The following brief, agency descriptions contain information taken directly from information provided by the respective agency.
The purpose is to provide a support system to the youth of our communities by helping to change the negative influences surrounding them. As an initiative to create a positive atmosphere for youth, the organization has implemented a program that provides role models and volunteer tutors. Some of the participating organizations include the Wicomico County Board of Education, Department of Recreation and Parks, Department of Corrections, Maple Shade, Friends Unlimited, Camp ESPA, Joseph House and the Boy Scouts.
Contact: Joseph Morris, 410-543-4663
The purpose is to preserve and promote its history, language, traditions and culture; to foster sound education, health, social, and economic well-being of individuals and the tribal community; and, with trust and integrity, aspire to achieve self-sufficiency and self-determination. During the year, they send volunteer speakers to various schools and organizations to introduce the Tribe, its culture and history, since the Tribe has been written out of the history books.
Contact: David Holland, 410-623-2660
The purpose is to ensure that all of Maryland’s children are healthy, safe, educated and economically secure by improving the well being of children, youth and families in meaningful and measurable ways. The organization uses the following core strategies: conducting independent research and analysis, finding data driven solutions, promoting media coverage, increasing citizen mobilization and enhancing government relations.
Contact: Rosanne Cangialosi, 410-860-5085
This organization is one of over 200 chapters nationwide dedicated to providing support and assistance to Alzheimer’s patients and their families, as well as education and advocacy efforts on issues related to dementia. In support of the organization’s mission, the following services are provided: caregiver support groups, telephone help line, information and referral, workshops and conferences, speakers bureau, newsletter, book and audiovisual loan, and volunteer opportunities. This chapter serves eight counties on the Eastern Shore.
Contact: Amy Schine, 410-543-1163
The ACS is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service. Programs and services offered include: a national cancer information hotline, a cancer survivors network, one-to-one visitation for women with breast cancer, support groups for men with prostate cancer, counseling, case management, direct financial assistance, a camp for children with cancer, and wig donations. Volunteers are needed for office assistance and special events once or twice a year.
Contact: Krista Hill, 410-749-1624
The mission is to fight lung disease through research, advocacy, and teaching: research, to generate and utilize new information about lung disease; advocacy, to combat environmental hazards to breathing and to improve services for individuals with lung disease; and teaching, so people can recognize, prevent, and manage lung disease. Volunteers may assist with the following programs and services: organizing activities and supervising children at camp; serving on committees to help direct and implement the battle against lung disease; assisting at fundraising events (logistics, brochure distribution, record-keeping, and more); performing data entry, mailings and other clerical tasks, contacting legislators or testifying in Annapolis to spread the message about issues affecting lung health; and, soliciting corporate and personal donations.
Contact: Veronique Diriker, 410-548-1613
The purpose is to find the cure and ease the burden as respects Parkinson’s disease. It is estimated that there are over 1.2 million people with Parkinson’s disease in the United States, with the average age of diagnosis being about age 58. The organization also raises funds for medical research, provides research subjects for PD research, and lobbies for increased federal funding of the National Institutes of Health for PD research.
Contact: Will Johnston, 410-543-0110
Disaster volunteers respond to local disasters to provide Red Cross assistance. They volunteer in one or more of the following functions or other areas including: community disaster education, communications, damage assessment, disaster action team, disaster health services, disaster mental health services, mass care/logistics, disaster services human resources, disaster office support.
Contact: Troy McCabe, 410-749-5331
The mission is to help those in Maryland take greater control of their arthritis or related condition by leading efforts to prevent, control and cure arthritis and related diseases. Over 883,000 Marylanders live with arthritis, the nation’s leading cause of disability. Programs and services offered include: information and referral program, exercise programs, self-help courses, support and education groups, educational seminars, advocacy network, membership program, volunteer opportunities, and fun special events. This chapter serves Dorchester, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico and Worcester counties.
Contact: Aves Justis, 410-749-8509
This is the only Delmarva grassroots, non-profit organization working to preserve Assateague Island and the living resources of the coastal ecosystem, by: (1) sponsoring outreach programs to promote awareness among Delmarva’s citizens and visitors about the natural resources and their long term sustainability, and (2) participating in advocacy efforts to influence public policies that affect the functions of these ecosystems. They offer such programs as: oyster gardening, diamondback terrapin project, water quality project, “BayScapes”, habitat loss, and tree planting.
Contact: Phyllis Koenings, 410-629-1538
This is the only state park located on the ocean, surrounded by a National Seashore and one which has ponies. More than one million visitors enjoy the park each year. National Geographic Magazine rated Assateague State Park one of the top 10 best state parks in the nation. Many volunteer opportunities are available to: assist in International Coastal Cleanup event, provide customer service at the park, be a volunteer ranger, assist with interpretive programs, work the Ranger Station, assist with pony patrol, bath house clean up, park wide clean ups, or with special events.
Contact: Denise McNamara, 410-641-2120
This organization was founded many years ago by some ladies from Snow Hill who had developmentally handicapped children. The organization is committed to securing for all people with mental retardation the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work and play. The ARC is further committed to reducing the incidence and limiting the consequence of mental retardation through education, research, advocacy and the support of families, friends and community.
