Nearly 35 groups attend Batavia's volunteer fair

Cynthia Sergent moved to Batavia in June from Ohio.

She said she's happy to be a part of the community, "loves the energy" and is considering doing volunteer work.

So when she heard about the annual volunteer fair from a friend, she rode her bicycle to the Batavia Public Library Saturday to check it out and pick up information.

"I worked in nonprofit and volunteers are wonderful," Sergent said. "I haven't made any decisions yet, but I have a heart for seniors."

Whatever her inclination, Sergent was likely to discover something interesting with nearly 35 volunteer organizations represented.

There were representatives from local chapters of such national organizations as the American Red Cross, the Boy Scouts and the Salvation Army.

Also represented were local agencies that serve the homeless, the hungry, victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, and those who are at risk of suicide.

Staff members from Suicide Prevention Services in Batavia brought a quilt that displayed the faces of men and women lost to suicide.

Volunteers from Homes for Engendered and Lost Pets, or HELP, brought two orange-colored kittens who need a good home.

Participants also could learn about social organizations such as the Batavia Jaycees, the Batavia Mothers Club and the Batavia Women's Club that raise money to help others. For example, the women's club was promoting its Nov. 10 fashion show, which will benefit the Valley Sheltered Workshop.

"I think we've gotten quite a few new members by being here," said club member Renee McPeek. "Women might be looking for a group to join, but reluctant to ask a neighbor about what's available."

Saturday's event was the sixth annual volunteer fair.

"We started the fair in 2002," said Barbara King of the Batavia League of Women Voters, which sponsors the event. "The national league wanted local groups to commemorate 9/11 through events that encouraged volunteerism in the community.

"We didn't have too many organizations in 2002, but it has grown steadily. And those who are here love the networking. We've had a steady stream of people today."

King, who came up with the idea for the fair, said she often receives calls before and after the event from residents who want information but aren't able to be there.

King can be reached at (630) 879-2263.