Last Updated: April 8, 2006, 06:55:24 AM PDT

Call the Volunteer Center of the United Way at 524-1307 or e-mail volunteer@uwaystan.org unless otherwise noted.

ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION — The Arthritis Walk, May 20 at Downey Park, raises awareness and funds to fight the nation's leading cause of disability, which affects 66 million men, women and children. The event features festivities, free health information, 1and 3-mile walks and a new Arthritis Dog Walk — because dogs get arthritis, too. Volunteers are needed to assist with setup, staff registration, information and refreshment booths, cleanup and more. Shifts start at 6:30 a.m. Individuals, groups and companies may get involved by forming teams, collecting donations and participating on walk day. Dog walkers need to be at least 18 years old, and dogs need to be on a leash at all times.

KING-KENNEDY MEMORIAL CENTER — The Spring Carnival and Egg Hunt is April 15 from noon to 3 p.m. This year's event will feature carnival games, activities, a visit with the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt for 800 children, ages 12 and under. Volunteers are asked to hide Easter Eggs, participate in entertainment, face painting, interactive games, oversee inflatables and serve refreshments. Shifts are available between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

MARCH OF DIMES — The 36th annual WalkAmerica, a national fund-raiser to help prevent birth defects and save babies, will take place April 29 at Graceada Park in Modesto, May 13 at Dr. Powers Park in Tracy and May 20 at Weber Point Event Center in Stockton. Volunteers are needed at all events to assist with setup/cleanup, registration and more. Shifts are available between6:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Individuals also may sign up on their own or with a team to gather pledges and participate to raise dollars for the fight to save babies.

SIERRA VISTA CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES — The 14th annual Sierra Vista Golf Tournament is April 28 and features two tournaments on two courses. Volunteers are needed between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. to assist with games and hole contests, set up raffle items, registration, refreshments and more. Both the six-person scramble and two-man best ball tournament begin with a shotgun start at 10:30 a.m. followed by a social hour at 4 p.m. The entry fee is $200 per person and includes lunch, green fee, cart, tee prizes, awards, course refreshments and hors d'oeuvres. Entry fees and registration forms must be received by April 21.

AMERICAN RED CROSS — Volunteers are needed to train to become instructors to teach people of all ages lifesaving skills, first aid and CPR. Those interested may attend a three-day instructor training on April 17, 24, and 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Flexible scheduling is available for volunteers conducting classes. Volunteers must be 18 or older, and retirees are welcome.

CERES PARTNERSHIP FOR HEALTHY CHILDREN — Receptionists are needed to answer telephones, greet and direct the public and assist with light clerical duties. Scheduling is available weekdays between 8 a.m. and5 p.m.

DELTA BLOOD BANK — Volunteers are needed to serve refreshments and make donors feel comfortable and appreciated. Individuals can choose to help at the office or one of the mobile collection sites in Stanislaus, San Joaquin and Calaveras counties. Training is provided and volunteers are certified. Shifts are available Mondays through Saturdays depending upon site.

OAKDALE MUSEUM — History buffs are needed to assist with research and data entry of city and historical records and help visitors explore the museum. Shifts are available weekdays between noon and 4 p.m. Volunteers should have computer skills and be comfortable talking with groups.

SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS — Friendly pets and their humans are needed to visit seniors in convalescent hospitals and care facilities through the SPCA Pet Outreach Program. Volunteers accompany their pets as they socialize with residents in facilities throughout the community. Pets need to be friendly and like to be handled. Visits are made the first and second Saturday mornings and the third Wednesday mornings of each month.

STANISLAUS COUNTY HEALTH SERVICES AGENCY — A variety of volunteer positions assisting medical staff and patients are available throughout the HSA/Public Health system. Opportunities include clerical duties, filing, receptionists, clinic aides, medical records, children's activities, gift shop, interpreters, HIV counselors, phlebotomists, registered nurses, baby track, physical therapy, pharmacy assistants, on call volunteers, and much more. Bilingual (Spanish/English) ability is a plus but not required. Flexible shifts are available for adult and junior volunteers.