Contact: Starr Todd or Sandi Bryant, 410-352-5318
The mission is to tend to the whole person—mind, body and spirit—and in doing so, build the best communities in the world for elders. The Atria concept of assisted living is dedicated to preserving personal dignity, choice and self-reliance. Assisted living services provide support, when needed, with the basic activities of daily life such as bathing and grooming, eating nutritiously, offering medication reminders, housekeeping and transportation.
Contact: Steve Morrisitte, 410-546-9997
The mission is to enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities and children with economic disadvantages. The programs annually serve over 700 eligible citizens from the counties of Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester. Current programs and services include: advocacy and referral, dental, early intervention, education, emergency response equipment, in-home care, recreation, and support.
Contact: Susan Atwood, 410-341-0307
The library provides special programs for adults and children in the community, including a summer reading program for youngsters, toddler and school-age programs, adult reading/discussion groups, and programs for seniors in community settings. Volunteers perform a wide variety of tasks, from working at the circulation desk to aiding those researching their genealogy.
Contact: Jan Bucciere, 410-641-0650
Service is based on a one-to-one relationship between an adult volunteer and a child who needs extra adult attention and guidance. Volunteers serve as friends, mentors, and role models, helping children (who are primarily from single-parent homes) gain greater self-confidence. College students can be valuable role models for children by giving the children the opportunity to visit a college campus and believe that they too can attend college some day. They can also catch a movie, eat popcorn, play video games, shoot hoops, eat pizza, hang out, talk about life, and make a big difference.
Contact: 410-543-2447
This organization was founded in 1983 to design and manage programs for children (ages 4-17), throughout the United States and Canada, with terminal and life threatening illnesses and children who are abused, retarded or disabled. The Society’s emphasis is on family, and thus, makes it a point to include siblings in all programs.
Contact: Ray Esposito, 410-651-2787
This organization offers opportunities for health impaired adults to maintain or improve their level of function in order to remain independent for as long as possible. It prevents premature or inappropriate institutionalization for adults who need some supervision during the day. In a warm, friendly and stimulating health care environment, participants are offered opportunities to: socialize, enjoy recreational activities and receive medical and social services in an individualized plan of care by professionals.
Contact: Carol Voss, 410-632-0111
The Center 4 Clean Start treats substance abuse in an environment that promotes well-being and leads to a drug-free lifestyle for pregnant women and their children before and after delivery. It is located at the Joseph House Village, a community dedicated to helping individuals and families. It is a cooperative program with the Health Departments in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester Counties.
Contact: Janice Lloyd-Condon, 410-742-3460
The mission is to address conflict in the service of social change. The aim is to replace adversarial and violent modes of resolving conflict with nonviolent, collaborative processes and techniques. The Center has taught Conflict Resolution and Mediation skills to judges, lawyers, government officials and office workers, teachers, children, parents and youth, CEO’s, university and hospital administrators, police officers, social workers, nurses, doctors, management and union officials, small business owners, and many others. The Center relies on trained students and volunteers to help their peers through difficult situations by serving as mediators and/or instructors for teaching peace and conflict resolution skills in schools and many other settings.
Contact: Brian Polkinghorn, 410-219-2873
The Coalition, through its growing membership, hopes to reach out to all areas of the state—from the Eastern Shore to the Western Maryland mountains—to achieve these goals: (1) to facilitate the exchange of information among individuals and organizations concerned about the protection of burial sites, (2) to increase public awareness of the historic and cultural significance of burial sites and the serious threats to them, (3) to organize support for stronger laws to protect burial sites—native American burial sites and traditional cemeteries—and to seek better enforcement of these laws, and (4) to raise funds and provide guidance to those involved in preservation and protection of burial sites.
Contact: James Trader, 410-860-2364
Hospice assists family members in caring for persons in the last phases of an incurable disease so that they might live as fully and comfortably as possible. This specialized health care is given primarily in the home. Services include: skilled nursing by registered nurses, personal care by supervised home health aides, physical therapy, speech therapy, pastoral counseling, dietary counseling, social work services, and respite care.
Contact: Judy Hunt-Harris, 410-742-8732 Ext. 107
This organization’s mission is to work toward doing whatever is good for Crisfield to make it all it can be. The Chamber sponsors many events throughout the year, including the Crab Derby, Clam Bake, Terrapin Sands Fish Fry, and Fishing Tournament. Volunteers could help at the events, with advertising local businesses and with updating the website.
Contact: Valerie Mason, 410-968-2500
This organization provides quality health care services for citizens of Maryland who have a chronic illness and require rehabilitative services, dialysis or long-term care. Programs include: respiratory therapy, social services, nursing care, nursing home beds, kidney dialysis, 24 hour physician services, physical therapy, state-of-the-art isolation rooms, nutritional services, occupational therapy, activity therapy and speech therapy.
