Many ways to help as a volunteer

There are countless opportunities to volunteer in the community. No special skills are necessary other than a desire to help others. For information about listings in the Helping Hand column, call CSC 211 Information and Referral at 2-1-1 or 1-888-826-9790 or visit the Web site at www.informationandreferral.org.

AARP tax aide: prepare income tax returns for seniors and those of low to moderate income. Training provided by IRS, four-hour-per-week commitment for the 10-week tax season. Spanish speakers and/or computer literate people especially needed.

Big Brothers Big Sisters: mentor a child between the ages of 6-12 a few hours a month.

Children's Museum of Utah: junior and adult volunteers needed for various openings; next training Jan. 11.

HEAT: answer phones and make appointments for low-income clients, location flexible, hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Homeless Youth Resource Center: donations of hygiene products, sleeping bags, thermal underwear, hand warmers, backpacks, sewing kits, bus tokens and calling cards are needed. Also need volunteers to serve dinner on Friday nights and help with general office work.

Lincoln Elementary: tutor and help with homework programs for elementary age children. Must be willing to help on a consistent basis, ability to read and apply basic reading and math support to fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade students.

Literacy Action Center: work one-on-one with English-speaking adults to improve their reading skills.

Living Planet Aquarium: teach "hands-on" science concepts to Utah students.

No More Homeless Pets: the following donations are needed: pet food, brushes, animal carriers, paper towels, cat beds, chew bones, Polaroid film and carpet samples.

The Road Home: volunteer as front desk receptionist, answering phones, greeting donors and answering questions. Two-hour shift per week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Rocky Mountain Hospice: assist patients and family with respite care, running errands, taking patients for walks, transportation and simple visiting; 12 hours of training provided.

Salt Lake Donated Dental: help needed with the Chili Open Dinner, auction and golf tournament on Feb. 7-8. Various opportunities available for individuals or groups.

Senior Transportation: need drivers 21 years of age or older to provide transportation for seniors to health related or other essential appointments. Mileage reimbursement available.