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Local Community Service Agencies

The following is a list of Middletown area Community Service Agencies that work with various communities and issues:

 

  • Adult Education and Literacy

    • Literacy Volunteers of Central Connecticut
      Russell Library
      123 Broad Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-0337
       
      Mission: To promote and increase literacy and proficiency in the English language in the greater Middletown area.
      Opportunities: Upon an 18 hours training program, which instructs volunteers in a variety of proven teaching techniques, tutors are matched with individuals seeking to learn or improve his/her English (reading, speaking, writing).  One year commitment.
      Executive Director: Darlene Hurtado
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Lynne Prairie
  • Advocacy
    • CRT
      44 Hamlin Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-1284
       

      Mission: CRT will address the causes and effects of poverty by advocating for those in need and assisting people in obtaining the skills, knowledge and resources necessary for self-sufficiency and dignity.

      Opportunities: Volunteer at the day care center, assist teachers, read to and play with kids; work one on one with children with behavior problems.
      Program Manager: Debbie Cauley

      Contact Person for Volunteers: Lisa Ellis, Education Coordinator

       
      NEAT (North End Action Team)
      33 Ferry Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-4845

                Mission:The North End Action Team (NEAT) is a neighborhood organization that began in l997 to develop grassroots leadership  
                in the North End. NEAT is made up of residents, business leaders, property owners, and stakeholder groups. NEAT�s mission is to
                provide neighborhood-based participation and leadership, to identify concerns, define strategies, and develop resources to improve
                the quality of life in the North End. By raising a collective neighborhood voice, the North End can bring about positive change.
      Opportunities: Work on community issues in the North End of Middletown; canvas neighborhood to share information and gain input; assist with community garden.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Izzi Greenberg

      - 5:15 Macdonough Elementary School

  • Animals

    • CATALES
      PO Box 901
      Middletown, Connecticut 06457
      860-344-9043

                Mission: CATALES, Inc. is a non-profit no kill organization consisting of volunteers
                dedicated to improving and enriching the lives of homeless cats and kittens.
                Opportunities: Become a foster home, Feed feral colonies, Sponsor a cat, Assist in
                transporting cats to vets, Act as a plumber, electrician or carpenter, Help at a fundraiser,
                Become an animal advocate
                Contact:       Fill out volunteer form on CATALES website

      Valley Shore Animal Welfare League, Inc.
      P.O. Box 1134
      647 Horse Hill Rd.
      Westbrook, CT 06498
      860-399-7561
       
      Mission: Alarmed at an increasing number of abandoned and homeless dogs and cats, a small group of area residents created the Valley Shore Animal Welfare Shelter in 1972. Continuing its initial priorities, the league encourages spaying and neutering to reduce the number of unwanted animals, many of whom lead a tortured existence. The league owns and operates a small shelter and finds good homes for cats and dogs.
      Opportunities: Provide hands-on care (cleaning, grooming) for animals or office work.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Tanya Marocco
  • Art and Theater Arts

    • Arts for All

      26 Wintonbury Avenue

      Bloomfield, CT 06002

      Opportunities: Work with people with disabilities; focus on K - 12 students in the arts and art education. 
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jane Archer

      Kidcity Children's Museum, Inc.
      110 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06459
      860-347-0495
       
      Mission: Kidcity Children's museum celebrates a child's natural curiosity by offering a downtown hands-on play space where children come with parents and other significant adults to learn through play.  Kidcity is a safe and enriched educational environment which fosters the development of problem-solving skills and creativity.  As a child-friendly public space, Kidcity will support every parent's effort to be the best parent they can be.
      Opportunities: Kidcity needs a lot of individuals to interact with kids. Opportunities available seven days a week, supervising children at play.  People are also needed to design interactive children's projects for Kidcity. Volunteer with some friends or take the initiative and organize the project!
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jennifer Alexander, founder

      Green Street Arts Center
      51 Green Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-685-7871

      Mission: The mission of the Green Street Arts Center is to serve as a cultural and educational resource for community residents of all ages, particularly children, and to develop their talents, skills and abilities. The center will present programs and events that reflect the wide spectrum of visual and performing arts as well as the diversity of the neighborhood itself.  In addition, the center will serve as an anchor to the revitalization of the North End of Middletown by promoting the social and cultural well-being of North End families and by attracting increased residential, commercial and entrepreneurial activity in the neighborhood.
      Activities: For more than two years the Green Street has offered dance, music and choir classes for children as well as a variety of creative workshops for families of all ages. Beginning in January 2005 the scope of programs at the Green Street will include morning & evening arts classes (dance, painting, drawing, photography, videography, sound design, music and much more) for adults, seniors, preschool-age children, & home-schoolers.  It will also offer individual and group music classes. In addition, a 5 day a week after school program with arts enrichment �in dance, visual and media arts, writing, private music lessons &  homework assistance will also be available.
      Opportunities: The biggest need will be between 3:00 - 7:30, Monday through Friday. We need students to volunteer as monitors in the halls and art cafe, as monitors in all the classes; for homework assistance and tutoring and as mentors.  So if students have a particular artistic interest we can try and put them as monitors/teaching assistants in the areas (dance, writing, music, etc.)  they want.
      Executive Director: Janis Astor del Valle
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       Patricia Sotarello, Afterschool and Program Coordinator
       
