Phillyanthropy

get up, get out, get involved

by Jennifer Portante

Published: June 25, 2008

Neighborhood Bike Works Summer Camp

July 7-18, July 21-Aug. 1, Aug. 4-15 and Aug. 18-29

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Neighborhood Bike Works promotes cycling not only as a gas-free mode of transportation, but also as a means of tackling environmental issues, staying fit and gaining independence. Their Earn-a-Bike program will be extended into two-week-long summer camp sessions during which kids will focus on fixing a donated bike. Volunteers are needed to assist with repairs and other activities including field trips, art lessons and daily rides. Call Nadine Vasallo at 215-386-0316, visit neighborhoodbikeworks.org or e-mail volunteers@neighborhoodbikeworks.org.

The Career Wardrobe

Ongoing

Everyone knows the importance of making a good first impression at job interviews, and the Career Wardrobe has allowed more than 45,000 women to do just that. Since 1995, the local nonprofit has been helping women in Philadelphia get back into the work force in appropriate, professional clothing. Volunteers help organize clothing drives, conduct educational workshops and staff its boutique. Call Heather Bennett at 215-568-6693 or visit careerwardrobe.org.

Philadelphia International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival

July 10—22

If you're looking to be part of one sexy and ambitious event, the Philadelphia International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival features nearly 200 documentaries and shorts. In order to maintain its reputation for aforementioned sexiness and hospitality, the festival relies on volunteers to work in the box office, usher, distribute program guides and more. In exchange for free tickets, volunteers attend training sessions and work four- to five-hour shifts. Call Parinda Patel at 215-733-0608, ext. 205, or e-mail volunteer@phillyfests.com.

Uhuru Furniture & Collectibles

Ongoing

More like the ultimate yard sale with a cause than just your average furniture store, Uhuru Furniture & Collectibles sells donated pieces from which 100 percent of the profits benefit the African People's Education and Defense Fund. Volunteers are needed for responsibilities that range from working in the store to organizing e-mails to community outreach. Call 215-546-9616 or e-mail uhurufurniture@aol.com.

Camp Sojourner

July 31-Aug. 10

Girls' Leadership Camp aims to provide ladies in Philadelphia with the self-confidence and awareness they need to become leaders in their communities. The nonprofit's Camp Sojourner, held in the Poconos at the New Jersey School of Conservation, provides girls 8-17 with opportunities that they may not find in an urban setting. Counselors, health staff and activity specialist positions are all available. Call 215-951-0330, ext. 2180 or visit girlsleadershipcamp.org.