Volunteering Opportunities
Lake Charles
Description:
Americorps, the domestic Peace Corps, engages more than 400,000 Americans in intensive, results-driven service each year, through more than 500 programs. Most Americorps members are selected by and serve with local and national organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, Big/Brothers/Big Sisters, and Boys and Girls Clubs. Others serve in AmeriCorps*VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) and AmeriCorps*NCCC (the National Civilian Community Corps). After their termof service, AmeriCorps members receive education awards to help finance or pay back student loans.
How you can help:
Opportunities to volunteer with Americorps are available all over the state. Contact for more information.
Contact:
Impact Lake Charles
326 Pujo Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 318-491-8735
E-mail: bblaney@cityoflc.us
Calcasieu Association for Retarded Citizens
Description:
C.A.R.C. provides three important programs. Child Development Services provides
training and therapy for children three and younger who are handicapped or at risk. Vocational Services offers various work-training options for mentally retarded adults. Other services include an in-home respite program, speech and occupational therapy. behavior management, transportation training, and parental education.
How you can help:
Volunteer opportunities with C.A.R.C. are widely available. Volunteers staff recreational
activities such as Mardi Gras parties and bowling leagues. Contact for more information.
Contact:
CARC
4100 J. Bennett Johnston Ave.
Lake Charles, LA 70615
Phone: (337) 439-3620
E-mail: prawson@thecarc.com
Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana, Inc.
Description:
Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. is a community based non-profit organization founded in 1988. Volunteers from the community work with undereducated adults and families to improve basic skills. The Literacy Council also has a program to teach English as a second language.
How you can help:
Volunteers are needed to work with undereducated individuals. Volunteers are required to have a high school reading level, must be 18 years-old, and be able to commit to three hours a week.
Contact:
The Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana, Inc.
Lifelong Learning Center
Central School Arts and Humanity Center
809 Kirby St., Suite 126
Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601
Telephone: 337-494-7000 or 800-393-READ
Fax: 337-494-7915
Email: ndemarest@literacyswla.org