VOLUNTEER FAIR
2024 Volunteer Fair
Organizations Seeking Volunteers!
Every year the Ironwood Chamber of Commerce sponsors an area Volunteer Fair. Organizations covering a wide range of community activities from festivals and trails, to sports and aging depend upon volunteers to fulfill their mission.
This year of 2024, the Fair will be held at the Ironwood Memorial Building on Thursday, November 14th, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The list below includes the organizations that attended the 2023 Fair.
The afternoon time for the Fair is in hopes that students and those who work normal daytime hours will be able to more easily attend.
Volunteers are an important part of any community--they are what make the events happen, complete city and community projects for which there is no government money or support, and above all, foster that sense of "people helping people" that is so essential to the formation and continuation of a healthy community life.
If you are new to our community, or are just deciding now to get involved and be a helper person, we at the Ironwood Chamber invite you to contact any of the organizations in the list below. All of them are only able to accomplish their mission with dedicated volunteer help, and they look forward to your interest in their work and your desire to join up and further its development.
AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER OF THE NORTH-IRON COUNTY BRANCH
Trista Olson, ADRC/Aging Manager: 715-561-2108 (Ext. 4)
olson@ironcountywi.org
Mission: To provide Wisconsin residents with unbiased information related to aging and living with a disability. Our goal is to help people maintain their independence by connecting them to the right resources.
Needs: We are currently looking for medical escort volunteer drivers to work with volunteers scheduling for ride availability; volunteers for our 5 senior nutrition sites on a weekly or monthly basis; caregiver volunteers to help with senior chores or respite needs; and seniors to help with senior meal assessments as needed.
Requirements/Skills: Volunteer drivers must apply, show proof of car insurance, & submit to a background check. All volunteer opportunities require caregiver background checks and the filling out of a basic volunteer application. Good communication skills, phone skills, and being physically able to assist with senior chores (if the volunteer desires to help with such tasks). Must have reliable transportation for all volunteer opportunities.
ANDERSON BLUFFS & RIVER TRAILS FOUNDATION
Jay Sween
Mission: sustain ABR Legacy as the Midwest's Premier Nordic Ski destination for generations to come and connect ABR Trails to the larger community.
Needs: We are currently looking for a variety of volunteers from firewood splitting/stacking, Fall season cabin cleaning, marketing & social media support, graphic arts, bookkeeping & accounting services. trail maintenance (clearing, digging, brush clearing, weed eating), and trail sign maintenance (painting and installation).
Skills: Basic skills related to the manual needs and proficiency in the administrative tasks.
ASPIRUS AT HOME HEALTH/HOSPICE
William Norris
906.932.2440 (Ext. 27483)
william.norris@aspirus.org
https://www.aspirus.org/volunteering-at-aspirus-at-home-michigan
Mission: Aspirus at Home Health/Hospice volunteers provide support and respite care at the home of individuals and families receiving hospice care
Activities: Include, but are not limited to, the following: visiting with patients, shopping, allowing family caregivers the opportunity to do out-of-home errands, simple administrative tasks; reading to/writing letters for patients.
Skills: A hospice volunteer is always mindful of and respectful of patient privacy and confidentiality.
AWKWARD STAGE DRAMA CLUB
Mary Hansen: 906-364-6359
Lynne Wiercinski: 906-932-4789
Mission: The ASDC was created for students in grades 6-12 who want to experience any part of theatre: acting, creating costumes, makeup, set design, etc. The group is open to students from Hurley, Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield. The Ironwood Carnegie Library is one of the co-facilitators of the club.
Needs: The ASDC seeks volunteers to help throughout the year based on the club’s activities. Volunteers are needed to help with play practices, publicity, and other tasks.
CITY OF IRONWOOD
Tim Erickson, Community Development: ericksont@cityofironwood.org
Mission: Ironwood’s vision is to nurture the trails of our past and to build new trails for our future.
Needs: The City has multiple boards and committees that need folks interested in volunteering to serve on: Downtown Ironwood Development Authority; Ironwood Parks and Recreation Committee; Planning Commission; Ironwood Economic Development Corporation.
Time: Monthly meetings for boards and commissions. Some have voluntary sub-committees that meet monthly outside of regular full-board meetings.
EMBERLIGHT FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
234 East Aurora Street, Ironwood
906.285.7101
cindy@emberlight.org
https://emberlight.org/volunteer/sign-up-form/
Mission: Each summer the Emberlight Festival creates programs that celebrate artists, musicians, actors, filmmakers, creative writers, and dancers. We collaborate with local, regional, and international artists to create affordable, life-enhancing experiences that spark the imagination and ignite learning in our audiences and communities.
Activities: Although each season individual events will vary, the four main elements are: International Film Festival, Main Stage Performances, Art Shows and Art installations in the Miner’s Memorial Heritage Park, Performance Infusions, and intimate Behind the Curtain (meet the artist series).
Needs: Looking for docents, ushers, box office, sponsorship sales, photographers, drivers, and Festival greeters.
