Play an Active Part in the Community - Volunteer

Ways to Help
We make some suggestions for different types of volunteer work in a variety of environments as a start, and then list other organizations that are always looking for help. Everyone we spoke to wanted to let potential volunteers know that any time you can donate would be truly appreciated.

Work with Kids
Big Brothers/Big Sisters have a strong presence on Martha's Vineyard. They are looking for adults 18+ who will form a mentor relationship with a kid, spending 3-5 hours a month with your Little Brother/Sister. There are also organized events, such as boat outings and trips to ballgames that you can attend with your "Little". Teens, too, can participate in the PALS program. High schoolers who qualify are matched with elementary school children for in-school activities. Before, during, or after school, matches can meet within the school grounds to do homework, play games, or just hang out. What a great way to make a real difference in the life of an MV kid and have some fun. .

YMCA and Teens
Another great resource for kids is the YMCA's Teen Center in Oak Bluffs. This "clubhouse" offers kids a safe place to hang out with other teens after school and on weekends. The Teen Center is always looking for volunteers to supervise kids from 9th grade to 20 years old. Volunteers can participate in activities including shooting pool and playing darts, help kids with homework, oversee the kitchen where light snacks are prepared, assist with teen dances and other events, watch videos w/the kids and just chat and get to know the teens. The atmosphere is fun and this is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys interacting with kids. The Teen Center is open Thurs - Sun eves throughout the school year.

Help Island Seniors
There are great services for seniors on Martha's Vineyard and therefore lots of opportunities for people to lend a hand, and a much appreciated ear, to our island elders. Elder Services uses volunteers to deliver Meals on Wheels. The Island's Senior Centers rely on volunteers (both seniors and others) and their needs vary from town to town. The Oak Bluffs Council on Aging invites anyone with a talent they'd like to share to teach a class. Some current offerings are chair caning and needlepoint, but the curriculum really depends on the volunteers. Edgartown's HEARTS program (Helping Elders After Recent Transition or Sickness) needs people for shopping, light cooking and home visits. The Up-Island Council on Aging is always looking for drivers to take seniors to doctor's appointments and on errands. All the Senior Centers also need help answering phones, etc.

For Animal Lovers
The MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Center depends on volunteers (16 years old +) for a number of tasks. If you enjoy being around animals and want to help this worthwhile organization, there's plenty to be done. The MV MSPCA desperately needs help with cleaning, grooming, dog walking, feeding the animals, and socializing. These orphan animals benefit from any and all human companionship.

Special Interests
Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard has been fulfilling its mission of eliminating substandard housing on the island since 2002. They rely on volunteers to assist in every aspect of the construction process. Skilled tradespeople can volunteer time whenever it is convenient for them, to work with other professionals. Unskilled volunteers are also used as part of a team that is trained and overseen. In addition, Habitat is always seeking support staff, people to advise Habitat families, publicity help and individuals to assist in fundraisers.

The Martha's Vineyard Historical Society has lots of opportunities for people who enjoy working with the public and have an interest in Martha's Vineyard, past and present. Volunteers are needed to greet visitors, sell tickets, and provide introductory information about the Museum and its exhibits. Others may help in researching archival projects or transcribing tapes of oral history interviews. Mailings take place all year and the Society can also use help seasonally in organizing and implementing components of special events.

Wherever you choose to help out, you're sure to find that the experience will be as personally enriching as it is beneficial to these organizations.

Island Contacts
A big THANKS in advance for helping make our community the special place it is. For more information, please contact the organizations directly.