Site Listing

Canisius College and Buffalo: Hope for the Future through Service

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

A

ACCESS of WNY, Inc  
Arab American Community Center for Economic & Social Services
697 Ridge Rd.
Lackawanna, NY 14218

Click Here for Directions
Contact: Muna Munassar
Phone:  (716)332-5901
Email: 
accesswny@yahoo.com 
Days and Times: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. Open weekends for Arabic classes from 10am to 3pm.
Agency description:The Arab American Community Center for Economic and Social Services of Western New York, ACCESS of WNY, Inc, is a group established in 2005 by concerned community members whose vision was to improve the lives of the Arab American families and youth residing in Lackawanna and the Buffalo Region. Their  mission is to install confidence within our youth by providing services that address social, cultural and educational aspects. By providing these services we believe this is the first step in a brighter, healthier and successful future.
Service opportunities: 
This spring ACCESS would like to have between 2 and 5 Canisius service learners at their site. Since this organization has only been around since 2005, there is a lot of meaningful work that needs to be done!  Students can assist in the after-school program by providing a range of services in all subject areas.  Students should be open minded and be willing to try new activities to enrich the learning processes of the youth. ACCESS needs assistance in the following areas as well:
-Immigration Assistance
-Citizenship Preparation
-English Literacy
-Arabic Literacy
-Client/Case Management/Family Advocacy
-Social Services Assistance
-Translator/ Interpreter Services
-Cultural Arts Programs
-Community Engagement

American
Cancer Society - Hope Lodge
101 John James Audubon Parkway
Amherst, NY 14228
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Jo Ann Harig, Director of Special Events
Phone: 716-689-6982 x119
Email: joann.harig@cancer.org (preferred method of contact)
Days and Times: Flexible hours
Agency description:
The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the ACS has 12 chartered Divisions, more than 900 local offices nationwide, and a presence in more than 5,100 communities. Together with our millions of supporters, the American Cancer Society (ACS) saves lives and creates a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back.
Service opportunities: This spring semester 2012 service-learners would be extensively involved with running the “Daffodil Days” program. This campaign is aimed at raising funds and awareness to help beat cancer. The Daffodil Days program involves offering daffodil flowers every spring to donors in appreciation of their contributions. There will also be opportunities for community outreach/local advocacy activities. In addition service-learners may organize activities for the patients staying at Hope Lodge such as:
-Cooking a meal for the guests once a month (food is provided)
-Utilizing the collection of videos and plan a movie night
Also studentsmay participate in special events:
-ex. Relay for Life
-ex. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Required Skills: Project oriented, dynamic, energetic, with demonstrated time management and multi-tasking ability, proven interpersonal, verbal & communication skills. Must be able to think strategically and execute detailed plans to completion. Service-learner must have computer literacy and a strong commitment to the mission of the ACS. 
Link to Volunteer Application

Assumption Parish Religious Education
435 Amherst St.
Buffalo, NY 14207
Click Here for Directions
Note: School building is behind church building
Contact: Mary Lou Wyrobek
Email:
wyrobekm@canisius.edu *Contact by email first, then phone.
Phone: 716-873-7187
Notes: Saturday
Times: 9:30-10:45 am
Service opportunities:
In-class assistance
-k-8 religious education
-Help with class preparations
-presentations
-interact with students
Note: School building is behind church building.

B


Bethel Head Start, INC
1485 Jefferson Ave
Buffalo, NY 14208
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-and-
1424 Jefferson Ave 
Buffalo, NY 14208
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Sara L. Lamoreaux, Education Manager
Phone: 878-0220, ext 19
Email:
slamoreaux@bethelheadstart.org
Days and Times: vary
Service opportunities: Bethel Head Start offers a variety of opportunities including:
Education
helping in classrooms, reading to children, assisting with special programs focused on health, nutrition, and dental education
Business/Digital Media Arts
assist with human resources, finance, marketing and advertising departments (promotional videos needed!)  
Please Note: In order to do service here students are required to fill out an application and have had a physical exam and TB test within the past year.

Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper (Opportunities exist only in early spring and fall)
1250 Niagara Street
Buffalo, NY 14213
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Kerri Bentkowski LI, Citizen Action Coordinator
Phone: 716-852-7483 ext. 11
Website:
www.bnriverkeeper.org
Days and Times: vary
Service opportunities:
Environmental Service Opportunities
-tree plantings with ReStore Corps
-shore-line clean-up projects. Become a site captain and find volunteers to help clean trash along shoreline and in parks
-become a Riverwatch Captian and help with water quality monitoring
Education
-attend events during the spring and summer to educate the public about Riverkeeper

Buffalo
Olmsted Parks Conservancy
84 Parkside Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14214
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Steven Nagowski, Volunteer Coordinator
Email: 
steven@bfloparks.org
Phone: 716-838-1249 ext. 15
Website:
www.buffaloolmstedparks.org
Days and Times: vary
Service opportunities:
Digital Media Arts
-team projects to create literature
-manage flickr accounts
-web site design

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Society Inc.
499 Franklin Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Wendy Diina
Email: wdiina@bpo.org
Website: http://www.bpo.org/
Days and Times:  Days and times will vary. BPO is ideally looking for one to two students to be with them for the entire 2012 spring semester, there will be extensive training involved. They need someone ASAP!
Agency description:The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Society, Inc. provides a resident, professional, major symphony orchestra of artistic excellence and integrity to enrich the quality of life in Western New York through the presentation of live symphonic music and other musical events which educate and entertain the broadest possible audiences within and beyond the Western New York region.
Service opportunities:     
-Development and marketing
-Complete overhaul of BPO website content; lots of web-based research involved
-Write musician bios to be put on website
-Will take photographs and videos of performances
-Some clerical/administrative duties (about 10% of service)
-
Event planning

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Community Spotlight Events
Kleinhans Music Hall
370 Pennsylvania Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Sue Fay Allen, Coordinator of the BPO Education Committee
Phone: 716-759-6428
E-mail:
suefayca@roadrunner.com
Website: http://www.bpo.org/education/educators.php
Time Commitment:  
This is a one day, six hour commitment for those taking Professor Kathleen Keenan-Takagi’s course FAM124 for the 2012 spring semester.
Agency description:
Formerly known as Community Nights, Community Spotlight showcases school and community groups from across Western New York. All performances take place in the Mary Seaton Room prior to select BPO concerts throughout the season, and enable students the chance to perform at Kleinhans Music Hall, as well as hear the Buffalo Philharmonic perform.
Service opportunities: Service-learners will assist the professional staff of the BPO in running the education committee's "Community Spotlight" series that occurs before the regular BPO classic concerts. Duties include welcoming the group, assisting the group in setting up, chaperoning the group up to the balcony, and guiding them to a talk with Joann Falletta at intermission. Each service-learner will receive a free ticket to the event since they will be working before and after the schuduled performance. Additional help is also needed at the coat check station both prior to and following the event.


