November/December 2005

Helping Hampton Roads

Volunteering time to local charities will always be one of the best ways to give back to the community

By Michael Jon Khandelwal

Every day, thousands of volunteers from more than 100 local nonprofits lend a helping hand to the citizens of Hampton Roads. Awareness of the need for pitching in during times of distress has been heightened by the recent season of devastating hurricanes, and many of us have donated to the American Red Cross (www.redcross.org; 800-HELP-NOW) and other relief agencies.

Our area is generous, but a lot of local charities are in dire need of funding, supplies and, most importantly, volunteers. These groups are composed of neighbors and friends who feel a strong desire to serve others, both in Hampton Roads and throughout the world.

Many people say they have good intentions and a desire to help but are unsure where to start. To help motivate you, we’ve compiled an exhaustive list of many of our local charities, specifically aimed at showing how you can volunteer. The list is based on the work of Volunteer Hampton Roads, an organization that maintains a mission to provide a clearinghouse for area nonprofits. Agencies on this list have diverse missions and cater to a variety of volunteer interests: animals, arts and culture, children and youth, counseling, crisis intervention, domestic violence, emergency response, environment, family services, health services, hospice care, homelessness, human welfare services, hunger, individuals with disabilities, literacy, mentoring, recreation and senior citizens.

Six of these groups are highlighted, giving an inside look at their programs and what volunteers mean to their success.

Nothing brings joy to others more than a helping hand when it is needed. During this holiday season, consider giving yourself in addition to your money. The time you spend will certainly make a difference in your life as well as in the lives of your neighbors.

For the rest of this story, including profiles and pictures from six local charities, see the November/December 2005 issue of Hampton Roads Magazine, currently available on newsstands. For a complete listings of organizations needing your help, click here.