      Middlesex County Historical Society
      151 Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-0746
       
      Mission: The goal of the Middlesex Historical Society is to encourage the preservation, study, and enjoyment of our community's past.
      Opportunities: Work on local Middlesex Couty history; work on museum exhibits; oral histories; original research; cataloging.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Donna Baron
       
      National Theatre of the Deaf
      139 North Main Street
      West Hartford, CT 06107
      860-236-4193
       
      Mission: The National Theatre of the Deaf is a professional acting company made up of deaf and hearing actors. Established in 1967, the National Theatre of the Deaf brought sign language out of the shadows and into the world spotlight, raising it to the level of an artform. Deaf people reached new potential as actors and were perceived in a new light as intelligent, employable, and most of all, equal. 
      Opportunities: National Theatre of the Deaf offers collaborative opportunities for individuals interested in theatrical work with deaf and hearing actors.
      Executive Director: Dr. Paul L. Winters
       
      North End Arts Rising (NEAR): Button Wood Tree
      P.O.Box 71
      605 Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-4957
       
      Mission: NEAR is a small community-based arts organization that maintains Button Wood Tree, a versatile arts venue, performance studio, exhibit space and bookshop. 
      Opportunities: Opportunities exist immediately for newcomers to get involved as community service volunteers, organizers, artists, and interns.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Anne-Marie Cannata
       
      Oddfellows Playhouse
      128 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-6143
       
      Mission: Oddfellows Playhouse is a non-profit theater and performing arts program that serviecs 2,500 young people annually.  Playhouse programs are designed to give young people the chance to develop their creative abilities and to learn about commitment, cooperation and responsibility in a non-competitive environment.
      Opportunities: Assistance with youth theatre, Main Stage productions and stage management; volunteer with the Kids on the Block Puppetry Program; TA weekly classes (8 week sessions).
      Contact People for Volunteers: Dominick Grant or Bobby Knoll
  • Persons with Disabilities

    • Best Buddies
      52 Whitney Avenue, 2nd Floor
      New Haven, CT 06510
      203-773-9233

      Mission: Best Buddies is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment.
      Opportunities: Best Buddies Colleges pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with college students.  With more the 280 chapters in the United States, our college program matches college students in one-to-one friendships with people with intellectual disabilities. A student volunteer manages each chapter with support from a member of the school's administration, an intellectual disabilities professional, and a group of officers (treasurer, buddy director, etc.) comprised of other students.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jules Zhao, College Buddy Director
       
      Bethphage (Mosaic)
      606 Congdon Street West
      Middletown, CT 06457
      (860) 343 - 5570 ext.101 or 109
       
      Mission: Bethphage in a not-for-profit organization and a serving arm of the Evanelical Lutheran Church. Bethphage Mission, Inc. serves as a parent corporation to affiliate corporations which manage the programs providing direct care to individuals with developmental disabilities. The Bethophage foundation exists for the purpose of raising funds and managing gift dollars and investments to provide sustaining support, outreach funds and an endowment to ensure Bethphage's future. Bethphage serves 180 clients throughout Connecticut and has 2 houses in Middletown.
      Opportunities: Volunteer in group homes, working with people with disabilities.
      Contact People for Volunteers: Pat Bourne or Andrea Schumann

      DMR(Department for Mental Retardation)

      Opportunities: DMR offers volunteer opportunities in both the local Middletown area in a group home or in Meriden at a respit center.
      Contact:       Richard Donahue or Madeline @ (203) 294-5017
       
      Gateway Counseling Service, Inc.
      86 Middlesex Turnpike
      Chester, CT 06412
      860-526-2624
       
      Mission: Gateway Counseling Service is an outpatient facility for approximately 72 chronically mentally handicapped clients. 
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Lisa Carlucci-Renshaw

      Gilead Community Services, Inc.
      Administrative Offices:
      222 Main Street Ext.
      P.O. Box 1000
      Rehab/Social Center:
      31 Dijon Road
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-5300

      Mission: Gilead Community Services assists individuals who have experienced a severe disruption in their psychiatric and behavioral disruptions to live independently in the community of their choice. Gilead provides residential services, community treatment, an outpatient psychiatric clinic, housing services, and social/vocational rehabilitation. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers will help out in the Gilead Social Center, a social and vocational program which provides social, recreational, and work/training opportunities for clients receiving mental health service. Teach life skills to clients in the rehabilitation center/Social Center; topics including arts/crafts, current events, basic readings.
      Executive Director: Barry Simon
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jennifer Hanelius or Human Resources