C

Community Action Organization (CAO) / The Green Entrepreneurial Center
70 Harvard Place
Buffalo, NY 14209 –
within walking distance of Canisius campus!
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Mike Lee, Director and Horticulturist
Phone: (716)-881-5150 x4505
Email:
mlee@caoec.org
Website: http://www.caoec.org/html/gec.html
Time Commitment: Days and times will vary
Agency description: The Community Action Organization's urban farm was created out of federal stimulus money to produce fresh, healthy, affordable organic food to the local community and to create jobs for the people of Erie County. Part of our mission is to lower the cost of fresh food in Buffalo, and currently our products cost 50% less than our local competitors!
Our farms are helping to fight the war on poverty by being able to operate in “food desert” areas where no grocery stores exist; this allows people to acquire fresh chemical free foods without having to travel to distant grocery stores. Our farms create training in agriculture, aquaculture, composting, business management, and marketing to allow people to run a business and create new jobs.
Service opportunities:
- Advertising and promotional materials
-Assistance with maintenance of 3 greenhouses and 75 open gardening beds
-Assistance with
Keep Buffalo Neatprogram (professional lawn care and snow removal services)
-Composting upkeep
-Curriculum development
-Fundraising and grant-writing/research
-Plant pruning and harvesting to sell to local restaurants
-Pollinator conservation project to protect bees (begins in March)
-Seed germination
-Urban farming/landscaping following all organic, chemical-free guidelines (training provided)
-Website assistance

Catholic
Charities: Immigration and Refugee Assistance Program
210 Albany St.
Buffalo NY 14213
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Becky Mischler, Volunteer Coordinator
Phone: 716-842-0270
Email:
b.mischler@ccwny.org
Notes: Monday through Friday
Times: Open 8:45 am-4:45 pm
Agency description: Catholic Charities welcomes immigrants into Buffalo, providing the guidance and assistance necessary for newcomers to stabilize their situations, achieve self-sufficiency as quickly as possible, and participate in the life of the community.
Service opportunities:
Refugee and Immigration Assistance Services
-ESL classes for adults
-tutoring
-helping people prepare for employment searches
-teaching simple computer programs to staff
-basic adult computer classes
-help get apartments ready for clients
Case Management
-Assist case managers with the needs of refugees.

Coalition
for Economic Justice
237 Main Street, Suite 1200
Buffalo, NY 14203
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Micaela Shapiro-Shelby
Phone: 716-892-5877
Fax: 716-852-3802
Email:
micaela@buffalojwj.org
Website: http://www.buffalojwj.org/index.html
Days and Times: vary
Agency description: The Coalition for Economic Justice is an ongoing coalition of labor, faith, community, academic and student activists and organizations. They engage in collective action to promote strong, sustainable communities and economic justice for all. Together, they build and win dynamic campaigns for living wages, rights at work, accountable economic development and health care for all, through education, public advocacy and mobilization of our members, communities, and allies.
Service opportunities:
Communications/Digital Media Arts
-help with newsletter
-listserv
-blogs
-website
-research

Community Action Organization (CAO) / The Green Entrepreneurial Center
70 Harvard Place
Buffalo, NY 14209 –
within walking distance of Canisius campus!
Contact:
Mike Lee, Director and Horticulturist
Phone: (716)-881-5150 x4505
Email:
mlee@caoec.org
Website:http://www.caoec.org/html/gec.html
Days and Times:
Days and times will vary
Agency description: The Community Action Organization's urban farm was created out of federal stimulus money to produce fresh, healthy, affordable organic food to the local community and to create jobs for the people of Erie County. Part of our mission is to lower the cost of fresh food in Buffalo, and currently our products cost 50% less than our local competitors! Our farms are helping to fight the war on poverty by being able to operate in “food desert” areas where no grocery stores exist; this allows people to acquire fresh chemical free foods without having to travel to distant grocery stores. Our farms create training in agriculture, aquaculture, composting, business management, and marketing to allow people to run a business and create new jobs.
Service opportunities:
-Advertising and promotional materials
-
Assistance with maintenance of 3 greenhouses and 75 open gardening beds
-Assistance with Keep Buffalo Neat program (professional lawn care and snow
removal services)
-Composting upkeep
-Curriculum development
-Fundraising and grant-writing/research
-Plant pruning and harvesting to sell to local restaurants
-Pollinator conservation project to protect bees (begins in March)
-Seed germination
-Urban farming/landscaping following all organic, chemical-free guidelines (training
provided)
-Website assistance


D 

Dog Ears Bookstore and Literary Arts Center
688 Abbott Road
Buffalo NY 14220
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Thomas McDonnell
Phone: (716)-823-2665
Email:
tom@enlightenthedog.org
Days and Times
: Students can come during any of our business hours, Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM-9:00PM and some Sundays throughout the year we open at 11:00 AM. Times can be arranged to meet student needs.
Transportation: Students without cars can take the metro rail downtown to the “Abbott Rd.” bus 14A which will drop you off within walking distance of Dog Ears.
Agency Description: We are an independent bookstore whose proceeds, along with grants, private donations and events, support our literary arts center. Our programs are diversified to serve all members of our community, but we dedicate ourselves to the children of our neighborhood. Story times, after school reading help, and writing camps give us the opportunity to make an impact in the lives of children. We pride ourselves in having a fun, energetic and imaginative environment that produces readers-for-life. We offer a space where students and facilitators alike can create and explore all that words have to offer.
Service Opportunities:
-to develop and implement imaginative reading and writing programs and camps
-to assist in marketing and the promotion of the funkiest bookstore on earth
-to see words come to life through the eyes of newborn reader or writer
-to aid the business, fundraising, or grant proposal components of our
organization in securing a place that binds and cultivates a community


Drop-In Nation
700 Main St.
Buffalo, NY 14202
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Stacey Watson
Phone: (716)-842-8609
Email:
Dropinnation@gmail.com
Website: Dropinnation.com
Agency description: The mission of Drop In Nation is to serve out of school youth as well as unemployed or underemployed adults. They accomplish this by providing holistic education, which includes life skills, and career-training opportunities in a collaborative community based setting.
Service opportunities: Math tutoring for at-risk youth.

