Volunteers needed for programs aimed at students

United Way of Southeast Missouri officials still expect to reach this year's fundraising goal of $1.275 million.

But with a worldwide economic downturn that is having a significant effect across the U.S., every dollar is a bit tougher to get.

The United Way believes many of its objectives, particularly in meeting the needs of students, can be reached by attracting more volunteers to the programs it sponsors.

The newest of these programs is a pilot volunteer project that will start in 2009 at Central Junior High School in Cape Girardeau.

Teachers will identify needs, and volunteers will be asked to fill many of those needs.

Coordination will be provided by the Volunteer Intergeneration Center, one of the agencies funded by United Way.

Other United Way-sponsored programs for students include those run by the Boys & Girls Club, the Family Resource Center, Grace United Methodist Church and school districts, all of which are involved in the LIFE Initiative, an after-school program that provides tutoring, field trips and recreation.

United Way also provides support for early childhood initiatives like Success By 6 and a teen-development program called THRIVE.

There are hundreds of volunteer opportunities throughout the community, and volunteers provide thousands of hours of service that would be valued at hundreds of thousands of dollars if they were paid.

This is an enormous community resource, and it has the potential to make a huge difference in the long-term prospects of students.

Anyone interested in volunteering for these programs is encouraged to call the Volunteer Intergenerational Center at 335-7555.

It's a great way to make a significant donation.