Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event Generates 450 Hours of Community Service in a Single Morning… and a whole lotta fun!

May 7, 2013 at 6:00 am (fcse, Hilltown Families, Hilltown Families Event, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event Gives Back!

This past Saturday, May 4th, was the second Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event, a one of a kind event for families to volunteer together at seven different community service stations in a single morning!

From teens to tots to grandparents, together families were able to generate 450 hours of community service at this intergenerational event for different non-profit and community organizations in our region that work on behalf of animal welfare, conservation and food security.  Held at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton, MA, families traveled from station to station with Passport in hand, participating in facilitated hands-on projects:

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Thank you to all of the families, volunteers and facilitators who joined us! The event was a great success with 150 folks participating in a fun morning of community service.  And thank you to WGGB ABC 40 for coming out and covering the event for the 6 o’clock news!

Together we were able to:

  • Make 46 bluebird house to donate to Franklin Land Trust!
  • Braid 50 fleece chews to donate to Kane’s Krusade to be distributed in their C.A.R.E. (Canine Assistance, Resources and Education) Kits!
  • Fill a couple bags full of handmade catnip toys for cats waiting for adoption at the Dakin Humane Society!
  • Upcycle & take 50 old tshirts into Giving Bags to collect nonperishable food to donate to local food pantries!
  • Make & take egg cartons full of seed bombs for promoting conservation!
  • Plant & take 50 seedlings and seeds while promoting the idea of sowing an extra row of food in family gardens to grow and harvest for local food pantries.
  • Write letters to legislators on issues of animal welfare, conservation and food security.



VOLUNTEERS WANTED

We look forward to hosting another Family Community Service Event, but we can’t do it without your help!  Want to join our Community Service Committee? We want to hear from you: Read the rest of this entry »

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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th!

April 29, 2013 at 6:30 am (Hilltown Families Event, Suggested Activity, Take Action, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event
Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm
Leeds Elementary School in Northampton, MA

Volunteer with your family to help local non-profits in a single free event on Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm during the Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event, held at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton— a one of a kind event for families to volunteer together while educating children about animal welfare, conservation efforts and the value of community service. Space is limited, so reserve a spot for your family today! –
“Our mission is to give families service based learning experiences by collaborating with local non-profits and community organizations in a single event,” says Sienna Wildfield, Executive Director of Hilltown Families. “Many families are interested in volunteering together but may find it difficult due to either a limit in time or to a lack of opportunities. Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event is for all ages and is a fun way for families to volunteer together. It’s also an avenue for parents to discuss and educate their children on important community issues and the value of volunteering on behalf of animals and the environment.”

Join Hilltown Families for a Saturday morning of volunteering together with your family during our spring Family Community Service Event on Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm in Northampton, MA!

This past fall at our inaugural Family Community Service Night we focused on human service organizations and families had a great time working together in support of several local non-profits.

Our spring event on Saturday, May 4th will be held at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton. We will be offering seven volunteer stations for families to participate in hands-on service projects for ALL AGES that support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Families will also be able to bring home several of their service projects to continue their community service together from home.

With a Community Service Passport in hand, families can travel to each station and have their Passport stamped after completing their service project. In their Passports parents will find conversation starters, online resources and recommended reading lists for each station, and children can share what they liked best about each project by filling in their Passport. Parents can use the Passport to help guide youth participants in learning about animal welfare, conservation efforts and food security.

Our Spring Volunteer Stations include:

  1. BIRD HOUSE BUILDING: Bluebird houses will be constructed on site to be donated to the Franklin Land Trust. Families can help assemble & sand houses… something for all ages. (Facilitated by the Northampton High School Woodworking Club)
  2. FELINE FUN: Make catnip toys for cats to be donated to the Dakin Humane Society for cats waiting for adoption. (Facilitated by Dakin Humane Society)
  3. FLEECE CHEWS FOR CANINES: Make and donate chew toys for dogs of families in need with Kane’s Krusade. (Facilitated by Give a Hoot Pets)
  4. SOW AN EXTRA ROW: Learn about growing extra food in your family garden plot or container gardens to harvest and donate to a local food pantry. Go home with a plant starter and seeds to plant and nurture this summer. (Facilitated by Grow Food Northampton)
  5. SEED BOMBS: Create dirt bombs with native wildflower seeds to use for promoting natural habitats for pollinators. Go home with your very on seed bombs! (Facilitated by Help Yourself!)
  6. GIVING BAGS: Upcycle old t-shirts into giving bags to take home for collecting food for animal shelters, food pantries or other service organization in need of donations. (Facilitated by Knack)
  7. LETTER WRITING: Learn about the work of participating organizations and write letters of appreciation, or participate in letter writing campaigns. (Facilitated by the Northampton High School Key Club)