E

ENERGY Program @ Westminster Presbyterian Church
724 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209-2294
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Katie Little
Email: little2@canisius.edu
Website: /camp_minist/interns.asp 
Days and Times:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 4:30pm 6:30pm
Organization Description:  Energy is an after school program for kids in grades 2-6 living on the West side of Buffalo.  The program, based out of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, focuses on building community between mentors and students while providing a welcoming atmosphere that makes learning fun.
Service opportunities: Tutor students in various subject areas and/or create educational activities.


Enivronmental Justice Action Group of WNY
JFK Community Center
114 Hickory St.
Buffalo, NY 14204
Click Here for Directions
Contact:Judith Anderson, Executive Director
Email: 
Judith.ejag@gmail.com(preferred)
Phone: 716-698-1551 or 716-332-4554

Website:
http://weact.org/Coalitions/EJLeadershipForumonClimateChange/
EJLeadershipForumMembers/EnvironmentalJusticeActionGroupofWesternNew/
tabid/535/Default.aspx

Time Commitment:
 Days and times will vary
On-Site Orientation Training: February 9th, 2012 at 4pm, please contact Judith with any questions.
Agency description: The Environmental Justice Action Group of WNY is a non-profit, community-based, environmental justice organization dedicated to building community capacity to fight environmental racism and improve environmental health, protection and policy in communities of low income and color.
Service opportunities: Since EJAG is a fairly new organization there are a variety of areas in which service-learners can contribute their services. Some opportunities include:
-Working on a campaign to encourage supermarkets to come back to the East Side of Buffalo to make healthy food more accessible to lower-income families. The service-learner will assist the EJAG intern with taking photographs of fresh foods on the East Side (or lack thereof)
-Writing articles for the EJAG website on environmental justice issues (invasive species, pollution hot-spots, urban community gardening, natural resource conservation/
phytoremediation, etc.)
-Helping to plan a party celebrating the birth of the EJAG East Ferry community garden to be held at the True Bethel Church on March 22nd from 5:30pm-7:00pm. This party will also be a recognition ceremony for all of the youth who aided in the construction and maintenance of the garden.
-Assisting with database entry for accounting systems
-Volunteer and member recruitment
-Community event planning/brainstorming ideas for creative fundraisers
-Helping to create an EJAG newsletter and contribute articles and ideas
-Grant research
-Community garden maintenance
-Assisting with designing potential parks or gardens

The Epilepsy Association of WNY
339 Elmwood Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14222
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Barbara Brossard; Director
Phone: (716)-883-5396
Website:
http://www.epilepsywny.com
Address: 339 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo 14222
Days and Times:
Agency description:class=ourmission> To assist individuals and their families in coping with and adjusting to Epilepsy and/or seizure disorders to enable them to lead more independent, productive and satisfying lives.
<Service opportunities:<
<- Public relations activities supporting annual fundraiser "International Purple Day" 
<-Help design, produce, and distribute brochures, cards, and advertising items
<-Contact media regarding advertising
<-Contact potential donors

F

Family Promise of WNY
16 Glendu Place
Buffalo, NY 14210
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Megan Bingham, Community Partnership Coordinator
Phone: 716-821-9100
E-mail:
MeganBingham1234@gmail.com
Website:
www.fpwny.org
Days and Times: Open Monday thru Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm. Some service work can also be completed via computer and therefore could be done on the weekends.
Agency description: The mission of Family Promise of Western New York is to
unite religious and other organizations in responding to the needs of homeless
families in our community. Uniting hearts and hands, the network provides a way
for homeless families to receive temporary shelter, meals, and assistance while
seeking their own independence. It's more than providing shelter, meals and
support. It's about keeping entire families together while they work toward having
a home to call their own.
Service opportunities:
Our day center is where guest families can get started on their personal paths
toward stability. At the day center these individuals can receive their mail, catch
the school bus, and have a space where they can get ready for work. The center
provides guests with a home-like environment where they have access to laundry
facilities, showers, kitchen, phones, and an internet connection so that they can
seek out employment, housing, day care, etc.
Food Drives
This upcoming March of 2012 we will be having a food drive. Service-learners will
help to organize a food-drive competition between middle school-aged children. At
the end of the month, the middle school class which raises the most food
donations will win a pizza party sponsored by Family Promise. Service-learners will
be helping to motivate these children and will pick up the food donations from the
competing classes. There will be a few more food drives which service-learners
will help to coordinate for churches and the general Buffalo community.
Cleaning Supply Drive
Service-learners will help to coordinate a drive to collect cleaning supply
donations which will help the families of Family Promise begin their spring cleaning.
Students will also aid in publicizing the event.
Houses for Change Project
This project is focused on creating community awareness around the issue of
homelessness in WNY. Service-learners will distribute donation boxes (built by
middle school children) which look like miniature houses. The service-learner will
be responsible for collecting houses, finding local businesses interested in keeping
a “House for Change” on their checkout counter, and will have to collect the
accumulated change. After one month the service-learner will pick up the change
and then redistribute the houses to new business locations.
Research Projects
Service-learners can research available housing in the Buffalo region, research
various grant opportunities for which Family Promise qualifies, and can help to find
other miscellaneous resources for the families. Students can also assist in the
actual writing and editing of grants.
Extras
-Cleaning the Day Center
-Clerical Duties (minimal)
-Brainstorming new fundraising events and ideas
-Help to organize the Volunteer Conference to be held March 3rd, 2012
<-Provide translations of Family Promise brochures into Spanish or French

G

Gerard Place: Transitional Housing Program For Homeless Single Parent Families
2515 Bailey Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14215
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Mary Woodberry, Case/Property Assistant
Phone: 716-897-9948 ext. 104
Email:
mwgerardplace@aol.com
Notes: Tuesday through Thursday
Times: 3-5 pm
Service opportunities: Students will assist with direct supervision of infants and small children during the after-school youth program. Students will work with Gerard Place staff to create programming for the children and assist with events such as parties or trips into the community. Each student will have to attend a 3-4 hour required training “Protecting God’s Children” so as to meet babies’ needs effectively and safely.

