Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter Hurlburt Community Commando A&FRC Volunteer Newsletter

Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
Issue No: 135
October 31, 2014
Hurlburt Community Commando A&FRC Volunteer
Newsletter
Hurlburt Field
Airman & Family Readiness Center
1SOFSS/FSFR
220 Lukasik Ave
Building 90213 Hurlburt
Field FL 32544
Tijuana Odom Volunteer
Coordinator
[email protected]
884-1533
How the Volunteer Resource Program Works:
 If you see something you’re interested in volunteering for please contact the A&FRC
Volunteer Coordinator: [email protected] to be officially enrolled in the Volunteer Resource
Program (VRP). You will then be added to the VRP newsletter email distribution list to begin receiving
the weekly volunteer newsletter directly.
 There are two ways to use the VRP
1) Select a volunteer opportunity from the newsletter, and then contact the agency POC directly to
volunteer
2) Be placed with an agency by the Hurlburt VRP coordinator
(Email request to [email protected])
 If you plan to attend any of the volunteer opportunities in the newsletter, please contact the agency or
event POC beforehand so they can get a tentative head count
 IF YOU ARE AN AGENCY OR KNOW OF AN AGENCY IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS AND WANT TO ADD A
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: email [email protected]
NEW
Who: Veteran’s Day Retirement Home Visits
What: Retirement Home Visits
When: Veteran’s Day (11 Nov 2014), various times (contact POC)
Where: 27 Facilities in Gulf Breeze, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Shalimar, Crestview, and
Defuniak Springs
How: The volunteers will visit the veterans and widows and hand out certificates and pins and greeting
cards made by local middle school students.
Why: We will visit the veterans and widows in 27 different facilities to let them know they have not
forgotten.
Good to know: We ask that active duty and retirees (if possible) wear their service dress uniforms.
Families and pets are welcome too!
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible!
Phone/Email: Allen Ajaye, phone: 850.882.4853 or email: [email protected]
NEW
Who: Emerald Coast Hospice
What: Looking for military volunteers to help Honor local Vets
When/Where: 7th, 10th, and 11th Nov 2014, various times (contact POC)
1
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
11/07/14 3pm Westwood nursing facility; 1001 Mar Walt Dr, Ft Walton Beach
11/10/14 10 am Destin Healthcare and Rehab; Mattie Kelly Blvd, Destin
10 am Fort Walton Beach Rehab; 1 LBJ Drive, Ft Walton beach
1 pm Emerald Coast center; 114 3rd St, Ft Walton Beach
3 pm Grand Blvd Nursing Facility; 138 Sanddestin Ln, Miramar Beach
3 pm Wellington Place; Carmel Dr, Ft Walton Beach
11/11/14 0900 am Bob Hope Village; 30 Holly Ave, Shalimar
10:30 am Hawthorne house; 1200 Hawthorn House Dr, Shalimar
1:30 pm Meridan at Westwood; 1001 Mar Walt Dr, Ft Walton Beach
3:00 pm Westminster Manor; 40 Windham Ave SE, Ft Walton Beach
TBA Belvedere Commons; 2000 Principal Ln, Ft Walton Beach
How: The volunteers will assist in honoring local vets at a ceremony.
Why: Honoring local Vets.
Good to know: Emerald Coast Hospice staff will escort volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Phone/Email: Jennifer Ratliff~ sSte Revenue Coordinator, phone: 850.862.1069 or email:
[email protected]
NEW
Who: Ruckel Middle School
What: Veteran’s Day Recognition Assembly
When: 6 November 2014 (0650-1030)
Where: 201 North Partin Dr. Niceville, FL 32578
How: The volunteers will be asked to be the classroom speaker ~30-40 minutes
Why: Ruckel Middle School would like to honor our local veterans while bringing awareness and
educating our students.
Good to know: Breakfast for veterans will be 0650. We ask that active duty and retirees (if possible)
wear their uniforms.
Number of Volunteers: 11
Phone/Email: Delane Fox, phone: 850.883.4142
NEW
Who: American Red Cross
What: Hurlburt Outpatient Clinic Volunteer (Medical Records)
Where: 113 Lielmanis Ave Bldg 91020
How: The volunteer will perform light administrative office work which may include: greeting patients
and family members, answering phones, filing, computer/data entry, making photocopies, pulling
patient records, and other clerical/administrative duties as deemed necessary to support the assigned
medical department.
Why: This position supports the mission of the American Red Cross and 1st Special Operations
Good to know: This position may require light physical activity, such as bending, lifting no more
than25 lbs, and other duties which may require moderate physical activity. Volunteers must be able to
maintain and ensure patient confidentiality and remain professional in a military environment.
Phone/Email: [email protected] or www.yourredcross.org
NEW
Who: American Red Cross
What: Hurlburt Outpatient Clinic Volunteer (Administrative)
Where: 113 Lielmanis Ave Bldg 91020
2
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
How: The volunteer will perform light administrative office work which may include: greeting patients
and family members, answering phones, filing, computer/data entry, making photocopies, and other
clerical/administrative duties as deemed necessary to support the assigned medical department.
Why: This position supports the mission of the American Red Cross and 1st Special Operations
Good to know: Volunteers must be able to maintain and ensure patient confidentiality and remain
professional in a military environment.
Phone/Email: [email protected] or www.yourredcross.org
NEW
Who: American Red Cross
What: Hurlburt Outpatient Clinic Volunteer (Front Desk Greeter)
Where: 113 Lielmanis Ave Bldg 91020
How: The volunteer will perform light administrative office work which may include: greeting patients
and family members, answering phones, providing directions to the appropriate medical clinics, and
may include other clerical /administrative duties as deemed necessary to support the assigned medical
department.
Why: This position supports the mission of the American Red Cross and 1st Special Operations
Good to know: Volunteers must be able to maintain and ensure patient confidentiality and remain
professional in a military environment.
Phone/Email: [email protected] or www.yourredcross.org
NEW
Who: Fort Walton Beach High School
What: Annual Football game
When: Friday, October 31 from 1830-2100
Where: Fort Walton Beach High School
How: The volunteers will help work the concession stand during the game.
Good to know: Volunteers will receive a free meal from the concession manager. Also, please
note: No one will be allowed to wear a costume or mask at the game.
