DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are looking for volunteers who are interested in helping children learn to read or want to help elders with grocery shopping and other errands in Cumberland, York and Oxford counties. Adults 55 and over can make a difference in the lives of others while having a great time and earning a little extra money. Foster Grandparents mentor and support academic achievement of children in schools. Senior Companions provide companionship, local transportation and and respite to elders who want to stay in their homes.  

The Opportunity Alliance has openings (with a stipend) for Foster Grandparents and Senior respite to elders seeking to remain living in their homes.

Volunteers who commit to a schedule and meet generous income guidelines receive a tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement and other benefits including monthly training. To learn how you can help your community by joining either program call 207-773-0202 or e-mail fgp@opportunityalliance.org.

—Susan, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Hartford Heritage Society is gearing up for its annual Spring Flower Sale to be held at the J & O Irish Museum on May 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Museum is on Main St. (Route 140) in Hartford. All perennials are $3 and shrubs are $5.

We’re in need of plants from local gardens for our sale. As you spring-clean your gardens, please keep us in mind if you have extra plants. If you need us to dig them up or pick them up, please call the number below.

We are also collecting items for a yard sale to be held at the Hartford Town Hall on June 23. Again as you are spring cleaning, if you have items you no longer want or need, please let us know. We have storage in the Museum barn and can take them any time prior to the sale. We also can pick up your items if needed.

Thank you for your participation in our fund raisers. We work diligently each year in restoring the museum and also love new members. Dues are $2 per year or $25 for a lifetime membership. The museum is open during July and August on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. or by appointment. You can call Rosie at 207-597-2270 or Doreen at 2-207-224-7147. I love Sun Spots and read it diligently. Great information.

—Doreen, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We’re looking for experienced equine volunteers to assist us with our Horsemanship Program. At a Bend in the Road is a non-profit organization working with a great group of adoptive and foster children. We are in need of volunteers who enjoy working with children, have experience working with horses, are able to commit to a regular time each week (can range from 2-8 hours depending on volunteers availability) and have patience and a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of at-risk children.

We are located in Hartford, 20 minutes north of the Auburn Mall. To learn more about who we are and what we do, please go to AtaBendintheRoad.com, or find us on Facebook. For more information about volunteering, please e-mail us at contact@atabendintheroad.com. Thank you!

ANSWER: It never ceases to amaze me that there are so many different ways to volunteer, all within our readership area. I really do hope that everyone finds a way to get out and be involved in the community!

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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