Lorain County Participants Recognize the Importance of Volunteering

ELYRIA, OHIO – In honor of National Volunteer Awareness Month in April, REM Ohio is paying tribute to individuals served that continue to volunteer throughout their community all year long. Participants at The Opportunities Center, located at 260 Burns Road, have recognized the importance of volunteering within their community. The participants at this center are adults with intellectual or other developmental disabilities (I/DD), who donate their time, several days a month, to the Elyria Animal Protective League.

These participants engage in several tasks while at the Animal Protective League. These tasks include; walking dogs, feeding several of the animals and simply showing these furry friends some affection. Participants are also involved in laundry tasks at the facility as well as ensuring that each animal is properly cared for.

“The participants perform many volunteer tasks at the Animal Protective League. Their favorite activity is interacting with the cats and dogs in the adaptation rooms,” said Vanessa Mckissick, REM Ohio Program Coordinator. “This interaction gives the animals an opportunity to have some play time and human contact. The participants really enjoy giving back to their community in this way.”

The Opportunities Center at the Burns Road location focuses on identifying each individual’s interests, goals and needs from which a customized itinerary of community-based activities are developed. Volunteer opportunities are made available to individuals that are interested in participating and giving back to their local communities.

Individuals interested in learning more about or enrolling in the Burns Road Opportunities Socialization Center are invited to contact the REM Ohio office located at 9775 Rockside Road, Suite 200 or by calling (800)570.4868.