FeLiveLife.org - COMMUNITY EVENT CALENDAR FOR THE GOGEBIC IRON RANGE OF IRON COUNTY, WI AND GOGEBIC COUNTY, MI
Ironwood Chamber of Commerce; 906.932.1122
chamber@ironwoodchambe.wpenginepowered.com
Mission: Fe—the scientific symbol for iron, is also a symbol of the Gogebic Iron Range community of Iron County, WI and Gogebic County, MI. Fe honors the past while walking towards the future. For over a decade Fe has represented a shared identity in collaborative projects like the community calendar FeLiveLife.org, which promotes local events to residents and visitors alike.
Needs: Volunteers firstly offer their support to FeLiveLife.org by adding their favorite events to the calendar, events that 1) occur in Gogebic or Iron Counties, 2) include the public as a primary audience, and 3) bring people together for a shared experience. Volunteers with available time and interest are invited to be on the FeLiveLife.org event approval team & Facebook page, and/or participate in organizing collaborative events.
Skills: Skills and experience with website programs like WordPress, social media (Facebook and Instagram), and graphic design with programs like Canva are frequently used in the regular tasks that keep FeLiveLife.org running successfully.
FRIENDS OF THE IRON BELLE TRAIL
Mission: The Friends of the Trial (FOT) was created to help the Western Gateway Trail Authority promote and maintain our segment of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail which currently stretches from Ironwood to Ramsay. The Bridges and Bluffs Half-Marathon is the annual fundraiser for the trail.
Needs: Volunteers to mow, remove fallen trees, picking up litter, and removing invasive species. Training will be provided in the Spring for mowers. Volunteers are also needed for special events such as the annual Spring and Fall clean-ups and the Bridges and Bluffs race. We enjoy having a presence at local community events such as the Bessemer and Ramsay 4th of July parades and the Ironwood Jack Frost Parade.
FRIENDS OF THE MINER’S MEMORIAL HERITAGE PARK
president@fmmhp.com
Rick Semo: 906-364-1495
MMHP, P.O. Box 52, Ironwood, MI 49938
Mission: To preserve and enhance the area the Park encompasses. Discover, protect, and promote the rich mining history of the MMHP and the surrounding areas. Create a healthy and fun outdoor recreation environment, helping to facilitate such silent sports as walking, skiing, snowshoeing, and biking.
Needs: Volunteer needs include having help with the following: Trail building, maintaining, and signage; discovering and improving historical sites, grooming ski trails & packing snowshoe trails; serving on the Board of Directors, visioning and planning; maintaining equipment.
Skills: Anything and everything. We need people willing to do mild physical activities, such as trimming brush, weed whacking, raking, etc. We need people to operate our grooming equipment and mowers. We very much need people who can do modest mechanical work on machines. We can also use computer skills, writing, planning—anyone who wants to see the park grow and improve can help. There is a way to use whatever you can give.
GOGEBIC COUNTY FAIR
Marlene Saari: 906-932-2700
Mission: Locally based family friendly entertainment. The Fair is held annually the second weekend of August.
Needs: During the Fair: we need ticket sellers, gatekeepers, clerks, cleaners, & shuttle drivers a few hours every day of the Fair or whatever time you have to share with us. The week before the Fair: we need volunteers to help in cleaning the Expo building, maintaining flower plantings, cleaning ticket booths, placing reminder signs around the grounds—a few hours or a few days of help—we appreciate it all! Preceding the Fair in June, July and August: planting, watering, and maintaining flower beds; painting around the grounds; general fixup and maintenance; picking up rocks in the horse arena and harness track, etc. After the Fair: Picking up trash around the grounds, removing signage, cleanup in the barns and Expo building—an hour a day or a whole day—all is helpful. Large projects: Ticket booths need major repair or replacement, basic carpentry and design skills needed.
GOGEBIC-ONTONAGON GREAT START COLLABORATIVE
Little Learners Early Childcare Center
106 S. Marquette St., Ironwood
Crystal Suzik: 906.932.3200
906-575-3438 ext. 103 mlane@goisd.org
Little Learners Mission: Providing each child the care that meets their individual needs, while providing a safe environment along with the educational early-on experience in our center. We pride ourselves on providing the safe, educational, innovative environment for your children with our center’s care.
GOGSC Mission: GOGS is a partnership of parents and community citizens who work together to ensure that every child reaches his or her potential and enters Kindergarten safe, healthy, prepared for learning, and eager to succeed in school and life.
Location: We hold meetings bi-monthly in Bergland, MI at the Gogebic-Ontonagon Intermediate School District. Our Great Start Parent Coalition holds parent networking nights, organized playgroups, symposiums, and trainings frequently throughout both counties.
Needs: We are looking for families and community members for any volunteering for our GSC or our Family Coalition Groups.