Number of Volunteers: 30
Phone/Email: Jolynn Figueroa ~ phone: 884-0014
NEW
Who: Military Family Life Counselor Program/MFLC (GBMS/GBHS)
What: Veteran’s Day School Project
When: Monday, 10 November, 2014 between 0900-1330
Where: Gulf Breeze High School 675 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
How: Volunteers will be asked to stand or sit by the Wall of Honor located in the hallway, greet and
talk with student, assist with inviting students to decorate the wall and sign the wall as they walk by.
Why: Joe Salter, the MFLC is doing a Wall of Honor at GBHS to help students get involved with
honoring veterans. The reason is to help them recognize veterans from their families and hopefully
meet a veteran who volunteers for the project. GBHS is in need of a special veteran’s day project, so
having a veteran person would be very education and inspirational.
Number of Volunteers: 1 or 2 active duty veterans in uniform
Good to Know: This is a simple, low stress opportunity. MFCL’s are hosting various Veteran’s Day
events to help students and schools honor veterans on this important holiday.
POC/Phone/Email: Joe Salter/MFLC,~850.375.8267, 850.261.0617 email:
[email protected]
3
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
NEW
Who: Shelter House
What: 30A 10K & One Mile Fun Run
When: Thursday, November 27, 2014 (0630-1030 or 1200)
Where: Race starts and ends in beautiful Rosemary Beach
How: Volunteers are needed for water stations, food, start chute and finish line, course
direction/turnarounds, and breakdown. What better way and what better day to give back!
Why: Shelter House has been selected as one of the benefiting charities of this year's 30A 10K & One
Mile Fun Run, where they expect 2500+ runners and to raise more than $40,000. As the state-certified
domestic and sexual violence center serving Okaloosa and Walton counties, Shelter House provides
emergency shelter to more than 400 women, children and men each year and counsels over 1,000
additional survivors through its outreach offices. Services include confidential emergency shelter,
24/7 crisis hotline, peer counseling, referrals to services, court advocacy, support groups, hospital
accompaniment, youth services, on-site kennel, violence prevention education and more.
Good to know: Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt.
Number of Volunteers: 30
Phone/Email: Carrie Tabor~ Shelter House Volunteer Coordinator ~ 850.243.1201
[email protected]
NEW
Who: Shelter House
What: 4th Annual Luminaria Run to End Domestic & Sexual Violence – 9K and 5K
When: Saturday, December 6, 2014. Shifts times vary and start as early as 0900. The last shift will
end about 2200.
Where: Race starts and ends at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., in Destin
How: Volunteers are needed for everything from set up, packet pick up and registration to course set
up, manning water stations and after party clean up.
Why: The course for this twilight run will be lit with more than 2,000 luminaria bags, representing how
Shelter House and our partners light the way to a safer place for victims of domestic and sexual violence in
our community. The 9k distance was chosen to represent that a woman is assaulted or beaten every nine
seconds in the U.S. As the state-certified domestic and sexual violence center serving Okaloosa and
Walton counties, Shelter House provides emergency shelter to more than 400 women, children and men
each year and counsels over 1,000 additional survivors through its outreach offices. Services include
confidential emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis hotline, peer counseling, referrals to services, court advocacy,
support groups, hospital accompaniment, youth services, on-site kennel, violence prevention education
and more.
Good to know: Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt.
Number of Volunteers: 120
Phone/Email: Carrie Tabor~ Shelter House Volunteer Coordinator ~ 850.243.1201
[email protected]
Who: Bob Hope Village
What: Thanksgiving Meal
When: Thursday, 27 November 2014 – 1000-1430
Where: 30 Holley Ave, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (Bob Hope Village Ballroom)
How: Volunteers are needed to help serve, deliver a few “to-go” meals, wash dishes and visit
residents at their tables.
Why: Each year we offer Thanksgiving meal to all of our residents free of charge. Many of them are
4
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
unable to travel to see their families. They appreciate the volunteers that come that day.
Good to know: Volunteers will be fed an awesome meal.
Number of Volunteers: 20-25
Phone/Email: Bobbi Omarra email: o’[email protected] phone# 651.2635
Who: Navarre HS Marching Raider Band Boosters
What: Navarre HS Football Concessions
When: 10/31/14 1800-2200 Navarre vs. Dothan
11/7/14 1800-2200 Navarre vs. Gulf Breeze
***Future Playoff games possible***
Where: 8600 High School Blvd Navarre, FL
How: The volunteers will help out in concession stands; preparing food, grilling, taking food orders
and set-up and clean-up.
Why: Navarre HS marching Band program relies heavily on fundraising events and sponsors to
fund Travel and Equipment needs of the Band.
Number of Volunteers: 10-15 per event
Good to Know: Please contact the POC via Email in advance to sign up for the event and for further
reporting instructions.
Phone/Email: Kevin Desrochers; Email: [email protected] phone# 850.855.9073
Who: Bruner Middle School
What: Career Awareness Day
When: Friday, 21 November (0730-1100)
Where: 322 Holmes Blvd. N.W., FWB, FL
How: Volunteers will present info regarding their career; may include their journey, education,
social skills etc. Volunteers will be sent more info to assist them. Volunteer can bring hands on
materials!!
Why: School! To prepare students to be successful citizens
Number of Volunteers: 15-20 (presenters can speak about their career in the military. Ex.
Pharmacist)
Good to Know: Volunteers will do the same presentation five times for approximately 10 minutes.
Phone/Email: Susan Ver Steeg; phone -850.833.3266 email: [email protected]
Who: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
What: “Color Me Cured” Color Run
When: Saturday, 8 November, 2014 between 0630-1300
Where: Ft Walton Beach Landing Park, 139 Brooks St. SE, Ft Walton Beach, FL 32548
How: Volunteers will be utilized as event set-up and break-down, and clean-up of equipment and
color stations day of run.
Why: The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s mission is to bring awareness to the community
about Type 1 diabetes. The Color run is a fundraiser to raise money to find a cure.
Number of Volunteers: 50
Good to Know: This is a fun messy event! Wear old clothing – you will get paint powder on them
POC/Phone/Email: Lisa Goldsmith, /850.830.7126 email: [email protected]
5
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
Who: Gator Lakes Golf Course
What: After School Program
When: Mon-Sun 0630 - until
Where: 403 Walkup Way, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544
How: Volunteers will serve as Starters/Marshalls; act as course starter for #1 TEE and to monitor
play on the course assisting players as necessary.
