Rainy Weather Slows Down Crowd at Points of Light Volunteer Fair Tuesday

Clinton County Democratic Party Chairman Mark Newhart, in blue shirt, talks with some people at his table at the Volunteer Fair.
COACH Kids Executive Director Katie Schimmel, second from left, talks to some of her helpers who attended the Volunteer Fair.

About 20 organizations attended the Points of Light Volunteer Fair Tuesday afternoon at the 51 West Event Center in downtown Frankfort.

Even though the heavy rains, which fell continuously, kept a lot of people from the event, those inside talked about the positive things the Volunteer Fair does.

“I think this is great for everybody.” said COACH Kids Executive Director Katie Schimmel. “I think it’s important that all the organizations and businesses from around the county that seek volunteers have the opportunity like this event so that the public can come in and offer volunteer time.”

For organizations such as Wesley Manor, events like this are vital to their success.

“For us, for a non-profit organization, we are always looking for volunteers,” said the Director of Life Enrichment Melissa Robertson. “Aside from being an opportunity for people to view what is out there to volunteer, it’s been wonderful for me to make connections with other non-profits in our area can provide services to our residents as well.”

The ARC of Clinton County Executive Director Sandra Stevenson, middle, talks with board member Joyce Jacobs at the Volunteer Fair.

The public was treated to door prizes and fun and they could visit booths from area not-for-profit organizations offering volunteer services for young and old alike. Those interested individuals could also find out about their volunteer needs and opportunities and what they can do to help.

The ARC of Clinton County has been around since the mid 1960s. But, according to Executive Director Sandra Stevenson, people aren’t sure what the group does.

“I think this is a wonderful event because it allows us to be in the public’s eye and for people to have the opportunity to stop by and ask us what we do and where do we need volunteers at,” said Stevenson. “I think that is really helpful because, I believe, is one of the best kept secrets of Clinton County.”

Stevenson was also part of the first Volunteer Fair when it started up by Russ Kaspar of WILO.

“I think it’s wonderful that WILO puts on this event every year,” said Stevenson. “I really think the word needs to be out more in the community about this event.”

Schimmel added the Volunteer Fair is special to her and the community.

“I love the Volunteer Fair just because it not allows for new potential volunteers to seek the opportunity to volunteers but it also allows the organizations to mingle, to get together and chat and seek partnerships.”

Robertson said the Volunteer Fair illustrates what Frankfort and Clinton County are about.

“I think it speaks to the dedication that a lot of our community members have to serving others,” she said. “I just think it’s that community feeling is trying to build.”

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