HISTORIC IRONWOOD THEATRE
906.932.0618
Bruce Greenhill, Operations Manager: bgreenhill@ironwoodtheatre.net
Lindsay Boehnlein, Administration Manager: lboehnlein@ironwoodtheatre.net
The vision of the Historic Ironwood Theatre is that all generations personally experience the joy of theatre community. The mission is to preserve and provide an iconic facility where everyone is invited to discover and enjoy the performing arts.
Volunteer needs: The Theatre's need for volunteers is never ending. Ticket sellers, bartenders, concessions workers, sound and lighting techs, set builders and painters, and help loading in and packing out touring performers. All are in constant demand. We are always on the lookout for people to join our variouos teams -- Grants, Programs, Marketing, Fund Development, are just some of the teams always looking for new members and fresh ideas. regardless of the extent of your availability, the theatre has a task or two for you. Depending on the activities iin which you choose to get involved, you can make a daily, weekly, or monthly time commitment, or, even just an occasional special event or work bee.
Volunteer skills and requirements: If you'd like to work i the office, then some basic to intermediate computer skills and a cheery disposition are needed; if you'd like to work in tech, then a good eye for lighting, and an ear for sound; building & equipment maintenance: it would help if you knew the difference between a hammer drill and a chop saw. Give us a call. Tell us about your interest and skills, and we will happily match you with an appropriate task!
IRON COUNTY 4-H
Neil Klemme; 715-561-2695
https://iron.extension.wisc.edu/4h/
Mission: Iron County 4-H is a youth development program that allows youth to explore their interests or “Sparks”. These sparks can grow into a career or a lifelong activity. Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development teaches leadership, citizenship, and other invaluable life skills through fun educational experiences. 4-H reaches every corner of our state—from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities. In Wisconsin, with a network of more than 24,000 youth, 4-H helps shape youth to move our communities, state, country, and the world forward in ways that no other youth organization can. Wisconsin 4-H is offered in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension
Needs: We are always looking to expand what programming we offer youth and this is where the volunteers come in. Do you have a skill? Cooking, blacksmithing, woodworking, or sewing? These are just a few of the options for youth projects in 4-H. Come and share your skills and passions with us!
IRON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
icmuseum@aol.com
715-561-2244; 303 Iron Street, Hurley, WI
Mission: The ICHM seeks to preserve the past and give life to our region’s history. The Museum is open for visitors to tour at various times during the week (seasonal hours). Lectures and special events are held annually. Volunteers in the weaving room use looms to create rugs, runners, and placemats.
Needs: The museum is open M, W, F, & Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm from April to October, and W, F, Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm from November to March. Volunteers are welcome to come in on the days that work for them.
Skills: We are looking for volunteers in these areas: Weaving Room (cutting fabric into strips and/or sewing the strips together); Housekeeping (dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming); Displays/Maintenance (putting together displays, hanging pictures, and light maintenance work) history truly is. If you have a curiosity and the patience for research, welcome!
Time: December membership mailings, Summer Festival Ironwood volunteers for Depot tours, and whatever free time you are able to come in and help out.
IRONWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
chamber@ironwoodchambe.wpenginepowered.com
Michael Meyer, Director; 906-932-1122
Mission: The Chamber is an association of businesses and organizations that work together to foster our community’s economic, social, and cultural well-being and while promoting our area the greater world at large.
Needs: Very part-time seasonal and event-focused office and event help, especially during Jack Frost (December), Festival Ironwood (3rd week in July), and the Chamber booth at the Gogebic County Fair in August.
Skills: Volunteers need to be cheerful, good with meeting with the public, and have a reasonably good acquaintance with Ironwood area attractions, resources, and history.
Time: Two principal times: Jack Frost Festival (looking for Jack Frost parade helpers/leaders) as well as help in the Chamber office with the big December all-member U.S. mailing; Festival Ironwood time in July—looking for area knowledgeable counter greeters to welcome visitors and former residents when they come into the Depot.
KIWANIS CLUB OF IRONWOOD
Megan Noren: 906.364.3697
meganjnoren@gmail.com
Mission: Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. It is our goal that one day all children will wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them, and provide the support they need to thrive.
Needs: Our local club meets once a month to hold a business meeting, plan volunteer activities, and organize fundraisers. We have several fundraising events throughout the year.
Skills: All volunteers are welcome! The only specific skill required is a desire to help the children in our community.
LITTLE FINLAND – NATIONAL FINNISH AMERICAN FESTIVAL
Jeanne Walston; 715.562.0216
jkwalston@centurytel.net
Mission: to preserve the cultural heritage of the Finnish people in our area.
Volunteer commitment: Work in our gift shop, help with various activities, and we could use someone with building skills occasionally.
Skills: Promptness, good customer interactive skills
Time: Gift shop is open 10 – 2 on Tuesday and Saturday, April through December. Most activities are during the summer.
NEW BEGINNINGS PREGNANCY & FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES
906.932.0414
ironwoodpregnancy@gmail.com
Mission: We are a pro-life, non-profit, Christian organization that provides a safe and welcoming place for individuals and families to receive education, services, and support. We also feature a downtown Ironwood thrift store & children’s resale shop where you can find a wide range of quality items.