Donation Stations: In addition to our volunteer stations, we will have several opportunities for families to bring and donate items from home, including:

  • Cat food & cat toys to be donated to Dakin Humane Society.
  • Dog food to be donated to Kane’s Krusade, including: new, unopened dry dog good (no Beneful or Ol’ Roy, please); canned dog food; and dog treats (no treats form China, please).
  • Baby blankets, receiving blankets, baby wipes & kids polar fleece hats to be donated to Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation.

Pet Adoption: Stop by and visit Dakin Humane Society’s pet adoption station. Families can learn more about Dakin’s services and programs, and the adoption process. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet your new furry friend! If a family meets an animal they would like to adopt, they can complete their adoption process at either Dakin’s Springfield or Leverett Adoption Centers.

Food: Cup & Top Cafe will be joining us with food to fuel our volunteering families, selling coffee/tea, beverages, pastries and light lunch fare. So be sure to come hungry (and thirsty!).

Questions? Call 413-961-9367

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20 Community Service Opportunities in Western MA for Families this Spring

April 9, 2013 at 12:00 pm (Berkshire County, Franklin County, Hampden County, Hampshire County, Suggested Activity, Take Action, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Park Clean Ups & Community Service Activities for Families this Spring in Western MA

In addition to these volunteer park clean-ups and trail maintenance opportunities, Hilltown Families will be hosting a Family Community Service Event on May 4th bringing families together under one roof to participate in hands-on volunteer projects for seven non-profit and community organizations in Western MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

As spring warms the landscape across western Massachusetts, opportunities for outdoor adventures increase exponentially. What would have been a snowshoe trek and bark inspection a month ago has become a woods hike where families can identify plants, trees, and wildlife of all shapes and sizes.

However, as the ground awakes from its snow-covered slumber, trails and parks are in need of some restoration and there are plenty of opportunities for families to volunteer together, including during DCR’s Massachusetts Park Serve Day on Saturday, April 20th, Mass Audubon’s 7th Annual Statewide Volunteer Day on April 27th, and stocking the Connecticut River Watershed with Salmon Fry throughout the spring.

All  of these volunteer opportunities, and many other community service work days, aim to bring together community members for a day of reconnecting with nature and cooperative work while providing service based learning experiences! Community service is a great way to show your appreciation for local resources as a family, and participating in volunteer work can help kids develop a strong commitment to their community and their surroundings. Kids can use volunteer work to learn useful skills for everything from hands-on tasks (like trail maintenance) to social skills (such as working in intergenerational settings).

