Your Community 09.24.20

Annual Fresh Florida Citrus Fundraiser

CAPITAL DISTRICT –  The yearly Troy Kiwanis Fresh Florida Fruit sale is on again to raise money for projects that directly assist Troy area youth.

20 lbs for only $25 – Navel Oranges, Ruby Red Grapefruit or a Mixed Case.

Most area groups are charging well over $30/case. Orders must be received by Sunday, November 22nd.Call Dean @ 518-322-0826 Today!! 

Will arrive in Troy, by December 12th, in plenty of time for Holiday Gift Giving!! Kiwanis is Serving the Children of the World

Looking for Stories About One Room School Houses

RENSSELAER COUNTY – Looking for people who might have stories to tell about one room school houses in the Town of Sand Lake, Averill Park and West Sand Lake, Sand Lake.  Do you have a parent,  grandparent, or great grandparents who attended one of the several one room school houses in our town?  Email me with any information at JTre115@nullyahoo.com. (Jacqueline Tremont)

Recovery Month – Let’s Celebrate and Recognize those in Recovery!

CAPITAL DISTRICT – September is a month to celebrate and recognize those in recovery! We often associate Recovery Month with those who are in recovery from a substance use disorder. Because problem gambling is often a “hidden addiction,” we want to take the opportunity to make it a priority to talk about, make efforts to prevent, educate and screen for problem gambling.

The risk for problem gambling among individuals who are in recovery from substance use disorder is real. Let’s take a look at the facts:

• Nearly 668,000 adults in NYS are struggling with a gambling problem. (2006 OASAS Adult Problem Gambling Household Survey)

• Almost 75% of people diagnosed with a gambling disorder also had an alcohol use disorder. (Petry NM, Comorbidity of the DSM-IV pathological gambling and other psychiatric disorders)

• Close to 40% of people diagnosed with a gambling disorder also had a drug use disorder. (Petry NM, Comorbidity of the DSM-IV pathological gambling and other psychiatric disorders)

September is also National Suicide Prevention Month. Did you know that problem gambling has the highest rate of suicide among all other addictions? Here’s the facts:

• About 50 percent of those struggling with a gambling problem have either thought about or attempted suicide.

• 1in 5 has problem gamblers have attempted and/or died by suicide.

Because so many individuals are impacted by one person’s gambling problem, a person’s mental and physical health could also be impacted. A study found that nine out of 10 people affected by someone else’s gambling problems felt emotional distress. It’s important to recognize the warning signs. How can we tell if someone is struggling with a gambling addiction? There are several warning signs to look out for including:

• being absent from friend/family events because of gambling;

• feeling stressed or anxious when not gambling;

• low work performance due to absence or preoccupation with betting; and

• lying to family and friends about how much money and time is spent on gambling.

There is hope! Recovery from problem gambling is possible! Local, barrier free help is available through the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center. For more information, please call 518-801-1491 or email us at NortheastPGRC@nullNYProblemGambling.org. You can also visit our website at www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org.

Books for Troops Looking for a New Director

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops, a not-for profit, all volunteer organization since 2010 is looking for a new director. Ellen Keegan, its present director, has decided to leave her position due to poor health. Ellen founded Books for Troops in April 2010 to send books and other reading material to the troops as a temporary form of escape.   Books for Troops now sends an average of 60 boxes per month to individual soldiers or whole units who in turn share them with others These books are sent to all deployed troops within the states and around the world. Books are also sent to many VA hospitals or veterans rehab centers within the states and in Landstuhl, Germany. Books for Troops is based in Latham NY and is supported by donations across the nation from individuals, organizations and companies. Its donated office is in Latham, NY. It now has a very loyal all=volunteer base of 10 people. 

Books for Troops is now looking for a person who strongly believes in books as a means of escape for the troops. As director, this person must be willing to be a hands on person, working side by side with its volunteers. He/she must have good people skills working with its volunteers and the public. Training will be hands on.  Computer skills would be helpful, as well as familiarity with Facebook.   

Anyone interested in becoming the Books for Troops’ director, may send their name to Ellen Keegan at: ekeegan3@nullnycap.rr.com. Please place the word Director in the subject area. Please include some background information that would be pertinent. Ellen will contact you by e-mail or by phone.