Why: To further enhance the experience of our customers by providing this service.
Number of Volunteers: 6-8
Good to Know: Volunteers should have a basic knowledge of golf.
Phone/Email: Don Kramer, General Manager – [email protected] or Jesse Alcala
[email protected] phone: 881-2251
Who: Fort Walton Beach High School Vikings Touch Down Club
What: FWBHS Viking Football Home Games
When: Friday, October 31, 1600 (show time) vs Choctaw HS (big rivalry)
Where: 400 Hollywood Blvd, Ft Walton Beach, FL 32548 (report to the south parking lot entrance
off Wright Pkwy located nearest to the track)
How: Volunteers will assist parent volunteers in parking spectator’s vehicles to ensure they are
parking correctly, between the lines, are done so in a safe and orderly manner and that all available
parking is utilized efficiently.
Number of Volunteers: 4-6 people are needed
Good to know: Depending on base and unit policy, you may wear ABU’s for the Military Appreciation Night.
All other games wear comfortable clothing that is in good taste. Water will be available. If the volunteers
wish, they will be admitted to watch the game FREE. Length of volunteer hours will be from show
time until the end of the 1st quarter (approximately 1930)
POC/Phone/Email: Gene Hardy @ 850.240.8742 or email: [email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Youth Center
What: Soccer Coaches
When: 25 August 2014 start date -5 December 2014 end date
Where: Hurlburt Field Youth Center
How: Volunteers are needed to coach soccer.
Why: It is important to build healthy habits in our youth, and playing sports is one way. Youth sports also
teach our youth teamwork and helps to build self-confidence.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Practices are due to start Monday, 8 September, and are conducted twice per week
(either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday) throughout the season. The games will begin
on 20 September and end 15 November. The Youth Sports staff will provide all equipment for
practices and games and each coach receives a team coach’s jersey.
POC/Phone/Email: Mr. Jim Harriott or Mr. Nick Tsanos, today (4 Sept) at 884.6355 or by email at
[email protected] Volunteers will be trained this Friday afternoon (5 Sept).
6
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: The Salvation Army
What: After School Program
When: Academic School Calendar; Monday- Friday 1500-1700 as available
Where: Community Center 425 Mary Esther Cutoff
How: The volunteer will serve as a tutor/assistant mentor assisting in homework help, tutoring,
playing active games/activities and passing out snacks and school supplies
Why: To provide a safe place for children grades K-12 after school and to support the youth of Fort
Walton with character building and academic enforcement.
Number of Volunteers: 5
Phone/Email: Denzell McClain - [email protected]
Who: Habitat for Humanity
What: Habitat ReStore
When: Tues- Friday, 1000-1800, Saturday, 0900-1700
Where: 39 SE Eglin Parkway Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
How: Various volunteer positions: Volunteers are needed to help display items for sale; drivers are
needed to help pick up donations from residential and business locations within the community; A
talented person is needed to maintain/update Facebook, DiggersList, Pinterest and other social
media with the latest and greatest news to help attract more people to the store.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Our mission is to eliminate poverty housing in our community and the world.
POC/Phone/Email: Charles Cooper, 685.0686 or [email protected]
Who: Pandhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
What: Animal Shelter that provides pet adoption, animal control, and veterinary services.
When: Varies
Where: 752 Lovejoy Road, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
How: Various volunteer positions: Volunteers are needed to exercise dogs, bathe puppies and
kittens, groom the animals, collect towels & blankets for animals, cut & sew blankets, volunteer at
the shelter, work on the website, help with fundraising and special events, serve on a committee, or
work the thrift shop.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Must complete an application and attend a Volunteer Orientation http://www.pawsshelter.com/volunteer/volunteer_application_0808.pdf
POC/Phone/Email: Volunteer Coordinator 850.243.1525
Who: Destin Library
What: Community Service Opportunities for Young Adults (16 & older)
When: Interested youth are typically scheduled for no less than two hours and no more than four
hours of community service per week. Days of the week & times are coordinated through the
school year
Where: Destin Library
Good to know: Community service activities can include assisting with collection maintenance,
reading to young children, assisting patrons in locating materials, helping patrons with computer
usage, providing support for summer programming for children and young adults and much, much
more.
POC/Phone/Email: Youth Services Librarian - 850-837-8572
7
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
Who: Emerald Coast Science Center
What: Front desk volunteers
When: Varies
Number of Volunteers: Open
POC/Phone/Email: 850-664-1261 Email: [email protected]
Who: Sharing and Caring
When: One day a week 0900-1130 or 1130-1400 Monday through Thursday or 0900- 1200 on Fri.
Where: 104 Bullock Boulevard in Niceville
How: Caring adult volunteers are needed to interview clients or assist with food sorting and
packing.
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: application must be completed
POC/Phone/Email: Gloria Price, 850-678-8459
Who: Child Development Center (CDC)
What: Assistance needed for miscellaneous work
Where: CDC East (Bldg. 91168) Volunteers are needed to lay sod on playgrounds for children;
CDC West (Bldg. 90306) needs help with hanging shelves in some classrooms; please see front desk
to volunteer.
CDC Main (Bldg. 90353) still needs help with installing convex mirrors; POC is Ms Brenda Foster
and/or Mr. Darryl Rice at 884-6664.
Why: To help out the young children
Number of Volunteers: Open
POC/Phone: CDC East-Ms. Juanita Keesee and Ms. Christina Grijalva at 881-1261
CDC West- Contact the front desk to volunteer
CDC Main- Ms. Brenda Foster or Mr. Darryl Rice at 884-6664
Who: Meals on Wheels
What: Deliver meals to our local elderly
When: Month of July
Where: local area
How: Volunteers are needed to deliver meals
Number of Volunteers: Open
Good to know: Please use the following link to sign up:
https://eis.afsoc.af.mil/_layouts/shorturl.aspx?id=fad092cdb07b
POC/Phone/Email: MSgt Stevie Swanigan, - 884-3028 [email protected]
Who: 1 SOW Legal Office
What: Will notarization ceremony
When: Every Tues at approx. 0930 and Every Wed at approx. 1330
Where: 212 Lukasik Ave, Suite 255, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544
How: Volunteer(s) would serve at witnesses in the will notarization ceremonies. They observe the
oath given by the clients and they take an oath then witness signatures of the clients and sign verify
they witnessed the signatures.
