By Jamey Helgeson

The Arc Mower County

Volunteers play an important role in all programs, events and the day-to-day operations of The Arc Mower County.

Volunteers are the backbone of our organization — lending support in a variety of ways to the people and families we serve. From playing games with teenagers, to helping a young woman practice her batting swing, coaching a sports team to its first win of the season or working to make an event run smoothly.

Volunteers help spread the word about the challenges of people with I/DD in living and being accepted in the community and how all of us as a nation need to step up to the plate.

Your contribution can make a valuable difference in someone’s life. Volunteer opportunities exist for individuals and groups. You can help on a one-time basis for our special events or on a regular basis working with people and families in our programs and activities.

How do I sign up to volunteer with The Arc Mower County?

Visit www.thearcmc.org/volunteer, Call (507) 433-8994 or email office@thearcmc.org.

Volunteer opportunities

•Activity Assistant (Assist Arc staff with activities which includes games, sporting events, trips, bingo, etc)

•Board of directors / committees

•Fundraisers

•Office assistant / receptionist (answer phones, data entry, prepare mailings and newsletters, etc)

•Special Olympics coaches and unified partners

Group volunteer service opportunities

Businesses, church groups or school groups are welcomed to provide support to those we support. Thank you for your interest in helping the individuals supported by The Arc. Here are projects that your group may help with:

•Group craft-making project

•Group bingo night

•Hold a fundraiser to benefit those at The Arc (bake sale, car wash, etc.)

Upcoming Events

•Applebee’s Dining To Donate: Applebee’s will donate 15 percent of your check to The Arc Mower County when you dine at Applebee’s in Austin or Carside To Go from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29,. Visit www.thearcmc.org/applebees-dining-to-donate to download the flyer that you need to take with you to Applebee’s in Austin or pick up a copy at The Arc office.

•Autism Emergency Preparedness Workshops:

—First Responder Emergency Preparedness, designed for first responders, 911 dispatchers, EMT’s, hospital personnel, law enforcement, fire fighters, service providers, legal professionals and community leaders. This kit includes tools and resources for professionals who encounter individuals with ASD. 9 to 11 a.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2.

—Family, Caregiver, and Individuals with Autism Emergency Preparedness,

designed for individuals with ASD and their families and caregivers, this kit provides tools and resources to plan, prepare and effectively handle emergency situations.

6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 2.

Co-Sponsors/Partners: The Autism Society of Minnesota, The Arc Mower County, Austin Public Schools Community Education, Hormel Historic Home Autism Programs

Register by calling 507-433-8994, email registration@thearcmc.org, online at www.thearcmc.org/autism-emergency-preparedness-workshops through Eventbrite, free, max 50 people per session. Workshops will be held at The Arc Mower County, 401 2nd Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912.