Books for Troops will continue as usual during this pursuit of the director and the transition. Donations of books and postage will continue to be needed.

Books for Troops Continues to Help the Troops Cope with the Pandemic

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Books for Troops would like to thank all those who have donated thousands of books in the past few weeks. We appreciate that most of the books are in very good condition and do not include hard covers and romances. We now have a great inventory to fill our boxes. We send 80-100 boxes per month to the troops to help fill their many empty hours caused by the pandemic. The cost of postage to send this number of books is about $1000/month. While many people have donated generously for the postage, the money goes very quickly. We want to remind the people who donate books that their books stay in our Latham office unless we have the money to send them. Each box of about 40 books costs an average of $15.00 to mail. To send a donation for one or more boxes, please make a check out to: Books for Troops and mail to: Books for Troops, 152 Oak Brook Commons, Clifton Park, NY 12065. A tax receipt will be sent. Your donation will be a wonderful way to thank more of our “essential workers”, the troops and to remind them that we remember them with pride, gratitude and concern. 

If any companies, organizations, etc. would like to make a donation or do a fundraiser, it will be greatly appreciated. To do so, contact: ekeegan3@nullnycap.rr.com. Thanks as always for your support. Ellen Keegan, director, Books for Troops

Chelsea Dyer Named NYS Teacher of the Year Finalist

EAST GREENBUSH – Columbia High School English teacher Chelsea Dyer was named a 2021 New York State Teacher of the Year Finalist during a Board of Regents meeting on September 14. Mrs. Dyer is one of four teachers from across the state to be named a state finalist for this prestigious award.

Since 2008, Mrs. Dyer has taught English at Columbia, working tirelessly to build relationships with students and create an inclusive and respectful classroom community. Her enthusiasm for reading, writing and creative expression helps develop skills in her students and allows them to reach their full potential.

“I am certainly honored,” said Mrs. Dyer, “but I feel like there are so many people deserving of this award, especially in our district. I feel like it’s an honor for the school as a whole, not just for me personally.”

Mrs. Dyer teaches English 10, English 11, Modern Literature, and Creative Writing and Poetry. She also serves as co-advisor of Student Council and an assistant coach with the school’s Unified Sports basketball team.

“Chelsea Dyer is representative of the high quality educators that we have throughout our district,” said James McHugh, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “I am thrilled for Chelsea that her continued efforts for students both inside and outside of the classroom has led to the distinguished honor as a runner-up for the New York State Teacher of the Year.”

Help Bag Hunger 2020

NORTH GREENBUSH – North Greenbush Councilman, Jack Rogers and North Greenbush Town Clerk, Janice Hannigan-Kerwin bagged groceries at ShopRite as part of ShopRite’s annual Help Bag Hunger Day!

Brown Bag Auction Cancelled

NASSAU – Dear Community Members, The Nassau Resource Center Mission of the Nassau Reformed Church is sorry to announce that we must cancel our Brown Bag Auction for this year as Social Distancing requirements would not be possible. This Pandemic has brought out the best in our communities. We have seen folks step forward to help others who are in need. The Center has remained open to help local families with food, clothing, health and hygiene products, and people to listen and offer sympathy and referrals. Our volunteers have continued to do the Lord’s work by remaining open and able to assist others.

So many individuals, organizations, local businesses, and our County Legislators have stepped forward to help us help others. Their gifts have provided emotional uplifting for many families and individuals. With extra funds, we have been able to distribute gift certificates for Village Pizza, Zia’s, Smiles Ice Cream, Gas Cards from Cumberland Farms, My Money gift cards for Stewarts, along with 7 days of food and health and hygiene items. This may not seem like much to some people, but I can tell you that one family said, “We haven’t had pizza since last year, and we’ve never been to Smiles.” These gift certificates had the additional bonus of providing income to our local businesses that may be struggling due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. We have also recently been able to deliver fresh fruit and vegetables to a local senior housing complex with the help of local farmers and Capital Roots. While we are unable to have our Brown Bag Auction (our only fundraiser), with God’s guidance we will continue to provide food and other essentials to community members in need along with a listening ear to provide additional support of referral and advocacy.