Why: When a client receives a Will or other estate documents they must be notarized and
witnessed by two witnesses. This requires our paralegals to take time away from their primary
duties for approximately 1-2 hours twice a week to serve as witnesses, causing a back log on our
primary mission.
8
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
Number of Volunteers: 2 per session
Good to know: great volunteer opportunity
POC/Phone/Email: Capt Dana Cates 850-884-7821 [email protected]
Who: Okaloosa School District Mentors Program ~ Mentor
What: Mentor
When: Every 3rd Friday of each month/1:00pm (30 minute one-time training)
Where: One time training at Hurlburt Field A&FRC /220 Lukasik Ave/Bldg. 90213/Actual
mentoring takes place at choice of one of 22 Okaloosa Schools
How: The Okaloosa School District is recruiting mentors at all academic levels throughout the
county. The District screens, orients, trains and matches volunteer mentors with students, and
maintains support of mentoring relationships between students and mentors. Mentoring takes
place during the school year on the school campus for 30 minutes to one hour each week at a time
during the school day that is convenient for both mentor and student. There is no outside contact
or money involved, just guidance. The goal is to improve the child’s self-esteem with positive adult
interaction.
Why: This mentor program helps children who have been retained from the previous grade level,
or are in danger of being retained. Studies have shown that students who are mentored develop
more positive attitudes, achieve higher grades, improve relationships with adults and peers, are
better able to express feelings, are more likely to trust their teachers, and develop higher levels of
self-confidence.
Number of Volunteers (needed): As many as possible
Good to Know: Multiple local schools available and training on mentoring is free.
POC/Phone/Email: Nancy Prescott /[email protected] /884-5441
Who: Hurlburt Community Center/Landing Zone (LZ) ~ Morale Boosting Event
What: Community Event Facilitator
When: Anytime (can do a onetime event or do an ongoing event)
Where: Hurlburt Landing Zone Community Center /443 Cody Avenue, Bldg. 90337
How: The Landing Zone is looking for volunteers to host morale events, at the Landing Zone
Community Center and on occasion another location on base, to host a morale boosting event for
Airmen or Airmen and their families. You can volunteer on your own, or form a volunteer
committee. You would act as the event supervisor(s), helping to carry out events like Family Board
Game nights or Movie Night. The goal of volunteer committees would be for a group of volunteers
to take an event and run with it. For the Airmen, by the Airmen! Note, the LZ is always open to and
encourages input on creating fresh programming.
Why: These volunteer opportunities will provide an opportunity for leadership, by taking the lead
on development and implementation of programs!
Number of Volunteers: 1-4 volunteers per event
Good to Know: A few of the events available: Pool League/Tournaments Committee:
Every Thursday 1730-2030. The cost is FREE to participants. Running 6-week leagues
continuously. Volunteers assist LZ Staff with running of weekly league. Family Game Night:
Inviting community to come to LZ Community Center and enjoy a night of board games, billiards
etc. with family members to get them out of the house for one night a month and spend some time
bonding with friends and family in a relaxed atmosphere (away from home distractions). Looking
for volunteers to assist with running operations of Family Game Night, willing to play games with
family members, Airmen etc.
POC/Phone/Email: Robert Scott /884-5080 /[email protected]
Who: American Cancer Society ~ Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of the
Emerald Coast Event Planning Committee
9
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
What: Event Planning Committee Volunteer
When: Bi monthly meetings
Where: American Cancer Society/99 Eglin Pkwy NE Suite 37/Fort Walton
How: Several committee member positions, including the following below. Detailed descriptions
are available upon request: Team Development, Operations, Logistics, Survivor/ Caregiver
Advocacy, Breast Cancer Education, Mission Education, or Media/ PR. A wonderful way to gain
leadership experience and work with a group of passionate community members in the mission to
cure breast cancer. Every Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is a powerful and inspiring
opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors, and raise awareness about
steps we can take to reduce our risk of getting breast cancer to help the American Cancer Society
fight the disease with breast cancer research, and to provide information and services, and access
to mammograms for women who need them.
Why: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health
organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer,
saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and
service.
Number of Volunteers: unlimited
Good to Know: Since Making Strides began 20 years ago; breast cancer death rates have declined
more than 32 percent.POC /Phone/Email: Brittany Wade /244-3813 x
3556/[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: USO ~ Center Support & Volunteer Committees
What: USO NAS Pensacola Center Support Volunteers
When: Monday - Friday (10am - 2pm) or (2pm - 5pm) or (5pm - 8pm)
Saturday & Sunday (12pm - 4pm) or (4pm - 8pm)
Where: USO NAS Pensacola Center Support /153 Ellyson Avenue, Building 625D, Pensacola; USO
Northwest Florida Volunteer Committees: Based on individual Committee.
How: Volunteers assist the Center Manager in all aspects of running the USO Center and/or join
volunteer committees for specific events.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: USO Northwest Florida is committed to lifting the spirits of America’s Troops and
their families within the Northwest Florida panhandle through volunteers committed to supporting
America’s Troops and their families.
POC /Phone /Email: Dana Cervantes /[email protected] /850-455-8280, Opt. 4
Who: Hurlburt Airman’s Attic ~ Donation Sorting Volunteers and Truck Drivers
What: Volunteers to help sort donations or truck drivers to pick-up/drop off large donations
When: On-Going /Monday, Wednesday, Friday /10am-2pm and as needed
Where: Airman’s Attic /201 Simpson Ave. Bldg. 90320 /Hurlburt Field
*Items will need to be picked up and dropped off to and from the Airman's Attic
How: The Airman’s Attic is in need of volunteers to help sort donations and to help with general
operations at the Attic. The Attic is also in need of volunteers that may have a large vehicle and are
willing to pick up or drop off large donations/furnishings that people would like to donate or need
10
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
to get to their houses from our location.
Why: The Airman's Attic serves airmen E-6 and below and their dependents. It supplies uniform
items, toys, clothing, kitchen items, electronics, linens, and home furnishings free of charge. The
Airman's Attic runs solely on donations and volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: Unlimited
Good to Know: Truck volunteers will be on call Monday/Wednesday /Friday from 10am-2pm to
make pickups and deliveries of items. You will load and transport these items.
