(Cass Co.) This spring, 25 Cass County nonprofit organizations were selected to participate in the Iowa HHS – Volunteer Iowa Day of Service initiative, an opportunity designed to strengthen volunteer programs while making a lasting impact in the community.
Beginning in May, representatives from each organization completed nine hours of training focused on building and sustaining successful volunteer programs. Training topics included volunteer recruitment, tracking volunteer hours, recognizing and celebrating volunteers, promoting volunteer opportunities, and retaining dedicated volunteers who make a difference every day.
As the final requirement of the program, each participating organization will host a Day of Service Project designed to positively impact at least 50 community members. These projects not only provide meaningful service to Cass County residents but also introduce new volunteers to the organizations and the important work they do throughout the year.
Community members are encouraged to watch for announcements from participating nonprofits and make it a priority to attend or volunteer at these upcoming events. Together, the 25 organizations have a goal of reaching 1,250 people through their Day of Service projects.
Organizations that successfully complete the required trainings and host a Day of Service Project serving at least 50 people will each receive a $3,000 grant to support their mission. If all 25 organizations meet these requirements, a total of $75,000 will be invested directly back into Cass County nonprofits, helping them continue providing valuable programs and services that strengthen our community.
Most Day of Service projects will take place on or around September 11 in remembrance of the spirit of service inspired by September 11 and the National Day of Service and Remembrance observed on September 11 and 12, when communities across the country come together to honor those affected through acts of kindness and volunteerism.
These projects represent an opportunity for everyone in Cass County to make a difference. Whether by attending an event, volunteering, or simply supporting a local nonprofit, every person who participates helps strengthen our community while supporting organizations that serve our neighbors year-round.
This initiative is made possible through Volunteer Iowa, whose continued investment in volunteerism is helping build stronger nonprofit organizations and more connected communities across Iowa. Volunteer Iowa is the governor-appointed state commission which administers funds from the federal AmeriCorps agency to support national service and community volunteerism.
