Health and Special Needs

• Best Buddies: Best Buddies International aims to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-on-one friendships and integral employment. Student volunteers, as college buddies, can establish friendships with special needs adults at Paxton Ministries in Harrisburg. All of the college buddies and Paxton buddies meet once a month for a group activity/event (in the past we've had pizza parties, dinner and movie nights, campfires, game nights, arts and crafts nights and holiday parties). Also, one other activity between individual buddy pairs is encouraged (such as letter writing or visits to the mall together) each month, as is bi-weekly correspondence between the buddy pairs.

 

• CATRA: CATRA is a non-profit organization providing recreational and therapuetic horseback riding to individuals with physical and mental challenges. Students volunteers have the opportunity to work with handicapped children, helping them build confidence in themselves through learning to ride horseback. They may also be asked to help with chores around the farm, such as helping to clean animal cages and feed the animals. There is no experience necessary, just a willingness to be a friend.

 

• Paxton Ministries: Paxton Ministries is a Christian, non-profit community of homes, serving adults who may be challenged with social, mental, or emotional needs. They provide long term, affordable housing, food, and support. Paxton Ministries ministers to the whole person, regardless of one's ability to pay, and help with the development of life skills and resources to live as independently as possible. They also offer a supportive, family-like environment where love and compassion are a way a life - where dignity and self-worth are recognized in every individual. Volunteers spend time with residents and seek to learn from and form relationships with them in the love of Jesus Christ.

 

• Morning Star Pregnancy Services: located on the outskirts of Harrisburg, this abortion clinic alternative has opportunties for students to help by sorting donations, assisting with office work and organizing and cleaning around the offices. Positions for volunteer counselors are also available for college students.