Local volunteers traveled thousands of miles annually to provide Calvert County’s injured and orphaned wildlife with the best care possible at top-notch facilities. Volunteers at Project ECHO make sure shelter residents are fed and supported during difficult times. These stories highlight how volunteering is bettering the community and changing lives.
In Southern Maryland, organizations like the Calvert Nature Society and Project ECHO provide chances for residents to make an impact. By working together, volunteers show the value of community.
The Calvert Nature Society works to protect Calvert County’s natural beauty and push environmental education. Their Calvert Stewards volunteer program provides a variety of opportunities, such as assisting with environmental education for elementary students, taking part in wildlife research and science projects, maintaining parks and caring for animals, and transporting injured or orphaned wildlife to rehabilitation centers.
“Calvert Nature Society has the primary mission of protection and preservation of Calvert County’s natural heritage and the creation of an environmentally literate and aware community,” said Volunteer and Grants Coordinator Jessy Oberright. “Part of that effort includes the Calvert Stewards volunteer program which links community volunteers with opportunities to support of the mission of the Calvert County Natural Resources Division.”
For more than 30 years, Project ECHO has offered needed shelter and assistance to people and families in need. Volunteers are vital in this, getting involved in several important ways. The Thrift & Gift Shop, which is maintained solely by volunteers, makes up a large percentage of Project ECHO’s annual funding. Additionally, volunteers help by making and bringing meals for the shelter’s 40 residents. Lastly, volunteers play an important role in the success of Project ECHO’s annual 5K races, which raise funds to support the shelter’s mission.
“Volunteers are uniquely tapped into the heart of the community. They know what’s needed, they know who needs it, and if they don’t know how to provide it, they know a person who does,” said Development Director Teressa Mullen. “Volunteers are everything to Project ECHO.”
Volunteering is about connecting, learning, and growing as a community, not just helping people. Volunteers learn new skills, make connections, and watch how their work impacts the community. Their efforts have a significant impact, benefiting many others.
“Volunteers provide insight, help bridge resource gaps, and improve the quality services provided by the organization,” said Oberright. “The volunteer forges partnerships and friendships, develops a sense of ownership to their community and gains skills, empowerment and confidence as they see their efforts make a difference for others.”
Visit the Calvert Nature Society or Project ECHO websites to start making a difference today.