      High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc.
      36 Town Woods Road
      Old Lyme, CT 06371
      860-434-1974, ext. 18

      Mission: High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. was founded in 1974 by Mary "Sis" Gould on the knowledge that riding, driving and caring for horses significantly improves the lives of individuals with physical, emotional, and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to provide a secure, challenging, and companionable environment that brings the extraordinary benefits of therapeutic riding and equine activities to a wide range of individuals through the sharing of our knowledge, compassion, experience, and inspiration.
      Opportunities: Volunteer with children who have special needs, using horseback-riding as a type of therapy. No riding experience is necessary.  Barn help is also needed for those with barn experience.
      Director: Alison Zack Darell
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Laura Brown
       
      Kuhn Employment Opportunities, Inc.
      165 Pratt Street
      Meriden, CT 06450 
      860-235-2583
       
      Mission: Kuhn is committed to developing quality skill enhancement programs which provide meaningful community employment so that persons with disabilities will become independent, gain self esteem, and be accepted by the community. For the past 33 years, Kuhn has worked with developmentally, emotionally, and physically challenged people.
      Opportunities: Kuhn provides transportation, teaches safety training with persons with disabilities.
      Executive Director: Robert Stephens
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Ben Fisher, Director of Programs
       
      MARC: Community Resources
      P.O. Box 126
      Portland, CT 06480
      860-342-0700 ext. 15
       
      Mission: MARC runs recreation programs, day programs and residential programs for persons (mostly adults) with developmental disabilities. 
      Opportunities: Volunteer opportunities include one-to-one interaction in day and recreational programs, and tutoring and acting as a "buddy" in residential programs Work with people with disabilities to ensure independent living; participate in Saturday for Kids (2 Saturdays per month from 8:30 - 12)
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Kimberly Swanson
       
      Prevent Blindness Connecticut
      1275 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-850-2020
       
      Mission: Prevent Blindness Connecticut is a non-profit health organization dedicated to saving sight. This mission is fulfilled through several programs: preschool vision screenings, adult eye health screenings, glaucoma screenings, professional/public education sessions, and eye safety programs for schools and businesses. Prevent Blindness Connecticut also funds research in the area of vision.
      Opportunities: Work on eye health and blindness prevention issues - support individuals with vision problems.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Karen McLaughlin

      Saturday for Kids
      P.O. Box 126
      Portland, CT 06480
      860-342-0700, ext. 15

      Mission: Saturday for Kids is a MARC Community Resources program - they have other programs that deal with both children and adults with different developmental disabilities.
      Opportunities: Volunteer with children who have both cognitive and physical disabilities between the ages of six and twelve every other Saturday morning.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Kimberly Swanson
       
      State of Connecticut Board of Education Services for the Blind
      184 Windsor Avenue, Suite A
      Windsor, CT 06095
      860-602-4000
       
      Mission: Services for the Blind provides a comprehensive program of services for legally blind Connecticut residents of all ages, and numerous services for visually impaired persons, particularly for visually impaired children. Comprehensive statewide services and programming include counseling and referral, broad educational services, vocational rehabilitation, rehabilitation teaching, industries and sales, low vision, orientation and mobility instruction, vending facilities, Optacon instruction, eye health, supplementary relief, consultation, public education, and certification of legal blindness.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Paula A. DeSilva
  • Elderly
    • Harbor Hill Care Center
      111 Church Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-7286
       
      Mission: Harbor Hill is a 180 bed skilled nursing facility, providing long-term care, a short-term rehabilitation unit, and an Alzheimers/Dementia unit. 
      Opportunities: The Recreation Department is seeking volunteers to work one-to-one with residents or run small group activities such as reading, writing letters, creative arts, and general interactions.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Mary Enela
       
      High View Health Care Center
      600 Highland Avenue
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-3315
       
      Opportunities: Work one on one with a senior or in a small group - reading, writing letters, creative arts and general interactions.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Dottie Lee
       
      Middletown Senior Center
      150 Williams Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-5424 or 860-344-3513
       
      Mission: The Commission on Aging provides assistance for the elderly by running errands, grocery shopping, and planning activities for those who are unable to do so themselves. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers are needed to help in these areas, and also to escort individuals and groups on outings. Collaborate and coordinate on creative arts opportunities; recreational activities; entertainment; ongoing volunteerism and one time events.
      Executive Director:
      Contact Person for Volunteers: same

      One MacDonough Place
      One MacDonough Place
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-358-5811

