The Departmental Progressive Club was founded in 1927 and continues today as a social and service organization. Photo by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet
As Alexandrians continue facing challenging times during the pandemic, individuals have rallied in their spirit of giving, whether it be in time, talents or resources with no shortage of opportunities to get involved. For those new to the city, finding the right opportunity can be confusing but a good place to start is Senior Services of Alexandria.
Senior Services of Alexandria uses volunteers for Meals on Wheels deliveries as well as the Friendly Visitor Program, currently being done virtually, and the Groceries to Go service. With many of SSA’s usual retiree volunteers scaling back due to COVID-19 concerns, younger volunteers are needed to help fill the gap.
“Right now you cannot be older than 65 to volunteer for our in-person services,” said SSA Executive Director Mary Lee Anderson. “We can use older volunteers to help with the Friendly Visitor program, which is virtual, so anyone can help make calls to older seniors to check in and keep them connected to the community.”
The in-person SSA services include Meals On Wheels delivery and the Groceries to Go program.
“For Meals On Wheels we need younger, healthy volunteers who are able to volunteer for 2 hours once a week,” Anderson said. “The Groceries to Go program matches a volunteer up with a senior to provide grocery shopping once every two weeks. But anybody can be a virtual Friendly Visitor so we welcome anyone who is interested in volunteering with us.”
Carpenter’s Shelter, the city’s homeless shelter, uses volunteers for administrative tasks and meal services. Volunteer Alexandria will help connect individuals with a nonprofit organization or city agency that needs assistance and suits their interests.
The American Legion provides support and services for veterans from World War II through the War on Terror. Members also volunteer in numerous community activities, including Rebuilding Together Alexandria, which works year-round to repair and rehabilitate homes free of cost for those in need, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, military veterans and families with children.
Since 1948, the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club has been providing scholarships to high school athletes through fundraising events and monthly meetings that feature speakers such as NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green.
One of the oldest organizations in the city is the Departmental Progressive Club. Originally founded in 1927 when recreational facilities were segregated, the DPC’s mission is "the creation of wholesome recreation, the encouragement of good character and the fostering of fellowship among its members.”
From national organizations like Rotary International, Lions Club and Fraternal Order of the Eagles to local nonprofits like Senior Services of Alexandria, there are seemingly endless opportunities to volunteer your time and talents.
Alexandria Rotary Club, www.alexandriarotary.org
Alexandria West Rotary Club, www.awrotary.org
Alexandria Central Rotary Club, www.alexcentralrotary.org
Alexandria Sportsman’s Club, www.alexandriavasports.org
American Legion Post 24, www.valegionpost24.org
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, www.alexandriaanimals.org
Carpenter’s Shelter, www.carpentersshelter.org
Departmental Progressive Club, www.DPC1927.org
Fraternal Order of the Eagles, www.foe871.com
Kiwanis, Kiwanis of Del Ray, www.alexandriakiwanis.org
Lions Club of Alexandria, www.lionsclub.org
Rebuilding Together Alexandria, www.rebuildingtogetheralex.org
Senior Services of Alexandria, www.seniorservicesalex.org
Volunteer Alexandria, www.volunteeralexandria.org