Need a Volunteer? I'm Your Man

Give 5. That's the name of the program that my company Patch.com has given to its volunteer initiative to give back to the communities we cover. The program gives me the day off to help out in the community five times a year.

The concept is certainly not new among more philanthropic companies around the country. It's new to me, though. I've never worked at a company that gave me a day off in exchange for anything more than eight hours of pay.

This year's first Give 5 day is Thursday, and I'm looking for a nonprofit organization that could use my help. My skills are varied and my abilities are above average. I can lift those heavy boxes, or type up those reports. You tell me what to do, and I'll set out to do it.

There are many organizations in Oswego that rely on volunteers everyday to carry out their missions. If you're one of them and you need an extra hand on Thursday, e-mail me and let me know. I'll pick the one in the most desperate need and who would benefit the most from my assistance.

I look forward to lending a hand and can't wait to hear what you have in store.