Five on the Line: Volunteer Opportunities Plentiful on Main Line

“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” Elizabeth Andrew

Oh how true those words are. If you have a little bit of time, and a whole lot of heart, there are plenty of organizations right in our area that could use your help. Here are five of them in this week’s Five on the Line:

1.     Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation – What began as a neighborhood lemonade stand in 2000 has grown into a foundation with thousands of supporters around the country.  Diagnosed with neuroblastoma at an early age, Alexendra “Alex” Scott decided to hold a lemonade stand to raise money to help doctors find a cure for childhood cancer.  At her first stand, she raised $2,000. When she died, too young, in 2004, she realized her dream of raising $1 million for childhood cancer research. Since then, over $60 million has been raised. How can you help? Hold a lemonade stand; participate in the Million Mile Run in September (which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month); buy an Alex’s Lemonade t-shirt or bracelet; or support one of the many sponsors of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (including Rita’s Water Ice, Volvo and Applebee’s). Check out their website – www.alexslemonade.org - for more information.

2.     ConKerr Cancer - When Ryan Kerr was diagnosed with cancer in 2002, his mother Cindy decided to sew a pillowcase for him to cheer him up while he was in the hospital. As word spread, more and more requests came in. Today, more than 500,000 pillowcases have been made and delivered to sick children all over the world, fulfilling ConKerr Cancer’s motto of  “Giving sick kids a reason to smile, one pillowcase at a time.” Can you sew? Or wash/iron? Or drive?  Or spare $10? If so, contact www.conkerrcancer,org.  Every little bit helps.

3.     Francisvale Home for Smaller Animals – Located in Radnor, this non-profit, no-kill animal shelter provides temporary care for animals until permanent homes can be found for them. If you are searching for a dog or cat, please contact them first. And if you have time during your day, consider becoming a volunteer. Whether helping in the office, walking dogs or petting cats, your service would be much appreciated. It doesn’t take much time but it means the world to these animals. (You must be 17 to volunteer, and you need to attend an orientation before you begin.)  www.francisvalehome.org.

4.     Peter’s Place – A center for grieving children and families, Peter’s Place, located in Radnor, provides support and a safe place for children, teens and caregivers dealing with the death of a loved one. Volunteers are especially needed, as Peter’s Place has only a small paid staff. Extensive training is provided for those who would like to help. Find out more on their website, www.petersplaceonline.org.

5.     T & E Care – started in September 2005, Tredyffrin & Easttown Care began when a group of concerned neighbors wanted to help families who had moved into the area after having been effected by Hurricane Katrina.  Soon, offers of not only money, but clothing, jobs and even a car came pouring in. Since then, the organization has helped hundreds of families in the area in many different ways, from finding them jobs, to offering legal advice, to helping with bills. Their tag line, Families Helping Families, explains the philosophy behind this non-profit organization. T&E Care is currently collecting school supplies for over 200 families who have asked for help. Check out their website, www.tecares.org, to find out how your family can help.