Needs: We are looking for volunteers for 3-15 hours per week (or as their schedule allows). Duties would include primarily helping with laundry and other thrift store needs.
NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL
Ni-Miikanaake Chapter - Michigan
nmk@northcountrytrail.org
Mission: The North Country Trail Association (NCTA) develops, maintains, and helps protect and promote the North Country National Scenic Trail as the premier hiking path across the northern tier of the United States.
Needs: Our chapter is seeking volunteers of all kinds! Most of our volunteer work is seasonal and volunteers can help out as little or as much as they’d like! We also have a need for members who can help be “trail angels”, where you can be added to a list to help transport hikers from one point to another or help them reload on supplies.
Heritage Chapter – Wisconsin
Bethany Thomas: sally65bones@gmail.com
Our Chapter is responsible for a hiking trail from Copper Falls State Park to the Michigan State line. We have built approximately 16 miles of trail, and are now building from HWY 169 parking lot south of Gurney to Wren Falls. We use hand tools primarily, and we also maintain the existing trail with mower, weedwhacker, and chainsaw.
Time: Volunteers usually work once a month on a weekend. A full day on Saturday and until noon on Sunday. Some volunteers work parts of these hours, while others work during the week for a single day here and there.
Skills: Volunteers are generally in pretty good physical shape for our work is similar to gardening in that we clean and smooth the trail by moving soil, & removing stumps & rocks.
NORTHWIND NATURAL FOODS CO-OP
Cathy Flory: 906.932.3547
cathy@northwindcoop.org
Mission: To provide a marketing and purchasing outlet for primarily natural, organic, unprocessed foods and related items at a minimum price on a non-profit basis; to educate and promote to the community healthy lifestyles, wellness, and a whole foods diet emphasizing natural, organic, and unprocessed foods; to educate the community to the benefits and potentials of our and other cooperatives.
Needs: Cooperatives derive their strength from the active participation of their members. Participating in the Working Member program at NNFC has many benefits and tasks that need doing: Graphic Design (flyers, brochures, and newsletters); Cooperative Outreach (be a part of brainstorming, planning, and putting into action ways of keeping the Co-op involved in the community); Educational Classes or In-store Demonstrations (cooking, health and wellness, and more).
Skills: Do you have a talent or skill? Talk to us and we will find a way to put your enthusiasm to work. We are happy to create volunteer opportunities based on individual schedules
SAINT VINCENT DEPAUL
216 West Aurora Street, Ironwood
906-932-4547: managerironwood@outlook.com
Our mission: We help people with housing, food, medical, utilities, and gas.
Volunteer time commitment: Any time that you can give us!
Volunteer skills: No special skills are needed.
Time: We are open from 10-4 Monday through Friday, and Saturdays, 10-2.
Contact: Cindy Schwertfeger, manager; Patti Lewis, assistant manager.
SISU SKI FEST
racedirector@sisuskifest.com
715-254-4104
Mission: Promoting the sport of cross-country skiing; encouraging local tourism; advancing local pride.
Needs/Time commitment: Before, during, and after the SISU Ski Fest, January 7, 2023
Skills & Requirements: Various indoors and outdoors: aid stations, road crossings, skier assistance, food service, set-up, clean-up, decorating, First Aid, bag drop driver (truck or van).
THEATRE NORTH
Helen Fashbaugh: hfash@charter.net
Judy Holst: jholster@charter.net
Theatre: 906-932-4371
Connie Pricco: 906-364-9035
Mission: The mission of Theatre North is to produce quality live theater to the Gogebic Range, engaging community members in performance and all aspects of production; and to serve as a venue for cultural activities throughout the surrounding area, often extending outreach to schools and other arts organizations.
Needs: TN is looking for volunteers of all ages to perform, work behind the scenes (set-building, property gathering, painting, building costumes), to work on backstage crews during performance, help with make-up, assist in marketing, fund-raising, staffing the box office. We also seek those interested in directing, musical directing, stage managing, and lighting and sound design.
Skills: Various, depending upon the tasks required.
WAKEFIELD CHAMBER & VISITOR’S CENTER
Dennis Ferson: djferson@charter.net
673 Highway M-28; 906-224-2222
Mission: The Wakefield Chamber of Commerce and its Visitor’s Center are dedicated to the enhancement and improvement of the business and recreational environment of Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. The businesses, organizations, and community-minded individuals that comprise our membership are spread from Ironwood to Lake Gogebic. Neither the Chamber nor the Visitor’s Center have any paid staff: we are 100% volunteer!
Needs: Year-round needs for the Chamber are for the most part occasional and simple, such as flyer distribution or the set-up and break down of small events. One-time events scheduled for 2023 that we expect to be asked to provide volunteer assistance for include an IWA Snowmobile Water-Cross, the APBA National Finals Boat Race, an expanded Gus Macker Basketball tournament, and the manning of the joint Gogebic County Chamber’s booth at the County Fair.