Girls on the Run: Educating and Preparing for a Lifetime of Healthy Living
PO Box 1271
Buffalo, NY 14213
Contact:
Meghan Cavanaugh, Program Director
Phone: 716-867-6044
E-mail:
meghanc@gotrbuffalo.org
Website:
www.gotrbuffalo.org
Days and Times:
2 days a week for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes each session, for 24 sessions. Begins the week of March 25th and lasts thru June 13th; therefore students interested in serving here must continue their service after the Canisius spring semester has ended.
Agency description: Girls on the Run combines training for a 5K (3.1 miles) running event with healthy living education. The curriculum instills self-esteem through education, life skills development, mentoring relationships, and physical training - all of which are accomplished through an active collaboration with girls and their parents, schools, volunteers, staff, and the community.
Service Opportunity: Volunteer coaches engage the girls in games and running-based workouts that encourage emotional, social, psychological and physical development. Girls on the Run is in need of 5 coaches this upcoming semester to train girls ages 8-13 for the 5k run in June. Head coaches are female but assistant coaches can be male. All training is provided by GOTR. Because coaches are working with youth, there will be a criminal background check. You can fill out this
coach applicationform and will then be contacted by Meghan for a short interview.

Gloria
J. Parks Community Center
3242 Main St.
Buffalo, NY 14214
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Christopher Scibilia
Phone: 716-832-1010
Website:
www.uhcda.org
Days and Times: Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm
Agency description: The Gloria J. Parks Community Center in association with the University Community Development Association aims to meet the growing needs of youth, adults, and seniors in the Buffalo Community. This is established by providing a number of services ranging from youth programs, housing, financial assistance and much more.
Program Description: Our youth program focuses on providing children 1st - 6th grade with an enriching social environment, while teaching them to new skills and exposing them to new experiences. We offer a variety of enrichment programs such as science, art, chess, table tennis, break-dancing, unicycle lessons, and much more. We also aim to improve academic performance of children in school by providing them with tutoring and homework help. The senior program provides a positive social atmosphere for seniors, as well as addressing their nutritional and health needs. In addition to recreational activities such as bingo, cards, and art, seniors also are provided with a nutritious meal and light exercise instruction. Service-learners must engage and help facilitate the activities of each respective program depending on whether or not they choose to work with youth or seniors. Service-learners may also be asked to attend field trips.
Youth Program
-Operates from 3pm - 6pm
-Provide homework help and enrichment services for children 1st - 6th
Senior Program
-Operates from 9am-2pm
-Engaging and assisting seniors in recreational activities and other forms of assistance
Mem Service learners working with Gloria J. Parks youth must be willing to come to the site 1 day per week for 3 hours, 3:00pm to 6:00pm. This time commitment is crucial so that the service learner can build rapport with specific children, and a consistent schedule will aid in the establishment of this rapport. There will be a brief orientation offered by the Youth Coordinator so that service-learners can meet these children’s needs effectively.

Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo
TriMain Center 2495 Main St.
Suite #408, Buffalo, NY 14214
Contact:
Jenny Whittaker; Community Garden Coordinator/ WNY AmeriCorps
Phone: (716) 783-9653
E-mail:
grgbuffalo@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.grassrootsgardens.org/
Agency description: Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo is a community gardening program in Western New York working with public and private sectors to revitalize neighborhoods and build quality of life through the reuse and beautification of vacant land.
Service opportunities: Jenny can offer 2-3 hours of work per week for 1-2 students. Students would plant seedlings in March and return weekly to water them until May, guaranteed work for 2 students max for spring semester of 2012.

Groundwork Buffalo
237 Main St., Suite 1200
Buffalo, 14203
Click Here for Directions
(Students can take metro from campus to Groundwork without buses)
Contact:
Siobhan Fitzgerald-Cushing, Community Relations Coordinator at Canisius College
Phone: 716-888-2162
E-mail:
fitzge20@canisius.edu
Website:
http://www.groundworkbuffalo.org/
Mem All placements at this site are reserved for Dr. Nancy Rourke’s classes for the spring semester of 2012
Agency description: Groundwork Buffalo is a local affiliate of the
Groundwork USA Network– a group of independent, not-for-profit, environmental businesses called Groundwork Trusts working with communities in conjunction with the National Parks Serviceand the Environmental Protection Agencyto improve their environment, economy and quality of life through local action by getting people, business, government and other organizations involved in practical projects.
Service opportunities:
Urban Waters Program
• Plan, organize and host community outreach events and workshops
• Develop and conduct watershed education events and workshops.
• With community input, identify and map sites for demonstration projects
  (rain gardens, constructed wetlands, habitat restoration)
• Establish a Community Advisory Coalition (within the GWB focus area) with
  target goal of 5 organizations represented and 10 community members
• Identify, contact and set up outreach meetings with potential partners.
• Recruit and track volunteers for events and programs.
Brownfields Program
• Research and interview organizations with successful community-based
  brownfield remediation programs and projects. Schedule site visits for GWB
  staff and board.
• Produce a Groundwork Buffalo brownfield remediation field guide based on
  best practices and knowledge gained through site visits and training.
• Establish a Community Brownfield and Vacant Property Advisory Coalition
  that will work proactively with the City of Buffalo to encourage local policy
  shifts that encourage community-lead greening projects on vacant
  properties and brownfields.
• Identify and map brownfields with potential to become green space sites or
  other community assets within the Groundwork Buffalo Mid-City focus area.
Green Team (environmental education & job training program)
·  Develop curriculum for 2012 season
·  Plan and conduct Green Team promotional/recruiting events
·  Develop assessment tools for 2012 program
General Administration
·  Grant research and writing
·  Assist with board development activities
·  Plan, organize and conduct fundraising events
·  Email fundraising appeals(Vertical Response)
·  Interview partners, staff and board; write content for e-newsletters
· Take photographs of GWB events, programs and projects.
· Manage Facebook, Twitter updates

H

H.E.A.R.T. (Helping Empower At-Risk Teens)
1131
Kensignton Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14215
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Wendy Ehrenfelb
Phone: 716-834-0080
Website:
www.heartfound.org
Days and Times:  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6pm-8pm
Agency description: HEART provides many counseling, family, tutoring and skill building programs for at risk teens and their families.  It provides emotional help to kids ages 5-21 involved in Juvenile court system, foster care, as well as re-entering into community. They would like to give families opportunities and tools to take their next steps in making positive changes for themselves.
Requirements: You must complete a background check as well as an orientation that will describe what H.E.A.R.T. is looking for and how the students can be more helpful. If you are working with kids or families must put in at least 2 hours each session.
Service opportunities:
Girls Circle (Monday 6pm-8pm)
Anger Management (Tuesday 6pm-8pm)
Expressive Art (Thursday 6pm-8pm)

I

International Institute of Buffalo
864 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209
Click Here for Directions
Contact:Ashley Otto, Intenational Exchange Coordinator
Phone: 716-883-1900 ext. 302
Email:
volunteers@iibuff.org
Website: http://www.iibuff.org/
Notes: Monday through Friday
Times: 8:30-5:00
Service opportunities:
English Classes
-help teach refugees English
-small class of adults
-interpreter and ESL teacher present
Full Semester Commitment
- Language Services
- Refugee Resettlement
- International Visitor and Education 
Mem You will have to complete the
online applicationwhich will be submitted to volunteers@iibuff.org. There will be a phone interview with Ashley Otto, the Volunteer and Resource Coordinator, so that she can place you in the appropriate department. There may or may not be a follow-up interview with your department head.