20 Community Service Opportunities in Western MA this Spring

  • Wednesday, April 10th from 5:30-7pm: Families with older children and train with the Housatonic Valley Association to be part of their Stream Team Project volunteer crew.  Walk or paddle a stretch of the river and report your findings.  Interest meeting at the Dewey Memorial Building. 413-394-9796. Sheffield, MA
  • Saturday, April 13th from 9am-12noon: Look Park is open for the season, but the grounds need some attention!  There are leaves & down branches galore from the October blizzard that need to be cleaned up.  Bring your family and come to the park ready to work (BYO rake and gloves).  Your help ensures that the park remains a valued community resource!  413-727-8457.  300 North Main Street.  Florence, MA.
  • Sunday, April 14th from 1-4pm:  Looking for a way to give back to your community by volunteering with your family? How about a spring clean-up? Greenfield Energy Park’s opening performance will be its annual spring clean-up. Greenthumbers invites families with children of all ages to come and join the fun. Some tools will be provided, but please bring your favorite clippers, rake, shovel, tarp or bucket. 413-774-5667. Energy Park.  Greenfield, MA
  • Wednesday, April 17th from 5-6:45pm: Families with older children can train with the Housatonic Valley Association to be part of their Stream Team Project volunteer crew.  Walk or paddle a stretch of the river and report your findings.  Interest meeting at the Mason Library. 413-394-9796. Great Barrington, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 8am-1pm Earth Day Cleanup!  Meet at the Masonic Lodge and volunteer for the morning cleaning up the environment.  Families welcomed.  Bring waterproof boots, work gloves, and a desire to help clean the environment! Meet at the Masonic Lodge. 413-572-6281. 72 Broad Street. Westfield, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9-11am: Clean up Whately for Earth Day!  Bring the kids and pick up roadside litter debris.  Meet outside of the Town Hall (rain date: 4/21). Whately, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9am-12noon: Families with children ages 10 and older are invited to the annual Meadows Spring clean-up at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary.  Working out in the field, wear work clothes and bring gloves & water. Pre-register. 413-584-3009. 127 Combs Road. Easthampton, MA 
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9am-1pm: Clean up the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail! Families with children ages 8yo and older can assist with cleaning up the trail and landscaping. Call for exact location: 413-499-7003. Cheshire, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9am-1pm: Chicopee State Park clean up!  Families with children ages 8yo and older can help plant flowers, spread mulch, stain picnic talbes and do general trail maintenance.  Meet at the DCR Park Headquarters. 413-594-9416. 570 Burnett Rd. Chicopee, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9am-1pm: Lend a hand to The Trustees of Reservations sprucing up Peaked Mountain.  Bring work gloves, water & snack.  Call to pre-register. : 413-532-1631 x21. Butler Road. Monson, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9am-2pm: Join the patrons of the Ramsdell Library for a day of cleaning up along the banks of the Housatonic River.  Meet at the library for an assigned route to clean-up. Pizza at the Brick House at noon for all volunteers. Screening of “Fold, Crumple, Crush” in the library theater at 2pm. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA
  • Saturday, April 20th from 9:30am-1pm: Families with older children can help clean up DAR State Forest.  Help prepare for the upcoming camping season by raking campsites & day use picnic areas.  Meet at the campground pavilion. 413-268-7098. Route 112. Goshen, MA

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Families Gather to Pay it Forward with Small Acts of Kindness!

April 8, 2013 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families Event)
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Flowers for Friends Combines Art, Spring Blossoms and Small Acts of Kindness

On Friday, April 5th, Hilltown Families and the Art Garden presented a Flowers for Friends Workshop, the second workshop in a 3-part free Friday family workshop series in Shelburne Falls. This past Friday families gathered to paint terracotta flower pots, planting them with violas to pass along to others in their community. Participating families were encouraged to give their flowers to an elder in their neighborhood, or their librarian, classroom teacher, receptionist at the hospital or animal shelter, or other community space of their choice.  — Paying it forward with a small act of kindness!

❤ Big thank you to Home Depot in Greenfield, Shelburne Farm & Garden, Hadley Garden Center and friends of The Art Garden for their donations and discounts for terracotta pots, soil and Violas!

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Getting creative with family, friends and neighbors in a community art space like The Art Garden, builds relationships, affords opportunities to share and connect, and allows the space for creativity that our otherwise busy lives might not offer.

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Volunteer with Gray House in Springfield

March 26, 2013 at 12:00 pm (Hampden County, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Support Neighbors in Transition
Volunteer with Gray House in Springfield

Looking for community service opportunities to do as a family? Whether you’re hoping to fill a few free afternoons with an engaging activity or are planning to make a long-term commitment to lending a hand with a community organization, opportunities for service learning abound at The Gray House! Located in Springfield’s North End, The Gray House offers a thrift shop and food pantry twice a week, along with after school programming and a place-based summer program for Springfield students.

Families can spend time sorting donations at the thrift shop or food pantry on Mondays and Wednesday-Friday. Volunteers on these days help to sort donations, prepare distribution bags, and fill displays of food, household items, and clothing – activities that are all necessary to keep the services running smoothly. Both the shop and the pantry are always in need of volunteers, but families don’t have to commit to regular visits – perfect for busy families, or those with regularly changing schedules.

