Five Ways To Make a Difference in 2012

Looking for a nonprofit to volunteer your time or donate to? Here are five suggestions:

1. . Christian Community Service (CCS) is a nonprofit charitable organization that provides food and temporary financial assistance to local residents in need. CCS sponsors the North Reading Food Pantry, which always needs volunteers. Start your own food drive or volunteer your time at the pantry.

2. North Reading Youth Services. North Reading Youth Services allows young adults to become active in the community and gives them the opportunity to participate in activities and after school programs. Contact Director Erica Hansen at ehansen@northreadingma.gov to volunteer your time and possibly make a difference in a teens life.

3. Martins Pond Association. This group works to improve . They hold fundraisers throughout the year including the in October. Volunteer to help set up the haunted playground, or lend a hand at any time throughout the year.

4. Friends of the Flint Memorial Library. This group provides support to the . Volunteer to help at one of their semiannual book sales.

5. Friends of the North Reading Council on Aging. This nonprofit raises funds for programs and building improvements for the . Help the elderly in your town by volunteering for this group. 

Know of anywhere else you can volunteer in town? Let us know in the comments section below.