Volunteers at the Visitor’s Center are asked to work one four-hour period each week from late May through mid-October. Although a convenient weekly schedule is established, absences for personal needs and vacations are always granted. Any volunteer hour is treasured!!!
Skills needed: Volunteers of any age or skill level are welcome, but the ability to assist with the maintenance of our Facebook page, mailing list, or website is especially valuable. Visitor’s Center volunteers need to be pleasant and to enjoy meeting the public. Volunteers for the Visitor’s Center should possess a general knowledge of area roads and highways, attractions, and services. Most volunteers here find their Visitor’s Center interactions with tourists or potential relocators so enjoyable that they return year after year to meet folks from all over the
United States as they explore the Western Upper Peninsula!
AMERICAN RED CROSS
Christine Luxton: 920.510.8272
christine.luxton@redcross.org
Mission: The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. We have disaster service volunteers who help with disasters such as fires, flooding, etc. We also have our blood service where we organize our resources within the community to collect blood from volunteer donors for our hospitals and patients in need.
Needs: The American Red Cross is seeking caring people to serve as blood drive volunteers for our Red Cross blood drives. We need help spreading the word about the drives as well as help with donor registration and donor recovery (snacks) during the blood drives. The job is not complicated and paperwork is minimal. Frequency of blood drives varies from monthly to every two months. The blood drives are generally 4-5 hours and volunteers can sign up for one hour or for the entire drive.
Skills: We need positive, well-organized individuals who want to help save lives. There are no special skills required. Our Red Cross crew will train each volunteer and support them completely during the drive. Quite often friends will work as a team and share responsibility. It is fun!!
ASPIRUS IRONWOOD HOSPITAL & CLINICS
Jenny Schouppe, 906.932.2525 Ext. 27366
https://www.aspirus.org/ironwood-hospital-volunteers
Mission: Aspirus Ironwood Hospital Auxiliary and senior and junior volunteers provide essential help to patients, visitors, and employees of Aspirus Ironwood Hospital & Clinics.
Needs: There are opportunities to fit anyone’s interests, abilities, and time schedules. As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to share your unique gifts and talents with the Aspirus community. Your efforts will touch the lives of patients and their families—either directly or behind the scenes. Everyone has something to offer!
BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMENS CLUB
Randi Jackson: rjackson99@charter.net
Mission: Supporting women, working together to uplift our community.
Needs: Time is 2 hours a month for meetings and time for fundraising—approximately 10-15 hours per year.
Skills: No skills needed, but must have worked at some point in their life.
DOWNTOWN ART PLACE
906.285.7300
downtownartplace@gmail.com
Mission: the mission of the DAP is to promote and sustain the creation and appreciation of the visual arts in the greater Ironwood area, encompassing Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties in Michigan and Iron and Vilas Counties in Wisconsin. The DAP is also dedicated to supporting and promoting local and regional artists in its galleries, gift shop, studios, and arts education, while being committed to partnering with its neighbor, the Historic Ironwood Theatre.
Needs: Weekly/Monthly as available: Gallery desk workers; friendly, engaging, art-loving volunteers who are comfortable working with a computer to help fill in and staff the Gallery’s front desk on occasional afternoons (Tuesday – Sunday from 12 – 4 p.m.) or evenings during special events (First Fridays, during Theatre performances, etc.). We also need occasional work-bee volunteers to help with building projects (cleaning, painting, etc.). Art Classroom Helpers are also needed to assist the DAP Art Teacher during art classes.
ERWIN TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Joy Pelissero: joypelissero@gmail.com
Jeanne Miller: 906-285-0135
Erwin Township Historical Society
P.O. Box 412, Ironwood, MI 49928
Mission: The ETHS’s sole purpose is preserving the past and creating the future of Erwin Township. It collects, educates, and displays with deep pride the life and times of the hard-working pioneers and families of our township. The Erwin Heritage Park makes Erwin Township a destination—it celebrates our heritage, tells our history, and promotes community well-being.
Needs: From January 1, 2023 through May 1, 2023, we will need volunteers to assist in moving artifacts into the new museum and setting up displays. By June 1st, we will be needing volunteers to assist with landscaping along the newly paved trail throughout the Erwin Heritage Park. We will be looking for volunteers to assist with our annual garage sale in June and bake sales throughout the year.
Skills: Volunteers do need to provide their own transportation. If you have the following skills, please consider putting your skills to good use: organizational skills, ability to set up and arrange artifact displays, able to use a shovel, rake, and wheelbarrow to help with landscaping needs around the paved trail, interest in setting up for a garage sale, and helping on the day of the sale. Put your baking skills to use by baking for one of our bake sales!