      Opportunities: Work with elderly residents one on one or in a small group with various interactive activities such as music, arts and crafts, or current event discussion; be a bingo caller on Saturday afternoons. Also, play cards during Friday afternoon social hour.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: David Frankel

      St. Lukes
      100 Riverview Center, Suite 200
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-5661
       
      Mission: St. Lukes provides support services to homebound elderly in Middletown, offering assistance with grocery shopping, medical transportation, volunteer "friendly visitors," and a recreation program in addition to the social work services that they provide. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers who are willing to visit elderly in their homes are particularly welcome. Volunteers can also work one on one with a senior to help with daily living chores including grocery shopping and friendly visits.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Diane Cummings

      Village at South Farms
      645 Saybrook Road
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-344-8788

      Mission: Providing retirement living, assisted living, and innovative Alzheimer's care to the Southern New England region.
      Opportunities: Opportunity to interact with seniors living at this assisted living community, specifically with early stage Alzheimer's patients doing therapeutic programming and arts and crafts.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Rich Damarijan
  • Environment
    • City of Middletown Recycling Program
      P.O. Box 1300
      245 DeKovan Drive
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-344-3526
       
      Mission: Reduce by purchasing only what you need and using what you buy. Reuse products and materials whenever possible. Recycle to decrease the amount of municipal solid waste entering our landfills or being incinerated. Rethink the way you live.
      Opportunities: Opportunities to educate local residents and businesses about recycling issues.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Kim O'Rourke
       
      Rockfall Foundation
      DeKoven House
      27 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-0340
       
      Mission: The Rockfall Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 1935 by Colonel Clarence S. Wadsworth. Continuing his tradition of philanthropic activity in Middlesex County, the Rockfall Foundation holds and manages open space property, preserves and operates the historical Dekoven House as a community center, and supports environmental projects, grants and educational programs.
      Opportunities: Grant opportunities and groups interested in preserving/enhancing the environment. 
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Virginia Rollefson
       
      Connecticut Forest and Park Association
      16 Meriden Road
      Rockfall, CT 06481
      860-346-2372
       
      Mission: The Connecticut Forest and Park Association provides recreational and educational services to state citizens, and program priorities include efforts to ensure the continued management and preservation of Connecticut's forest lands; the acquisition and protection of public parks and recreation areas; the establishment and maintenance of the CFPA's Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System; and the preservation of the woodlands.
      Opportunities: Trail maintenance; legislative activism; office assistance
      Executive Director: Adam Moore
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       Ann Colson
  • Health
    • American Cancer Society
      P.O. Box 1004
      Meriden, CT 06450
      (203) 379 - 4700
       
      Mission: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.
      Opportunities: Blood donations, disaster relief, health and youth issues; volunteering in the local transitional living shelter; office volunteers with computer skills.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Susan Dumbrowski
       
      American Red Cross
       
      Mission: The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its congressional charter and the fundamental principles of the international Red Cross movement, will provide relief to victims of disaster, and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
      Opportunities: All volunteer opportunities provide free training. Drive seniors to their appointments, assist with blood drives, or act as a receptionist at the 97 Broad Street office.  Disaster Relief: Help prepare for and respond to local disasters (training required).  Qualified volunteers may join national registry.  AFES: Provides after office hours coverage for military calls (two day class required). Homeless Shelter Program: Sort and store donations, provide arts and crafts, music, games, outdoor activities for the children's program, help fix up a shelter apartment, or teach computer skills/plan activities at the Teen Center.
      Executive Director:
      Contact Person for Volunteers:
       
      Community Health Center
      635 Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
       
      Mission: The Community Health Center provides health care in the larger Middletown area to anyone in need. It continues to make real every day its belief that "Health Care is a Right, Not a Privilege." Available are medical, dental, shelter, mental health, child guidance, and home-based services.
      Opportunities: (programs are at various locations throughout Middletown)
      Family Wellness Center - Assist with child care and play group while support groups are in session. 
      Contact: Julie Deak: 860-347-6971, ext. 3420
      Homeroom - Provide academic support and mentoring to local youth.  Contact: 860-347-6970, ext. 3411
      New Horizons Domestic Violence Shelter - Volunteer support for a battered women's shelter; need long-term commitment for hotline volunteers.  Childcare, Tuesday evenings: 6 - 8:30. Contact: Michelle Waldner or Elizabeth Farkas: 860-344-9599
      Oasis Center - The Oasis Center is a community and resource center dedicated to serving those who are living with HIV infection and AIDS. The Oasis ensures that it is a safe gathering place. The Oasis center is a peer-led AIDS service organization whose members reflect the diversity of a population against who the virus does not discriminate. Comfortable and comforting, Oasis provides a variety of programs and services, all free of charge, to support its members as they take charge of their lives, take care of themselves and empower each other to face the challenge of living with HIV/AIDS.  Opportunities include: assisting with creative and supportive programming at this living well center. Contact: Eric Watts: 860-344-0551
       
