Volunteer Opportunity Details:

Contribute your skills at outreach to the business community on behalf of Empowering Immigrants through English Classes, a non-profit program benefiting the whole community. You will have an opportunity to tell business owners in the South Novato community about our ESL classes and our food pantry project and to invite them to donate money or resources for the programs. The English program benefits immigrants and their children. The food pantry is a project of the ESL students which benefits the whole community and gives immigrants practical experience with a non-profit project. You will cultivate and maintain donor relationships in the community for both programs.

We are looking for someone with some experience with public relations, excellent written and oral communication skills, and an ability to work independently. Also, you must be comfortable working in a faith-based environment with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. You will also have a chance to work with a team of staff and volunteers who bring an array of talents to these programs. As one member of the team said, "I truly love working with you and with the students, it's great to be around people so dedicated to the community. I have learned so much in these past few months about the true meaning of giving and compassion and being part of your ESL team has been one of my best schools." Another man who is a retired SF policeman and former teaching assistant at Novato High School, said that working with the food pantry team and mentoring immigrant leaders was "exhilarating."

Snapshot of Who We Are:
As a part of creating an inclusive community, the Novato Community of Christ congregation in Novato, CA has created a space where language, traditions, and daily challenges are shared in our English as a Second Language program, which includes adult classes and homework help for children. We do not use the program to proselytize, and our program is open to all people without regard to race, creed, etc. with no requirements to participate in the congregation. The weekly food pantry is the project of Organizacion Bienestar de Novato, (Organization for a Healthy Novato),a community organization for immigrants, in partnership with the Novato Community of Christ. By taking on the Public Relations part of our activities, you will help us sustain and increase our capacity to reach out to the community.

Time commitment:
Hours are flexible, but there is a minimum to contact the business owners in the Ignacio neighborhood, telling them about our programs and inviting them to participate as donors. You can work from your place of business, your home, or our office. You will also collaborate with the program director, administrative assistant, and immigrant leaders in a team atmosphere.

Compensation:

This is a non-paid volunteer opportunity, but we will send you to professional development and resource seeking workshops during your term at no cost to you (Value: $500.00+). University and community service credits may also be available from your institution.

This opportunity is sponsored by: Novato Community of Christ

This volunteer opportunity is available to the following types of volunteers Adults (26-54) Unpaid Interns Adults (55+) Young Adults (18-25) Individual We need volunteers who are free at these times Occasional One-Time

Contact Person: Janet Irby, (phone), (email) View all agency contacts

Address:

375 Calle Arboleda Novato, CA 94949 (See a map)

5 Overall Experience   
Wonderful ESL team that makes a REAL difference

There was always support from lead teachers and coordinators. The environment is warm, inviting, and truly makes an impact in Novato community. posted on August 20, 2009