J

Jewish Family Services: Refugee Resettlement Program
70 Barker Street,
Buffalo, NY 14209
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Phone: (716) 883-1914 et. 339
Email: mdomingo@jfsbuffalo.org
Website:  http://www.jfsbuffalo.org/refugee.html
Day & Times: Monday- Tuesday 8:30am- 8pm, Wednesday to Friday
8:00am -5:00pm
Agency description: Jewish Family Services is a nonsectarian, not for profit, community-based health and social service provider that has served its community since 1862.  JFS helps families and individuals make the transition from troubled regions overseas to a new life in America. The staff assists children and families from Sudan, Bosnia, Liberia and other strife-torn areas of the world. JFS facilitates entrance into the United States, greet clients upon their arrival at the airport and provide them with food, clothing and basic shelter with the goal of helping them to become self-sufficient.
Program Description:  Students can assist by organizing and updating files for immigration purposes, setting up apartments for arrival (as needed), providing financial literacy workshops, organizing presentations as an orientation to America and coordinating the donation room.

Journey's End Refugee Services
Tri Main Center
2495 Main Street, Suite 317
Buffalo, NY 14214
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Bryana DiFonzo, Vocational Trainer
Phone: 716-563-7149
Email: bdifonzo@jersbuffalo.org
Website: www.jersbuffalo.org
Days and Times:vary
Agency description: Journey's End Refugee Services, Inc. is a Christian community-based organization with the mission of welcoming refugees without regard to ethnic origin or creed and to assist them to become healthy, independent, contributing members of the community.
Service opportunities:
- interacting with resettled refugees, accompany to apartments, teach metro system (utilize a bus pass)
- assisting with apartment set-up
- helping increase financial literacy
- employment help
- tutoring for the citizen exam (history class)
- helping with ESL classes and tutoring 9:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Tu, Wed, & Thur
- graphic design
- data entry
Public Relations: A number of students/groups could do this as there will be various audiences/markets/display materials needed
Grant writing: for various programs including sponsorship of special events
Web Wizard: to assist with linking materials to the website, to work with staff on web based postings, and to work with staff on web-based/on-line skills (teach/mentor)
Computer teaching tools: Create PowerPoint or cds/dvds to assist with basic life skills: dressing to suit the weather, keeping a safe & healthy kitchen (for newcomers who have never experienced a modern kitchen), financial literacy, basic money, banking, bill payment, and American holidays - cultural awareness
Business/Management: Assist with the planning, management of events, tracking programs, establishing record systems for volunteer dept. etc.
Foreign Language: Work with clients & practice language skills in Swahili, Arabic, French, Spanish, Burmese, Farsi
Civics Tutoring Program: Work with refugees to increase English vocabulary and help them to learn the fundamentals of US government and history. 1-2 days/wk as mutually agreed upon by tutor and refugee, and location to be negotiated between tutor and refugee. You will be given a 50 page Civics Tutoring Materials Packet, this is a curriculum of 100 questions that refugees need to know in order to pass their Citizenship Exam.
Let’s Go to the Library Program: Hands-on learning for refugees ages 5-21. Supervise and engage children in reading activities. Program meets the following Saturdays for the spring semester of 2012: 01/21, 01/28, 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/03, 03/10, 03/24, 03/31, 04/14, 04/21, 04/28. Contact Megan Schear for more inf 716-946-4180 or
mes@jersbuffalo.org
For students with larger hour requirements:
we need help on Monday or Fridays mornings from 9-12 (times are slightly flexible as I know many will have classes). You would be accompanying refugee clients to locations outside the JERS offices and work with them in a group while they volunteer somewhere. (i.e. lot clean-ups, computer trainings, volunteering at the SPCA, learning trade skills in the housing industry, etc.) This will provide a lot of interaction in a relaxed and fun environment.
Mem If you have particular skills or interests and would be comfortable teaching to a group (financial literacy, interviewing skills, dance, crafts, etc) times can be arranged for you to lead a workshop. This is a good fit for motivated students who only need to fulfill a few hours, but it also could work for anyone.

Junior
Achievement of WNY
275 Oak St.
Buffalo, NY 14203
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Alycia Ivancie
Phone: 716-853-1381 ext. 15
Email:
aivancie@jawny.org
Website: http://wny.ja.org
Agency description: Junior Achievement of WNY is a non-profit organization that places student, business, and community volunteers in local classrooms to help children learn about the global economy, the value of free enterprise, and the importance of staying in school.  The time commitment is minimal, usually about 10 hours, and includes five, six or seven 45 minute sessions in a classroom. Students choose the grade level and subject matter in which they are comfortable. JA provides training, lesson plans, and materials, so no experience is necessary.
Service opportunity:
Tutoring:
Volunteers will be given materials and lesson plans to go into classrooms and work with students of all grade levels on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness.  For a list of schools this organization works with, please visit the website
http://wny.ja.org
Digital Media Arts:
Create promotional videos