Contact: Brenda Dawson, 410-543-4051
The mission is to provide: shelter, meals, clothing, personal hygiene needs, laundry service, referral and information services, case management, budgeting assistance, crisis intervention and follow-up services. Diakonia also provides: an emergency homeless shelter, emergency food pantry, and transitional housing. Volunteers are needed to help with: preparing meals, assisting with household duties, driving guests to various appointments, and so forth.
Contact: Billy Frick, 410-213-0923
The mission is to help individuals with disabilities find and keep jobs in careers of their choice. Programs and services offered include: vocational counseling, job skills training, physical and mental restoration, medical rehabilitation services, programs for individuals who are blind or sight-impaired, services for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, a support program for self-employment, job placement assistance, and follow-up.
Contact: Kaye Holloway, 410-548-7041
This non-profit healthcare agency is dedicated to increasing the independence of children and adults with disabilities. Easter Seals offers people with disabilities a wide range of quality services that make it possible to live, work, learn and participate fully in the community with independence and personal dignity. Programs include: physical and aquatic therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, support groups, camping/recreational activities, and information and referral services.
Contact: Norma Cotter, 410-546-2894
This institution has the need for volunteers with diverse backgrounds and skills. Religious, foreign language, book discussion, chess, art instruction, horticulture, and music are a few of the areas in which volunteers are regularly needed. There is a population of approximately 3000 inmates among the medium, minimum and pre-release facilities.
Contact: Kathleen Green, Assistant Warden, 410-651-9000
This agency is dedicated to the prevention and control of epilepsy and to serve people with other developmental disabilities. It provides services that enable individuals with epilepsy and other developmental disabilities to achieve their personal goals and to lead independent and productive lives within the community. Services offered include, vocational, educational, clinical, residential, financial and recreational.
Contact: Mike Dyer, 410-543-0665
This organization provides high quality rehabilitation services and support to residents 55 years of age and older in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties. It offers day activities in Princess Anne, Salisbury and Berlin, Monday through Friday. The relaxing routine allows time for snacks and lunch, along with activities or groups each day, designed to encourage participation, socialization and communication.
Contact: Cindy Mitchell, 410-548-2371
Furnace Town Foundation, Inc., a private not-for-profit corporation, is charged with the responsibility of preserving, restoring, interpreting and developing the 25 acres of Furnace Town Historic Site, the 19th century village of Nassawango Iron Furnace. Programs in archaeology, history, nature and artisan interpretation are developed and presented to educate 18,000 visitors (Delmarva schools, general public, tourists) annually. Artisans work at broommaking, gardening, woodworking, printing, blacksmithing and weaving.
Contact: Linda Davis or Kathy Fisher, 410-632-2032
In Girl Scouts, girls discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together. Through a myriad of enriching experiences, such as extraordinary field trips, sports skill-building clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardships, girls grow courageous and strong. In partnership with dedicated adult volunteers, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives, like leadership, strong values, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth. Volunteer opportunities for college students: troop assistants (for Daisy Troops through Senior Girl Scout Troops), camp maintenance, campus girl scouts, service unit members, and special skills workshops.
Contact: Denise Eberspeaker, 410-742-5107
The mission is to provide career development, employment, and related social services to assist people with special needs to enjoy the dignity and benefits of work and a better quality of life. Goodwill provides individuals with guidance in answering classified ads and in completing applications. Training is also provided in telephone skills, identifying the hidden job market, interviewing techniques, and marketing oneself. Volunteers are needed to assist with case management, job placement, and general office duties.
Contact: Mozella Francis, 410-219-9216
This is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, International (a housing ministry). The organization is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness by bringing families and communities in need together with volunteers and resources to build decent, affordable housing. Volunteering takes on many forms—working on a house, raising funds, feeding other volunteers during building events, landscaping, donating construction materials or capital, and writing a newsletter. Also this affiliate has opened a non-profit Home Improvement Outlet Store which offers many other volunteer opportunities. Volunteer applications are available on our website: http://www.wicomicocountyhabitat.org
Contact: Steve Hill, 410-749-6325 or Neale Smith, 410-546-1551
This is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, International (a housing ministry). The organization is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness by bringing families and communities in need together with volunteers and resources to build decent, affordable housing. Volunteering takes on many forms—working on a house, serving on Habitat’s Board of Directors, raising funds, feeding other volunteers during building events, landscaping, donating construction materials or capital, writing a newsletter, and many other opportunities.
Contact: Ted Page, 410-208-4440
The mission is to provide expert, cost-effective care, producing excellent outcomes and getting people back…to work…to play…to living. This 44-bed hospital is the only freestanding rehabilitation hospital on the Delmarva Peninsula (Delaware and the eastern shore of Maryland and Virginia). Volunteers are needed to: greet patients and visitors, transport patients, assist with clerical/administrative duties, assist with food service, help market programs, visit one-to-one with patients, serve as a translator, and assist with support groups.
Contact: Larry Gallagher, 410-546-4600
The Holly Center, a facility of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Developmental Disabilities Administration, is a residential resource center, which serves individuals with developmental disabilities living in the nine counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The Center’s experienced professional staff works as a team to evaluate the needs of individuals, counsel families, and assist them in devising a plan of living and learning. Volunteer opportunities are available for: children’s education, sewing projects, special events, canteen, gardening, social services, speech/hearing, swimming pool, and recreation.
