At your service

A new resource designed to match volunteers with local opportunities this summer has launched at www.summerofservicenv.com. Created by Reno-based NPcatalyst, the “Summer of Service” campaign recognizes that Nevada ranks lowest in the nation (20.6 percent of residents volunteer) for volunteering at a time when, due to the economy, organizations and schools could really use the help. From June through August, the site will provide volunteers access to dozens of opportunities—about 100 were listed at press time.

Currently, there are listings for people to volunteer for local arts, sports, education, environmental and social issues groups. For instance, Washoe County School District needs volunteers for tutoring, building maintenance and gardening projects. The Nevada Humane Society and SPCA need people to cuddle cats, walk dogs, and train dogs with behavioral issues. The Girl Scouts need camp counselors. Various food pantries also need help.

On the environmental front, volunteer options include: Being a wilderness ranger for Friends of Nevada Wilderness, helping Sierra Nevada Journeys with its outdoor education efforts, helping the Nevada Land Conservancy with graphic design or botanical control, operating the Tahoe Nevada Visitor Center at Sand Harbor, trailbuilding with Tahoe Rim Trail Association, and helping Nevada Wilderness Project do everything from stuff envelopes to work on restoration projects.

The listed activities are geared toward a range of ages, but also target students and visitors.