Local oppurtunities to volunteer abundant

While students become immersed in their studies and social life, a number of volunteer organizations located on campus and in Bloomington are looking for students to give their time and energy to help others.\nOver 130 different kinds of volunteer programs, which range from working with pre-school children to organizing activities for the Hoosiers Outrun Cancer event, exist here in Bloomington. \nMany of these volunteer organizations are within walking distance of campus, such as the American Red Cross, 411 E. 7th St., the Boys and Girls Club, 311 S. Lincoln St., and Bloomington Parks and Recreation, 401 N. Morton St.\n"Volunteer opportunities arise in Bloomington on a daily basis," said Elizabeth Savich, director of the Bloomington Volunteer Network. "There are a lot of fun things (to volunteer for), and we try to bring them to students' attention."\nSavich said it is important for students to volunteer during the school year.\nShe also said there are many other benefits to volunteering. \n"Volunteering can give an individual career options, or the opportunity to learn different skills," Savich said. "If someone misses his grandparents or younger siblings, he can work with senior citizens or kids to fill the void." \nSophomore Kristin Egan said volunteering was a way for her to meet new people.\n"I think volunteering is a selfless way to give back to the community," she said.\nSophomore Ashley Burton volunteered on campus at a men's swim meet. \n"Volunteering is time spent well," she said. "You can get your mind off of school, meet new people and have a great time." \nCampus related volunteering is organized by the Volunteer Students Bureau, a committee made up entirely of students. They have roughly 150 to 200 e-mails and walk-ins from students who want to volunteer. Although those are small numbers compared to the number of students who attend IU, the VSB said that doesn't make them take their job any less seriously. \n"We aim to be the student organization that connects students with the Bloomington community," said Natalia Galvan, president of the volunteer bureau. \nThe organization works with the Bloomington Volunteer Network for events targeted to students and residents and also with RHA, IUSA and other campus organizations for campus philanthropies. \n"Our hope is to have one philanthropy event a week," Galvan said. \nGalvan said the Volunteer Students Bureau can help students get more information about volunteering events happening in the community. The VSB welcomes walk-ins in their office in the Student Activities Tower, or can be reached by e-mail at vsb@indiana.edu.