If you’re hoping to become involved in a long-term service learning project, volunteers are also always needed to help out with The Gray House’s Community Education Support Program (CESP) and the Kids’ Club after school and summer programs. Best for teens and parents, these programs offer valuable education-related resources to the community. People from more than 16 countries utilize the English language and literacy skills classes that CESP offers, and the Kids’ Club provides a fun, safe, and engaging after-school environment for students (not to mention that participants also get free dinner!). No experience with education is necessary in order to volunteer for either program, but volunteers must make at least a 4-week commitment and will receive training before beginning.

Volunteering for a community organization is a great hands-on, experiential way for families to learn about supporting their community. Kids old enough to participate will learn valuable lessons about helping their neighbors and giving back. There are many powerful lessons that can be learned through community service!

The Gray House is located at 22 Sheldon Street in Springfield. Contact Katie Manning at 413-734-6696 for information on volunteering and the services offered.

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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th!

March 19, 2013 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families Event, Suggested Activity, Take Action, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event
Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm
Leeds Elementary School in Northampton, MA

Volunteer with your family to help local non-profits in a single free event on Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm during the Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event, held at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton— a one of a kind event for families to volunteer together while educating children about animal welfare, conservation efforts and the value of community service. Space is limited, so reserve a spot for your family today! –
“Our mission is to give families service based learning experiences by collaborating with local non-profits and community organizations in a single event,” says Sienna Wildfield, Executive Director of Hilltown Families. “Many families are interested in volunteering together but may find it difficult due to either a limit in time or to a lack of opportunities. Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event is for all ages and is a fun way for families to volunteer together. It’s also an avenue for parents to discuss and educate their children on important community issues and the value of volunteering on behalf of animals and the environment.”

Join Hilltown Families for a Saturday morning of volunteering together with your family during our spring Family Community Service Event on Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm in Northampton, MA!

This past fall at our inaugural Family Community Service Night we focused on human service organizations and families had a great time working together in support of several local non-profits.

Our spring event on Saturday, May 4th will be held at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton. We will be offering seven volunteer stations for families to participate in hands-on service projects for ALL AGES that support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Families will also be able to bring home several of their service projects to continue their community service together from home.

With a Community Service Passport in hand, families can travel to each station and have their Passport stamped after completing their service project. In their Passports parents will find conversation starters, online resources and recommended reading lists for each station, and children can share what they liked best about each project by filling in their Passport. Parents can use the Passport to help guide youth participants in learning about animal welfare, conservation efforts and food security.

Our Spring Volunteer Stations include:

  1. BIRD HOUSE BUILDING: Bluebird houses will be constructed on site to be donated to the Franklin Land Trust. Families can help assemble & sand houses… something for all ages. (Facilitated by the Northampton High School Woodworking Club)
  2. FELINE FUN: Make catnip toys for cats to be donated to the Dakin Humane Society for cats waiting for adoption. (Facilitated by Dakin Humane Society)
  3. FLEECE CHEWS FOR CANINES: Make and donate chew toys for dogs of families in need with Kane’s Krusade. (Facilitated by Give a Hoot Pets)
  4. SOW AN EXTRA ROW: Learn about growing extra food in your family garden plot or container gardens to harvest and donate to a local food pantry. Go home with a plant starter and seeds to plant and nurture this summer. (Facilitated by Grow Food Northampton)
  5. SEED BOMBS: Create dirt bombs with native wildflower seeds to use for promoting natural habitats for pollinators. Go home with your very on seed bombs! (Facilitated by Help Yourself!)
  6. GIVING BAGS: Upcycle old t-shirts into giving bags to take home for collecting food for animal shelters, food pantries or other service organization in need of donations. (Facilitated by Knack)
  7. LETTER WRITING: Learn about the work of participating organizations and write letters of appreciation, or participate in letter writing campaigns. (Facilitated by the Northampton High School Key Club)

Donation Stations: In addition to our volunteer stations, we will have several opportunities for families to bring and donate items from home, including:

  • Cat food & cat toys to be donated to Dakin Humane Society.
  • Dog food to be donated to Kane’s Krusade, including: new, unopened dry dog good (no Beneful or Ol’ Roy, please); canned dog food; and dog treats (no treats form China, please).
  • Baby blankets, receiving blankets, baby wipes & kids polar fleece hats to be donated to Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation.

