Agency: The Neighborhood Center

Volunteer Projects:  Missing and Exploited Children, Preparing Lunches at Hope House, Community Garden and Intergenerational Activities, Community Clean-Up, Operation Sunshine, Stevens- Swan Humane Society and Hospice

Summary:  On a weekly basis throughout 2011, youth volunteers aided the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by folding flyers for circulation.

Throughout 2011, youth volunteers prepared lunches on a number of (special) occasions at Hope House in Utica.

Youth volunteers volunteered their time to till, weed, plant and care for vegetables at the community garden at Mt. Carmel Apartments. Their volunteer efforts provided the elders of Mt. Carmel Apartments with fresh vegetables through the summer and fall months. They also provided socialization to the elders by partaking in many intergenerational activities at Mt. Carmel Apartments.

Youth volunteers participated in a community clean-up focusing their efforts in East Utica. They cleaned streets and properties within the Neighborhood Center community; making them cleaner and safer.

During the holiday season the youth volunteers assist Operation Sunshine with their annual holiday event. They help with toy set up, wrap presents, organize food and hygiene baskets and clean up afterward.

Throughout 2011, youth volunteers collected goods and donations for the animals at Stevens- Swan Humane Society.

Youth volunteers created cards and art projects for to bring happiness to Hospice clients all through the year, 2011.