FESTIVAL IRONWOOD
Will Corcoran: 906-364-5672
Keith Johnson: 906-364-4316
Mission: Festival Ironwood is a local Ironwood summer festival that takes place the third full week in July, from Wednesday through Saturday. It is a celebration of summer activities and groups in the community that provide experiences for all ages. Many of the activities are free to participants, such as musical entertainment, dancing, & games.
Needs: Set-up normally begins on Sunday afternoon of Festival Week. Volunteers are needed to help with setting up tables, chairs, vendor spaces, lights, fencing, signage, picnic tables, duck-pick pond, trout pond, garbage receptacles, and more, including the installing of decorative lights and stage lights. Tear-down starts the following Sunday morning with the removal of the tables, chairs, vendor spaces, fencing, signage, lights, etc. Volunteers are needed to set-up, constant hauling of garbage, and tear-down.
FRIENDS OF THE IRONWOOD CARNEGIE LIBRARY
Carol Erickson: cberickson5@gmail.com
Lynne Wiercinski: 906-932-4789
Mission: The Friends group was created to assist the library with fundraising and community awareness activities. They usually conduct two large used book sales per year, plus several smaller fundraisers. Paid memberships allow “first picks” at the book sales.
Needs: The Friends always appreciate working members who are willing to help with all of the duties involved in their fundraising activities as they take place throughout the year.
GOGEBIC COUNTY 4-H
Ashley Dennis: hampston@msu.edu
906-663-4045
500 North Moore Street, Bessemer, MI
Mission: 4-H provides kids with community, mentors, and learning opportunities to develop the skills they need to create positive change in their lives and communities.
Needs: Volunteers to help organize the 4-H Club, assisting with recruiting and enrolling members; acting as liaison between the club and the MSU Extension office, encourage members to participate in 4-H activities beyond the local club, and helping to foster youth opportunities that develop skills, learning process involvement, and creating pathways for the youth to contribute to the community as active citizens through service and leadership.
Requirements: Successful completion of the MSU Extension Volunteer Selection Process; enjoy working with youth and other adults, ability to communicate with youth and other adults, be committed to the successful management of the club, be open and tolerant of anyone, regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or veteran status. MSU provides leader training, curriculum and resource materials, and also mini-grants through the county and state when available.
Time: Average of one hour of planning time for every one hour of club activity. Special events (such as the Fair or Council Meetings) will vary. Additional time may be committed at the discretion of the volunteer individual.
GOGEBIC-ONTONAGON COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY
100 S. Mill Street, Bessemer, MI 49911
906.667.0283; https://www.gocaa.org/
Mission: Improving the quality of life, reducing the causes of hardship, and building self0sufficiency for the people of Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties.
Needs: We seek volunteers to work our front desk, pack commodity boxes, load commodity boxes into client vehicles, deliver commodity boxes to neighbors, serve food, clean-up after meals, food prep, substitute meal drivers, diaper distribution, and to shovel a walking path for a senior neighbor.
Skills: No special skills required. A background check is required for all volunteers.
GOGEBIC RANGE HEALTH FOUNDATION
Andrea Bergman: andrea.newby@gogebicrangehf.org
www.gogebicrangehf.org
Office: 906-364-7525
E6112 Bluff View Road, Ironwood, MI 49938
Mission: The mission of the GRHF is to advance community health across the Gogebic Range by promoting healthy living through partnering with local organizations and agencies to create a healthy and active community. We invest in projects that have a positive influence on the health of the Gogebic Range Community.
Needs: Volunteer opportunities include: GRHF Ambassador, collaboration fundraiser events, and annual fundraising event, and committee service.
Skills: We are looking for volunteers who have a passion for living in or visiting Iron Co., WI and Gogebic Co., MI and value community health. For special events, skills and tasks may include: working with others, taking instruction, being outside, helping participants during a race, handling our registrations, food, and water, accepting money, etc. The GRHF Ambassador positions may include ability and interest in posting on social media, attending community events to promote GRHF, attending GRHF fundraisers, working with a team of Ambassadors and the staff, etc. Committee positions would require attending meetings, familiarity with using technology for virtual meetings, fundraising, working with others, and a willingness to learn about non-profit organizations and their management.
H.O.P.E. ANIMAL SHELTER
myhopeanimalshelter@gmail.com
906-932-1511; P.O. Box 261, Ironwood, MI 49938
Mission: HOPE Animal Shelter is a private, non-profit, tax-exempt organization committed to caring for unwanted animals and providing them with preventative medical treatment, food, and shelter until we can find them a new home. HOPE believes that all life should be revered and that all living creatures should be treated with kindness and respect. Volunteers need to be patient and have compassion toward animals. An understanding of animal behavior & how to work with them is always helpful. Volunteer orientation is needed before handling, petting, grooming, or walking any animal.