POC /Phone/Email: SSgt Nikki Jackson /Toni Duval /884-7769 (please be sure to leave a message
if no answer)
Who: Hurlburt Spouses Club ~ Thrift Shop Helpers
What: Thrift Shop Volunteer (general helper)
When: During an open hours or work day of the thrift shop. Current hours are Mon, Tue, Wed
9:30am-1:00pm; and the 1st and 3rd Saturday 9:30am-1:00pm
Where: Hurlburt Thrift Shop /120 Simpson Ave, Building #90320
How: Volunteers are needed to sort and price donations, rotate merchandise, and assist customers
with consignments as well as light cleaning and stocking or removing merchandise from shelves.
Anyone who has access to the base can help out.
Why: The Thrift Shop supports our base population by providing a place to exchange goods. The
operation of the thrift shop relies heavily on volunteers. Without them, they could cease to operate.
Number of Volunteers: As many as are interested
Good to Know: Volunteers who become consigners realize special volunteer benefits.
POC /Phone /Email: Jill Armbruster (manager) /884-3098 (please leave a message if no answer)
Who: American Red Cross - Outreach Volunteers
What: Outreach Volunteers help spread awareness of the Service to Armed Forces Mission by
providing Indoctrination Briefs to new troops, Command Briefs, and by participating in base or
command events by providing a resource table with brochures and other literature. Outreach
Volunteers also conduct pre- and post-deployment services to include distribution of comfort kits
to deploying personnel as well as attending welcome home events.
When: Indoctrination and command briefs are generally given during the normal work week of
Monday through Friday. However, many of our outreach events are after hours or on weekends
which would permit those with limited availability (such as AD service members) to assist.
Where: Branch Office, Eglin AFB, Northwest Florida Chapter of American Red Cross
How: Serve to educate the military community and their families by conducting briefings or
information/community fairs or other outreach events; Serve to identify, plan, and deliver pre and
post deployment support needs including deployment comfort kits, briefings, and events to military
personnel and their families.
Why: Great way to: support the military, be out in the community, offer administrative support,
interact directly with clients, work with technology and help with special events.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteer benefits include: meet new people, build resume, learn new skills, give
back to others, explore a career or get to know the community.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: American Red Cross - Emergency Communication Casework Volunteers
What: Volunteers provide Emergency Communication services to Red Cross clients including
access to financial assistance, to members of the U.S. military and their families and to other eligible
Red Cross clients.
When: Volunteer in the office, during business hours (daytime, M-F) or volunteer from home.
Where: Branch Office, Eglin AFB, Northwest Florida Chapter of American Red Cross
11
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
How: Emergency Communication Casework Volunteers provide the final contact, after “Red Cross
Verification” has taken place, to families that have experienced an emergency. This invaluable
service can be very rewarding, but is not for everyone. If you have a strong sense of compassion
and a desire to help others this may be what you are looking for.
Why: Great way to: teach & train others, support the military, be out in the community, offer
administrative support, interact directly with clients and prepare the community.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteer benefits include: meet new people, build resume, learn new skills, give
back to others, explore a career or get to know the community.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: Airmen Against Drunk Driving (AADD) ~ Dispatch and Drivers
What: Volunteers in AADD have two primary roles: the driver and the dispatcher
When: All Shifts
Where: Local Area /Hurlburt Field
How: The driver is responsible for going to the caller's location and taking them back to the caller's
dorm or home. The dispatcher is responsible for answering their phone and assigning a
driver to pick up a caller. First, the caller calls 884-8844. Command Post answers the phone and
sends the call to the dispatcher's personal phone number. The dispatcher is the first-line operator
for the program, thus they are perhaps the most important volunteer in a shift. If a dispatcher
doesn't pick up their phone, there is no AADD. Once a driver has completed a return, they will call
the dispatcher who will then log the completed call.
Why: The intent of the AADD program is to provide Hurlburt Field community members another
alternative for getting home alive after consuming alcohol. Prevents DUI’s and saves lives for the
individual and the community.
Number of Volunteers: 7 males/3 females every shift
Good to Know: Males may never ride alone with females, and vice versa.
Phone/Email: [email protected]) or [email protected]
/[email protected] /884-8844.
Who: Computer Techs at Air Force Enlisted Village ~ IT Help
What: Computer Technician /Geek Squad
When: One Saturday a month 9:00am-1:00pm *Weekday opportunities available also
Where: AF Enlisted Villages: Teresa Village, 321 Woodrow Street, Ft Walton Beach, Bob Hope
Village, 30 Holly Avenue, Shalimar and the Eglin Fisher House, across from the Eglin Hospital.
How: Use skills in computer maintenance/geek skills for fixing AF Enlisted Village resident’s
computers on Saturdays. Tasks may include: fixing computers, software and hardware for AF
Enlisted Village residents.
Why: The iFalcon computer support team is an all-volunteer group of IT folks with a common goal,
to provide FREE IT support to the residents of the Air Force Enlisted Village, particularly at Teresa
Village. The village is continually seeking experienced & dedicated professionals with a range of IT
skills.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: This group typically deals with the same type of issues one might see in their
home/work environment.
POC /Phone /Email: MSgt Tommy Brown /[email protected]
Who: Air Force Enlisted Village ~ Ipad Class Assistant
12
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
What: Hawthorn House Ipad (Catie) Class Helper
When: On-going /weekly every Thursday at 3:00pm
Where: Hawthorn House /1200 Hawthorn House Drive
How: The enlisted village is teaching the residents how to use Ipads that have been installed
throughout the building. They have apps specific to the residents’ needs, for example, maintenance
requests, activities, email and menus. Volunteers will assist with hands on instruction of residents.
IT knowledge, specifically Apple Ipad helpful.
Why: The Air Force Enlisted Village provides a home for widowed/retired seniors of those that
have served. Their mission is to provide comfortable homes to both Air Force Enlisted Widows and
Retired Air Force Couples.
Number of Volunteers: 2-4 per class
Good to Know: Find more info about Hawthorn house at afev.us. These are seniors with physical
limitations & disabilities, so must have respect for the elderly and PATIENCE!
