PRECA 08-05-1992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Agenda Section: CITY OF NEW BRIGHTON Report Number: REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION Report Date: ITEM DESCRIPTION: AUTHORIZING THE FALL KICK-OFF OF THE COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER PROGRAM DEPT. HEAD'S APPROVAL: MANAGER'S REVIEW/RECOMMENDATION: No comments to su lement this re ort Comments attached EXPLANATION/SUMMARY (attach supplemental sheets as necessary) The city is planning to inaugurate the Community Volunteer Program in August and seeks the .City Council's approval to-begin. Purpose The purpose of the Community Volunteer Program is to provide a diverse range of opportunities for organizations, groups, families and individuals to assist in delivering community services or maintaining city facilities. The volunteer effort will not only improve community services without increasing costs, but will build a stronger New Brighton community through citizen participation, cooperation and "ownership." Volunteer O ortunities and Process T e czty wi maintain a vo unteer fob listing gathered from city department heads and perhaps citizen suggestions. A list of volunteers will also be kept.. A simple compparison of the two lists wi"11 enable the matching, of community needs with the interests, skills and availablity of volunteers. Volunteer opportunities will arise for park and community maintenance, events, citizen service, emergency services, clerical assistance, technical assistance and instruction. (See attachment) The projects will be designed to be worthwhile to both the community and the volunteers. The city will provide the necessary, equipment, supplies and tr~inin Beyond the satisfaction of performing community enhancing service, the volunteers are able to earn certlf icates of appreciation, New Brighton team hats, and public acknowledgement in recognition of their service. The Need for a Systematic Vounteer Program In the past the city has occasionally engaged volunteers in a relatively informal manner for gazdening, .playground assistance, and park maintenance. It is the intent of the propposed Community Volunteer Program to make volunteering more enjo able and rewarding, .and more diverse by creating a systematic volunteer program that is better prepared ~o engape volunteers in community service. To accomplish this, a volunteer manual has been developed which describes the successful elements of a volunteer program, the city/volunteer relationship, and the process and forms for volunteering and supervising. A Tested Pro ram T is summer, tie Parks Dept. experimented with the implementation of the Community Volunteer Program by developing a volunteer program, specifically for junior high students. The program has been met wzth enthusiasm by the 23 teens and their parents. (See attachment) Recommendation We recommend that the City Council approve the implementation of the proposed Community Volunteer Program.