Opportunity Enterprises Thankful for Volunteers

Opp-Ent-Three-students-workingOpportunity Enterprises, is paying tribute to their volunteers this week for national Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 10 – 16).

We are extremely grateful for the assistance our volunteers give. Some OE programs and services would not be able to function without the significant time and effort our volunteers put in,” said Cathy Kuchenmeister, Volunteer & Intern Coordinator at Opportunity Enterprises. “Every volunteer is an important and vital part of our success.”

The Valparaiso based non-profit works with approximately 1,200 volunteers throughout the year, with the Chicago Marathon Pack-a-thon being the largest annual volunteer event. This one-day event takes place on a Saturday in September, utilizing 900 volunteers to pack 45,000 runner bags for those participating in the 26.2 mile Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

During the rest of the year, community groups, schools, churches, local universities and individuals help with miscellaneous projects. Volunteer activities include such projects as therapy dog visits, landscaping tasks, Eagle Scout projects, retail market help, internships, general administrative work, and much more.

Opp-Ent-Justin-Rhinefield-Eagle-ScoutOE is a great place to volunteer because we are able to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities to people with diverse talents, skills, and interests,” says Kuchenmeister. “Interested volunteers are always welcome to apply.”

Those interested in volunteering with OE should contact Cathy Kuchenmeister at cathy.kuchenmeister@oppent.org or at 219-464-9621 ext 283. Please note, with the exception of some special events (like Pack-a-thon), volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.

Since 1967, OE has been a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing exceptional support and creating meaningful opportunities that allows its consumers to serve as an inspiration to the community. For more information, visit www.oppent.org.

oe_logoPhotos:

  • Volunteers from Valparaiso University clear brush at OE for last year’s VU Day of Caring
  • Justin Rhinefield of Valparaiso, one of three Eagle Scouts who completed volunteer projects for Opportunity Enterprises in 2010, sits on one of the benches he made for the agency’s Lakeside property