Contact: Marlina Belote, 410-546-2181
The Holly Foundation began to meet the unfounded needs of people living at the Holly Center. Through strong community support, the Holly Foundation has expanded its resource services to people with disabilities living at home or other community placements. Often confused as a program of the state-funded Holly Center, the Holly Foundation is a private organization funded entirely by private gifts and donations. The organization offers a variety of services to help people with vision, hearing, mobility, movement, speech, memory problems, and/or learning difficulties.
Contact: Rose Carey, 443-260-0822
The mission is to provide the tools of recovery to persons whose lives are influenced by alcohol and other drug dependencies; and to enhance the quality of life for persons suffering from or affected by them. This organization offers confidential, quality substance abuse and chemical dependency treatment utilizing certified and knowledgeable staff, a full continuum of care and the twelve step and other support networks as adjuncts. They are accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Health Care Organizations and licensed by the State of Maryland.
Contact: Garrett Altvater, 410-742-0151
For over 20 years, the Humane Society has provided temporary shelter for Wicomico County’s homeless and unwanted animals. The services are not just limited to cats and dogs—but also, to horses, goats, rabbits and chickens. Services offered include: assistance with lost and found animals, 24-hour emergency service for injured animals, investigation of animal cruelty complaints, spaying and neutering information, information and referral services, public education on animal care, assistance in improving laws on animal welfare, and pet licensing.
Contact: Trish Langdon, 410-749-7603
Located on the mainland overlooking the Daugherty Creek and Janes Island , many opportunities are available for nature lovers: camping, log cabins, pavilions, picnic areas, boating, fishing, canoeing, nature center activities, nature walks, self-guided nature trails (i.e. whitetail deer), water trails, and bird watching.
Contact: Julie Schweikert, 410-968-1565
The mission is to provide quality care and service delivery systems to the residents in a manner and in an environment that maintains or enhances their quality of life. Each resident is to receive the necessary care and services to attain or to maintain their highest practicable physical, mental and psychological well-being.
Contact: Cheryl Stafford, 410-742-1432
The mission is to promote social justice and stable family life through direct assistance to the poor, whatever their needs. Volunteers are needed to: interview people requesting assistance; bag groceries and restock shelves with food; serve the noon meal; serve as host or hostess in the Hospitality Room; serve as job counselors, mentors, and instructors for those in employment training; serve as payees; visit and assist the homebound; serve as clerks in the book and gift store; receive phone calls and visitors; and, help with maintenance and landscaping.
Contact: Sister Pat Lennon, 410-742-9590
The mission is to acquire, conserve and display artifacts, and to interpret the history of Worcester County through exhibits and programs in order to promote the cultural heritage of the region. The official purpose as a non-profit museum is to make the collections of the museum available to the local school and adult groups and vacationers in order to educate and provide information on the history of Worcester County. Opportunities are available for volunteers and interns.
Contact: Mary St. Hippolyte, 410-632-0515
Founded in 1924, the Junior Auxiliary Board had worked to enhance the operation and growth of PRMC through fund-raising and service. Today, volunteers continue the tradition of service to the community by offering nursing scholarships, the store on wheels, television service, newborn caps, surgical “hugging” pillows, teddy bears for the young surgical patients, waiting area magazines, puppets and numerous patient-oriented projects. Newborn projects alone include making over 2000 infant hats annually to be used to help stabilize newborn body temperatures. To boost patient morale, tray favors made by volunteers grace patient meal trays each holiday. Pediatric patients are provided with puppets, coloring books, toys and small holiday gifts.
Contact: Faye Lopez, 410-543-7262
The mission is to promote a safe and healthy community by serving children, adults, and families through crisis intervention; advocacy and counseling for victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault; batterers counseling, and safe housing for victims of domestic violence. The Life Crisis Center also operates the Maryland Youth Crisis Hotline and the Maryland Aids Hotline for the nine counties of the lower Eastern Shore. Victims receive information, referrals, emotional support, aid in accessing medical intervention, identifying legal options, and immediate safe housing when needed.
Contact: Debra Smith, 410-749-0771
The mission is to protect the natural heritage, rural character, and historic landscapes of Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties, by assisting interested landowners to discover, evaluate, and implement any of the available land preservation options for the benefit and enjoyment of generations to come. Protecting the land makes it possible to sustain a diverse and healthy wildlife population, natural buffers that maintain water quality, and preserve scenic vistas and landscapes surrounding sites of historical and cultural importance. The hope is that sufficient lands will remain to support forestry and agriculture as viable industries on the Lower Eastern shore.
Contact: Nancy Whitlock, 410-641-4467
Each year 450,000 babies are born too soon, some so small they are the size of a dollar bill. Researchers, volunteers, educators, outreach workers and advocates work together to give all babies a fighting chance against the threats to their health: prematurity, birth defects, and low birth weight. March of Dimes also provides genetic research and parent education, while fighting so that all babies, children and women get health insurance.
