Community Partners

Helping Others (additional opportunities)

Here are 10 social action activities in the community. Some are open to individuals and others for small groups. Simply select the one that may interest you and we will follow up with the organizations directly to book a date for your activity.

1. After School Program (SHIM):Provide students in grades K-5 with homework help, assist with daily programming. Volunteer one or multiple days a week; Monday through Thursday, 4 – 6pm

2. Food Pantry Associate (SHIM):Assist families as they ‘shop’ in SHIM’s food pantries. Must be able to stand for more than two hours and lift 30 lbs. Volunteer twice a month, 2 – 6pm, according to their food pantry schedule

3. Homework Helper (SHIM):Help middle and high school students with math, English, science and history. Volunteer one or multiple days a week; Monday through Friday, 4 – 5:30pm. School year opportunity, begins September 3, 2019

4. Receptionist (SHIM):Serve as the “Face of SHIM” and greet visitors. Answer incoming phone calls, accept daily donations of food and clothing, complete other office duties as assigned. Must be a good communicator, able to climb stairs to accept incoming donations, attend training session. Volunteer in four hour weekly shifts or as substitute volunteer.

5. SHIM Gardens: Plant, weed, maintain and harvest during the spring, summer and fall growing seasons.Gardening experience is helpful, but not necessary.Volunteers are needed at multiple locations from May through October.

6. Youth Mentoring Program (SHIM): Be a role model for middle and high school students in a group setting, plan weekly activities and off-site field trips.Mentors must be 18 or older and complete mandated reporter training.Volunteer one or multiple days a week; Monday through Thursday, 6 – 8pm.School year opportunity, begins October 2019

7. Squirrel Hill Food Pantry: Volunteer for a kosher food pantry in Squirrel Hill that produces thousands of pounds of food for recipients each month. Time books up fast at this location, therefore Sunday, November 3 from 9-10:30 am and Wednesday, November 20 from 2-3pm are booked for a Beth El group activity. Up to 8 people only (includes children).

8. Ronald McDonald House: Here is an opportunity to providea complete meal for families experiencing crises, which must be prepared and cooked on site in their community kitchen. Menu options (with sides and a main course for breakfast, lunch or dinner) may be found online or by contacting Nicole Mezare. All food must be purchased by groups before arriving at the kitchen, however they will supply paper plates, cutlery & cups. There is a 12 individual limit (including children) for the meal program. Food is served buffet style for one hourwhere families can then make plates and eat at their convenience. This gives families time to work the meal into their schedules. After or during the hour, volunteers should clean up the kitchen and put away any leftover food. Leftovers are always a comfort later in the evening.

9. South Hills Pet Rescue:Located in South Park Township, this pet organization is looking for pet walkers and laundry helpers. There is no set schedule as they are very flexible with your availability.

10. Harbour Senior Living: Located on Greentree Rd., this senior facility seeks volunteer assistance between 10am – 6 pm with: reading short stories, Pokeno Casino, hosting a movie, gardening, fun riddles and trivia, reminiscing, card games, arts and crafts, puzzles and more.