With the start of the 2019-2020 cultural season nearing, now is the perfect time to get involved and show your support by becoming a volunteer.
“Volunteering is the backbone of many organizations, especially in the arts and culture areas,” explains Joy Rodenberg, active volunteer and Board Member of the Arts Council of Greater Weston and the Weston Music Society. “We do understand that many of our volunteers must move on – back to school, to new jobs or, literally, to relocate to new areas. This is why we continually need to call for volunteers. It is exciting for us, as we get to meet new people bringing new ideas.”
She adds, the volunteers also gain from the experience. “Our volunteers enjoy the opportunity to gain new experiences, acquire new skills, make new friends, and expand their networks, all while giving back to their community.”
There are four not-for-profit organizations run exclusively by volunteers here in Weston. All are dedicated to the arts and culture and need help in maintaining and advancing their offerings.
The Arts Council of Greater Weston coordinates cultural and performing arts event requests on behalf of the City of Weston, as well as provides planning, oversight and support for the diverse cultural activities and events hosted in collaboration with the City. Its programs include Celebrate the Arts Day, Weston World Fest, Weston Foreign Film Series, and the Student Artist Showcase. The Arts Council needs volunteers to coordinate key roles at events, serve as Recording Secretary, and to provide technical computer skills to organize administrative and event activities. For more information go to www.1Weston.com.
The Weston Music Society’s mission is to bring fine music of all genres to Weston, offer music education programs in local schools, and provide scholarships to graduating seniors to continue their music studies. Volunteers are needed to serve as Recording Secretary, run events, and provide social media and computer skills to help organize and promote events. For more information go www.WestonMusicSociety.org.
The Weston Art Guild supports all forms of visual arts. It organizes exhibits featuring the work of local artists, hosts monthly meetings with artist demonstrations, and promotes outlets for artists to sell their work. Volunteers are needed to organize arts events. For more information go to www.WestonArtGuild.com.
Through sales from its book shop, the Weston Friends of the Library offers financial support to the library, allowing it to offer programs for all ages. Volunteers are needed to work in the bookstore and to serve on the fundraising, social media/publicity and membership committees. A recording secretary is also needed. For more information go to www.westonfriendsofthelibrary.org/home.
Rodenberg encourages Weston residents to step up and volunteer this season. “Enrich your life, enhance your community and enjoy the benefits of your participation both personally and as a resident in our premier City!”
