Volunteer Fair at Millbrook Library draws interest in helping

Embracing a spirit of volunteerism, Millbrook area residents explored opportunities during a Volunteer Fair at the Millbrook Library on Saturday, March 15.

Photo by Leila Hawken

Volunteer Fair at Millbrook Library draws interest in helping

MILLBROOK — A Volunteer Fair held at The Millbrook Library on Saturday, March 15, drew a diverse representation of Millbrook area residents willing to learn more about how they can help.

Fourteen nonprofit organizations, large and small, brought displays, hand-out literature and representatives ready to answer questions. The interest was strong as visitors circulated to find just the right match for their interests and abilities to fit with an appropriate opportunity.

“You’re the people I wanted to see,” said one visitor to the booth of Literacy Connections. “How do I get involved,” she asked.

Other organizations offered opportunities to volunteer with animal care, emergency response, environmental programs, food programs, health and wellness, the library, emergency services and more. Volunteer service can be short term, such as helping with an event or date-specific project, or a longer-term program of continuing service, such as assisting with a program’s continuing needs. Whether short term or longer, volunteerism has many rewards.

“It’s a fun organization,” said Angels of Light volunteer Jane Burdis.

The Millbrook Fire Department brought a fire truck along to attract volunteers, whether as firefighters, or as associate members who help with special events and department activities.

For a young person, training available through volunteering provides invaluable early credentials in preparation for high school, college or a future career, or for a senior, sharing abilities to help others is key to purposeful later years.To contact any of these organizations or learn more about volunteer service, go to that organizations’s website.

Latest News

Troutbeck Symposium 2025: the latest chapter in continuing a vital legacy

Participating students and teachers gathered for the traditional photo at the 2025 Troutbeck Symposium on Thursday, May 1.

Leila Hawken

Students and educators from throughout the region converged at Troutbeck in Amenia for a three-day conference to present historical research projects undertaken collaboratively by students with a common focus on original research into their chosen topics. Area independent schools and public schools participated in the conference that extended from Wednesday, April 30 to Friday, May 2.

The symposium continues the Troutbeck legacy as a decades-old gathering place for pioneers in social justice and reform. Today it is a destination luxury country inn, but Troutbeck remains conscious of its significant place in history.

Keep ReadingShow less
Roaring Oaks Florist launches self-serve flower market

Terence S. Miller, owner of Roaring Oaks Florist in the new self-serve area of the shop.

Natalia Zukerman

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Roaring Oaks Florist in Lakeville has launched a new self-serve flower station next to its Main Street shop, offering high-quality, grab-and-go bouquets from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week — including Sundays when the main store is closed.

Owner Terence S. Miller, who bought the shop 24 years ago at just 20 years old, calls the new feature “a modern twist on an old-school honor system,” with some high-tech updates.

Keep ReadingShow less
Third graders enjoy classical treat at Music Mountain

A string quartet opened the Bard Conservatory of Music program for Region One third grade students at Music Mountain.

Patrick L. Sullivan

Region One third grade students attended a chamber music concert by Bard Conservatory of Music students at Music Mountain Tuesday, April 29.

After expending spare energy racing around the Music Mountain lawn, the children trooped into the concert hall and took their seats.

Keep ReadingShow less