Volunteer Opportunities Of The Week: Zoom Buddy; Graduation Gowns

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Each week Patch will be highlighting a volunteer opportunity — or two — in the Hudson Valley. This will be a chance to help your community and be an opportunity to give back — perhaps in a way you didn't consider before.

And if you are in an organization that has some need for volunteers, be sure to let us know by emailing michael.woyton@patch.com.

This week we are putting the spotlight on a couple of opportunities in the Hudson Valley.

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As a reminder, in response to the ongoing new coronavirus crisis, Volunteer New York! set up a website so people can find opportunities to help in their communities. The Virtual Volunteer Center will act as a regional hub that lists community needs and volunteer opportunities that support the most vulnerable who are affected by the virus.

According to organizers, Volunteer New York! has been working closely with local agencies and county and state officials to ensure a coordinated response in directing those who want to help where their time and resources can do the most good.

There are many opportunities from which to chose, and organizers said people should check back often because it's a constantly changing public resource.

One of the opportunities on the Volunteer New York! Virtual Volunteer Center is a call out for graduation gowns. Gowns4Good is seeking to upcycle graduation gowns in order to protect healthcare workers.

The organization said that graduation gowns are more effective than other PPE alternatives because of their length, sleeves and easy zippered access.

It doesn't matter if your gown has been collecting dust in the back of the closet or is one you won't be needing for a 2020 graduation.

To express interest, or for more information, go here.

ARC Rockland is seeking Zoom buddies for some of their clients. It's a great opportunity to connect with locals and chat about various subjects.

The topics are up to you and could include music, health and fitness and current events.

For more information, or to express interest, go here.

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