Nurse-Family Partnership is an evidence-based community healthcare program that empowers low-income, first-time mothers, many who are teenagers, to become confident parents and strong women. By partnering them with nurse home visitors, they develop confidence that will help guide them and their children to successful futures.
NFP has a proven record of effective outcomes by ensuring mothers deliver healthier babies, improving child health and development and reducing welfare dependency. They believe when families grow strong and successful, communities can thrive.
Their goal is for 2014 to be the "year of the mother" by helping their clients to build self-assurance and inner strength. This year, NFP plans to celebrate motherhood with their clients by hosting a grand Mother's Day celebration.
During the event, consumers can trade in the hard-earned "baby bucks" they've been acquiring during their enrollment in the program for motherhood necessities and some pampering items. You can help them in their mission.
NFP is looking for individuals or groups to donate baby items such as diapers, baby wipes and toys for children up to age two and some emotional refueling items for mom like nail polish, gift cards for hair products and lotions.
Contact Barb Still at 570-628-2611 to donate. You can find out more about this dynamic program at www.nursefamilypartnership.org
Mark your calendars: The annual Dine Out will take place Tuesday, April 8, at seven of Schuylkill County's best eating establishments. This year's restaurants are Francesco's, the Greystone, Vito's Coal Fire, Roman Delight in Orwigsburg, the Brick House, Oak Hill Inn and La Dolce Casa. Twenty percent of proceeds will benefit Schuykill Wellness Services consumers. In addition, there will be raffles at each establishment. Reservations are strongly suggested.
Blood drives will be hosted at the Good Shepherd Building in Minersville Monday and at the Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Schuylkill Haven and the Pine Grove Ambulance Thursday. Anyone in general good health who weights at least 110 pounds is encouraged to donate.
For information about volunteer opportunities, call Community Volunteers in Action at 570 628-1426, email jjohnston@co,.schuylkill.pa.us or go to www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/communityvolunteersinaction.
County fair volunteers
Times: Fair runs from July 28 through Aug. 2, but help is needed prior to, during and after the fair.
Responsibility: Variety of volunteer positions available to help make this the best fair ever.
Skills: Ability to perform assigned tasks, friendly.
Location: Fairgrounds in Summit Station.
Contact: Kim Morgan, 570-739-2627 or kamorgan11@gmail.com
Literacy tutors
Times: Four hours per week.
Responsibility: Immediate need to tutor several adult students who are trying to gain the reading skills that will assist them in acquiring marketable job skills.
Skills: Bachelor's degree, background clearances for which the costs will be reimbursed. Training and on-going support provided. Age 55 and above.
Location: Lifelong Learning Center in the Schuylkill Mall.
Contact: Carol Bowen at RSVP, 570-622-3103.