Contact: Julieanna Hancock, 410-546-2241
Maryland’s coastal bays make up one of the richest, most diverse estuaries on the eastern seaboard, where more than 300 species of wildfowl and birds seek food and shelter, and 10 million visitors do the same. Today, more than 100 rare, threatened, or endangered plants and animals call this watershed home. To protect both the area’s natural treasures and the local economy, this program is developing a comprehensive management plan for the bays and their watershed by uniting with area business owners, developers, farmers, and representatives from the tourism, golf, and fishing industries to determine appropriate stewardship of land and water.
Contact: Dave Wilson, 410-213-2297
The mission is to conserve and enhance the quality, quantity, productivity and biological diversity of the forest and tree resources of Maryland. The area covers over 1.9 million acres of land, including forest, marshland and cropland. The forested areas protect water, air, and soil and provide forest products, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and aesthetic values. To help landowners, the DNR Forest Service has a variety of programs to offer technical and financial assistance.
Contact: Dave Reinecke (Regional Rep), 410-673-7507
As long as hunger exists in Maryland, the Maryland Food Bank will strive to supply necessary grocery products to charitable food providers so that these organizations can feed every individual and family in need. The MFB will accomplish this by gathering excess donated food and grocery products from the food industry and the general public and by distributing these products to community food providers. The MFB is a charter member of America’s Second Harvest, the national network of 188 food banks.
Contact: Yvonne Terry, 410-742-0050
The mission is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. MADD volunteers speak to civic groups, educators and youth, conduct local awareness programs and distribute informational material to the public. MADD is more than just moms—MADD is also dads, young people, impaired driving victims, concerned citizens and others who are helping to make a difference on our roadways and in our communities. Through the work of dedicated volunteers and supporters, alcohol-related traffic deaths have declined by more than 40 percent since MADD’s founding.
Contact: David Elzy, 410-742-6233
The Mt. Zion One Room School House, now located on Ironshire Street, was built in 1869 near Whiton and used as a school until 1931. It stood empty until the building was moved to Snow Hill and opened to the public in 1964 and has since demonstrated to students and visitors how their forebears were taught in the days of one room schools. Donations of 19th century texts and furnishings make a visit to the school a leap back in time.
Contact: Ruth Timmons, 410-632-0669
This organization endowed by Cambridge, Maryland, attorney and philanthropist Edward H. Nabb, is a repository for documents and artifacts pertaining to the Delmarva Peninsula, established to provide a “laboratory” for history students and to provide a liaison between Salisbury University and the lower Eastern Shore region. This centralized repository of historical materials serves: (1) the Delmarva community at large, as well as family and local history researchers from across the nation, (2) professional business people including lawyers, surveyors and journalists, and (3) students and scholars researching material for doctoral dissertations, master’s degree theses, school projects and private publications.
Contact: Rebecca Miller, 410-543-6312
This organization is comprised of 32 organizations and conducts research, education, restoration, and land use planning projects to preserve and protect the Nanticoke River, one of the cleanest rivers flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. The projects enhance awareness and appreciation of the Nanticoke River, help to prevent problems of other Chesapeake Bay rivers, and present a model for other river protection groups. Volunteers regularly make presentations to classrooms, civic groups, church groups, festivals, conferences, and land-use planning meetings.
Contact: Carolyn Turner, 410-873-2101
The mission is to end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. This chapter is among the top ten chapters in the United States and provided programs and services to more than 3,700 Maryland residents with MS. Programs offered include: advocacy, education, equipment, publications/literature, transportation, self-help and support groups, individual/family counseling, employment counseling, information and referral, recreation, respite and research.
Contact: Aaron Reid, 410-543-0007
This park is one of Wicomico County parks and combines history with environmental education. There are nature trails, a classroom building, fishing ponds, wetland observation platforms, animal nesting boxes, and property history that dates back to the 1700’s. It is also the source for environmental education offered to both school and private groups, ranging from school programs to 4-H groups to evening “Owl Prowls” and canoe lessons. Volunteers are needed for assistance with trail work, education programs, gardening and colonial livestock.
Contact: Matthew Lustig, 410-860-2447
Through medical services, education, training and advocacy, this organization has established a strong tradition of enabling Marylanders to make informed decisions about their health, family planning options, and sexuality. The local health center offers services to: both men and women (i.e. early cancer screening, adoption counseling and referrals, sports and employment physicals, counseling and treatment for sexually transmitted infections); men (i.e. cancer screening); and women (i.e. annual gynecological exams, pregnancy testing, birth control options, and hormonal replacement). This office also publishes two newsletters—Good Health provides important health information in an easy-to-understand format and Hot Tips is geared toward college students.
Contact: Cissy Sanders, 410-860-4788
The purpose of this organization is to represent and support local business with government, education, and economic development organizations with emphasis on increasing member’s productivity and profits. It is also a goal to promote tourism, emphasizing local shopping, dining, lodging, fishing and golf. Volunteers are needed to assist with sponsored events, which include: an annual memorial fishing tournament and festival, the Cypress Festival, the Great Pocomoke Fair, Downtown Market Street Concert/Block party, and the Christmas parade.
