Three Volunteer Opportunities in DeRidder, Louisiana

Looking for something to do after retirement? Maybe you're one of those folks wanting to give something back to your neighbors. Maybe, you just want to do something kind. Whatever your reasons, if you live in or near DeRidder, Louisiana, the following organizations are looking for good people to help.

C.A.S.A of West Central Louisiana: C.A.S.A. Is an acronym for "Court Appointed Special Advocate," and that's exactly what you do. In the modern American court system, you would volunteer to represent the interests of children within the foster care system, and the children only. When everyone else might be serving their own personal agenda, you'd be the one speaking on behalf of the all-too-easily overlooked kids.

While people from all walks of life are welcomed (and needed), volunteers are expected to pass a background check, pass a 30-hour training class, and of course, commit yourself to each individual case until it is closed. The application on their website doesn't take as long as you might think, or you can call with questions at 337 462-4667.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of DeRidder, Louisiana: Perhaps you'd like the chance to be a positive influence in a child's life early on, and thereby help them avoid some of the problems they might face later without proper guidance. Big Brothers/Big Sisters of DeRidder, Louisiana would love to hear from you.

The good that is achieved by being a mentor, guide, and possibly a life-saving friend to a child in need cannot be described in something so trivial as a few words. Knowing you've played a role in being a good influence on someone's future is a reward which far exceeds any sort of compensation.

Of course, Big Bothers/Big Sisters of America must protect the children within their program, so in addition to the application, you'll need to provide references, do a one-on-one interview, and pass a background check. But for those who have something of value to offer their fellow man, it's a small price to pay. Start the ball rolling by either visiting the website, or calling them at 337 460-5437

God's Food Box: Maybe you're not able to commit the time requirements of the previous opportunities, but you still want to give a little something of yourself to the community. God's Food Box allows you that chance. Volunteers can help with cleaning, stocking food donations, organizing individual packages, and of course, lots of heavy lifting. (Come on guys! It's a chance to do lots of grunting, and showing off those muscles, all while helping your neighbors.) They have a need for other help, such as administration, too.

God's Food Box has one simple agenda; and that is to do their part in making sure people in the area aren't going without something to eat. This charity is church affiliated, but regardless of your religious beliefs, you might be surprised how much your help is needed. Give them a call at 337 463-4449 to find out.