Pet Adoption: Stop by and visit Dakin Humane Society’s pet adoption station. Families can learn more about Dakin’s services and programs, and the adoption process. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet your new furry friend! If a family meets an animal they would like to adopt, they can complete their adoption process at either Dakin’s Springfield or Leverett Adoption Centers.

Food: Cup & Top Cafe will be joining us with food to fuel our volunteering families, selling coffee/tea, beverages, pastries and light lunch fare. So be sure to come hungry (and thirsty!).

Questions? Call 413-961-9367

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Spreading Kindness on MLK Day of Service

January 21, 2013 at 7:00 am (Suggested Activity, Take Action, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Practicing Consideration of Others on Martin Luther King Day of Service… and Everyday!

It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service! If you’re looking for a way your family can participate in this day of service, it can be as big as joining a community celebration with service and learning opportunities (check out our post, 6 Ways to Observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Western MA), and it can be as small as a simple act of kindness to others.

One of our readers sent us this video, “Give a Little Love,” which has gone viral, inspiring families by illustrating how consideration of others can spread to many:

In The Huffington Post article, “Give A Little Love: Video Shows Us The Importance Of Giving To Others,” they write: “‘If you give a little love, you can get a little love of your own.’ Using this quote as the inspiration for a video that has gone viral, this four-minute clip, which looks to be the work of non-profit Christian organization Křižovatka Olomouc in Czech Republic or talented YouTube user Graham Kervin, shows us the importance of doing good deeds.  And a good deed can mean anything from holding the elevator for a stranger, helping your neighbour rake leaves or even cleaning up a spill in the office kitchen.”

Gather your kids around to screen this clip together, pointing out how a simple act of kindness from one person can spread to many… A great thing to think about and to put into practice on Martin Luther King Day of Service.

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6 Ways to Observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Western MA

January 16, 2013 at 9:00 am (Berkshire County, Hampden County, Hampshire County, Hilltown Families, Suggested Activity)
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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
Opportunities and Celebrations in Western MA
Monday, January 21, 2013

Six different community building events, community-based educational opportunities and service-based learning experiences are schedule this Monday, January 21st in Western MA. Find one that fits your interests and spend MLK Day learning, serving and connecting through your community!

Honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and dedication to creating change in our country can be done in many ways.  The day will be celebrated in Western MA at concerts, lectures, worship services, and ceremonies throughout the region.

Mass Audubon is offering a unique way for families to spend the special holiday this year – providing much needed help with improvement projects at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Easthampton on Monday, Jan 21!  Dr. King’s major goals had to do with civil rights, but he also stands as a pillar of service to community, dedication, hard work, and determination.  Honor these values by giving your time to better your community!

Projects at the sanctuary include:

  • trail clearing to provide better habitat for small animal and bird species
  • working to eliminate invasive plant species from the grounds
  • helping to clean and organize the sanctuary’s Visitor Center so as to make further groups’ visit more enjoyable

These service-based learning activities also allow families to learn about the many different animals who call the sanctuary home, the type of habitat protected by the sanctuary, and how to support local conservation efforts.  Spending time outdoors can also lead families to discover winter animal signs, including tracks, scat, and traces of pre-nibbled food from a variety of plant species.

The community service day will take place on Monday, January 21st from 9:30am-1:30pm at Arcadia, located at 127 Combs Road in Easthampton.  Pre-registration (done online) requested.  Dress warmly if you plan to spend time outdoors, and bring water, lunch, and perhaps a hot drink.

There are several other opportunities for families to observe Martin Luther King, Jr. day through out the region too:

NORTHAMPTON: Join fellow community members in Northampton for the 29th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration. Starting at 8am, there will be events throughout the day, beginning with a community breakfast and dialogue at Christ United Methodist Church (271 Rocky Hill Road).  At 10am, families can take a walking tour of Florence highlighting places significant to abolition and sharing information about the life and work of Sojourner Truth.  Other events throughout the day include a workshop for youth education, a multifaith celebration, and a lecture on the effects of racism.  (FREE)

STURBRIDGE:  Old Sturbridge Village is open from 9:30am-4pm with special programs celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!  There will, of course, be lots of opportunities to learn about life and culture during the winter in early 19th century New England.  In addition, families can meet Elizabeth “Mumbet” Freeman (played by historian Tammy Denease), a young slave from Massachusetts who won her freedom (legally- in a court!) from her owner in 1781.  The decision was a landmark case, considering Freeman was not only a slave, but also a woman.  Families can learn about the importance of Freeman’s story, and pair what they learn with further studies of civil rights issues and American history.  800-733-1830.  1 Old Sturbridge Village Road.  ($)