      Connecticut Hospice
      100 Double Beach Road
      Branford, CT 06405
      203-315-7510

      Opportunities: Connecticut Hospice has volunteer positions available to work one on one with patients with advanced irreversible illness. Home care volunteers cook meals, drive, read, and offer companionship to patients. All volunteers must complete a seven week training course provided by Connecticut Hospice. Clerical and computer assistance is also needed; volunteer service is also available at the satellite office in Wallingford, CT.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Pat Nowak Corradino, Director of Volunteer Services
      High View Health Care Center
      600 Highland Avenue
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-3315
       
      Opportunities: Work one on one with a senior or in a small group - reading, writing letters, creative arts and general interactions.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Dottie Lee
       
      Middlesex Hospital
      28 Crescent Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-344-6735

      Opportunities: Middlesex Hospital offers volunteer opportunities in non-patient, patient-related, and patient-intensive areas.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Katie Kearns
  • Hunger and Homelessness
    • Amazing Grace
      139 Main Street Extension
      Middletown, CT 06457

      Opportunities: Assist in sorting and stocking food at local food pantry.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Kathleen Kelly 860-347-2222 or Peter Harding 860-344-0097, ext. 11
       
      Eddy Center
             1 Labella Circle
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-5520
       
      Mission: The Eddy Center is a homeless shelter providing transitional living situations for up to 30 days. It is designed to enable the temporary residents to seek employment and further their education.
      Opportunities: Provide support for the shelter service; assist with the alternative incarceration program; organize food and clothing drives.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Lynda Rowan
       
      Nehemiah Housing Corporation
      33 Ferry Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-7362

      Mission: Nehemiah Housing Corporation develops and operates housing for families and individuals who are unable to find quality affordable housing. Nehemiah provides management and support services to ensure that households develop the self-sufficiency skills necessary to attain and maintain permanent housing and family well being.
      Opportunities: Assist with clerical work; painting, cleaning. Volunteers do not work directly with clients.
      Executive Director: Michael Taylor
      Contact Person for Volunteer: same

      Middlesex Habitat for Humanity of Connecticut, Inc.
      9 Pleasant Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-632-2630

      History: The Middlesex Habitat for Humanity of Connecticut, Inc. affiliate was started in 1996 by a group of people eager to tackle the housing needs of their communities. The students of Wesleyan University were already committed to Habitat for Humanity International. Their campus chapter, WeShelter, was instrumental in the creation of the local affiliate and works closely with us on each new building project. Middlesex Habitat for Humanity brings families and communities in need together with volunteers and resources to build decent affordable housing. It is a not-for-profit, non-denominational Christian organization dedicated to the goal of eliminating poverty housing. They consider those with the greatest need first and ask that families provide a "sweat equity" of 200-400 hours. Habitat for Humanity welcomes volunteers from all faiths, abilities, races, ethnicity and sexual orientation who are committed to this goal. 
      Opportunities: Volunteer with housing rehabilitation for needy families and build on Saturdays in the Middletown area.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jenny Monnes
       
      The Shepherd Home
      P.O. Box 1179
      112 Bow Lane
      Middletown, CT 06457

      Mission: The Shepherd Home provides 24 months of transitional housing with support services in a drug free environment. The program is designed for single adults who are currently homeless and have been served by an emergency shelter within the past six months. Residents at Shepherd Home work on a plan of action designed to promote goal achievement an ultimately a move into independent living.
      Opportunities: Assist with transitional living for the homeless in areas such as life skills building and tutoring for GED; work on food and clothing drives. Volunteers are also needed to staff the office; monitor the front door and answer phone calls. 
      Executive Director:       Sister Patricia McKeon
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       Regina Walsh
       
      St. Vincent DePaul Place
      P.O. Box 398
      617 Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-344-0097
       
      Mission: St. Vincent DePaul Place is a soup kitchen and social service agency serving the Middletown community. It provides 250-300 meals per day and also serves as a food pantry. Currently the organization is engaged in social service management for the recently renovated Liberty Commons low income housing project. People with an interest in social work, counseling, and civic relations are encouraged to volunteer
      Opportunities: Volunteers are needed to provide support in the meal's program of this local soup kitchen for the local and homeless and hungry. Help is also needed to organize food and clothing drives as well as stack shelves with food at Amazing Grace. People with interest in social work, counseling, and civic relations are encouraged to volunteer.
      Executive Director: Ron Krom
      Contact Person for Volunteers: For the kitchen: Fred: 860-344-0097, ext. 15; For other opportunities: Ron Krom, ext. 11
  • Mental Health
    • Connecticut Valley Hospital
      P.O. Box 351
      Silver Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-262-5818
       
