Each semester, Madison College’s Volunteer Center hosts a volunteer fair for students. At the event, agencies from around the area are invited to come and offer volunteer opportunities to students.  

Student Program Advisor Brianna Stapleton Welch says, “The purpose of these events is to provide Madison College students with service learning and volunteering opportunities within the community.” 

Past volunteer fairs took place inside the Truax main building. Organizations would set up tables and students were able to walk up and talk to the representatives there. However, this semester the volunteer fair will be hosted completely online.  

The set-up will be quite similar to the in-person event. Rather than walking around to different tables, students will now scroll through “virtual tables” where they can click on and read about opportunities that interest them. Some organizations will also be offering video chats for students who prefer speaking to someone directly.  

Welch encourages students to attend the volunteer fair. “The COVID-19 pandemic has been, and continues to be, incredibly isolating. I’ve heard from students that they’re looking for a way to connect with others and support those who are struggling right now. If you have the time, volunteering can be a great way to do it.” 

Welch also mentions that there are more virtual volunteer opportunities now than ever before, so students looking to avoid in-person activities can still get involved.  

The volunteer fair will be hosted all day every day from Oct. 5 through Oct. 9. Students can access it by going to https://resources.madisoncollege.edu/volunteer-fair.  

Whether students are bored at home and need something to do or are interested in helping others, the volunteer fair is a great place to start.