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   People in Cass County, MN have a heart for service and caring for our neighbors.  It is no surprise to find many special individuals who care enough to volunteer their time and talents to help others. And more volunteers are needed, especially over the winter months.

   In 2023, 106 Faith in Action volunteers helped 331 individuals throughout Cass County, including 152 new people. Volunteers filled 2,500 requests for services and gave over 6,600 hours of assistance. Volunteers drove over 106,725 miles to transport people and provided over 2009 rides.

   And yet, studies show that only 20% of Minnesota residents have ever volunteered in their community. According to the Minnesota Association of Volunteer Administration, over 60% of emergency food, activities for youth, firefighting, and transportation for older adults is reported to be done primarily through volunteers in rural communities.  Volunteers add significantly to our quality of life in rural Minnesota, and it is easy to get connected to volunteer opportunities. 

   A locally supported, nonprofit organization, Faith in Action for Cass County connects community volunteers to provide nonmedical, neighborly assistance to seniors, the disabled, and people in need throughout Cass County. Faith in Action volunteers provide transportation, friendly visiting, respite for caregivers, light homemaking and chores, and basic home repair, and they build accessibility ramps. 

   Volunteer experiences can be flexible – only a couple of hours each month or week, depending on your availability. You can choose how, when, how far, and how much you want to volunteer. Faith in Action Volunteers receive scheduling coordination, training, liability insurance, recognition, mileage reimbursement and the smiles and joy of being with and helping others.

   Right now, volunteer drivers are critically needed throughout Cass County. Volunteers usually drive their own cars or trucks, but drivers are also needed to drive the Faith in Action van with an accessible lift system. Volunteer Van Driver Training is scheduled for Monday, February 5th at 1 pm. New volunteer orientation is scheduled for February 14th at 1:00 pm and is held monthly. Or training can be set up to fit your schedule.

   You can be the one who adds to your community’s quality of life. For more information about Faith in Action volunteer services or to become a volunteer in your community, call 218-675-5435 or check out the website at www.faithinactioncass.com.

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