      Mission: Connecticut Valley Hospital (CVH) is part of the CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. CVH's goal is to provide general psychiatric, forensic, and substance abuse services to adult residents of CT. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers are needed to bring patients to physical therapy, to tutor, entertain, visit, and assist staff in the library and with recreational activities.  Offer support for individuals with psychiatric and other mental health disabilities; volunteer work may also include support in the new treatment mall and other campus surroundings.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Cheryl Kraft-Johnson
       
      Gilead Community Services, Inc.
      Administrative Offices:
      222 Main Street Ext.
      P.O. Box 1000
      Rehab/Social Center:
      31 Dijon Road
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-5300
       
      Mission: Gilead Community Services assists individuals who have experienced a severe disruption in their psychiatric and behavioral disruptions to live independently in the community of their choice. Gilead provides residential services, community treatment, an outpatient psychiatric clinic, housing services, and social/vocational rehabilitation. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers will help out in the Gilead Social Center, a social and vocational program which provides social, recreational, and work/training opportunities for clients receiving mental health service. Teach life skills to clients in the rehabilitation center/Social Center; topics including arts/crafts, current events, basic readings.
      Executive Director: Barry Simon
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jennifer Hanelius or Human Resources
       
      Riverview Hospital for Children and Youth
      P.O. Box 2797
      917 River Road
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-704-4199
       
      Mission: Riverview Hospital is a state run psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents between the ages of 5 - 18. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers are needed for children and adolescents for facilitating recreation and tutoring. Volunteers are also needed for translating Spanish for parents and doctors.
      Contact Person for Volunteers:  Margaret Stewart
  • Substance Abuse
    • Rushford Center, Inc.
      1250 Silver Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-0300, ext. 112
       
      Mission: The Rushford Center is dedicated to meeting the behavioral and mental health needs of adults, children, and families by providing prevention and treatment services that are accessible and affordable. They have in patient and out patient services as well as a variety of prevention programs. Some of the prevention programs are located in different school systems in middle schools in Middletown.
      Opportunities: Volunteer opportunities include working on substance abuse prevention programs; mentoring opportunities for local youth (after school and evening run).
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Sheryl Sprague, Prevention Manager
       
      The Shepherd Home
      P.O. Box 1179
      112 Bow Lane
      Middletown, CT 06457

      Mission: The Shepherd Home provides 24 months of transitional housing with support services in a drug free environment. The program is designed for single adults who are currently homeless and have been served by an emergency shelter within the past six months. Residents at Shepherd Home work on a plan of action designed to promote goal achievement an ultimately a move into independent living.
      Opportunities: Assist with transitional living for the homeless in areas such as life skills building and tutoring for GED; work on food and clothing drives. Volunteers are also needed to staff the office; monitor the front door and answer phone calls. 
      Executive Director:       Sister Patricia McKeon
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       Regina Walsh
  • Women and Families
    • The Coping Center
      860-347-0120, 860-635-6010 x 334
      Mission: The Coping Center deals with and counsels individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents, groups, domestic violence, women's issues, substance abuse and sexual abuse.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jan Levine, R.N., C.C.N.S.
       
      New Horizons Domestic Violence Services
      (860)347-6971
       
      Mission: New Horizons is a temporary shelter for women and their children who have experienced violence in their homes. New Horizons offers two volunteer training programs a year, and all volunteers, upon completion of the training, are certified.
      Opportunities: Need long-term commitment for hotline volunteers. Childcare, Tuesday evenings 6 - 8:30.
      Contact People for Volunteers: Michelle Waldner or Elizabeth Farkas: 860-344-9599
       
      Sexual Assault Crisis Service
      29 Crescent Street
      P.O. Box 1063
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-344-1474, ext. 120
      Mission: The Sexual Assault Crisis Service provides 24-hour, 7 day a week crisis counseling, information and referral, advocacay for children and non-abusing parent, short time counseling for victims and their family and/or friends.  Support groups and community education programs dealing with sexual assault as well as community prevention programs dealing with safety concerns are also available. SACS aslo provides police and court advocacy.
      Opportunities: The Sexual Assault Crisis Service needs women for the Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline. Training is provided. Two to four shifts per month - an average of twelve hours per month. Hotline counselors provide information, crisis intervention, advocacy, and counseling on the telephone. They also may be called to meet a victim at a hospital emergency room or police station to provide advocacy and support. Volunteers may also provide clerical assistance in the office.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Nicole Hildenbran-Elgin (Coordinator of Advocacy Services)
       
      Women and Children's Center
             955 South Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-5513