SPRINGFIELD:  The Community Music School of Springfield presents their annual musical celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at Newhouse Hall from 11am-1pm.  The event will feature performances from the Freedom Choir, the MLK Dancers, the CMSS String City Orchestra, Dream Studios, and many other local groups sharing song, dance, and words honoring Dr. King and his accomplishments.  413-746-3655.  127 State Street.  (FREE)

GREAT BARRINGTON: Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at an interfaith celebration at the First Congregational Church starting at 12noon for the 4th Annual Interfaith Celebration of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday.  There will be readings, music, and singing, and youth from local organizations will participate in the ceremony and present information.  Bring a nonperishable food item to donate to a local food pantry.  251 Main Street.  (FREE)

STOCKBRIDGE: Learn about the powerful images that Norman Rockwell created during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Starting at 2:30pm, Norman Rockwell Museum’s Curator of Education Tom Daly will share the stories behind the creation of such paintings as “The Problem We All Live With,” “Murder in Mississippi,” and “New Kids in the Neighborhood,” and Rockwell’s dedication to civil rights throughout his career. 413-298-4100.  9 Route 183.   (FREE with museum admission)

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Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Night Featured in the Daily Hampshire Gazette

December 18, 2012 at 4:00 pm (Hilltown Families, Press, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Hilltown Families event at Bridge Street School
links community service and family fun
By Barbara Solow, Daily Hampshire Gazette

NORTHAMPTON (Dec 3, 2012) — City resident Margaret Martin said she brought her two granddaughters, 9 and 6, to a community event at Bridge Street School last Friday to “get them out and about and helping people.”

Victoria Worth of Ashfield was there with her 9-year-old daughter to learn more about the work of local social service agencies.

Phoebe Burch, also 9, of Petersham, said she came with her mom and two younger siblings because “it’s important to make other people happy.”

The Nov. 30 Community Service Night, hosted by Hilltown Families, drew more than 150 families to the city elementary school on Parsons Street. From 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Bridge Street’s cafeteria was transformed into a one-stop volunteer station, where participants worked on simple, hands-on service projects for local nonprofits.

Organizations benefiting from the first-time service night were the Northampton Survival Center, Highland Valley Elder Services, Safe Passage and Baystate Children’s Hospital.

Tabletop projects ranged from tying knots for “no sew” fleece blankets to creating care bags for sick children. After visiting each station, participants got special service “passports” stamped by members of the Northampton High School Key Club, who were volunteer staffers for the event. Read the rest of this entry »

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Build a Gingerbread Home to Benefit Habitat for Humanity

November 21, 2012 at 6:30 am (Hampshire County, Suggested Activity, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Build a House Out of Gingerbread for Habitat for Humanity

On December 8th, from 2-4:30, at the Eastworks Building in Easthampton, teams of families, children, and professionals will build gingerbread homes to raise money for Habitat. River Valley Market Co-op is donating the gingerbread home pieces and the frosting “glue.” Every team is asked to raise at least $100 for their build. After the Build, teams have the option to donate their houses to Habitat, which auction them to raise additional funds. Register your team(s) by November 21st by emailing jean@pvhabitat.org. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity (PVHH) is hosting a gingerbread house competition on Dec. 8th in Easthampton, MA.  Teams of gingerbread architects are asked to raise $100 for PVHH from their community in order to participate in the event, and will be provided with gingerbread pieces and frosting donated by River Valley Market Co-op with which to create their gingerbread homes or historical building!

Each team should bring their own edible decorations (the more unique, the better!) with which to dress their gingerbread structure.  Youth teams can be formed too with at least one adult team member, practicing basic principles of architecture and explorations of spatial relations… all while being creative!  Teams can pick a theme in which to decorate their house, or pick a home or historic building to model their gingerbread structures after.

Pastry arts is a fun creative medium!  Families can compete together as a team, making the event part of their holiday celebrations – spend time discussing the role that Habitat for Humanity plays in the community, and discuss how the money raised in order to participate will benefit the organization.  Kids will enjoy participating even more once they understand the true value of the event!

