Plenty of local nonprofits could use volunteers, donations

 

Want to give back this holiday season, but don’t know where to start?

United Way of Freeborn County Executive Director Ann Austin advised people to consider giving to local organizations first.

“We have a strong nonprofit network in Freeborn County, but that’s only through the local support,” Austin said. “Having an engaged donor base is essential for long-term sustainability.”

She said from her interactions with businesses and people in the community, she has seen many people who are in need in the community — many of whom are working hard to support their families and who are often strained from all of the demands.

She advised people to find something they are interested in and discover a way to make a difference. People who serve will benefit from giving back, and the people who receive help from the gift will receive hope and access to resources they need.

“Search your heart and see what you’re passionate about,” Austin said. “Are your passionate about our children, about senior citizens, about animals?

“I would love to see the community step up to support these organizations, because without them, I worry about where our community is going to head. Nonprofits are really essential.”

She said any of the leaders of the area nonprofits are always willing to talk with donors about where their donations go if they have any questions.

Austin said the nonprofits in the area work well together in an effort to best utilize each others’ resources.

In addition to giving financially, there are many opportunities to give as a volunteer.

Austin said Denise Tipton, volunteer resource coordinator with the Community Resource Center, communicates with all the different nonprofits in the community and can help match people up with a nonprofit to volunteer for. If you don’t know where to volunteer, contact her at 507-473-2718.

The following is a list of 10 of the nonprofit organizations in the area. For a full list, contact the Community Resource Center or go online to www.crcalbertlea.com.

• Albert Lea Family Y

373-8228

2021 W. Main St., Albert Lea

• The Arc of Freeborn County

377-3469

407 E. William St., Albert Lea

• The Children’s Center

373-7979

605 James Ave., Albert Lea

• Crime Victims Crisis Center

377-5460

411 S. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea

• Freeborn County Historical Society

373-8003

1031 Bridge Ave.

• Humane Society of Freeborn County

377-8501

101 James Ave., Albert Lea

• Senior Resources

377-7433

314 S. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea

• The Salvation Army

373-5710

302 Court St., Albert Lea

• United Way of Freeborn County

373-8670

314 S. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea

• Youth for Christ

373-6120

116 W. Clark St.