      Mission: The Women and Children Center is a long-term treatment facility for pregnant substance abusers and their children. The Women and Children's Center provides a structured, safe, and positive environment where women are encouraged to develop increased personal awareness, to appropriately express feelings, and to constructively channel their energies.
      Opportunities: Volunteering support is needed for pregnant and parenting women in treatment for substance abuse and their children; opportunities include childcare and support group network.
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       Andrea Hunter
  • Youth
    • Bielefield Elementary School
      71 Maynord Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-4124
       
      Mission: Where Children and Learning Come First
      Opportunities: Bielefield Elementary School is looking for volunteers to help students use computers in a "lab" setting, to organize and supervise recess games from 12:0-1:00 p.m. Monday- Friday, and for classroom assistance in grades K-5.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Renata Lantos, Principal
       
      Big Brothers/ Big Sisters
      Suite 274
      100 Riverview Center
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-852-0045
      Mission: Big Brothers/ Big Sisters serves disadvantaged youth age 6 -14, from single and two parent family households. The BB/BS program matches children with appropriate volunteers in a one-to-one relationship. Big Brothers/Big Sisters charges no fees for this service.
      Opportunities: The appropriate adult volunteer acts as a confidant, role-model, mentor and friend, helping to guide the child along a path which will help him or her to realize full human potential. The volunteer will provide mentoring to local youth or tutoring program at Farmhill School. Initial commitment is 6 months.
      Contact Person for Volunteers:
       
      Boy Scouts of America
      60 Darkin Street 
      East Hartford, CT 06128
      860-289-6669, ext. 258
      Mission: It is the mission of the Boy Scouts of America to serve others by helping to instill values in young people and in other ways prepare them to make ethical choices over their lifetime in achieving their full potential. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers are needed for mentoring with local youths and for general work with local troupes; community outreach; and programmatic opportunities.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Dan Lindh

      Brownstone Intermediate School
      314 Main Street
      Portland, CT
      (860) 342-6765

      Mission: 
      Opportunities:       BIS is trying to start a variety of after school programs such as art club, debate team, science club, or student newspaper.  Excellent opportunity for students looking to build a program from the ground up.  Volunteer(s) will be asked to design a short curriculum, lead a small group to create a product and consult with key constituents, i.e. staff members, in an academic setting.  Minimum 6 week commitment.
      Principal: Venessa L. Ditta
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Donna Rini 860-342-5625

      Children's Center Community Program
      1 Long Wharf
      New Haven, CT 06511
      203-786-6403 X117

      Mission: Children's Center Community Programs Youth Mentoring Partnerships works with children age 13 - 21 that are in the care of The Department of Children and Families.  The children reside in group homes, residential facilities or foster care homes.  The children reside in group homes, residential facilities or foster care homes.
      Opportunities: Volunteer Mentors.  Minimum three hour commitment per month for a one calendar year commitment.  Must be 21 years old and have transportation.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Dawn Renaud, M.A.C.P.
       
      The Children's Home in Cromwell
      66 Hicksville Road
      Cromwell, CT 06419
      860-635-6010, ext. 334
       
      Mission: The Children's Home is a residential treatment center for 71 abused, neglected, and troubled Connecticut children ages 8-18. They are provided a caring home-like atmosphere, a state-certified special education school, and a therapeutic environment in which they receive individual, group, and family treatment. Specific treatment plans are designed to address the emotional, educational, physical, social, behavioral, and spiritual needs of each child. The learning center at the Children's Home offers a fully-accredited day program for children and adolescents with emotional and learning difficulties. This program provides a highly structured, therapeutic educational experience for students aged 8 to 21 who require specialized support and services not available in most public or private school settings.
      Opportunities: Call contact person to discuss various opportunities.
      Contact Person for Volunteers:       John Powers
       
      CT Juvenile Training School
      P.O. Box 882
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-638-2427

      Mission: CT Juvenile Training School is a residential school for adjudicated juvenile delinquents. 
      Opportunities: Volunteers who are interested in working with troubled youth are needed to tutor and mentor. A mandatory training program is offered every semester.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Mike Daling
       
      CRT: Head Start Early Care and Education Program
      44 Hamlin Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-1284
       
      Mission: CRT will address the causes and effects of poverty by advocating for those in need and assisting people in obtaining the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary for self-sufficiency and dignity.
      Opportunities: Volunteers at the day care center, assist teachers, read to and play with kids; work one on one with children with behavior problems.
      Program Manager: Debbie Cauley
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Lisa Ellis, Education Coordinator

      I Have a Friend Youth Center
      309 Main Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-1650

      Opportunities: Support tutoring and mentoring for local kids on Tuesday and/or Thursdays from 4:30 - 7:30
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Barbara Miller
      Kidcity Children's Museum, Inc.
      110 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06459
      860-347-0495
       