Linda Clark, Auction Chairperson

PO Box 495, Nassau, NY 12123

Barnes Road Area Neighborhood Association Planning Board Meeting

WEST SAND LAKE – A large crowd of Barnes Road area neighbors turned out for the “virtual” Planning Board Hearing regarding the Party Barn invasion into the Town’s AG District. The Hearing was held Wednesday night, September 16, 2020. The Board decided to hear people speak, and vice chair Ralph LaMontagna did yeoman’s work making sure the effected neighbors voices were given an opportunity to speak. Planning coordinator Monica Ryan facilitated remote participation by concerned citizens. The Barnes Road Neighborhood Association, of over 50 households, thanks you for your efforts.

Sand Lake Ambulance Says Thank You

SAND LAKE – The Sand Lake Ambulance wants to thank the townspeople and businesses of Sand Lake for being so supportive of us and our work this year. People have been generous in times of great trial and hardship, and the members, staff, and Board of SLA thank you. We expect the next year or so to continue to be filled with challenges, and ask that you continue to support us and our mission. Municipalities across the country will be facing budget struggles this coming year, and ours is no different. We have struggled to recruit new volunteers over the past few years who can contribute a full shift each week throughout the year and so have come to rely more on paid staff. We will always work to keep our costs as low as possible, and will look at ways to be creative and resourceful in times of great need. If anyone has the time and wants to help, our greatest need is new members. If you are interested in joining, there is an application on our web site or you can call 518-674-2221 ext. 1.

We’d also like to thank people for donations made in memoriam remembering love ones or dear friends.

Sand Lake Ambulance sponsors EMT training and driver training. We could particularly use recent retirees who are looking to stay active working days during the week.

We generally work on keeping our skills up with regular training and try to keep it both educational and enjoyable. You need to be in fairly decent physical health and able to lift 50 pounds fairly easily, you need to be okay with working with trauma patients or sick community members, and you need to be willing to get up at all hours to do it.

Please consider joining, we need your service. We aren’t saying it won’t be hard work, but it will be worth it. Sometimes, helping others in a crisis is the best remedy for dealing with troubled times. The Sand Lake Ambulance has been in existence for 60 years.

News from Averill Park CSD

AVERILL PARK – Coach Hirschoff and Mrs. Beauchamp created an outdoor hiking trail that includes Mindfulness, Yoga and Fitness themes at West Sand Lake Elementary School. The trail has 10 stops and is more than 2,000 feet long. Great job giving our students a new, exciting, and interactive space!

At the high school, our Citizenship Courtyard received a renovation that includes new seating and tables. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and funds to make this a perfect outdoor space for our student body.

Nominations for our Athletic Hall of Fame’s Class of 2021 are now being accepted. Please visit our District website for more information. The nominating period ends on November 15.

Submitted by Dr. James Franchini, Averill Park CSD Superintendent

Mission: Meeting the needs of and creating opportunities for every student every day. #AP_EveryStudentEveryDay

Athletic Department Seeking Nominations for the Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021

AVERILL PARK – The Averill Park Athletic Department, in conjunction with the Averill Park Athletic Booster Club, is pleased to announce that the nominating period for the Averill Park Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2021 is now open. The Hall of Fame recognizes former athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors who have made significant contributions to the Averill Park athletic program through their service, performance, dedication, commitment, and accomplishment.

The Hall of Fame committee is comprised of administrators (past and present), coaches (past and present), and community members. For information regarding the committee, Hall of Fame guidelines, and nomination forms please see the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us.

Any member of the public can nominate an athlete, coach, team (not eligible until 2022), or contributor for induction assuming the criteria as outlined in the guidelines are met. Nomination forms are available by going to the Hall of Fame link on the Averill Park Athletics page at www.averillpark.k12.ny.us or by contacting the Athletic Department at (518) 674-7010.

The nomination period will run through November 15th. The 2021 induction ceremony and dinner will be held on Saturday, April 17th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy.

