Helping Others Locally

The Dartmouth Youth Commission: Through our office in Town Hall, the Youth Advocate oversees the following opportunities to be of service to others:

Student Interns: Become a Student Intern to assist with our children's program called "Banana Splits." This group provides support to children who are coping with divorce or separation in their families.

College Interns: Occasional opportunities exist for college students to earn course credit for completing an internship in our department.

Office Volunteer: Assist with clerical, computer work and Web site maintenance.

Community Service Credit: Our office routinely provides local students with an appropriate setting to fulfill either course or Key Club community service hours.

Greater New Bedford Online Volunteer Center:
This site matches the needs of area non-profit oganizations with potential volunteers. www.unitedwayofgnb.org

School-Based Learning: Our department, in collaboration with Dartmouth High School, has a limited number of openings for high school students to master new skills and receive a letter grade in the process.

Call or stop by and speak with Kevin Lee, Youth Advocate, if you're interested in any of these service opportunities. 508-910-1855. Email: kevinlee@town.dartmouth.ma.us.

Dartmouth Council on Aging:
Don't overlook this terrific local community known as the COA. Call their office to see how you might volunteer your services, your energy and your smile to either the Center or to elder persons in and around their homes! 508-999-4717.

Dartmouth High School:
Contact Dona Sachs, School to Career Coordinator, who can assist you with volunteer and/or intern opportunities within school or around Town. 508-997-7862, extension 130.

Boys and Girls Club of New Bedford:
Help other young people, especially children, with everything from homework, sports, games, etc. Call and ask to speak with Bernadette Souza, Assistant Executive Director, at 508-992-8011

YMCA of Greater New Bedford and YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts:
YMCA: Same kinds of service opportunities as the Boys and Girls Club, but with several locations, including a summer camp and other programs located in Dartmouth. Contact Howard Long, Executive Director, at 508-997-0734.

YWCA:
Like above, with a focus on woman's health, wellness and empowerment. Sponsors the popular "Teen Talk Line." Contact Catharine Bourassa, Director of Youth Services at 508-999-3255.

Local Places of Worship:
Don't overlook religious organizations and places of worship in Town and nearby. Many faith traditions have wonderful opportunities to be of service.

The Salvation Army:
Their headquarters may be in New Bedford, but their work and outreach serves the entire area and is made available to all persons in need. Contact them at 508-997-6561.

Market Ministries Shelter:
Age restrictions may limit involvement by teens at the shelter, but Market Ministries also runs a soup kitchen, and help is always needed there. Call them at 508-997-3202.