      Mission: Kidcity Children's museum celebrates a child's natural curiosity by offering a downtown hands-on play space where children come with parents and other significant adults to learn through play.  Kidcity is a safe and enriched educational environment which fosters the development of problem-solving skills and creativity.  As a child-friendly public space, Kidcity will support every parent's effort to be the best parent they can be.
      Opportunities: Kidcity needs a lot of individuals to interact with kids. Opportunities available seven days a week, supervising children at play.  People are also needed to design interactive children's projects for Kidcity. Volunteer with some friends or take the initiative and organize the project!
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Jennifer Alexander, founder
       
      Lawrence School
      Kaplan Drive
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-632-2158, ext. 49
       
      Mission: The mission of the Middletown Public Schools is to enable all students to achieve at their highest potential by challenging them through a system structured around a common core of knowledge, skills, values, and a variety of educational experiences. Through partnerships with family and community, our schools will promote the pursuit of lifelong learning, responsible citizenship, and decision-making in a culturally diverse world.
      Opportunities:       Volunteers are needed to assist students and teachers in the classroom.  Tutors will also be needed for kids in grades K - 5.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Mark Profit, Principal
       
      Macdounough Elementary School
      66 Spring Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-8553

      Opportunities:       Volunteer to provide mentoring, tutoring, academic enrichment and computer technology to students in grades K - 5.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Ann Perzan, Principal or Karen Nocera, coordinator
       
      Middletown High School
      200 LaRosa Lane
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-704-4500
       
      Mission: It is the goals of the program to provide students with the knowledge and skills they will need to participate as competent and productive members of both our American democratic society and of the increasingly interdependent global community. The educational program expands students' intellectual and creative capabilities, develops their cultural and aesthetic awareness, cultivates a sense of personal responsibility, and fosters their emotional and physical well being.
      Opportunities: Middletown High School runs a tutoring program for students, including SAT tutoring and help with the college application process. Volunteers are needed as teacher's assistance, after-school tutors, and mentors for high school students.
      Principal: Mr. Robert C. Fontaine
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Les Saunder

      The Neighborhood Pre-School
      115 High Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-346-4333

      Opportunities: Assistance with the local day care center on campus; conduct games and creative play with kids.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Karyn Bidwell
       
      Northern Middlesex YMCA
      99 Union Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-6907
       
      Mission: The YMCA provides a wide variety of activities for Middletown youth, including sports, after-school, and summer programs.
      Opportunities: Volunteers needed for tutoring and enrichment program at Middletown Public Schools, special needs, before and after school programs and mentoring.
      Executive Director:       Frank Sumpter
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Michelle Rulnick
       
      Oddfellows Playhouse
      128 Washington Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-6143
      Mission: Oddfellows Playhouse is a non-profit theater and performing arts program that serves 2,500 young people annually. Playhouse programs are designed to give young people the chance to develop their creative abilities and to learn about commitment, cooperation and responsibility in a non-competitive environment.
      Opportunities: Assistance with youth theatre, Main Stage productions and stage management; volunteer with the Kids on the Block Puppetry Program; TA weekly classes (8 week sessions).
      Contact People for Volunteers: Dominick Grant or Bobby Knoll
       
      Salvation Army
      515 Main Street
      P.O. Box 179
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-7493
       
      Opportunities: The Salvation Army after school program needs tutors and mentors for children aged 6-15, Monday through Friday between 3:30PM and 8:00PM.  Assistance is needed with social service support at the Adult Day Care Center and Community Center; organize clothing drives and sort clothes; provide assistance in preparation for holiday season; office assistance.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Major Judy Pritchard

      Snow School
      299 Wadsworth Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-2579

      Mission: Establish long term relationships with students in the community.
      Opportunities: Volunteer in the after-school tutorial and enrichment program for a selected group of 3rd - 5th grade students.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Gene Nocera, Principal

      Upward Bound - ConnCap
      41 Lawn Avenue
      Middletown, CT 06457

      Opportunities: Act as a tutor/mentor/instructor for youth in local area elementary, middle, and high schools; summer opportunities working with middle and high school students.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Beverly Hunter-Daniel, Director
       
      Woodrow Wilson Middle School
      Wilderman's Way
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-347-8594
       
      Mission: Woodrow Wilson Middle School is committed to providing opportunities for our young adolescent students to explore and create and think about who they are are and what they can be.
      Opportunities: Volunteer as a tutor/mentor for at risk youth; also provide basketball coaching assistance to the girls' basketball team; assist in special education.
      Principal: Gene Nocera
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Vanessa Reale

      YMCA: Phelps Ingersoll Day Care Center
      99 Union Street
      Middletown, CT 06457
      860-343-6227

      Mission: Early intervention/school readiness program working with infant - 5 year olds.
      Opportunities: Tutoring, arts and recreation, interaction and playing with kids at the 21st Century learning Center; some special needs.
      Contact Person for Volunteers: Elaine Tuttle