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Liberty Partnerships Program
Office of University Preparatory Programs
Diefendorf Annex, Rm. 1 Bldg. 21
3435 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14214-3021
Contact:
Ramone Alexander, Project Director
Phone: 716-829-5678
Email: 
raa1@buffalo.edu
Alternate Contact: Judith Colón, Assistant Director (716-829-5678 or
jcolon2@buffalo.edu)
Website:
www.oupp.buffalo.edu/liberty 
Days and Times:  Days and times vary
Agency description: The University at Buffalo’s Liberty Partnerships Program is a premier provider of academics and personal support services for students in grades 5-12, serving young people in public schools for over 20 years. Our goal is to provide meaningful and relevant programming which will help students to realize their potential to achieve academic and personal success.
Service opportunities: Service-learners would be working either with students in grades 5-12 at the
Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Artsor with students in grades 9-12 at East High School. There is also an afterschool program located at University at Buffalo’s South Campus. Assignment location (Performing Arts, East High, or UB South Campus) will be contingent upon program needs at the time. The service-learner or “academic coach” is paired with a Liberty student and provides assistance with her or his most difficult subject areas. This past year in 2011 93% of the high school seniors who attended the Liberty program graduated and 85% of those graduating seniors were accepted into a college or university. These inspiring numbers serve to illustrate the extremely positive impact that this program has had on Buffalo youth. Tutoring opportunities include:
-Academic support (SAT and Regents exam preparation & homework help)
-Cultural enrichment activities
-College tour buddy
-College and career counseling (assistance with college applications and completing applications for financial aid)
Mem Service-learners who wish to work with this program are strongly encouraged to complete more than 20 hours of service to provide consistency and establish rapport with the youth involved in these programs; however contributing more than 20 hours is not a requirement.

Literacy Center at Canisius 
2001 Main Street
Health Science 113A
Buffalo, NY 14208
Contact:
Meghan Harrington, Graduate Assistant
Phone: 716-888-3728
Email:
harring1@canisius.edu
Website:
www.canisius.edu/read
Days & Times: Saturdays, 10:30am - 12:00pm, M-F. Also Wednesdays 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm beginning on February 29th through the end of the semester.
Service opportunities:  Assisting children and teens with reading and writing at the Nativity Miguel School campuses. Tutors will work one-on-one with a child under the direct supervision of a teacher with expertise in reading. No experience is necessary. You will be provided with plenty of guidance and assistance from our qualified staff at the center.
Mem Preference for varsity athlete service-learners.

Lutheran
Church Home 
217 East Delevan Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14208
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Joan Griffin, Volunteer Coordinator
Phone: 716-882-1231 (ask to speak with Joan)
Website:
www.niagaralutheran.org
Days and Times: vary
Agency description: Following general orientation, volunteers may come in any day or evening and visit with the residents. Socialization is very important to everyone especially senior citizens. So, come in and be social with us.
Service opportunities:
Recreational Activities
-arts and crafts
-exercise programs
-resident companion for field trips in the community
-scrabble or card games with some of the expert players
-weekly bingo and sewing 
Create a program or class
ex. exercise
ex. art

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Native American Community Services of Erie and Niagra Counties (NACS)
1005 Grant Street
Buffalo, NY 14207
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Cheryl Caulder  
Phone: 716-874-4460 
Alternate Contact: Noreen Borkowski, 716-874-2797 x304
Email: ccaulder@nacswny.org
 
Website: http://www.nacswny.org/ 
Time Commitment: Days and times will vary 
Mem State registry check and fingerprinting required and offered through NACS (no fees)
Agency description: NACS’ aim, through our “Tradition of Caring”, is to help strengthen families mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and financially while also building a greater sense of community. It’s our belief that a healthy and thriving Native American population contributes to the vibrancy of the whole Buffalo-Niagara Region!
Service opportunities:       
Tutoring at the Youth Program: P.S. 19: Native American Magnet School
 
-Once the background check and fingerprinting has been completed, service
learners will work with students K-8th in the afterschool on
Tuesdays from 2:30
pm to 5:00 pm.
Click Here for Directions to P.S. 19

Special Events: The Service to Science Initiative
-Each month NACS hosts non-alcoholic cultural events which are open to the community. Service-learners will help set up these events and break them down. They will serve food, answer questions, and may help brainstorm and execute ideas for more events. Such events may include community discussion forums, traditional Native American dance and music performances, educational videos and speakers, etc.
Marketing and PR Opportunities
-Desperately in need of web-savvy individual who can provide assistance with updating Facebook, Twitter, and the generic NACSWNY website maintenance.


The Nativity Miguel Middle School of Buffalo
(One School on Two Campuses)
 
St. Augustine Campus for Young Men
21 Davidson Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14215
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Nancy Langer, President
Phone: 716-984-5146 or 716-836-5188
Email:
NMLanger@aol.com

St. Monica Campus for Young Women
201 Winston Road
Buffalo, NY 14216
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Abby Fronckowiak
Email:
fronckoa@canisius.edu
Times: MWF 1:45pm-4-45pm (*Transportation is provided)
Agency description: Provides low income middle school students at risk of academic failure the character, strength, and skills needed to succeed in high school, continue onto college, and become successful members of the community.  Provides a structured, stable environment, and personal mentoring to African-American, Latino and African "asylees" from violence and persecution in Africa to prepare them to enter high school.  When these students first enter the school, many of them are performing below grade level academically and are already showing signs of negative street influence including poor self esteem, lack of self confidence, and limited anger control.  Your service will be instrumental in sustaining the Jesuit middle school apostolate on the middle school level in Buffalo.
Service opportunities:
After school program
- tutoring includes reading, writing, basic math, phonics, decoding and comprehension
- take turns reading a book located in the school's library; Combine reading a book with a lesson on vocab
- recreational activities such as sports, music, art
Science Firsthand
- partner with 2-3 students to engage in hands on science exploration
- A Science Firsthand manager supervises the program and meetings, and helps mentors develop the investigations
Business and Communications
- marketing
- recruiting
- grand writing
- communications
- fundraising

Neighborhood Housing Services Inc.
1937 South Park Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14220
Contact:
Heidi Eckstein
Phone: 507-469-3584
Email: 
outreach@nhssouthbuffalo.org
Website: http://www.nhssouthbuffalo.org/
Time Commitment: You must be able to visit our offices at the beginning of your service.  At that time we can work out a flexible schedule. If a student chooses to work from home then a weekly check-in, over the phone or in person, will be arranged to establish progress and discuss questions.  
Agency description: Neighborhood Housing Services of South Buffalo works with low-income residents to improve housing quality. Some of our programs include weatherization, home rehab projects, counseling, and low-interest loans. Many of our core services are available only to residents of South Buffalo, while our hugely successful weatherization program services most of the city of Buffalo
Service opportunities: We are in the process of creating a uniform brand image for our various publications including program brochures, website, workshop posters and our newsletter. The service-learner will be involved in helping staff design and create a professional, identifiable aesthetic. Interested service-learners should have experience with design work. Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite or similar software is preferred.
Activity 1: Work with member of organization to develop branding for publications.
Activity 2: Design brochures using Adobe Creative Suite (available at our office).
Activity 3: Other tasks the student expresses interest in, especially those related
to communications media.

