Getting involved with a volunteer organization provides consistent volunteering opportunities for those looking for ways to help their community. 

“Currently, I have been volunteering at the Isaiah 117 House, and it  is the one that I am most connected to. It is a place where children who are taken from their homes and are going into the foster care system go so that they have a place to relax,” Mrs. Stephanie Senac, English teacher, said. 

The Isaiah 117 House is located in Marion Country and houses children who are transferring into the foster care system. 

“They help kids from infants to 18 years old. It is a beautiful home. They have video games, tv, snacks, for the kids, and they get to pick out their own clothing and a backpack for when they go to their foster homes,” Mrs. Senac said. 

Becoming a “Bin Buddy” at the Isaiah 117 House allows volunteers to connect with and help the children staying there. 

“We are called Bin Buddies, so we collect clothing for the kids while they are here,” Mrs. Senac said. 

Providing food for those who are unable to access it for themselves opens volunteer opportunities. 

“I volunteer at The Refuge often, and we go out and bring groceries to those who are disabled, without transportation to the store, the elderly who have no help at home,” senior Avah Wallischeck said. 

The Refuge is a local food pantry that provides food while also helping people take steps toward getting back on their feet. 

“We go out in small groups on Saturday mornings and deliver the bags of food. We will help them put away the groceries if needed, and then we will move on to the next house until we have reached everyone on our list for the day,” Wallischeck said. 

Sometimes, building a connection helps.

“My favorite part about volunteering at The Refuge is when we have those small conversations with the people we are helping because some of them cannot leave their homes, so they are just happy to see someone, and it makes such an impact,” Wallischeck said. 

The environment of a volunteer organization can encourage volunteers. 

“My favorite organization that I have volunteered with is the Servants Heart of Indy. I encourage people to volunteer at Servants Hearts of Indy because it is a positive, welcoming environment where you are able to connect with the people you are serving,” senior Julia Short said. 

Servants Hearts of Indy is another food pantry that helps families in need. 

“I have helped to stock the food pantry and minister to people in need. They provide food and household items,” Short said. 

Regardless of where volunteers serve their community, there is always a need to help those who are struggling. 

“If someone is trying to decide whether or not they want to volunteer, they should because it is an experience that leaves an impact on your community. Volunteering can seem intimidating at first, but it requires you to put yourself out there,” Short said.