Unlike a typical resolution that can quickly be forgotten, a commitment to volunteer in the new year is a decision that can make a lasting impact in the community. Many local nonprofit organizations are in need of volunteers who are willing to help them continue their important work.

Among the agencies in need of volunteers is Compeer Chester County, which pairs people living with mental health conditions with volunteer friends from the community. A Compeer volunteer is asked to make a commitment to meet with his or her friend for a minimum of four hours each month for one year.

"We are still in need of both male and female volunteers, as we have a waitlist for both," said Donna Kueny, program manager.

According to Compeer, a person with mental health challenges can benefit from time spent with a friend, which has been shown to increase self-esteem and reduce loneliness. Compeer volunteers, who receive training, may choose their friends based on shared interests and geographic location. Compeer volunteers and friends may meet for coffee or dinner or attend a sporting event.

With the end of the pandemic, Compeer Chester County has returned to offering group events during the year. "We have returned to in-person events, and in 2023, we had a pizza and bowling party, a summer picnic and a holiday luncheon," noted Kueny.

Compeer is a program of Mental Health Partnerships. To learn more, visit http://www.mentalhealthpartnerships.org/compeer-chester-county.

The Adult Tutoring Program of Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), headquartered at the Chester County Library in Exton, is currently seeking volunteer tutors to help individuals from other countries with their English language skills.

Tutors are required to commit to working with a student three hours per week, which is usually covered in two 90-minute sessions. "Tutor pairs can work face-to-face in the library or other public locations or virtually via Zoom, based on the needs of those involved," explained Debbie Rikess, program coordinator.

Rikess explained that the majority of students on the OIC waiting list are English as a Second Language (ESL) learners. Others are GED/Adult Basic Education students. "When a student comes into the program, they are given a test to determine their level and asked what their specific goals are for working with a tutor," she said. "They may want to learn English to get a better job; obtain U.S. citizenship; talk with their children's teachers, doctors and neighbors; or continue with a profession they had in their native country. We have a large range of abilities and goals."

She noted that volunteers are matched with students based on their preferences and time availability, and the ability level of their student. "If you think this is a good fit, the first step is to complete tutor training," Rikess advised. "Our training is online through the PA Department of Education. You can do the training as your time permits. Once complete, you will be matched with a student."

For more information, contact Rikess at drikess@cc-oic.org or 610-344-4013 or 610-344-4014.

Lucky Dawg Animal Rescue (LDAR) has a mission to rescue and find permanent homes for homeless, abused or unwanted animals. Most animals are cared for in foster homes until their forever families can be found while some dogs reside at the LDAR shelter in Avondale.

"We can always use fosters for our dogs and cats. This allows us to rescue even more animals," said volunteer Lisa Newton, who is in charge of the LDAR cat rescue program. "Other ways people can help us is to collect food and supplies for the rescue through church or activity organizations." Items needed by the rescue include dog food, cat food, cat litter, flea and tick medications, kitten formula, dog treats, toys, blankets and cleaning supplies.

She added that volunteer dog walkers are also needed at the LDAR kennel. For more details, visit http://www.luckydawganimalrescue.com or email luckydawgar@gmail.com.