POC/Phone/Email: Theresa Brooks /850 609-2550 /[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Air Force Enlisted Village ~ Senior Companion
What: Senior Companion (someone to spend 1-on-1 time with a resident for friendship & bonding).
When (dates /time): On-going /as volunteer is available
Where (address): Hawthorne House /1200 Hawthorn House Drive /Shalimar
How (duties): With this program the volunteer is matched with an elderly person at the Air Force
Enlisted village who needs companionship and sometimes assistance with normal everyday tasks.
The volunteer can help with entertaining and helping their Senior Companion with things such as
computer games, discussing books, playing cards, or even hanging a picture, or organizing their
room. A Senior Companion can do as little as keeping a senior company for 30 minutes. This gives
the individual you are helping solace knowing there is someone who cares and is willing to put in
the extra effort for them. It does not take much to show someone you care, but your little effort can
go a long way in making them feel needed and wanted.
Why (do it): The Air Force Enlisted Village provides a home for widowed/retired seniors of those
that have served. Their mission is to provide comfortable homes to both Air Force Enlisted Widows
and Retired Air Force Couples.
Number of Volunteers (needed): 1 volunteer per resident
Good to Know: Find more info about Hawthorne house at afev.us. These are seniors with physical
limitations & disabilities, so must have respect for the elderly and PATIENCE!
POC/Phone/Email: Theresa Brooks /850 609-2550 /[email protected]
Who: American Cancer Society ~ Office Help
What: Office Helpers
When: Mon through Friday /8:00am-4:00pm
Where: American Cancer Society/99 Eglin Pkwy NE Suite 37/Fort Walton
How: The volunteers can help to answer phones, take messages, help patients in the “gift Closet”
(fitting bras and prosthesis), help with outgoing mail, provide office coverage, create flyers,
postcards and power points and more as needed.
Why: The American Cancer Society is a non-profit helping local cancer patients enjoy a higher
quality of life!
Number of Volunteers: 3-6 volunteers per week
Good to Know: Seeking all help but computer savvy people are desperately needed.
POC /Phone/Email: Nikki Willingham /244-3813/[email protected]
Who: VA Gulf Coast Health Care ~ Information Desk /Greeter
13
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
What: Volunteer Information Desk Associate
When: Ongoing - weekly 4 hour commitment /during operation hours: Monday thru Friday 8:00am
– Noon or Noon – 4:00pm
Where: VA Gulf Coast Health Care System /100 Veterans Way / Eglin AFB
How: Volunteers provide general information and direction to veterans; answer phone calls and
redirect; provide coffee service to veterans; maintain sign up lists for various programs and
services; and make copies of documents and maintain information files.
Why: Volunteers will be assisting the Veteran Health Administration in serving veterans of the
community.
Number of Volunteers: 3-4 volunteers
Good to Know: Outstanding people skills, Listening, clear communications are needed.
POC /Phone /Email: Michael Grey/ [email protected] / 912-2057
Who: Shelter House ~ Help Move or Organize Donation Items /Mass Mailings
What: Truck/Transportation Team Leads or Volunteers
When: Various – can work with your schedule
Where: Shelter House Admin Office /102 Buck Drive /Fort Walton
How: The Shelter accepts donated household items to furnish apartments.
Drivers: Need volunteers to pick up and deliver furniture and household goods to and from
storage. Need Team Captains to schedule pick up and drop off times and help recruit other
volunteers to the team. Also need anyone with a truck/trailer who can help move furniture,
equipment, supplies, etc. If you don’t have a truck, you can provide muscle!
Donations: Sort and organize donations by category. Date all food items. Put items away.
Mailing: It’s an ongoing process M-F 9-5 pm. A group of 10 volunteers for about 4 hours would be
a great help, but individuals are welcome to come too.
Why: Shelter House is the only state certified Domestic Violence Center in Okaloosa and Walton
Counties. Shelter House provides safe shelter, a 24/7 domestic violence crisis hotline, counseling,
emotional support, transitional housing and legal advocacy for domestic violence survivors and
their children.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Most victims of domestic violence that return to abuse list finances as the reason
they return. Shelter House provides support for families leaving shelter and starting anew. By
helping with the truck team, you will directly make a difference in the lives of women and children
in our community.
POC /Phone /Email: 243-1201 /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Field Natural Resources ~ Nature Trail Caretaker
What: Grace Brown Nature Trail Caretaker
When: Twice a month, flexible per volunteer schedule
Where: Hurlburt Field /Grace Brown Nature Trail, Hurlburt Field Soundside, trailhead on south
lawn of Soundside Club
How: Perform routine maintenance landscaping to Grace Brown Nature Trail such as weed eating,
pruning, sweeping or blowing off decks/boardwalks, id and report damage that needs carpentry
repair.
Why: This regular event will maintain a safe, beautiful and inviting recreational and educational
venue supporting retired and active duty military personnel and families.
Number of Volunteers: 2-8
Good to Know: 24-48 hours advanced notice is required in order for 1 SOCES/CEAN to request
equipment, i.e., weed eaters, pruners, etc. from Heavy Equipment shop. Volunteers will need to pick
up equipment at Bldg. 90053 and receive additional instructions for work.
POC/Phone/Email: Kristal Walsh, Natural-Cultural Resources Manager /1 SOCES/CEAN
415 Independence Rd., Bldg. 9005, Hurlburt Field, FL 32544 /850-884-7916
/[email protected]
14
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Shelter House ~ Children’s Activity Helpers
What: Children’s Activity Assistance (while moms attend group peer counseling and economic
empowerment classes)
When: Every Tuesday /6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Shelter House /102 Buck Drive /Fort Walton
How: The Shelter House provides peer group counseling each Tuesday night 6-8pm. Volunteers
will work with and assist Shelter House Youth advocates with children during group counseling for
parents and while moms attend Economic Empowerment classes. Volunteers will assist the Youth
Advocate with age-appropriate curriculum dealing with relationships and feelings.
Why: Shelter House is the only state certified Domestic Violence Center in Okaloosa and Walton
Counties. The Shelter House provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, outreach offices,
primary prevention programs, youth counseling and a 24 hour counseling hotline for abused
women in our area.
Number of Volunteers: 2
Good to Know Shelter House provides support for families leaving shelter and starting anew.
POC /Phone /Email: 243-1201 /[email protected]
Who: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida ~ Mentor
What: Mentors for kids ages 6-12
When: On-Going
Where: Fun and educational activities around town.