Niagara Lutheran Home & Rehabilitation Center
64 Hager Street
Buffalo, NY 14208
Click here for directions
Contact: Donna Stevener
Phone: 716-886-4377 (ext. 353)
Days and Times: Flexible hours
Agency description: Niagara Lutheran is a residential facility for Buffalo's aging population. A skilled nursing and programming staff provide for the physical, social and spiritual needs of the residents.
Service opportunities: Students can serve Niagara Lutheran by socializing with residents via conversations, reading and game playing. Students can also help transport residents throughout the facility and perform moderate paper work.
Qualifications: Commit to at least 20 hours of service. Students must ask the college health center for a copy of their most recent physical and their Measles and Rubella immunizations. Contact Jon Macko (
macko1@canisius.edu) to pick up the application packet.

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The Pride Center of WNY, Inc.
206 South Elmwood Ave.
Buffalo, NY  14201
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Damian Martinez, Program Coordinator
E-mail:
damian@pridecenterwny.org
Website: http://www.pridecenterwny.org/site/
Time Commitment:  days and times will vary
Agency description: The mission of the Pride Center of WNY, Inc. is to work with the community to make Western New York a safe, healthy, and satisfying place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people to live, work, and establish their families. 
Service opportunities: Service-learners who are interested in this site must complete this
volunteer application form and be prepared to submit a resume. Past experience working with the LGBT population is preferred. One project that the service-learner will focus on heavily is helping out with the next issue of the Resource and Pride Guide: Empowering People, Empowering Communities. This publication is a critical resource for LGBT individuals in WNY area because it provides contact information for various LGBT-friendly organizations, services, spaces, and events and also serves as a networking tool. The next publication will be coming out this April, 2012 and there is much work that needs to be done!
In addition, service-learners may also contribute in the following areas:
-Advertising / Graphic Artist
-Mentor / Group Facilitator
-Community Education  
-Community Outreach
-Computer Specialist / Web Design
-General Office Assistant
-Library / Resource Assistant
-Photographers, Writers, Illustrators, & Artists
-Flyer Distribution
-Health Fair Volunteers
-Project Committee Members
Mem A copy of the Resource and Pride Guide can be found in the office of Siobhan Fitzgerald-Cushing housed in the Career Center (OM13 on the ground floor). A copy of the Volunteer Resource Guide can be found there as well.

P.S.
17: Early Childhood Center
156 Newburgh Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14211
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Greg Johnson, Program Coordinator
Email:
GAJohnson@buffaloschools.org * (E-mail preferred)
Website:
http://www.buffaloschools.org/EarlyChildhoodCenter17.cfm?subpage=44685
Phone: (716) 816-3156
Notes: Monday through Friday
Times: 9:30-3:00
Service opportunities:
Assisting in classrooms:
- Math (small groups for reinforcement)
- English
- Reading
- Art
- Physical Education
- Help is also needed in the cafeteria from 11:10 am to 1:10 pm to role model positive behavior and to build relationships.
Note: A service-learner will not ever be alone with school students because she or he will not have been fingerprinted by the center.
Special instructions: Please complete the
Application Form and read Service-Learning Expectations

P.S. 74 Hamlin Park
126 Donaldson Rd.
Buffalo, NY 14208
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Jon Macko to sign-up
Email:
macko1@canisius.edu
Phone: 716-888-3774
Days and Times: vary
Service opportunities:
In-class help
-Assist k-8 students with all subjects
-Grades 5-8 especially need help with ELA and math

P.S. 95: Waterfront Elementary School
Contact: Shanie Keelean, Assistant Principle
Phone: 716- 816-3855
Email: 
sjkeelean@buffaloschools.org
Website:
http://www.buffaloschools.org/WaterfrontElementary95.cfm
Days and Times: Monday - Friday from 8:00-2:00

Agency description:
Our goal is to educate each child to his or her fullest potential as a self-directed, self-motivated learner. We will integrate the arts and academics in grades Pre-K through 8, and maintain high standards of behavior and achievement in a child-centered, open space environment.
Service opportunities:
-One-on-one tutoring in all subject areas
-Calls home to parents about missing homework assignments
-Fundraising/Grant Research
-Development of promotional materials
-Miscellaneous service projects (organizing rooms, painting, preparing spaces for events, etc.)

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Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve Environmental Education Center
93 Honorine Drive
Depew, NY 14043
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Meaghan Boice-Green
Email: 
mxboiceg@gw.dec.state.ny.us
Website: http://www.dec.ny.gov/education/1837.html
Time Commitment: Days and times may vary; flexibility to work during a weekday or an occasional Saturday is a must. 
Mem This site is a 10 mile drive from campus and would be best suited for a student with their own vehicle as Depew is not accessible by the bus or metro.
Agency description:
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center is located at the Dr. Victor Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve - a unique 292-acre complex of forests, ponds, and wetlands surrounded by suburban development. Reinstein Woods offers a variety of opportunities to explore and learn about nature for families and people of all ages. In addition to free guided tours of the woods, DEC offers a variety of special programs each month, including snowshoe and ski adventures, walks on seasonal topics, and a fall nature festival. Reinstein is looking for one dedicated service-learner to help out this spring 2012.
Service opportunities: The service-learner will assist with preparations for some programs, especially related to invasive species; distribute publicity related to upcoming events, and assist with the actual removal of invasive species.

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Science Firsthand: First Hand Learning
2495 Main Street, Suite 556
Buffalo, NY 14214
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Melissa Gomez
Phone: 716-831-8722
Email:
mjsciencefhl@gmail.com
Alternate Contact: Lynette Bruce; lmbruce88@gmail.com
Website:  www.firsthandlearning.org/SFCB
Days and Times: During after-school hours for a period of ten weeks or more. *Orientation is on 9/16 at 10:00 am.
Agency description: Science Firsthand matches adult mentors with middle school students to do hands on science investigations. The Science Firsthand programs are site based at Canisius College and address  both the need for meaningful programming and the opportunities that this time presents for science exploration. The mentoring relationship is an additional asset for both youth and mentor.
Service opportunities: Science Firsthand-Partners in Discovery connects youth with compassionate college students to explore everyday phenomena scientifically.  Mentoring is a key focus, while conducting safe, fun, interesting science experiments.  See the complete brochure
here

South Buffalo Community Table Inc.
185 Southside Parkway
Buffalo, NY 14220
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Ashley Stewart
Email:
stewar18@canisius.edu    
Days & Times: Wednesday's 2:30pm to 5:50 pm, transportation is provided
Service Description: We help prepare and serve a meal to guests in the dining room. Participation includes food preparation, putting away donations of food in the pantry, and serving a meal. Participants clean up after the meal and prepare for the next day.