The gingerbread build will take place at 2pm on December 8th at the Eastworks Building in Easthampton.  Community members not participating are invited to stop by at 4pm to view the creations and bid on a house to take home!  Teams can register before the event via phone (413-586-5430) or e-mail (jean@pvhabitat.org) – groups with members under the age of 12 must include at least one adult.

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Citizen Scientists Track Owls in Massachusetts

September 25, 2012 at 12:01 pm (Citizen Scientist)
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Tracking Owls in Massachusetts
Families Can Help Mass Audubon

Great Horned OwlThere are eleven different species of owls found in Massachusetts, and chances are good that there are a few in your neighborhood.  Families can become owl spotters and useful citizen scientists by taking part in Mass Audubon’s efforts in tracking owl populations – there are lots of ways to participate, and any and all information collected in useful!

There are a variety of different owl-themed family programs offered by Mass Audubon, including moonlit trail explorations to search for birds, hands-on learning activities at sanctuary visitor centers, and owl-themed presentations for older students and adults.  After brushing up on owl-knowledge, families can venture out into their backyards or nearby woodland areas (parks, nature sanctuaries, etc.) to search for signs of owls – and maybe even a real-life owl itself!

Findings can be reported on Mass Audubon’s online Owl Reporter form, used to collect all sorts of information on owl sightings, including location, species of owl (or general characteristics of the bird), etc.  There are even instructions for constructing bird houses on the organization’s website – owl-loving families can build them to encourage owls to move into their neighborhood. ()  Taking part in the project is a great way to supplement studies of New England wildlife biology and can help kids develop confidence in animal identification and outdoor skills.  For more information, visit www.massaudubon.org/owls.

[Photo credit: (ccl) Eric Kilby]

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Hilltown Families Field Trip to The Food Bank of Western MA

September 16, 2012 at 8:00 am (Field Trip, Food, Hampshire County, Hilltown Families, Hilltown Families Event, Take Action)
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Field TripOn Saturday, Sept 15th, Hilltown Families partnered with The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts for a field trip that combined both service-based and community-based learning. Our field trip involved a tour of The Food Bank in Hatfield, MA, led by The Food Bank’s Education Coordinator, Molly Coon. Families got to see the facility up-close and learn how The Food Bank operates, who it serves and individuals can support their mission. The group played games to aid in the understanding of the concepts of hunger and could choose from two hands-on volunteer projects: sorting donations and preparations for The Food Bank’s upcoming fundraiser, “Will Bike 4 Food.”  Here’s a slide show from our visit:

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Interested in joining Hilltown Families on future service-based and/or community-based learning field trips? Email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com to be added to our list of interested families/groups.

Looking for resources to support child(ren)/student’s learning of hunger and food security?  Check these out:

What to organize a field trip for your group to the Food Bank?  Find out more in this post:

What else? Find out how you can donate in your community and fight hunger in your backyard with The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

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Teen Volunteer Opportunity with Habitat for Humanity & Zoo in Forest Park

September 11, 2012 at 10:59 am (Hampden County, Hilltown Families, Teen, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Springfield Non-Profits Working Together!
“Habitat Goes to the Zoo!” Volunteer Event
Saturday, Sept. 22nd

Laura Browne of Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) chats up a friendly camel during her site visit to the Zoo in Forest Park. (Courtesy photo)

Teens ages 16yo and older and their parents are invited to participate in the volunteer opportunity event, “Habitat Goes to the Zoo!” on Saturday, Sept. 22nd!

The Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) and The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center, two cherished Springfield non-profits, are working together to improve the public grounds at the Zoo for the community to enjoy by organizing this volunteer opportunity.

Jennifer Schimmel, Executive Director of GSHFH says, “Our primary mission is to provide decent, affordable housing to families, usually human families,” she laughs. “Although this project falls outside of our typical mission, we are Springfield neighbors with the Zoo and the animals that live there need a little help with their housing as well.” Schimmel adds, “GSHFH is very adept at mobilizing and managing volunteers and we are glad to be leveraging that talent on behalf of the Zoo.”