Volunteer Positions: Walking Dogs--Walkers are needed daily throughout the day. Walkers need to be physically able to control any dog they walk and you must be 18 years of age or older. Socializing Cats--The more human contact they have, the more adoptable they are. Shelter/Kennel/Cat Room Cleaning--Cleanliness is important for maintaining a healthy, happy environment for the animals. Volunteers should have a good tolerance for noise and odor. Duties include washing dishes, doing laundry, washing walls, possibly maintaining the grounds or shoveling snow. Office Worker--Putting together adoption packets, addressing and stuffing envelopes, making name tags, etc. Neatness and accuracy are important and confidentiality is a must. Fundraisers--Tasks can vary greatly from helping with promotion, making signs/posters, working in floats for parades, manning booths, etc. Helping with a fundraiser can be done either behind the scenes or working directly with the public. Requirements are a pleasant personality, dependability, and the ability to follow directions). Other--If you have any type of professional skill such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, dog and cat grooming, grant writing, artistry, public speaking, etc., then we need you!!
IRON COUNTY FARMERS MARKET
ironcountyfarmersmarket@gmail.com
P.O. Box 183, Hurley, WI 54534
Mission: The ICFM is dedicated to provide an outlet for area growers and artisans to sell locally grown and handmade products, while at the same time providing an education forum for customers to learn the uses and benefits of buying locally produced products that will enhance their quality of life and foster social activities in our community.
Needs: The ICFM has volunteer opportunities that include helping at the market on Wednesdays (3-6) and Saturdays (10-1), assisting with the preparation of Special Events at The Market, and upkeep at the market building and grounds.
IRONWOOD CARNEGIE LIBRARY
www.uproc.lib.mi.us/Ironwood
Lynne@ironwoodcarnegie.org
906-932-0203
Mission: To strive to provide equitable access to materials and service which support the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of the entire community.
Time: Do you have a few hours a week? Or maybe time now and then? We can be adaptable!
Opportunities: Book Reviewers/writers—persons interested in writing reviews of books for our website and social media sites; Fundraising---persons to help develop and implement fundraising activities for the library; Technology—persons to assist and train patrons in using/understanding technology and online resources such as Libby, etc., in person and virtually; Program Assistance—persons who enjoy working with children (and others!) and are willing to help staff with program prep, conducting programs, etc.; Light housekeeping—dusting, sweeping, mopping, etc.; Snow removal during the day—we need someone who can clear off the steps and ramp periodically throughout our open hours.
IRONWOOD HURLEY ROTARY CLUB
Brian D. Glodowski, President; 906.285.0326
bglodowski@timberstoneadvisory.net
Mission: We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
Locally, our mission is focused on supporting youth-based activities in Iron County, WI and Gogebic County, MI This is accomplished by providing financial support directly to youth-oriented groups to help sponsor local events and activities.
Meetings/Time: rotary meets every Wednesday at noon for lunch and a short program which includes a guest speaker covering a local topic of interest. We also volunteer for 2-3 service projects per year which includes hands-on time by members for a few hours on the project.
Get Involved: Volunteers and prospective new members are always welcome to come join our meetings! Both members and non-members have the opportunity to volunteer on a club service project as well as suggesting new ones that would address a need in the community. Past projects have included brushing and clearing the high school baseball field fencing, tree planting, road-side trash pickup, and assisting Festival Ironwood Event setup. We also have several fund-raising events, including working at festival Ironwood, a spring golf outing, and our annual Rose Sale.
LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF COPPER COUNTRY GOGEBIC RANGE UNIT
Carol Erickson, 513.403.3960
Lwvcc.gr@gmail.com
Mission: The League of Women Voters is non-partisan. The League’s mission encourages informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Needs/Time: The Gogebic Range Unit holds monthly meetings, and scheduled/arranged events. Computer help is needed for information entry into VOTE411 prior to elections. We also have opportunities for educational speaking.
Skills: Folks with website, computer, public speaking, and organizational skills. Car transportation is helpful.
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Alicia Graham: 906.290.0538;
301 East Lead Street, Bessemer, MI
Grahama7@michigan.gov
Mission: Our mission through the State of Michigan is to provide safe/stable homes for children 0-17 years of age in need.
Needs/Time: This can vary depending on the length of placement needed and the needs of the child; initial training to become a foster parent takes 4-6 months.
Requirements/Skills: Background checks, home visits to determine adequate space for the child/ren, completion of training. Transportation a plus but not a requirement.
NORTHERN IRON COUNTY ENGAGED RESIDENTS = NICER
benicer@nicer715.com
www.nicer715.com
Instagram: @nicer.715
Mission: Our mission as a group is to work to enhance our communities through events and community initiatives that create a sense of belonging and develop a healthy, vibrant, and welcoming community for all residents. Past events of NICER include the Spooking Trail Walk, Hygge Hike, Backyard Adventure Month, Earth Da Cleanup, and he planning, building and fundraising for the NICER Community Garden in Montreal.
Needs: You are able to volunteer as much or as little as you wish. Our events typically need volunteers for a few hours to help with set-up or tear-down, and manning various “stations” through the events. We are also looking for volunteers to assist with planning events.
