Start 2017 with Purpose: Volunteer

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Start your new year with a purpose by starting to volunteer somewhere in or near your community.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'"

Having trouble coming up with an idea that will fit your skills, time, hopes and fears? Here are some resources:

Volunteer New York! is a one-stop resource devoted to increasing volunteerism primarily in Putnam, Rockland and Westchester. Check their big online list of opportunities for teens, families, adults, seniors. Call 914-948-4452 to request a free copy of the Orange Book Guide to Volunteerism in Westchester, Putnam & Rockland.

Or try one of these:

• Where do you fit in? - Orange County
• Community:Volunteer Opportunities in Dutchess County
• Volunteer – Food Bank of the Hudson Valley
• Volunteering - MidHudson Regional Hospital
• Volunteer Opportunities, Ulster County
• United We Serve

United We Serve came out of the national push to make Martin Luther King Day each year "a day on, not a day off." The country has seen the growth of volunteer activities specially on that day — which in 2017 is Jan. 16. You can use the Corporation for National and Community Service website to find a volunteer activity or to add yours to the mix.

In Westchester, Volunteer New York! will commemorate Dr. King on Jan. 14 with its annual MLK Day of Service. Find a project for that day here.