Trying to get your kids off the couch?
Looking for another way to stay healthy?
Want to make some new friends?

Want to make a real difference?

 Volunteer.

According to the Corporation for National Community Service, when you volunteer you strengthen your community by building social connections and you improve your own health. Those who volunteer have lower rates of depression, anxiety, stress and anger. Volunteering gives young people a chance to build and practice social, relationship and communication skills. Volunteering also benefits your family. Younger children look up to parents and older siblings who give of their time and talents; and when you set a good example they’re sure to follow.

Just Serve, VolunteerMatch  and local churches are great places to look for opportunities, but here are a few to get you started:

Chugiak-Eagle River Library

Located at 12001 Business Blvd., Eagle River.
Organized, independent people ages 13 and older are welcomed. The Library jobs consist of shelving, cleaning CDs, and general housekeeping. Hours are flexible, however the more often you come the more complex the job you’re given. Library hours are: Tuesday noon – 7 pm, Wednesday 11 am – 7 pm and Thursday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm.
Contact Dean Brovold at (907) 345-1534 or brovoldde@muni.org for more information.

Chugiak-Eagle River Food Pantry

Located at Eagle River Presbyterian Church, 12836 Old Glenn Hwy., Eagle River.
The Food Pantry offers food to individuals and families in need. It is 100% volunteer-managed and relies on our community for support, including food drives and monetary donations. They are looking for willing and able bodied people 12 or older. Jobs are hands-on and include organizing, stocking and cleaning.
Contact Betty Jo Worthington at (907) 863-2735 or worthington_b@msn.com for more information.  

Food Truck in Eagle River

Located at Eagle River Presbyterian Church, 12836 Old Glenn Hwy., Eagle River.
The Food Truck in Eagle River is available outside on Saturdays from 1 pm – 2 pm. This program works hand in hand with the Chugiak-Eagle River Food Pantry to help hand out the collected food to those in need. Volunteers must be dependable, compassionate, and not afraid to get dirty. There is no specified age group, however they do want kids and adults who are mature enough to stay on the task given to them. The jobs given include separating, assisting people, loading & unloading, set-up & clean-up, and serving. Contact Joy Thompson at (907)317-7546 or silentgleaner@gmail.com for more information.

Eagle River Church Of God food pantry supported by the Food Bank of Alaska

Located at 17108 Hanson Dr., Eagle River.
Another food pantry in the Chugiak-Eagle River area with similar tasks to the others. They especially need help during the winter months assisting people to their cars with their items.
Contact Linda Jones at (907) 694-9395 for more information.

The Fisher House of Alaska

Located at 4943 Zeamer Ave., JBER.
The Fisher House is a “home away from home” when a service member, veteran or family member is recovering from medical treatment at the DoD/VA Hospital on JBER. Volunteers must be 16 or accompanied by an adult, and have base access. They look for consistent, reliable and compassionate people. Jobs include cleaning & maintenance of the grounds, driving to and from appointments, and talking to guests. Any incoming volunteers must go through an orientation.
Call (907) 222-1673 or email jber.alaska.fisher.house@gmail.com for more information.

Boys and Girls Club

Located at 11700 Old Glenn  Hwy., Eagle River.
The Boys and Girls Club provides summer camp like activities from the arts to outdoor sports. Jobs and hours vary based on the interests and capability of the volunteer. Teens, typically 14 years or older, are wanted. Volunteers should be dependable, adaptable, proactive, and love kids.
Call (907) 694-5437 for more information.

Eagle River Nature Center

Located at 32750 Eagle River Rd., Eagle River.
The Eagle River Nature Center is always looking for volunteers for various activities.  Help maintain and beautify the trails, or at the information desk. Coming up is a trail day, planned for July 13, 2017, from 10 am. – 2 pm. Bring a day-pack with water and snacks/lunch, bug repellent, work gloves and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. No previous experience necessary.
Contact the Nature Center at (907) 694-2108 or www.ernc.org.

Jasmyn Bednar is a participant in our internship program created for high school students interested in writing and journalism.