SPCA of Erie County
205 Ensinger Road
Tonawanda, NY 14150
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Kim Zolnowski
Phone: 716-629-4503
Email: kimz@canisius.edu     
Days and Times: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-8:00pm
Agency description: SPCA strives to create a caring and kind community that encourages fair and humane treatment of all creatures. It does so through proactive efforts to address the current status of animals in our community, education of adults and children, rescue and sheltering of animals in need, and placement of animals into appropriate homes.
Service Opportunites: Short-term (minimum of 10 hours a semester) - cleaning cages, restocking food. Limited contact with the animals.
Long-term (minimum of 40 hours a semester) - Socializing with animals, interviewing prospective adopters, training and feeding animals.

St. Joseph's
University School
Extension After School Program
3275 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14214
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Sister Fredericka Polanski
Phone: 716-835-7395
Website:
www.stjosephbuffalo.com/school.htm
Notes: Monday through Friday
Times: 2:30 - 4:30 pm
Service opportunities:
Tutoring
-tutor children ages 4-14 in a variety of subjects including Math and Spanish
In-class assistance
-help teachers in Pre-K or Kindergarten classes
Recreational activities
-arts, crafts or lead music activities during after-school program

St. Luke's Mission of Mercy
325 Walden Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14211
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Laura Jakiel
Email:
jakiell@canisius.edu
Phone: (716) 880-4975
Days & Times: Monday's 3:45pm-5:30pm; Wednesday's & Friday's 3:20pm-5:30pm * Transportation is provided
Agency description: St. Luke’s Mission is a Roman Catholic Mission on Buffalo’s east side. They have many ministries that reach out to the poor. Currently we work with them in their food ministry in the soup kitchen.
Service Opportunity: Set up dinner, serve food, and strike up conversation with those attending the meal.

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Universal School of Buffalo (Islamic)
1957 Genesee St
Buffalo, NY 14211
Click Here for Directions
First Contact:Kathy Jamil
Email:
kjamil@myuniversalschool.org
Phone: 716-597-0102
Days and Times: vary
Agency description: The Universal School of Buffalo is an independent Islamically based educational institution committed to academic achievement and spiritual excellence.
Service opportunities:
- h - helping to create and run an after school program for children having difficulty with their studies
- Organizing and setting up a school library
- Special program support
- office related support
All of these opportunities will give Canisius students a chance to learn more about Arabic culture and the people of Middle-Eastern origin.

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VIVE, Inc.
50 Wyoming Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14215
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Sister Louise Alff, OLF, Education and Faith-Based Coordinator
Phone: 716-892-4354 x415
E-mail (preferred):
lalff@viveinc.org
Website: http://www.vivelacasa.org/
Agency description: Vive is a non-profit organization located on the east side of Buffalo, New York.  The organization advises clients as to their eligibility to enter Canada as refugee claimants, and sends names of clients to the Canadian government when they are ready to enter.  When clients are not eligible under the exceptions to the Safe Third Country Agreement, we discuss other possibilities with them.  While people are in Buffalo, Vive houses many of the clients and provides them with food, clothing, and medical (nursing) care.  People come to Vive from countries all over the world.
Days and Times: The hours are flexible, but the early part of the week is busiest, and mornings are busier than afternoons.
Service opportunities:
Tutoring
-practice conversational English with refugee adults.
Mentoring teens or adults
-talk about culture and current music, read books, materials as well as share experiences and skills.
Public Relations
-help plan and implement events such as Thanksgiving dinner, recognition dinner as well as help with press releases.
Digital Media Arts
-take pictures for organization, update powerpoint presentations as well as create presentation materials for targeted age groups.
Cooking
-cook with refugee women while trading recipes.
-teach about nutrition and grocery shopping.
French
-assist French speaking refugees.

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XCEL Leadership Center
Renovation Church
567 Hertel Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14207
Click Here for Directions
Contact: Toni Benjamin, Director
Phone: 716-819-4100 ext 111
Email:
1tonibenjamin@gmail.com
Website:
www.therenovationchurch.com
Agency description: XCEL Leadership Center is a safe and exciting environment created by Renovation Church's Family Ministry for the benefit of the Buffalo Community. It features tutoring, mentoring, physical, social and spiritual enrichment. XCEL Leadership Center is committed to supporting the growth of healthy families through intentional partnerships with parents. In this environment we set examples of how we believe Christ wants us to connect to each other and God. 
Days and Times: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
*XCEL takes a maximum of 10 students each semester.  The deadline to contact them by for the fall semester is October 30th and March 1st for the spring semester. 
Service opportunities: Tutor/academic mentor students in grades 1 – 12.
- Computers for Children, Inc has partnered with XCEL to support our computer literacy initiative.  Students with art, sciences, administration and education are encouraged to contact XCEL to help create lasting and meaningful learning opportunities. 

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2011 Centers and Mentor Contacts:

Belle Center
104 Maryland
Buffalo, NY 14208
Program Manager: Marta Watson
Email:
watsonm28@ecc.edu
Center Director: James McNeil 
Email:
jmcneil@thebellecenter.org
716-845-0485
FAX: 845-0486
www.thebellecenter.org     
    
T.J. Dulski Center
129 Lewis St
Buffalo, NY 14206
MENTOR COORDINATOR: Chelsea Culverhouse
Email:
lachette601@yahoo.com
Phone: 361-1976
Center Director: Alissa Venturini
Email:
aventurini@urbanctr.org
Phone: 893-7222 Ext: 401

The Valley Community Association
93 Leddy St
Buffalo, NY 14210
MENTOR COORDINATOR: Angela Lopez
Phone: 553-6134
Email:
angela@collectivecollective.org
Center Director: Lori Overdorf
Email:
Loverdorf@thevalleycenter.com
Phone: 716-823-4707 ext.4

Afterschool @ Seneca St. United Methodist Church
1218 Seneca St.
Buffalo, NY 14210
MENTOR COORDINATOR: Christi Severson
Phone: 585-322-2524
Email:
christi.severson@gmail.com
Center Director: Kristin Cook
Email:
kcookssccdc@gmail.com
Phone: 716-825-6742  or  716-462-0117