Contact: Carol Johnsen, 410-957-1919
Located along the Pocomoke River, many opportunities are available for nature lovers: camping, youth group camping, mini-cabins, pavilions, picnic areas, swimming pool, concessions, boating, fishing, hunting, nature center activities, nature walks, self-guided nature trails, campfire, Junior Ranger and Outdoor Adventure programs.
Contact: John McNamara, 410-632-2566
The mission is to renew pride, restore confidence, promote reinvestment and revitalize neighborhoods within the City of Salisbury and its environs through the combined efforts of residents, financial institutions, corporate enterprise and the business community, foundations, and local government. Products and services include: home purchase, rehabilitation and renovation, homebuyer education and development, property development and resident leadership development.
Contact: Ann Northam, 410-543-4626
The mission is to establish and maintain a facility that will provide space for area groups (i.e. Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous) that practice the principles of the various 12 Steps of recovery programs, to conduct group meetings and recovery conducive social events. The Center serves as a safe meeting place for the fellowship that attracts those seeking recovery from alcoholism, drug addiction or any other related chemical dependency or abuse.
Contact: Lewis Carman, 410-749-9482
The mission is to enhance the quality of life in our community by fostering arts awareness and education and by promoting a rich diversity of artistic experience for all ages. This is accomplished through leadership, support and funding of the arts. This organization offers educational programs, funding programs, and community arts collaborations.
Contact: Davina Hill, 410-543-2787
Do you belong in the Zoo? The Salisbury Zoo seeks friendly, knowledgeable volunteers who are willing to help carry out its mission. Volunteer training is conducted in March, June and September. The Education Department at the Zoo exists to promote an understanding and appreciation of wildlife, and to encourage the protection of animal populations, the preservation of habitats, ecological balance and diversity.
Contact: Carrie Samis, 410-546-3440, x5
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. The Salvation Army operates in more than 100 countries.
Youth Club
This is the single largest not-for-profit youth organization in the states of Maryland, Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Over 2,800 youth members, ages 6-17 can choose from 15 different athletic activities.
Contact: Christine Ondo, 410-749-7771
Learning
Center
This program offers academic remediation to children ages 6-16. Students from Salisbury University provide the children with homework assistance and informal small group mentoring. In addition to students from SU, this program also recruits senior volunteers who must be 55 years of age or over.
Contact: Christine Ondo, 410-749-7771
Latch
Key
This program provides children with a safe, educational, after school environment.
Contact: Christine Ondo, 410-749-7771
“Little Ones” Pre-school Program
This program opened in the fall of 1999 and provides licensed day care for children 3 and 4 years old.
Contact: Christine Ondo, 410-749-7771
Senior Citizens Center
The mission of the Senior Center is to offer people 50 years and older a place they can go five days a week to share in a wide variety of entertaining activities with people in their age group. It also provides its members with a place to work out so they may continue to enjoy an active life. Activities include: aerobics classes, arts and crafts, bingo, line dancing, bible study, social hours, and much more. All the programs and events are especially designed to meet the needs of active senior citizens who are looking for a place to relax and enjoy companionship.
Contact: Cheryl Thomas, 410-749-7771
Social Services
Annually, the Salvation Army provides thousands of families with food, clothing, new shoes and assistance with rent and/or utilities. The annual Christmas Assistance Program provides support during the most festive of holidays with food baskets, hot meals, clothing and gifts. Hundreds of children received new toys under their Christmas trees that might have had none.
Contact: Christine Ondo, 410-749-7771
The mission is Service, Advocacy and Convening: to serve those in need; to work toward a more just social order; and, to bring together church and community members as active partners in education of self and pursuit of the values of charity, justice and freedom. Programs and services offered include: children’s programs, supplementary food programs, health and wellness programs, a thrift shop, women’s groups, farm worker services, relatives as parents program, interfaith caring network, and many others.
Contact: Sister Regina Hudson, 410-651-9608
The mission is to aid individuals and families who, because of debilitating conditions, cannot, unaided, move toward self-sufficiency. Shore Up! Is an acronym for “Self-Help on Rural Economics and Urban Problems.” Shore Up! has partnered with many other organizations and offers services which include: training and employment (i.e., Health Assistant Training), health care and senior citizens services (i.e. Foster Grandparents Program), children and family services (i.e., Head Start), housing and community development (i.e., Maryland Energy Assistance Program).
Contact: Freddy Mitchell, 410-749-1142
The mission is to help meet the needs of teen and young adult parents. The goal is to strengthen and support the family by providing parenting skills and promoting the healthy development of children age 3 or younger. A wide range of services to help families be self-sufficient are offered: child birth classes, computer training, ABE/GED preparation classes, career planning, counseling, parent/child activities, field trips, cooking experience, child development programs, and many others.
Contact: Jody Reichenbach, 410-860-9194
This is a visitor center and heritage museum located in Ewell, one of three villages on Maryland’s only inhabited offshore island, which was settled in the seventeenth century. Since families make their livelihood on the water from oystering and crabbing, the Center offers a film and literature to help visitors understand the heritage of the island.
