EIU Civic Engagement and Volunteerism

HOPE of East Central Illinois is a private, non-profit domestic violence advocacy organization serving the counties of Coles, Clark, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie and Shelby. HOPE stands for housing, outreach, prevention and education.

Volunteers are needed to answer basic phone calls, informing callers of services and coordinating plans with the caller.

Contact Person: Rachel Heicher
Telephone: 217-348-5931
Website: http://www.hope-eci.org/

Catholic Charities agencies throughout the country are an integral part of the safety net that keeps people from utter destitution. We provide a continuum of services — food, clothing, housewares, medical equipment, and others — that give people a leg up when life has knocked them down.

Volunteers are needed to help with clothes sorting, cleaning, testing electrical, repairing furniture, and general maintenance work. Volunteers are also needed to help with special events and projects.

Contact Person: Amanda Honn
Telephone: 217-235-0420
Website: http://www.cc.dio.org/locations/coles-douglas-and-edgar-counties/

The world is experiencing a global housing crisis. According to the United Nations, about 1.6 billion people live in sub-standard housing. Another 100 million are homeless. In the United States alone, 95 million people — one-third of the nation — has housing problems, including mortgage payments making up too large a percentage of their income, overcrowding, poor quality shelter and homelessness. Throughout the world, people live in inadequate housing, and Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to providing decent, affordable homes for those in need.

Volunteers are needed to serve on work-site crews, committees, and assist with various fundraisers.

Contact Person: Melissa McDaniel
Telephone: 217-348-7063
Email: colescountyhabitat@consolidated.net
Website: www.colescountyhabitat.net

The Salvation Army of Coles and Cumberland Counties is proud to say it has been supplying services to the needy in Mattoon since 1895. From ringing the bell at Salvation Army kettles during the Christmas season to working with young people in character-building activities, Salvation Army volunteers run the gamut of service in every Army program. There are approximately 3.5 million volunteers registered with The Salvation Army in the U.S.

Volunteers are needed to help organize and run the thrift store and assist in the food pantry. Also seasonal volunteers are needed for ringing bells during the holiday season.

Contact Person: Liz DeLacy
Telephone: 217-234-3915

Standing Stone is a local non-profit ministry which provides clothing and other items to people in need. Standing Stone has recently expanded to add a second location which has a food pantry, household items, and furniture. Standing Stone is located at 201 N. 6th St. and Carpenter's Table is located at 375 N. 14th St. in Charleston

Contact Person: Dawn Thomson
Telephone: 217-549-3378 and 217-348-6085
Website: http://www.standingstonecc.com

Choices Pregnancy & Health is here to listen and provide a safe space for women who might be facing an unplanned pregnancy. Choices provides: pregnancy testing, pregnancy options counseling, ultrasound, parenting classes, and material items assistance. All services are free of charge and confidential. We have four locations: Charleston, Mattoon, Paris & Casey. We also have a Mobile Unit that offers Pregnancy Testing and Ultrasound on board.

Volunteers are needed to help clean the building, sort and clean donations, light office work, as well as special projects, like bulk mailings. Volunteers may also be able to work with clients after they have gone through the Client Advocate Training. Please contact the office to inquire about availability of hours.

Contact Person: Cali Rice
Telephone: 217-345-5000
Email: admin@choices4pregnancy.org
Website: www.choices4.me/

Prevail provides crisis and on-going services to victims of sexual assault, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment. Counseling services are also available to the victims' significant others (parents/guardians, siblings, spouses, etc.). Services include individual and group counseling, medical and criminal justice advocacy, information and referral, institutional advocacy, public education and professional training.

Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks including: work on 24-hour crisis line, assist with elementary programs, advocacy, fundraising, and much more! Training is required for clients to work on the hotline and is provided. To learn more about Prevail or to view their upcoming training schedule, please contact them or visit their website.

Contact Person: Stephanie Anderson, Director of Volunteer Services
Email: volunteer@prevail.org
Telephone: 217-348-5033
Website: www.prevail.org