Some people join clubs, some people have hobbies, and others invest their off work hours in volunteer programs. Whether you volunteer to satisfy a zest for life, or help express a personal passion, the field is wide open in the Desert.
In a previous blog entry I focused more on government and social services volunteering. In this update you will see an eclectic mix of volunteer opportunities that “give back”, but which have an underlying element of fun or daring.
Palm Springs Art Museum seeks volunteers for its café, theater ushers, cashiers, mass mailing, deliveries, telephones and administrative tasks. 760-325-7186, Ext. 132
Palm Springs International Film Festivals seeks volunteers for its ShortFest, August 21-27, and International Film Festival, January 8-19, 2009. For information and/or to register, go to: www.psfilmfest.org, under quick links, click volunteer, or call Holly Copeland 760-322-3930, Ext. 250.
Paws and Hearts seeks canine ambassadors to make weekly visits to area hospitals, long-term facilities, day care programs and senior centers. Training and temperament tests provided. (They don’t specify whether this is for you, or the animal… maybe both.) 760-863-1406 or www.pawsandhearts.org.
Pegasus Riding Academy for the Handicapped seeks volunteers to work with handicapped children and adults doing equine exercise in the riding ring. www.pegasusridingacademy.org or Robin 760-416-0165.
Palm Spring Air Museum seeks volunteers with an interest in World War II aircraft and history. Training provided. Bill Hughes 760-322-2576 or bill@palmspringsairmuseum.org
Palm Springs International Airport seeks volunteers for its Navigator’s program to man the information desk and assist travelers. Early morning and afternoon four hour shifts are especially needed. Mrs. Kossler 760-318-3804.
Palm Springs Police Department Citizens on Patrol is accepting applications for volunteers. Training provided. 760-323-8149
Palm Desert Citizens on Patrol is recruiting new members to provide an important service to the community. Frankie Riddle 760-346-0611
Ophelia Project of the Coachella Valley seeks mentors for girls at Indio High School, Indio Middle School with possible expansion to other area schools. July Hector760-776-1600, Ext. 103.
Most of these listings were for Palm Springs activities, but each part of the Valley has its own unique undertakings whether it is a golf cart parade or an International Tamale Festival, and they are all looking for volunteers.
If you move here to the Desert to take a County job, we promise to kept you busy all day at work, and if you would like to try volunteering I am shure you will have no problem finding ways to spend your off hours.