How: Option #1: School-Based Mentoring
In this mentoring relationship, volunteers meet with their Little Brother or Sister one hour every
week at Edwin’s Elementary, during school hours only.
In addition to the mentoring relationship, sometime will be spent each week on a subject that the
Little needs some extra help with, such as reading.
Many volunteers visit during their lunch hour. Keep in mind that school hours are around 8:30 a.m.
- 3:00 p.m. and all of your visits will occur within these hours. Check with your employer as some
businesses allow their staff time off to mentor. The school-based program at Edwin’s is a great way
to enter the mentoring relationship and then transition to community outings once you have gotten
to know each other.
Option #2: Community Based Mentoring
This one-to-one mentoring option allows you the opportunity to pick up your Little Brother or
Little Sister at the child's home, do some educational activities and spend time in the community.
Outings can range from going for a walk, working on arts & crafts, taking a bike ride, or watching a
movie.
Remember, it's not the money you spend but the time spent doing activities together. The
Community Based Mentoring Option is great if you would like to spend time with your Little on
afternoons or weekends.
Why: Big Brothers Big Sisters offers children individualized time and attention on a consistent
basis from an extra caring adult in their lives.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Big Brothers Big Sisters provides full-time staff to support their mentors and their
relationships with their Little Brother or Little Sister.
POC/Phone/Email: Stephanie Trigg /850-664-5437 /[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Navarre High School ~ Navarre High Commando Tutors Program
15
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
What: “Commando Tutors”
When: Tutoring will take place on campus Monday through Friday. Tutoring hours are: 8:00 a.m.
to 8:45 a.m.; Tutors are asked to help a minimum of one time a week for approximately 45 minutes.
Where: Navarre High School /8600 High School Blvd /Navarre, FL
How: The “Commando Tutor” will spend approximately 45 minutes helping a student improve
competency and performance in a specific subject and will meet the student in the designated
Tutoring classroom. The student will bring the needed text and other study materials sent by the
teacher for the tutoring session. The “Commando Tutor” will determine, with the student, how
many meetings are needed to achieve the targeted improvements.
Number of Volunteers: Ten to Twenty “Commando Tutors”
Good to Know: Students requesting tutors will be motivated and appreciative. Each “Commando
Tutor” will be asked to complete the Navarre High Volunteer Application Form and present a valid
driver’s license.
POC /Phone/Email: Brian Noack, Principal /936-6080
Who: Choctaw and FWB High School ~ Tutor ELL (Spanish) Students in Math
What: Bilingual (Spanish) High School Math Tutor
When: Once per week for up to 1 hour during the school day or immediately after school
Where: Fort Walton Beach High School/400 Hollywood Blvd/Ft. Walton OR
Choctawhatchee High School/110 Racetrack Road /Ft. Walton
How: Volunteers need to be bilingual (Spanish) to help Spanish students with HS math tutoring in
Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Volunteers will help ELL students to progress in math
understanding and to be able to pass EOCs (End of Course Exams) and FCAT. Passing these tests
are required for graduation.
Why: While English Language Learners (ELL) receives assistance in learning English, there is a
need for math assistance as well, especially in interpreting concepts and word problems.
Number of Volunteers: At least 4 (2 who could split weeks at each high school)
Good to Know: Volunteering can be split between multiple volunteers.
POC /Phone /Email: Lois Handzo /850) 833-5861 /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Field CLEP Prep Program ~ Tutors
What: Tutors /Teachers /Professors
When: Mondays from 11:30am-1:00pm and/or various times by appt.
Where: Hurlburt Field Library, Conference Room
How: The CLEP Prep Program is a refresher course for students. Volunteers will act as
tutors/teachers; volunteer will be teaching or co-teaching a course designed to improve the
likelihood that the students will go on to pass their CLEP test.
Why: The CLEP Prep Program is composed of Airmen who wish to use their knowledge to refresh
the memories of airmen wanting to take a CLEP test.
Number of Volunteers: Unlimited, the more the better!
Good to Know: Volunteers will not necessarily have to teach on a regular schedule; the more
volunteers, the more flexible schedules can be.
POC /Phone /Email: [email protected]
Who: Emerald Coast Hospice ~ Patient Companion
What: Patient companionship, caregiver relief, clerical assistance
When: ongoing – flexible days/times upon your availability
Where: Sandestin, Destin, FWB, Shalimar, Mary Esther, portions of Navarre
How: Volunteers may provide companionship by visiting & sharing stories with patient, provide
socialization by reading to, watching TV with, playing games/cards, listening to music, etc.
Volunteers may provide relief so caregiver can run errands, attend doctor appointments, etc.
Volunteers may assist with LIGHT household chores, LIGHT meal preparation or run errands for
16
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
patient.
Volunteers may also assist with administrative/clerical duties in office such as: filing, answering
phones, assembling packets, mail outs, etc.
Why: Volunteers in hospice find it personally gratifying, and emotionally meaningful to assist
patients with life-limiting illnesses that allows them to live out their days as fully and as
comfortable as possible. Volunteers help ensure that every moment matters in the lives of the
patients.
Number of Volunteers: as many as possible
Good to Know: Volunteers DO NOT provide “hands-on” care or administer medication to patients.
Volunteers will be asked to complete application process & background check. All our volunteers
receive training to help them feel comfortable with their assigned tasks. Even the smallest act of
compassion can have a large impact.
POC /Phone /Email: Lisa Secondine/862-1069/[email protected]
Who: Regency Hospice Volunteer Program ~ Veteran “Hospice for Heroes”
What: Hospice for Heroes Volunteer
When: Whenever volunteers are available, volunteers make visits to patients and help with events.
Ask that volunteers make a commitment to at least 4 hours a month.
Where: Regency Hospice 11 Racetrack Rd Suite G /Fort Walton Beach
How: Regency Hospice has many veteran patients and we ask you to help us show our veterans that
they are special people and we appreciate all that they gave to our country. Help with honoring our
veteran patients with "Hospice for Heroes Pinning" and thanking them for their service to our
country. We ask that you consider volunteering with Regency Hospice to brighten the day of your
patients and their families.
Why: Their Mission Statement is to honor life and offer compassion to individuals and their
families when facing a life-limiting illness.
