Volunteer opportunities plentiful during tough economic times

More than 25 community service organizations were represented at the annual Community Service Fair, held Monday in the Strafford Room. Student organizations and local community service organizations attended, ranging from school programs to food pantries and animal shelters.

All groups pointed to the recession as a motivator in helping the community.            

"There's a catch-22 going on," said Robin Albert of the Greater Seacoast United Way. "Non-profits are in crisis mode, and laying off employees because of the economy, but at the same time, the demand for their services is only increasing."  

When 2009 UNH graduate Sarah Kaiser finished her bachelor's degree in Family Studies, she decided not to go directly to graduate school and instead become a volunteer with Americorps Vista.

"I wanted a year off before grad school," said Kaiser. "This was a great opportunity to really get out in the real world, and it's an easy job to get."

Kaiser said the demand for Americorps volunteers has increased since the economic recession hit, because the volunteers are paid only enough to cover living expenses and are cheaper than full-time employees.

This year Kaiser has been working at the Epping Recreation after-school program for kids in elementary and middle school.

"We do all kinds of things," Kaiser said. "Sports, cooking, 4H—some of the summer recreation kids even had a rock band."

Kaiser also mentioned that demand for after school program volunteers has increased dramatically.

"Parents are working longer hours and looking for somewhere for their kids to go after school," said Kaiser. "We have many parents on a waiting list now, but we just don't have the funding to take everyone. It's a time and space issue."

The Cornucopia Food Pantry at the Waysmeet Center is also feeling the effects of the recession.