The Needham Community Council worked with me to coordinate a volunteer activity for The Needham Do-Something Club, a group of high school students working to make a difference. With my peers, I helped to sort and hang clothes for the thrift shop. The experience was fulfilling, and I enjoyed making a difference within my community.
The Needham Community Council is an incredible community asset. My first experience with the Council was 10 years ago when my daughter broke her leg and we needed to borrow a wheel chair fro the medical loan closet. It was then that I discovered this wonderful jewel in our community. Since then I have been a donor, donating food and goods to the thrift store. 6 years ago I became an active volunteer for the Child Assault Prevention program through the council, and have loved every minute if it! I am now a staff member and feel so fortunate to be a part of a organization that is "neighbors helping neighbors" in the truest sense.
I am a former client and I have been a staff member since 1998. This 81 year old organisation has helped many individuals in this town. From being able to borrow medical equipment, feeding themselves by way of the outstanding food pantry, clothing their families with the fabulous deals in the thrift shop, to learning English, among many other programs.
The volunteers and fellow staff members are nothing short of amazing people. The atmosphere is one of compassion and understanding and light-heartededness. young people learn the true meaning of "giving back" by doing their community service hours with us (many come back after completion because they enjoy it!). The volunteers stay for years - it is a very social atmosphere for everyone - visitors and clients alike.
Our Holiday programs are so joyous and you can see delight on the faces of parents who may otherwise be unable to give gifts to their children. You see people from different countries studying English in order to become American citizens after so many years. It is an unbelievable experiance to be part of this organisation.
The Needham Community Council has been part of my world for many years. I have borrowed medical equipment for my father, donated canned goods through the elementary schools, purchased clothing for my entire family, donated goods and services on a regular basis, encouraged my teenagers to contribute their time volunteering for a great organization, and enjoyed attending many of their annual functions. The slogan People Helping People is true in hundreds of different ways.
I am both a long time donor and staff of the Needham Community Council. It is a wonderful organization that offers a variety of supports to Needham, MA residents - the food pantry and holiday gift giving programs help our neighbors who are having financial difficulty; the medical transportation program helps residents who have difficulties driving to medical appointments; our CAP programs works with elementary school students to teach them how to be safe; we offer a variety of volunteer opportunities to all ages, from middle school students to those over 90; and much much more....