Contact: Janet Tyler
The library provides special programs for adults and children in the community, including a summer reading program for youngsters, toddler and school-age programs, adult reading/discussion groups, and programs for seniors in community settings. Volunteers perform a wide variety of tasks, from working at the circulation desk to aiding those researching their genealogy.
Contact: Lisa Harrison, 410-632-2600
The mission is to provide general information and answers to questions for people of all ages, support for personal growth and lifelong learning, materials selected to respond to local interests, current topics and titles, and a public space for meetings that is seen as inviting, neutral and safe by all individuals and groups in the community. It will be a center for information vital to our citizens, including the areas of environment, education and jobs. The library is the information center of our county, serving its residents through four locations: Princess Anne, Crisfield, Deal Island and Ewell.
Contact: Jean Johnson, 410-651-0852
The Teackle Mansion was built between 1802 and 1819. The mission is to: (1) collect, preserve, and exhibit data and objects of historical interest relating or pertaining to the lives, habits, and customs of the settlers and all who have lived in, or had any part in building up and developing, Somerset County, Maryland; (2) to preserve, conserve and operate the Teackle Mansion as a house museum which offers to the public the opportunity to learn about life and times of Little Dennis Teackle and his wife and to view a collection of 19th century furniture and other decorative fine arts; (3) to sponsor Ye Olde Princess Anne Days and to encourage the participation of groups of all ages and interests within Somerset County in the endeavor; (4) to sponsor research and disseminate information about the history of the Teackle Mansion and Somerset County through publications, exhibits, forums and a speakers’ bureau; and (5) to develop student tours and presentations consistent with the curriculum of the Somerset County Schools.
Contact: Marjorie Poirsker, 410-651-1373
This is a private non-profit organization that trains farm workers for jobs in the local area. The goal is to help farm workers earn more money and live better lives. Programs offered include: employment and training services (i.e. outreach, assessment and orientation, job counseling, job development, job placement, and job follow-up), on-the-job training, work experience, classroom training, English as a second language, and supportive services (i.e. child care, relocation, limited transportation, nutrition education, emergency food assistance, health and medical, and emergency assistance).
Contact: Karen Webster, 410-546-4604
This is a free educational program helping 9th and 10th grade students in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties pursue postsecondary education and training. It offers leadership training, information on financial aid for college, preparation for SAT/ACT, preparation for college courses, individual tutoring and opportunities for community service.
Contact: Fedder Williams, 410-651-6458
This organization is dedicated to exhibiting, collecting, and promoting wildfowl art and related materials, and interpreting their significance through educational programs and publications. Containing the world’s premiere collection of wildfowl art, the Museum features pieces ranging from antique decoys to modern carvings and sculptures. The Museum serves the public of all ages through its tours, educational workshops, lectures, and kids’ activities. As an affiliate of Salisbury University, the Museum is committed to enhancing the quality and stature of SU’s educational programs.
Contact: Judy Richardson, 410-742-4988, x109
This program provides services for children and adolescents having problems related to mental health or addictions. Services are provided by a multidisciplinary team of professionals including: psychiatrists, certified nurse psychotherapists, nurses, social workers, and addictions counselors.
Contact: Linda Hallowell, 410-334-3497
This mission is to help students with reviewing basic skills, preparing for the GED test or learning to speak English as a second language. The program offers individual instruction in basic academic skills and practical life skills (adult basic education-ABE); instruction to prepare for the General Education Development Test (GED Test); opportunity to take a Practice GED Test; help with job-seeking skills; and, instruction in learning to speak, read and write English (English to speakers of other language—ESOL).
Contact: Patricia Handy, 410-749-3217
This is a State-supervised, locally administered program, which offers financial assistance to the needy, protects the vulnerable, and serves the troubled while teaching people to help themselves with assistance. The mission is to promote and protect the safety, self-sufficiency, helath and well-being of people of Wicomico County. Volunteers are needed in the following areas and programs: Best Buddy Program, child care, receptionists, office assistance, transportation, Adopt-a-Family, Bear Hugs/Gifts from the Heart, Sponsor-a-Family, Turkeys for Foster Parents, Back-to-School Supplies, Halloween Costumes Program, Individual Development Accounts, and many more.
Contact: Ella Russell, 410-543-6900
The mission is to provide programs and services to Maryland Eastern Shore residents with developmental disabilities. Programs and services offered, include: case management, support (i.e. transportation, dental, medical, parent training, behavior management, in-home assistance, counseling, advocacy services), day services (i.e. activities centers, workshops, supported employment sites), and residential services (i.e. ranging from independent living to 24-hour supervision).
Contact: Paul Mysak, 410-543-6790
Just for Guys, After School Health Education Program
The after school program is held every Monday and Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. for guys (10-18 years of age). Participants in the program will receive healthy snacks, opportunity for physical exercise and to chat with other peers, a gift, and an end of session party. (Volunteers may not be needed, call first.)