Good to Know: Volunteers will receive training to be educated on their duties.
Number of Volunteers: “We never have too many volunteers”.
POC /Phone /Email: Debra Owens /[email protected] /[email protected]
/1-850-226-4166
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Red Cross ~ General Office Help
What: Office/Administrative Help
When: On-going /4-6 hours per week
Where: Eglin AFB Office
How: Duties vary depending upon available projects. Such as: Bulk mailings, Word processing,
data entry on spreadsheets, stamping, labeling brochures, general office maintenance, filing,
cleaning, and organizing storage areas, shredding, making comfort kits for deploying troops,
manning the Hurlburt or Eglin Emergency Family Assistance Control Center upon activation,
service to Armed Forces Case Management, and other miscellaneous duties.
Why: You would help your local Red Cross with mission accomplishment.
Number of Volunteers: 1-2
Good to Know: You will receive orientation to the American Red Cross, introduction to SAF
casework, SAF Case Management System – SAF Agent, SAF Case Management System – SAF
Service, and other Air Force training as required to work the Emergency Family Assistance Control
Center. Some tasks may require knowledge of Word or Excel, or other computer skills.
POC /Phone /Email: LaDonna Spivey /Volunteer Coordinator /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Legal Office ~ Administrative Help
What: Answer phones at front desk
17
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
When: ASAP, At Volunteers discretion: M: 0800-1000, and 1200-1600; T: 1100-1600, W: 08001400, TH: 0800-1100, and 1300-1600, Fri: 1100-1600
Where: 212 Lukasik Ave, Suite 255, Hurlburt Field
How: Legal is undermanned and in the need of assistance with answering the phone. Volunteer
would be responsible for answering the main legal office line.
Why: Hurlburt Legal provides legal assistance support in the form of Power of Attorneys, Notary
Services and Wills. This office can also provide basis legal assistance.
Number of Volunteers: 1 daily
Good to Know: Need people the know how to handle customer service.
POC/Phone/Email: MSgt Kimberly N. Smith /884-7822 /[email protected]
Who: Hurlburt Youth Center ~ Fit Factor
What: Fit Factor Program “Coaches”
When: EVERY Mon (4-5), Tuesday (4-5), Thu (3-4)
Where: Hurlburt Field Youth Center /117 McMillan Street /Bldg 90304
How: Fit Factor/ Fit Family is an Air Force wide program that promotes a healthy and Fit Life
Style. This is open for youth and adults. The volunteers will be participating in the get fit program
with the youth. Activities include sports, physical endurance, rock climbing, skating, etc.
Why: The Youth Center is trying to encourage our youth to participate and the youth are more
likely to participate when the adults get involved.
Number of Volunteers: unlimited
Good to Know: Youth staff will help assist with the practices if needed.
POC/Phone/Email: Ashley Raymond /884-6355 /[email protected]
Who: Pyramid of Fort Walton Beach ~ Various Opportunities
What: Anything from handy work at facility-- to working with special needs adults on arts, music,
crafts, theatrical events, and more
When: Anytime, Monday through Friday 8:00am-3:00pm
Where: 432 Green Acres Road /Fort Walton Beach
How: Help with rebuilding storage shed, constructing theatrical props, mentoring
students…whatever you can do to help.
Why: Pyramid Fort Walton Beach is a non-profit program that provides daily living skills and
independence instruction to nearly 100 Emerald Coast adults with disabilities. Its arts program is
unique in the country and has produced exciting life changes for students.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible
Good to Know: Any and all volunteers welcome – no prerequisites
POC /Phone /Email: Laurie Hoffman /862-7139 /[email protected]
On-Going Volunteer Opportunities Available:
Who: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge ~ Various
What: Various (Animal Care, Facility Maintenance, Landscaping and ground maintenance, Animal
Rescue, Docents for school programs, Kids Camps, or community events)
When: On-Going; as volunteers are available
Where: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Center, 105 Santa Rosa Blvd, Ft Walton Beach OR
Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Zoo, 5262 Deer Springs Drive, Crestview
How: Volunteers are necessary to assist in the day-to-day operations of the animal hospital/refuge
allowing the staff to concentrate on the critical care of the patients. Volunteers can prepare animal diets,
clean cages and dishes; do laundry, general facility cleanup and maintenance. Volunteers can be
involved on many different levels and may graduate to perform animal pickups and rescues.
Why: The ECWR ZOO is a sanctuary for unwanted domestic, exotic and wild animals, many of which are
threatened or endangered. We provide a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy these animals in natural exhibits
and strive to educate the public on the importance of each species in their respective eco-systems. The
18
Community Commandos Volunteer Newsletter
ECWR CENTER rescues, rehabilitates, and releases approximately 2000 sick, injured and orphaned wild
animals yearly, including dolphins, whales and sea turtles.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible. Must be 16 years of age.
Good to Know: There are inherent dangers with working with wild animals. Training on how to
properly handle them will be provided. Compassion and a love of animals is a must.
There are inherent dangers with working with both wild and domesticated animals. Work is mostly
outside in the elements regardless of the weather.
POC /Phone /Email: Susan Leveille /850-650-1880 /[email protected]
Who: Seacrest Wolf Preserve ~ Fencing Repairs and Various Projects
What: Fencing Helpers
When: First and third Saturdays of each month /beginning at 9:30am
Where: Seacrest Wolf Preserve /3449 Bonnett Pond Road /Chipley
How: Help rebuild fencing which provides a safe, humane habitat for the wolves while protecting
the visitors on field trips and tours to learning about this important keystone species.
Why: Seacrest Wolf Preserve is a nonprofit organization providing safe, humane habitat for
displaced captive wolves and wolf/dogs. The fencing needs of the preserve have increased
considerably this last year. Seacrest is completely run by volunteers.
Number of Volunteers: As many as possible-- Individuals or Groups
Good to Know: Bottled water and cold beverages available during weekdays and a Bi-monthly
workday potluck lunch is provided. Snacks and sandwiches provided for groups. These wolves are
beautiful creatures and you will be able to interact with them. One of the wolves, Legend, is a local
celebrity--he was a co-star in the movie “Evan Almighty”!
POC /Phone/Email: Wayne Watkins /850-773-2897 or /[email protected]
/check out their website!!! www.seacrestwolfpreserve.org
19