John Lewis, Executive Director of the Zoo in Forest Park says “We have spent much of this season recovering from big property damage from the storms of last year. We are so grateful that we were able to connect with Greater Springfield Habitat to put the finishing touches on many of our exhibits. Habitat volunteers will focus on painting fourteen of our wooden buildings & animal sheds which will really look great when finished.”

The date for the “Habitat Goes to the Zoo!” event is Saturday, Sept. 22nd from 8:30am-3pm (rain date: Sunday, Sept 23). Teens ages 16-18yo are welcomed as volunteers along with an adult chaperone. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit habitatspringfield.org or call 413-739-5503.

ABOUT PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS

The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center is more than 80 years old and located in Forest Park in Springfield, MA. They depend on the support of the community, memberships & educational programs to thrive. They have approximately 175 animals with over 85,000 annual visitors. Forestparkzoo.org

Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity is a housing ministry dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering low-income families to change their lives and the lives of future generations through homeownership opportunities. HabitatSpringfield.org

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Grow Food for Local Hunger Relief with Just Roots this Summer

June 6, 2012 at 12:00 pm (Food, Franklin County, Suggested Activity, Take Action, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Families Can Help Grow Food for Hunger Relief
in Greenfield this Summer

Just Roots’ Food for All Garden awaits volunteer to help plant starts donated by local farmers.

Western Massachusetts is lush with farms, making locally grown and produced foods relatively easy to find.  However, there are many local families who are not able to enjoy locally grown produce, for a variety of reasons.

Just Roots, a Greenfield organization whose mission is to provide the community with the knowledge of farming necessary for food production, is growing a “Food for All Garden.”  The purpose of the one-acre garden is to produce, through community effort, locally grown food to donate to local hunger relief organizations.

However, the veggies can’t be grown without volunteers!  Currently, the garden is waiting to be planted with starts donated by local farmers.  Throughout the summer, volunteers will be needed to help with weeding, harvesting, etc. Participating in community service with your family at the Food for All Garden can help kids and their adults learn about hunger in our community, and how access to food (especially local food) can depend on economic status.  It’s a great summer community service project!  Work sessions will take place weekly on Wednesdays from 4-7pm and Sundays from 9am-12pm through the harvest.  For more information on volunteering, visit justroots.org.

[Photo credit: (ccl) Susy Morris]

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Citizen Scientists Wanted for Franklin County BioBlitz

June 6, 2012 at 12:00 pm (Citizen Scientist, Ecology, Franklin County, Volunteer Opportunity)
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Families as Citizen Scientists this Saturday
BioBlitz at Northfield Town Forest

Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust is joining with the Town of Northfield to host a BioBlitz on Saturday, June 9th, at the Northfield Town Forest. Volunteers are invited to come down and join the BioBlitz—an event in which people gather to survey a property and compile an extensive list of species, both plants and animals, present in the area.

Help to identify plant and animal species and to provide a foundation for future stewardship at the Northfield Town Forest.  The Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust and the town of Northfield are hosting a BioBlitz on this Saturday, June 9th at the forest.  A BioBlitz is an event where community members volunteer  as citizen scientists (alongside experts in wildlife biology, forestry, etc.) to survey an area and compile an extensive list of the plant and animal species present there. Not new to Western MA, Berkshire County and Hampden County have played host to a BioBlitz in year’s past, and now Franklin County will have one happening in Northfield.

Northfield’s BioBlitz will feature two “shifts,” one during the morning and one in the afternoon.  The first part of the event is a bird walk, which takes place from 7:30-9:30am, while the second takes place from 1-5pm and will focus on identification of plants, fungi, and small (and maybe large!) non-avian creatures.

Citizen scientists of all ages and levels of experience are welcome – there will be plenty of people and resources available to help out with proper identification of specimens.  There will also be a craft table for kids, where they can create illustrations of the species they found and help to design a logo for the forest.

Participating in the BioBlitz is a great supplement to studies of local ecology, habitats, and ecosystems, and can provide students of all ages with a new perspective on their local environment and help them to develop awareness of the many different organisms that live and grow nearby.  For more information, visit www.mountgrace.org.

Directions to the Northfield Town Forest: From the Northfield Town Hall, head south on 63, turn east (left) onto Maple St. Continue onto Gulf Rd for about 2.2 miles. The event headquarters will be at the parking area for the Brush Mountain Conservation Area.

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