Contact: Chavonda Carr, 410-334-3425
GEMS
This is an after-school social and educational program for 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls at Bennett Middle School and 6th grade girls at Salisbury Middle School. Currently, 95 girls participate. This program emphasizes abstinence from sex, drugs and alcohol, and helps girls to develop responsible behavior, self-esteem, and confidence. Mentors are needed for bi-weekly group sessions after school from 3-5 p.m., social/cultural activities, a community-based service project, fitness activities and opportunities for parent involvement. (Female mentors only.)
Contact: Chavonda Carr or Tracy Johnson, 410-334-3425
In 1997, the Wicomico County Council consolidated three agencies, bringing the Tourism Bureau, Youth and Civic Center and the Department of Recreation together into one department—three divisions, one department. The mission represents the County government’s commitment to an outstanding quality of life for its citizens. The goals are to provide high quality events and programs, to preserve unique natural resources, to acquire, develop and maintain park land and recreation facilities, and to market our community for the purpose of attracting visitors.
Contact: John Terrell, 410-548-4900
This is a community-wide mentoring program with a mission to help students who just need some extra attention. Mentors encourage the students to improve grades, attend school, make better behavior choices, and be responsible. Mentors meet with their students during the school day (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for a minimum of ONE HOUR each week of the school year.
Contact: Henrietta Parker, 410-677-4586
This nursing home is owned and operated by Wicomico County and is licensed by the Marlyand State Health Department to provide skilled and intermediate care. The professionals who offer their services to the residents of the nursing home are: registered and licensed nurses, registered dietician, physical therapist, speech therapist, pharmacist, dentist, podiatrist, social worker and activities director. Volunteers are needed to assist in the activities department.
Contact: Jean Henderson, 410-742-8896
The mission is to promote and encourage the cultural enrichment of Worcester County. This organization provides projects such as, the annual student art scholarship, monthly gallery exhibits, summer arts camp for grades 3-7, Arts on Wheels (taking art to middle schools), and an annual membership fundraiser. Numerous projects which are funded and made available to the Worcester County public schools include: musical theatres, writers, poets and mural projects.
Contact: Pam O’Donnell, 410-641-0809
The mission is to serve Worcester County citizens 60 years of age and older through a variety of programs and services. These include: outreach, tax assistance, transportation, legal services, social activities, home visiting, nutritious meals, health programs, counseling, sitters, information and referral, and educational programs.
Contact: Ron Stauffer, 410-632-1277
The Center operates primarily in Worcester County and is licensed and largely funded by the State of Maryland. The Center offers a comprehensive array of services designed to cover all aspects of a developmentally disabled person’s life. Available services include pre-vocational and vocational training, sheltered employment, job placement, supported employment, transportation, residential options, individual and group counseling, health services, socialization, and survival skills training.
Contact: Connie Fisher, 410-632-9951
This organization is dedicated toward helping to improve the lives of citizens in Worcester County, especially families in crises, children in foster care and vulnerable children/adults. G.O.L.D. works with public agencies throughout Worcester County, including Worcester County Department of Social Services, Health Department, Oasis Ministries, local shelters, Agape and Pocomoke Collaborative. Some of the services provided include: providing children with school supplies and haircuts before school begins, organizing a holiday “Adopt-a-Family” program, arranging for free visits to Shorebirds games, providing camp scholarships and purchasing and delivering a variety of birthday and graduation gifts to foster children living in treatment centers.
Contact: Debbie Cole, 410-677-6843
The purpose of this program is three-fold: to enhance the delivery of programs and services to the citizens of Worcester County; to encourage participation in local government; and to promote volunteerism by individuals and groups in Worcester County. Volunteers are needed to serve within the 16 departments of the Worcester County Government. Some of the departments are: Recreation & Parks, Library, Tourism, Jail, Public Works, Circuit Court, Economic Development, and Office of the State’s Attorney. Short-term, long-term and special event assignments are available.
Contact: Diane Cary, 410-632-5656 or 0090
The Health Department is committed to the health and well being of Worcester County. A staff of health care professionals provides quality services including mental health, alcohol and other drugs, maternal/child health, family planning, personal health, adult health, environmental health, communicable disease, developmental disabilities, and cancer programs. These services are designed to promote health, prevent illness, and improve a citizen’s ability to lead a productive life.
Addictions
This department is located in Snow Hill and offers counseling, assessments, DWI treatment, in jail counseling, referral services treatment, consultation, crisis intervention, urinalysis, employee assistance program training, and prevention services, including resources.
Contact: Doris Moxley, 410-632-1100
WACS
(Worcester Addictions Cooperative Service)
This department is located in the Ocean City/Berlin area and offers the same services as the Addictions Department (listed above).
Contact: Frank Hall, 410-213-0202
The purpose is to provide a refuge for unwanted animals until they are placed in loving homes. Volunteers work diligently to: reunite lost animals with their owners; provide food, shelter, medical attention, and plenty of TLC for abandoned animals; adopt orphaned animals to responsible, loving owners; investigate reports of cruelty or neglect and take appropriate actions to correct violations; educate the public to proper treatment of animals and the importance of neutering their pets; and support legislation to protect animal rights.
Contact: Kenille Davies, 410-213-0146
