Volunteerism

Grocery prices are higher, the cost of clothes and school supplies is higher, just about everything we buy for our households is more expensive than a year ago. Affordability is a political issue, but for all too many, it’s a personal crisis. The United Way for Southeastern Michigan is providing aid for these everyday items through its Community Fulfillment Center. WEMU's David Fair finds out more about the center’s growing role from UWSEM community engagement and outreach associate director Chris Taylor.

Monday is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The national holiday is an annual reflection on how far we've come, where we stand along with progress that still needs to be made since Dr King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech at the National Mall in August of 1963. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor talked with Eastern Michigan University Chief Access and Opportunity Officer Dwight Hamilton, as we explore the meaning of this day and associated activities here at EMU.

Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels continues to experience high demand for help putting food on the table. That demand is reflected in the organization's decision to add an eighth service route. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

The City of Ann Arbor’s Snow Match program has been growing steadily with more volunteers signing up to help their fellow residents with snow removal. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Today, kids at Perry Early Learning Center in Ypsilanti will be treated to a little extra holiday cheer through an annual gift-giving initiative. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor has more.

Hundreds of people lined up Thursday morning for Eastern Michigan University’s annual “Thankful to Go” Thanksgiving food giveaway. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Since reductions in federal and state assistance were announced, food donations have been pouring into SOS Community Services. But it’s still a challenge keeping up with demand. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels (YMOW) plays a vital role in keeping seniors across the community fed, connected, and supported. As federal and local funding streams face uncertainty, YMOW is faces rising demand for services. Lee Van Roth discussed the challenges with YMOW president and CEO, Barbara Niess-May.

The Ann Arbor Police Department on Tuesday showed its appreciation to the officers and volunteers who helped in the search to find 82-year-old Dr. Ralph Yang last month. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Housing and food insecurity continue to grow in Washtenaw County, and the organizations that assist people through the difficult times are facing some challenges of their own right now. Rhonda Weathers is the executive director of SOS Community Services. She joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the role SOS Community Services has played in its 55 years in the area.