5 Ways to Volunteer in Dearborn

The Dearborn community prides itself in looking after its neighbors. In an effort to promote the importance of lending a hand, here are five ways to give back to the community today.

1. Lend a hand at the library

If you are interested in learning new skills, sharing your talents, expanding your social network and working in a pleasant environment, check out the volunteer opportunities at the Dearborn Public Library. To volunteer, watch the orientation video online and download a volunteer release form at http://dearbornlibrary.org/volunteer/volunteer.htm.

2. Build a house

Habitat for Humanity is building 12 houses in Dearborn. The nonprofit requires advance registration to participate, however volunteers can create an account and visit http://www.habitatdetroit.org/ for a list of opportunities.

3. Help serve hot meals

One to two hours of your time could help feed 10 to 12 Dearborn seniors in need of nutritious meals. The city's Meals on Wheels program is urgently in need of volunteer drivers to help deliver food to Dearborn residents enrolled in the program. To volunteer, call the Meals on Wheels volunteer coordinator at 313-943-2009.

4. Become a community garden volunteer

Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency has more than 40 community gardens throughout Wayne County. These gardens are planted and cared for by churches, schools, nonprofit and civic organizations. All produce harvested by these gardens is donated to local food pantries to support low-income families.

These community gardens heavily rely on volunteer help to thrive. Visit www.waynemetro.org/getinvolved.html to sign up.

5. Help a furry friend at the Dearborn Animal Shelter

The Dearborn Animal Shelter is always looking for volunteers. Some of the needs include dog walking, shelter dog training and event communications.

If you are interested in volunteering at the shelter, register for an upcoming orientation, and contact Mary Sheridan, volunteer coordinator, at 313-943-2697, Ext. 3555.