Troy Area AIDS Walk Goes Vitual

TROY – Take Steps to Support the Troy Damien Center 2020 AIDS Walk! This year the Troy Area United Ministries (TAUM) is sponosorsing the 5th 5K Virtual Walk as a fund-raising event for the Damien Center. We welcome indivuals and groups to walk/run/cycle/paddle anywhere they choose to raise funds in support of the Damien Center during the week of September 27-October 3. Forms to enroll teams or friends in the event are available at taum.org. Individual donations are also accepted through the website taum.org. The Damien Center, located in the TAUM building in South Troy, is a hospitality and information center for persons infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS. The Damien Center has continued to provide meals (to go) and food pantry services (to go) throughout the covid-19 pandemic. All proceeds to directly to Damien Center programs. For more information contact Katy Culhane: kculhane@nulltaum.org (518-274-5920 x201) or Sharon Bonk: scbonk@nullgmail.com (518-674-0042). Thank you!

Deadlines for Using the IRS Non-Filer’s Portal to Claim a Stimulus Payment

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Some individuals who do not file a tax return have not yet claimed the federal stimulus payment (EIP) announced in the Spring of 2020. A Non-Filer’s Portal is available on www.irs.gov to help eligible people claim their payment. However, the IRS recently announced two new deadlines for this Portal.

First, federal benefit recipients who have not yet requested the $500 payment for each qualifying child can use the Non-Filer’s Portal to claim it. However, the Portal will only be open for them to do so until September 30, 2020. Federal benefit recipients include those who receive Social Security, SSI, Railroad Retirement Benefits or VA benefits. Those individuals should have already received their own stimulus payment (up to $1,200 per individual) automatically.

Second, people with little or no income, who do not receive federal benefits and who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019 will not receive an automatic payment. They have until October 15, 2020 to use the Non-Filer’s Portal to claim their stimulus payment, if they are eligible.

Anyone who misses these deadlines can still claim the stimulus payment as a credit on their 2020 federal income tax return. To do so, however, they must wait until next year and file a return.

Please also note that the Earned Income Credit (EITC) and other tax credits cannot be claimed through the Non-Filer’s Portal. Taxpayers must file a tax return in order to receive payment for those credits. Anyone who filed or plans to file a 2018 or 2019 tax return should not use the Portal. IRS Free File is available until midnight on October 15.

If you have questions about income tax issues, the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) may be able to help. The Clinic’s services are free of charge. You can call the LASNNY Legal Line at (833) 628-0087 and ask for our LITC. The Clinic does not generally provide tax preparation services.

Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Consider Attending PD SELF – Parkinson’s Self-Efficacy Learning Forum

CAPITAL DISTRICT – A national program being offered in Albany, that provides people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s with an in-depth understanding of the disease and the tools to manage it with confidence.  There is no cost to attend.  Registration is required.  Space is limited. Care partners are encouraged to attend.

This year the  program, starting in October, has been adapted  to be fully online. Find out more at www.cdparkinsons.org/pd-self

2020 Photography Contest

ALBANY – Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 2020 Photography Contest is now open to the public! With 19 cemeteries located in the Capital District, all feature beautiful nature, statuary, architecture, interesting gravestones, and many have spectacular views.

Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.

Participants are invited to submit up to TWO (2) original photographs with their registration. No entry fee. Prize money will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.

Photos must be of a subject located in one of Albany Diocesan Cemeteries 19 cemeteries.

Digital enhancements of your original image is allowed.

Visit https://blog.capitaldistrictcemeteries.org/adc-photography-contest-2020/ or call 518-350-7679 for a list of cemetery locations, contest information, rules & registration form.

Submission deadline for all photographs and registrations is October 15th, 2020.

Good luck shutterbugs!

HVCC Announces LiveStream Lecture Series for Fall 2020

TROY – Hudson Valley Community College presents Voices: A Library Lecture Series each fall and spring semester. This fall, the lectures will be streamed live online due to the current COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings. All are open free to the public. Each lecture has a unique virtual address (see below).

Mindfulness for The Busy Person: Why Slowing Down is the Fastest Growing Trend

Elections 2020: A Perspective from Albany

Thursday, Oct. 15, 11-11:50 a.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235041

Spectrum News political reporter Susan Arbetter shares her insights on what could happen in the national, state, and local elections, and what those results could mean for New York State.

Tiny Homes… From Pinterest Dreams to Affordable Housing

Tuesday, Oct. 27, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235043

Local businesswoman Brittany McAndrew of Upstate Tiny Homes, a Tiny Home Industry Association board member, will illuminate this new tiny world.