Skills: No special skills are required to volunteer for any of our events. The only requirement is that you have a positive attitude and enjoy having fun working with others.
NORTHERN LIGHTS QUILTING GUILD
Sharlene: 316-644-5562
Jeanne: 715-562-0216
Mission: To promote the art of quilting and to help the community by making a variety of quilt products, including hospice quilts, blankets for children, catheter bags, chemo scarves, and quilts of valor for soldiers.
Needs: Volunteers as you have the time and interest.
Skills: Actually none! We can teach you to sew! We just need your commitment.
Time: Throughout the year or as you are able.
RANGE SUICIDE PREVENTION COUNCIL
906.364.5328
rangesuicidecouncil@yahoo.com
The council is a prevention group made up of community members who are working to educate/support the community and break stigma around mental health diseases, suicide, and mental crisis.
Needs: We are looking for any community members to join us in our efforts to help prevent and educate our communities, and help us to also make decisions to utilize the funding to help our communities in education and prevention. Your time and dedication can be based on the time you are willing to help out.
REGIONAL HOSPICE SERVICES
Volunteer coordinator = Matt Agee, 906.663.0308
magee@regionalhospice.org
www.regionalhospice.org
Mission: To provide compassionate care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses and end of life conditions.
Needs: We seek volunteers to help with caregiver respite and companionship for patients. Volunteers receive thorough training and provide care in patient homes. The next volunteer training is anticipated to be in the Summer of 2025.
Time: Varies depending upon patient need.
SISU DIRT CREW
https://sisudirtcrew.com
sisudirtcrew@gmail.com
Mission: SISU Dirt Crew is all about mountain biking in the U.P. and having a good time while doing it. Our main mission is to build, maintain, and advocate for mountain bike trails in Gogebic and Iron Counties.
Needs: During spring, summer, and fall we are looking for volunteers to help us maintain trails at Copper Peak, Miners Memorial Heritage Park, and other local trails. Help is also needed at our annual Copper Peak Trails Fest Mountain Bike Race in September. In the winter we maintain Fat Bike Trails at Snow Summit Road, next to Big Powderhorn.
Skills: All levels of interest are welcome: manual labor on trails, specialty skills in marketing/organization.
Contact: We meet the second Thursday of every month and are looking for new members and volunteers
906 ADVENTURE TEAM
Contact Tara at: adventurecoordinator@906adventureteam.com
Mission: “Empowering youth to become the best version of themselves through outdoor adventure.” We love bikes and we’re helping kids throughout the Upper Peninsula grow to love them too with After-School Mountain Bike Clubs, Adventure Bike club, Family Rides, and a High School Mountain Bike Team. 906 Adventure Team is about discovering new friendships, building resiliency, establishing healthy habits, and pursuing an activity equal parts sport, equal parts lifestyle, that can grow and change as you do.
Needs: 906 Adventure Team Gogebic County registration fills up in 4 days for our summer program. Currently we allow 50 kids based on the number of coaches. Next year we hope to recruit 5-10 more coaches so we can expand the program. All you need is a mountain bike to coach—we’ll do the rest—we have a great training program, and you don’t need to be a great mountain biker to be a great coach for kids.
Time: We meet every Wednesday at 6pm for 10 weeks during the summer, starting in late June through the end of August.
Most of our program takes place at the Miners Memorial Heritage Park & some at Winman Trails in Manitowish Waters.
Skills: We will provide the training—you just need to show up and bring a bike. Much of the training is online.
WAKEFIELD HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Donna Ferson: 906.224.0075
P.O. Box 114, Wakefield, MI 49968 or email to djferson@charter.net
Mission: To discover and preserve any variety of material on the history of the Upper Peninsula and particularly the Wakefield area of Gogebic County; to promote local historical study and research; to help acquire artifacts/records/historical mementos and to help with organizing such gifts, grants, and bequests for the museum.
Volunteer needs and time commitment: The Wakefield Museum is open from the last week of June until Labor Day, Monday through Saturday, from 1:00 until 4:00. Volunteers
are needed for 1) Housekeeping: dusting, vacuuming, sweeping; 2) Displays: set-up, design, hang pictures; 3) Docents are needed to great visitors, give tours if needed and answer questions during open Museum hours; help with special events.
Skills and requirements: A knowledge of the location and stories behind the artifacts and displays and a knowledge of Wakefield are needed. These can be taught to anyone so interested. Basic computer knowledge is needed for data entry of museum artifacts and new donations.
WOLVERINE NORDIC SKI CLUB
Mission: Wolverine Nordic is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization with the mission to preserve and promote
Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, and lifelong physical fitness on the Gogebic Range of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Northwestern Wisconsin.
Needs: We are looking for volunteers to help with summer and winter trail maintenance for the bike, ski, and snowshoe trails with work bees in the summer and wood gathering in the fall. Opening and closing of the chalet during the ski season once a week. Helping with Wolverine fundraiser events and help with the Wolverine Snowshoe Challenge during February 5 – 26th, 2022.