In this issue: the benefits of volunteering, virtual volunteering, opportunities for spring break, ELSA awards, and Alternative Spring Break updates!
Spring Break Service Opportunities
No matter where you are, you can volunteer! Use your skills to help others, right from your tablet, computer, or phone.
Watch this video (1:26) from the United Nations on virtual volunteering to see how you can put your skills to use!
Where can you volunteer virtually?
Crisis Text Line
Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. The organization trains volunteers to support people in crisis who text in when they need help. They've received over 79 million messages to date - and the need for volunteers is great. Find out more here.
7 Cups
7 Cups provides free, 24/7 emotional support to millions via online chat (you can use a computer or their app) to make sure nobody has to face their problems alone. Are you a good listener? Want to offer emotional support?Find out how to volunteer here.
Be My Eyes
This program helps blind and low-vision people by providing a set of eyes when they're in need through the Be My Eyes app. A blind or a low-vision user may need help with anything from checking expiration dates, distinguishing colors, reading instructions or navigating new surroundings. Find out more.
Smithsonian Transcription Center
Become a Smithsonian Digital Volunteer and help make historical documents more accessible. Transcribe field notes, diaries, ledgers, logbooks, currency proof sheets, photo albums, manuscripts, and more!
Are you are fluent in at least one language other than your native language? Volunteer as a translator for nonprofits around the world. Use your skills to translate medical texts, translate for crisis response, and more. Start translating here!
Volunteer from home:
We love this article from Operation Warm that's full of ideas about how to volunteer from home. You can find more virtual volunteer opportunities, and other ways to give back from home.
Each year, Behrend students are invited to apply to participate in our Alternative Spring Break trip. This year 24 students and 4 staff advisors are headed to Puerto Rico to do ecological restoration, and serve with local community centers to support rebuilding and revitalization efforts.
Stay tuned to the Behrend Blog for updates and follow Reality Check (realitycheck_psb) and Civic Engagement (psbservice) on Instagram.
Service Stories
We want to hear about your service experience! Share your Service Story with us by filling out the form on BEHRENDSync. You might be featured in the newsletter, on our website, or on social media!
Apply online each week by filling out the form on the website. Dietary restrictions taken into consideration. Food will be available for pickup on Fridays.
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