with Middlesex United Way Volunteer Solutions” said Jack Doyle, Volunteer Coordinator, Middlesex County Habitat for Humanity. “We get many referrals which turn into great volunteers for both ReStore and at construction sites. The system is easy to work with and provides great results.”

Nonprofit organizations looking for volunteers can use Volunteer Solutions to create one-time or ongoing opportunities, manage referrals and record volunteer hours.

Volunteers can also register and search the site by keyword, agency or length of volunteer commitment

Some examples of the opportunities that are currently available include:

• American Red Cross, seeks Blood Drive volunteers.

• Estuary Council of Seniors in Old Saybrook, seeks volunteers to serve on their Board of Directors.

• Middlesex Habitat for Humanity, searching for individual and groups of volunteers for build projects.

• St. Luke’s Eldercare Services in Middletown, needs volunteers to assist clients with weekly grocery shopping.

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, needs volunteers to help working families complete and file their taxes for free.

To register, visit www.middlesexunitedway.org and click the ‘VOLUNTEER’ link.

Middlesex United Way is a locally-based organization serving the towns of Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

Or for information, call Matt Plourde at 860-346-8695 or email matt.plourde@middlesexunitedway.org

Middlesex United Way advances the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Our focus is on education, income, health and housing – the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done. You are invited to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. That’s what it means to Live United.

Posted Dec. 5, 2011

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