Using Adversity to Fuel Positive Change

Wednesday, Nov. 11, noon-2:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235044

Bridie Farrell, a three-time American record-holding speed skater, founded NY Loves Kids, a non-profit advocacy organization for child sexual abuse victims. She discusses the alarmingly high rates of child sexual abuse and its effects on our communities, and will suggest ways we can help.

Hunting as a Conservation Tool

Thursday, Nov. 19, 1-1:50 p.m. / https://livestream.com/hvccstreaming/events/9235046

Katrina Talbot, NYS DEC wildlife biologist, discusses her job and public opinions on hunting.

Town of Brunswick Monthly Brush Pick Up Schedule

TOWN OF BRUNSWICK – Pick up schedule: October 19th-October 23rd (last pick-up for season).

Limbs must be piled neatly, 8’ long-no larger than 6” diameter.

Branches must be free of roots and dirt. Avoid piling brush near utility poles and under trees, wires, or out in the street.

We will also pick up other yard waste, such as grass clippings, provided biodegradable paper bags are used

We do not go on private property. Clean wood only. Please no clear cutting of lots

No sticks, dirt or rocks or any material other than leaves and grass should be placed in bags.

We do not pick up rocks, stumps, rubbish, etc. Please do not put these items out with your branches.

Residents are also encouraged to dispose of leaves and grass at our Recycling Center, it is located across from the Town garage.

If you have any questions, please call 279-3461, Ext 100.

Call For Entries: Artists for Social Justice at Sand Lake Center for the Arts

SAND LAKE – Sand Lake Center for the Arts is seeking submissions for its January and February 2021 gallery installation. SLCA invites artists of color to submit their works for a two-month long gallery presentation to shine light on social injustices. All visual mediums are welcome. Jpeg and pdf submissions can be sent to brian@nullslca-ctp.org. Please include a short bio and brief description of your work. Submission deadline: November 1st, 2020

Poestenkill Area Food Insecurity

POESTENKILL – Any greater Poestenkill area residents currently experiencing temporary or long term food insecurity can turn to The Bread of Life Food Pantry at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Poestenkill for supplemental food assistance. We provide basic nutritional foods and related items the first and third Thursday of each month from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in a very discreet, nonjudgmental manner. We offer drive-thru service where each guest receives a product list to form your order, we then fill your order and bring the completed order back to your vehicle. Delivery service to Poestenkill Seniors unable to visit our Pantry is also available. Please try us, we are here to help. Our phone number is: 518-283-6045 to leave a message. Thank you.

Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market

CASTLETON-ON-HUDSON – The Castleton-on-Hudson Farmers & Artisans Market (COHFAM) returned to its summer home at the corner of Scott Avenue (150) and Main Street (9J) in the Village. COHFAM will be held every Friday from 4:30-7:30 pm until September 25. New York Forward permits the market to feature fresh vegetables, take-away food items, crafts and massage, but Repair Café is on hold, whether at COHFAM or the Village Hall (or globally). Market patrons are required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer is available. New vendors welcome; visit COHFAM on Facebook to get an application or email gina.giuliano@nullgmail.com for more information. Come to COHFAM, the little market with the big heart, enjoy the river view and support the local economy!

East Greenbush Farmer’s Market

EAST GREENBUSH – The East Greenbush Farmer’s Market is held every Wednesday 4pm -7pm in between the Greenbush YMCA and the East Greenbush Library at 20 Community Way, East Greenbush. The market runs through September 30th (September hours are 4pm-6:00pm). Visit cdymca.org/farmers-market/ to see our list of vendors. We ask market visitors to please wear your mask and bring your reusable shopping bags.

Problem Gambling – Northeast Resource Center Here To Help

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Isolation due to the COVID-19 can be especially difficult for those struggling with gambling problems. Extra time, stress and anxiety, access to gambling on the internet, and an increase in online gambling options are a recipe for trouble. People struggling with gambling problems, or in recovery from problem gambling, may find this isolation to be especially difficult. If you have noticed extra stress, anxiety, anger, uncontrollable urges to gamble or an increase in gambling activities there are options for help. If your loved one is struggling to control their gambling, help is available for you too.

The Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center (NE PGRC) is a program of the New York Council on Problem Gambling and has been working to increase the awareness of problem gambling and connect those adversely affected by problem gambling to the care they need. The NE PGRC provides referral and treatment options, including connections to the recovery community, to individuals and families in need. We also provide education and training to groups and organizations who want to learn more about this disorder. The NE PGRC works with a network of qualified clinicians trained in problem gambling to provide barrier-free treatment to anyone seeking assistance.

Contact the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center

Call: 518-801-1491

Email: NortheastPGRC@nullNYProblemGambling.org

Website: www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NortheastPGRC 

Team “Knocking Out Alzheimer’s” Bottle Drive

WYNANTSKILL/RENSSELAER – Six Center Redemption is partnering with the team Knocking out Alzheimer’s and the Alzheimer’s Association.

NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR CANS BOTTLES LET US HELP…..

Return your bottles and cans and help he Northeastern New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Through an arrangement with:

Six-Center Redemption Two Locations- 461 Main Ave Wynantskill (Corner of Sharpe and Main Ave) & 550 South Street Rensselaer.

The Alzheimer’s Association will receive six cents for every container you donate to the cause. Simply drop off your containers and say

“These are for the Alzheimer’s Association.”

No need to count the cans or bottles, no waiting or standing in lines to feed your cans or bottles into a machine. The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

The first survivor of Alzheimer’s is out there, but we won’t get there without you. Join the fight with your bottles & cans!

Vaping – Public Service Announcement

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Vaping has become almost more common today then cigarettes. Originally marketed as being more safe than other tobacco products recent events have made it clear that this is not the full story. One study found that those who vape the equivalent to a pack of cigarettes a day had a 70% higher risk of stroke. This is only one of the health risks that can arise from vaping. For more information visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/vaping-linked-to-serious-health-problems.html

Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.

Fentanyl – Public Service Announcement

CAPITAL DISTRICT – Fentanyl has been making headlines recently, this is because the incredibly potent chemical has been contributing to the increase in overdose deaths across America. Most people however do not know much about the chemical. For instance many don’t know that one of the things that makes fentanyl so dangerous is the fact that it can be absorbed into the system through skin contact. Meaning getting it on your skin could cause a potentially fatal overdose.

To learn more about Fentanyl visit: https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-fentanyl.html

Addiction Screenings – Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754.

Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline

RENSSELAER COUNTY  – 1-833-467-3123 – Do you need help with substance use issues? Are you interested in volunteering for the helpline? The Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline offers information, local resources, and referrals for individuals and their families regarding substance use issues. The toll-free line is available 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. Each volunteer chooses shifts of 4 hours at a time to be on-call. When someone calls the number, a volunteer answers on their own smartphone, and can enter information to a database on their own computer, allowing for easy and quick access to resources. The information is sent to one of the 9 leaders, who will then assist the caller. If you or someone you know needs information, resources, or a referral for a substance use problem, call 1-833-467-3123. For more information, or if you are interested in volunteering, contact Renscohelpline@nullgmail.com

Hudson-Mohawk Search & Rescue is Looking for Volunteers to Join our Team

CAPITAL DISTRICT – If you enjoy being outdoors in the wilderness, working with others to help people, follow directions well and have a willingness to learn, then our SAR team might be for you! Prior knowledge is helpful, but definitely not required as we provide the training. Check out our website at: www.humsar.org for more information.

Search and Rescue Volunteers Needed

CAPITAL DISTRICT – the Tri-State Emergency Team is recruiting volunteers to provide wildland and underwater searches within a 100 mile radius of Waterrford, NY.  This includes all aspects of field and underwater search.  The Tri-State Emergency Team responds when requested by NYS Forest Rangers and other police agencies throughout New York State, Western Vermont and Massachusetts.   We are looking for certified scuba divers, experienced boat handlers, and people who enjoy hiking and the outdoors in general who wish to help people in need.   The team will provide training and complete support as needed.  Our headquarters is located in Waterford.  Applicants need not live in Waterford to volunteer. If interested, please call 518-237-6744 or visit our website at www.tri-stateemergencyteam.org

New York State Commission for the Blind 

CAPITAL DISTRICT – The New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) provides free vocational rehabilitation and other services to legally blind New York State residents, including children, adults, and older adults.  NYSCB assists participants in   achieving economic self-sufficiency and full integration into society.  Call toll-free (866) 871-3000 or visit our website:  visionloss.ny.gov